Westward on Lake Union

Westward's interior looks like Wes Anderson designed it, which might be a bit much for some people—the diorama-fantasia shaped like a ship behind the bar is really, really cute—but no one could argue with the straight-up greatness of the outdoor seating. It is directly on the shore of north Lake Union, so there's an unbeatable view of the downtown skyline, looking like a distant dream of busyness across the sparkling water. (Those with yachts, sailboats, or even lowly rental kayaks can boat right up to Westward's dock.) Seaplanes taking off and landing will make out-of-towners lose their minds. There are Adirondack chairs for afternoon sun, and fire pits surrounded by oyster shells for eveningtime. The tables have stripy sun umbrellas that flutter picturesquely in the breeze. A jauntily painted run-aground rowboat overflows with flowers. It's so wonderful, you might pass out, and the seafood-centered menu is great, too, though it isn't cheap. Hint: Enjoy $6 house wine and/or $4 beers on the midday menu (4 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 2:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, 3 to 5 p.m. weekends). Another hint: Ride your bike to Westward on the Burke-Gilman Trail. It's gorgeous out there...

KEEP READING, IT'S OUTDOOR DRINKS O'CLOCK! > > >

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