Although Aurora has a poor reputation in Seattle, many people forget how close it is to Green Lake and would miss a hidden gem like the St. Andrews Bar and Grill (7406 Aurora Ave N). I too did not become privy to it until a friend showed me the err of my ways.
And what makes this bar so special? Scotch, and lots of it. There is a wall behind the bar that lists so many scotches that the head begins to spin. Fortunately the staff is really cool and one bartender, who made his way out from behind the bar to answer all of our questions, helped us pick the best Scotch selections to pair with Guinness.
For instance, we first tried a smooth drink called Balvenie (12 year), and then moved onto a sweeter choice called Glenmorangie Nectar D’or. Then things got all wild and crazy and we went for the one that he described as having a “band aid flavor” called Old Ballantine, which gets its flavor from peated malt. And finally we finished off with the pungently smoky, 10-year-aged Ardbeg (and a taxi ride home).
Even if scotch isn’t your thing, the pub food is good (fresh salads, 100% natural burgers, and wings) and there is always a good game of football (“soccer” in the US) or rugby on the set.
Cheers!
