Seemor
Bar HarborB+Worth Trying
400 Fairview Ave N #105, Seattle, WA 98109
· American restaurant, Bar, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (581 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Seafood-centric spot for lobster and crab rolls with lively bar energy; chowder style divides opinions and prices lean high for portions.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Bar Harbor delivers solid neighborhood seafood dining with strong lobster and crab rolls and friendly, attentive service that exceed typical casual standards. However, quality variation in chowder and portions and modest comfort levels prevent grade A-grade performance. The lively South Lake Union location suits casual drinks and seafood sandwiches well, though it doesn't command special-occasion status.
Restaurant Summary
Set in South Lake Union, Bar Harbor hums with a lively bar energy and a bright, open room that suits after-work meetups and casual dinners. Service leans friendly and efficient, with moments of personal attention that stand out. As one diner put it, "the server made a quick swap when my beer was out," which captures the helpful, can-do vibe of the staff. The cooking centers on classic New England comforts with a Northwest pantry: lobster and crab rolls, a bacon-kissed, flour-free chowder, and fresh oysters anchor the menu. Expect straightforward flavors and solid ingredients rather than theatrics; the lighter chowder style delights some and disappoints others. If you love seafood sandwiches and a casual drink, you are in the right lane here. Families do fine thanks to familiar items like rolls, mac and cheese, and simple sandwiches; reviews even mention kids enjoying grilled cheese. Portions can feel modest for price, so order a starter to share. If your crew prefers very plain food, consider the chicken sandwich or queso with chips for a kid-friendly fallback.
At a Glance
- Flavorful lobster and crab rolls with choose-your-style options
- Friendly service and lively bar scene in SLU
- Chowder is a light, flour-free style that some find watery
- Portions can feel small for the price, especially rolls
- Occasional cleanliness and policy complaints (isolated but noted)
What Sets It Apart
- choose_your_roll_style
- light_flour_free_chowder
- happy_hour_oysters
What People Love
- The buttery Connecticut-style rolls
- Fresh oysters and happy hour pricing
- Friendly, solution-oriented servers
- Bright, open room with energetic buzz
Points of Concern
- Chowder texture is intentionally light; diners expecting thick creaminess may be disappointed
- Portion size vs. price draws mixed reactions; consider doubling meat if hungry
- Isolated cleanliness reports (hair in dishes, handling) contrast with otherwise positive feedback
- Event closures and ID policy disputes caused frustration for a few guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a half-dozen oysters ($21) with a Connecticut roll ($25) for a balanced seafood set
- For lighter dining, share prawn ceviche ($15) and split a crab roll ($25)
- Value play: happy hour oysters ($2 each) with a Crabcake Slider ($5)
Perfect For
- After-work seafood and drinks
- Casual date night with oysters
- Pre-cruise or out-of-town meetups
- Solo bar bite with a cocktail
Location Insights
Area: Modern tech hub near Lake Union with offices and apartments; after-work drinks and casual dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, busy during weekdays; quieter evenings and weekends.
Nearby: Near Amazon SLU campus, Lake Union park, bars and cafes; convenient for office crowds and visitors.
South Lake UnionSouth Lake Union offers a dynamic dining environment with a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and innovative food concepts catering to a tech-savvy and health-conscious crowd. The neighborhood is lively during weekdays with a strong lunch and after-work dining culture, and it is generally safe and accessible with good public transit connections.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–21:00
Wednesday11:30–21:00
Thursday11:30–21:00
Friday11:30–21:00
Saturday11:30–21:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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