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The Barking Dog AlehouseBWorth Trying

Name: The Barking Dog Alehouse
Address: 705 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117, Seattle, United States
Rating: 4.5

705 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117 · Pub, American restaurant, Brunch restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (1224 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Neighborhood alehouse with elevated pub fare, dog- and family-friendly vibes, hybrid QR/bar ordering, and fair value; expect busy peaks and occasional service/fee friction.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

The Barking Dog Alehouse delivers solid neighborhood dining with elevated pub fare—crispy fried chicken, fresh fish and chips, garlicky lamb burger—and prompt service in a warm, thoughtfully designed space that welcomes families and dogs. However, inconsistent dish execution and recent food safety complaints prevent a higher grade, while the hybrid QR ordering model and service fees create friction some diners find frustrating. It's a reliable local favorite worth visiting, though not a destination restaurant.

Restaurant Summary

A true neighborhood standby where dogs nap under tables and families settle in for fries and trivia, this alehouse feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos. Guests praise friendly staff and quick food runs, with one diner remarking, "the patio heaters kept us comfy while the chicken and waffles hit the spot." Do note the hybrid QR/bar ordering and the presence of a small service fee, which some find frustrating at checkout. The cooking leans elevated-pub over bar basics: crisp, brined fried chicken, fresh-tasting fish and chips, and a garlicky lamb burger, plus rotating specials like salmon with cherry salsa. Portions satisfy without being heavy, and desserts like the skillet cookie deliver feel-good comfort. Occasional misses pop up (a chewy steak here, a lightly dressed salad there), but the hit rate is solid for a casual alehouse. Families are well covered: tenders, mac, pizza, burgers, and fries abound, plus a kids menu referenced in reviews. The QR flow is easy for quick orders, though substitutions may require the bar. If you have picky eaters, steer toward the simpler crowd-pleasers; adventurous specials are optional, not required, making it easy for kids and parents alike.

At a Glance

Elevated pub fare with consistent hits like fried chicken and lamb burger
Dog- and family-friendly with heated, covered patio
Hybrid QR/bar model and strong tip prompts can irk some diners
Intermittent dish inconsistency and a few food safety complaints in 2025
Expect a small service fee on checks per multiple reviews

What Sets It Apart

dog_friendly_patio
elevated_pub_menu
hybrid_qr_and_bar_ordering

What People Love

Comforting yet elevated pub classics
Welcoming neighborhood vibe
Heated, spacious patio for dogs and strollers
Quick food delivery even when busy
Thoughtful beer lineup and kombucha option

Points of Concern

Hybrid QR/bar ordering can feel impersonal; some believe staff should check in more
Suggested tips and small service fee surprise some guests
A handful of 2025 illness reports noted; owner engages but concerns linger
Parking can be tight on busy nights; expect a short walk

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average Cost$36-48 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

For kids: Mac N Cheese ($6 HH), chicken tenders + fries ($15.50), cheese pizza (HH $6).
For lighter eaters: Kale Caesar ($13.50 half) with chicken add-on.
For value: Happy hour tacos ($3 each) and chips n salsa ($3.50).

Perfect For

Casual dinner with the dog on the patio
Game-day burgers and beers with friends
Weeknight family meal with easy kids options
Low-key brunch without downtown crowds

Location Insights

Area: Residential Ballard pocket with local foot traffic; relaxed, dog-forward, family-friendly pub culture.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit residential/commercial mix with steady evening activity.

Nearby: Near single-family homes and small businesses; TVs for sports, patio popular in good weather.

BallardBallard offers a diverse dining environment with a strong emphasis on seafood, Scandinavian influences, and innovative eateries. The area has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere with a mix of casual and upscale dining options, attracting locals and visitors alike.

Ballard Locks AreaThis micro-neighborhood near the Ballard Locks features a relaxed vibe with access to waterfront parks and casual dining spots, popular for brunch and seafood-focused menus.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–21:00 Wednesday12:00–21:00 Thursday12:00–23:00 Friday12:00–23:00 Saturday10:00–23:00 Sunday10:00–21:00

Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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