The Tractor Tavern, Ballard, Washington

Duh ... I like too me half a freakin day to find this place. Of course, not being used to the area didn't help, as well as not having a map or a fancy GPS or any other navigation aids. So after finding the Tractor in this little area outside of seattle that's actually kind of neat with little shops and and a few restaurants we waited. They don't open much before a show and they start late. Fortunately it stays light in the northwest long into the evening.

The Tavern is a small little hole in the wall, kind of divided up into half bar, half concert area, but it's more like a bar with a wall down the middle. Drinks were ok, the sound and stage were ok, and the crowd was ok. Nothing big and fancy, but no attitude or anything else like that going on either. I was there to see the Supersuckers [who else?] and they barely fit the stage. They kindly don't let too many people in so the place didn't get overly crowded and you could still get around. All in all it's a nice place, not the best, but by far not the worst ... and the best part .. hardly any bouncers, and no guard rail [but nobody was tearing it up anyway, lol]

Once nice note of interest is there is a killer wine bar just down the street where you can share some of the red before the show ... not much food going on, but the wine is killer ... check it: Portalis Wine Bar.

The Tractor Tavern
5213 Ballard Avenue, NW
Seattle, WA 98107
(206) 789-3599

www.tractortavern.com