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A lot of things have changed since the new chef took over. Amazing food that I cannot stop craving, great atmosphere, and an array of different pinbal…
Jett Breedlove
Olaf’s
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Stopped in for the first time today at Olaf's, the new bar that operates in the space formerly occupied by the Copper Gate. I've been local to Ballard…
SynchronicitySuperhighway
Olaf’s
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Olaf's is open for Bar. Olaf's serves Bar Food dishes. Incorrect or missing information? Make a report, or claim the restaurant if you own it!Details
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2 Reviews on “Olaf’s”
A lot of things have changed since the new chef took over. Amazing food that I cannot stop craving, great atmosphere, and an array of different pinball machines in the back. Definitely my favorite hangout spot by far!
Stopped in for the first time today at Olaf’s, the new bar that operates in the space formerly occupied by the Copper Gate. I’ve been local to Ballard long enough to recognize most of the guys behind the bar, and overall the space is much better used than in the old Copper Gate – which is good, because it isn’t a big place (and the Copper Gate’s decor had been 100% style over functionality). Decor is thus far pretty simple, but comfortable, and the crowd the same kind of middle-class and blue-collar mix that used to frequent the old Viking. Despite the remodel some bits of the old remain, including the door frame resembling a vulva which another reviewer kvetched about. Whatever, you probably don’t belong in a 21+ environment if you’re freaked-out by yonic imagery. The menu is somewhere between those two former bars, the content (mostly burgers and grilled sandwiches) more along the pub grub lines of the Viking, but the quality as good or better than anything offered by the Copper Gate (which had a pretty great scandinavian-themed menu). I was pleasantly surprised to see the taps featured more beers than shown on the menu, and counted seven additional rotating microbrews. Speaking with one of the owners, these apparently run on smaller kegs and rotate often, which probably explains why they aren’t listed on the menu.I ordered an Olaf’s Burger and a pint of rye ale from Reuben’s Brews (a newer micro in Ballard which I’m quite fond of). I was very impressed, the burger was probably one of the three best I’ve had ever, the other contenders being Burnside Brewing in Portland OR, and the now-closed Bell’s Cafe in Catskill NY. I think I may make this a regular stop, and the corndogs are next on the list to try – the batter is made in-house and they are apparently wildly popular. I’d rank Olaf’s highly, both as a foodie and lover of craftbrew pubs. With a good quality menu and lack of pretense, this is the kind of place we need to keep Ballard anchored.