Seemor
Reuben's Brews - The Ballard TaproomBWorth Trying
5010 14th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
· Brewery
· 4.7/5 Google (998 reviews)
Delivery
Destination Ballard taproom with standout beer, friendly staff, and a compact, kid-friendly menu; expect lively crowds and occasional service or event hiccups.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Reuben's Brews delivers reliable quality across its core brewery taproom experience with knowledgeable staff and strong pub fare anchored by a popular fried chicken sandwich and solid fish and chips. Occasional menu variability and service inconsistencies on event nights prevent grade A territory, though the spacious patio, welcoming vibe, and rotating beer list make it a solid neighborhood destination worth visiting for Seattle beer enthusiasts.
Restaurant Summary
In Ballard’s brewery row, this taproom hums with good energy across two indoor rooms and a heated patio. Staff often draw praise for warm, knowledgeable service, and the beer program ranges from crispy lagers to award-winning hazies. One guest summed it up: "We felt guided instead of sold to, then snagged a sunny table and settled in." The cooking leans elevated pub fare over frills: wagyu smash burgers, a popular fried chicken sandwich with a lighter crunch, a vegan Reuben that actually satisfies, and solid fish and chips with bracing dill tartar. Expect a lively scene on trivia or watch-party nights; the fun can also mean occasional slowdowns or the odd event hiccup. Families are welcome. There is a real kids menu (grilled cheese, tenders, fish and chips) plus familiar sides like fries and pretzels. Vegan chili and a tomato bisque marked gluten-free add flexibility. If you are planning a big game viewing with little ones, arrive early to lock in seating.
At a Glance
- Deep, rotating beer list with knowledgeable staff guidance
- Elevated pub menu with vegan and kids options
- Event nights can strain service and AV setup
- Fries portions can run light with sandwiches
- Spacious heated patio suits groups and dogs
What Sets It Apart
- broad_beer_selection_with_seasonals
- heated_covered_patio
- strong_kid_menu_for_a_brewery
What People Love
- Friendly bartenders who steer you to the right pour
- Crispy fish and chips with bright dill tartar
- Fried chicken sandwich with lighter, crunchy coating
- Vegan Reuben that feels like a real main, not an afterthought
- Sunny, relaxed patio that fits groups and pups
Points of Concern
- Watch-party AV can falter; arrive early and have a backup plan
- Service tone varies on busy nights; a few cite brusque interactions
- Menu items evolve; chicken sandwich build has changed across visits
- Fries with sandwiches can be small; consider an extra shareable
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$28-44 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair the fried chicken sandwich with a crisp lager or pils
- Vegan chili with the vegan Reuben for a fuller plant-based meal
- Pretzel with beer cheese as a sharable starter before mains
Perfect For
- Brewery-hopping afternoons in Ballard
- Casual group hangs with mixed dietary needs
- Trivia nights and sunny patio sessions
- Families wanting an easy, flexible dinner
Location Insights
Area: Bustling craft beer district drawing locals and visitors; relaxed, dog- and kid-friendly vibe with industrial charm.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; occasional crowd surges during events and peak weekends.
Nearby: Surrounded by multiple breweries, murals, and light industrial spaces; easy to brewery-hop nearby.
BallardBallard features a diverse dining environment with trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and casual eateries reflecting its Scandinavian roots and contemporary influences. The area is popular for its walkability, local markets, and a strong sense of neighborhood identity, attracting diners looking for both casual and upscale experiences.
Ballard Locks AreaThis micro-neighborhood near the Ballard Locks offers a quieter, scenic dining atmosphere with access to parks and water views, appealing to those seeking a relaxed environment close to nature within the urban setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Delivery
View full analysis on Seemor →