Jazz and bacon

Brunch in Seattle? Hour-long waits; cold coffee; over-priced food; the cacophony of unruly children being ignored by hungover parents. There’s nothing like it!

Thankfully, there is nothing like this at the Seamonster Lounge’s Jazz Brunch. Instead, my wife and I were treated to smooth music and friendly, prompt service. We didn’t see a single child there (although they are allowed in the space up to 9pm).

Brunch is served Saturday & Sunday 10am – 3pm. The time of music varies depending on Seahawks games, which are also screened here. You can find this wonderful establishment at 2202 N 45th St, between TNT and I Do Bridal Too.

The locally-sourced menu includes all your typical brunch fare, with staples like huevos rancheros and biscuits and gravy, as well as unexpected items like sweet potato pancakes topped with whipped butter and spiced syrup.  We opted for a tasty omelette and the vegetable hash, and took advantage of a variety of hot sauces produced locally in Ballard. A refreshing Sayulita cocktail (tequila, cinnamon, O.J. & house sweet & sour mixed) helped to wash it all down.

The Seamonster Lounge has been an institution here in Wallingford since 2003, and recently expanded into the space that was formerly La Boulangerie. Reopening in January of this year, the lounge boasts two bars, a larger stage and capacity to hold 220 people, compared to 50 in their former space.

You’ll find diverse, dynamic live music here every night of the week, and now, during the day as well! The morning scene is decidedly more intimate, with this week’s guests opting to set up their performance in between the bar and the front window. On our visit the jazz was provided by Birch Pereira & The Gin Joints. Here is some poorly-shot video to give you an idea of the sweet performance:

You can also catch these guys at the Earshot Jazz Festival (October 28, 7:30pm at Tula’s). The festival itself has started already and runs until November 11. Nearby venues include Chapel Performance Space in Wallingford and Nectar Lounge in Fremont.