After one of my trademark two-week absences, it’s time to get back to it.
A slew of new beer spots are opening in these parts. There’s a new bottleshop called Seattle Beer Authority on Lake City Way (a grand opening celebration is planned for this weekend with sale prices and special tastings). In Redmond on the Eastside, Black Raven Brewing opened its taproom with its Trickster IPA and Batch 1 Brown Porter alongside eight Washington guest taps. Finally, Collins Pub owner Seth Howard opened his new joint, Hudson Public House, in the Maple Leaf neighborhood. I stopped by Hudson on Thursday for dinner and beers.
According to its sign, Hudson is a “New American Public House.” Not exactly sure what that means, but I’m glad the sign doesn’t say “Gastropub.” I hate that word. Makes me think I’m going to have gastrointestinal issues afterwards.
Anyway, Hudson has 16 taps, wine and a full liquor bar. The tap selection is solid–Pliny the Elder, Kwak, Cascade Mouton Rouge, Chuckanut Helles and New Belgium Biere de Mars–and the food is excellent. The menu ranges from burgers, salads and soups, to more adventurous stuff like lavender rabbit. I had the fish special of grilled halibut with sautéed ramps and mascarpone mashed potatoes that was a bargain at $13. Chef Erik Wood also told me he’s making a house-made veggie burger made with beets and kale, which is good news for vegetarians.
I liked the feel of Hudson Public. It’s modern and a little upscale, but still comfortable enough to settle in for several pints instead of throwing down one beer and bolting. If the crowd on Thursday is any indication, the neighborhood is pretty excited about the place. Even though I don’t live nearby, the good beer selection and affordable, quality eats will bring me back.
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