Seemor
Side Hustle: Taproom & La Vida Social CuisineB-Worth Trying
15 Lake St #201, Kirkland, WA 98033
· Brewpub, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (143 reviews)
Takeout
Community-forward taproom with lively events, strong beer lineup, and a globally-influenced comfort menu; great vibes, occasional service/owner conduct complaints, and food execution varies.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Side Hustle delivers a lively neighborhood taproom experience anchored by knowledgeable beer staff and thoughtfully designed, cozy ambiance. However, food execution shows variability across shifts—standout empanadas and burgers compete with occasional microwaving and portion inconsistencies—preventing a higher grade. The strong community loyalty and event programming make it a solid local choice for casual dining and live music, though not a destination for culinary excellence.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, the kind of taproom where board games share space with guitars and dance shoes. Guests describe bartenders who remember faces and give spot-on beer recs, and one regular put it simply: "This place makes a casual night feel like a gathering." However, there are no major authenticity concerns based on review patterns, though isolated complaints about owner conduct and a few food execution misses are noted. In the kitchen, the approach is comfort-driven with global accents: Colombian-style empanadas, Mediterranean falafel and kunefe, plus reliable pub anchors like burgers and fish and chips. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with multicultural touches: familiar formats done for a lively crowd, more about good company than culinary theatrics. Beer leads the way, and the food pairs sensibly with pints and music. Families fare well here thanks to approachable staples like fries, burgers, wings, and hummus with pita. There is no dedicated kids menu listed, but simple items work for many children. On event nights it gets loud and packed, so earlier visits can be better for little ones; otherwise, expect a festive scene rather than a quiet family dinner.
At a Glance
- Lively community hub with live music, open mic, and dance nights
- Strong beer selection with knowledgeable bar staff
- Approachable menu with global touches and solid pub staples
- Food execution can be inconsistent on busy nights
- Peak-hour noise and crowding reduce comfort
What Sets It Apart
- monthly_salsa_bachata_social
- community_open_mic_and_live_music
- globally_influenced_taproom_menu
What People Love
- Feel-good atmosphere that turns a drink into an evening
- Bartenders who guide you to the right pour
- Empanadas and pub snacks that match the beer
- Events that make regulars out of first-timers
Points of Concern
- Occasional kitchen shortcuts reported (e.g., microwaving a burger bun) amid otherwise positive food feedback
- A few complaints about owner behavior creating discomfort, especially for women; not widely reported but serious if encountered
- Can be very loud and crowded during events; bar ordering means lines at peak times
- Review patterns show mostly authentic activity with some staff-name praise; overall low manipulation risk
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$39-$55 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair empanadas with a citrusy wheat or pale ale
- Choose hummus & pita (vegan) when sharing across dietary needs
- For a hearty main without seafood pricing, opt for The Beef Burger ($15.99)
Perfect For
- Catching a show or open mic with friends
- Pre- or post-lakeside stroll drinks
- Casual group celebrations and private parties
- An easy solo pint with friendly bar chat
Location Insights
Area: Walkable lakeside downtown with boutiques, bars, and waterfront parks drawing after-work crowds and weekend strollers.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic, well-lit commercial corridor typical of downtown Kirkland.
Nearby: Near Lake Washington waterfront, Flatstick Pub downstairs, shops and performance spaces attracting social gatherings and events.
Downtown KirklandDowntown Kirkland offers a lively dining environment with a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and cafes. The area is pedestrian-friendly and popular for social gatherings, attracting both residents and visitors who enjoy a relaxed yet active urban atmosphere.
Lake Street CorridorThe Lake Street Corridor is a key commercial stretch within Downtown Kirkland featuring a concentration of restaurants, shops, and services. It has a community-oriented feel with a steady flow of foot traffic and a variety of dining options catering to diverse tastes.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday15:00–21:30
Wednesday15:00–21:30
Thursday15:00–21:30
Friday15:00–21:30
Saturday15:00–21:30
Sunday15:00–20:30
Available: Takeout
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