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Places to visit in Pioneer Square before an M’s game⚾️! | Local Lens Seattle

I visited three places in Pioneer Square that to consider for a pre-game happy hour before the game or just for some quick and affordable food.

SEATTLE — It’s baseball season baby! ⚾️ 

I love going to T-Mobile Park to root on my Seattle Mariners. Of course, inside the ballpark has lots of options for food and drinks… BUT I also think the Pioneer Square area has some spots worth mentioning.   

In this video I visited three places that I think should be considered for happy hour before the game or just for some quick/affordable food.   

First up- Cookies Country Chicken  

Cookies Country Chicken’ has two locations- the first in Ballard and a second that recently opened in Pioneer Square. It’s walking distance from all the stadiums at 2nd and Jackson.

I met with Chef Brian Chandler to see how they make this delicious chicken and of course taste test. Chandler spent 10 years in the maritime industry working on various boats but found his calling for cooking in the South. It was there he learned that fried chicken brings everyone together.

I was truly blown away by the menu and everything I tried. 10/10 recommend.

If you like spicy things- I can’t recommend the ‘Barnburner’ more. (It’s their take on a spicy chicken sandwich- featuring fried chicken breast, iceberg lettuce, Duke’s mayo and pickles. And of course comes with fries if you want).

But there are lots of options on the menu and they are all MASSIVE- so you get a lot of bang for your buck. They have your traditional bone-in chicken, chicken tenders and tons of homemade sides, including mac n cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy and tangy slaw.

I also need to mention how many sauces they have… nine! I tried them all and WHOA. So flavorful. So fun. Run here!

Address- 314 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA

More information- https://www.cookiescountrychicken.com/about/

Second Stop- Bad Bishop

My second stop takes me to my favorite bar in this neighborhood- Bad Bishop.  

Co-owner Jesse Spring is doing amazing things with his drink menu and the *smash burger. The idea for this place- create the feeling of community that one finds in a neighborhood bar, but downtown. This spot balances high quality drinks with impeccable customer service and approachability.  

They opened in 2018 but closed for 14 months after a water pipe burst, reopening in 2020 just before the pandemic. So it’s amazing to see them grow now in popularity because it really is a *vibe in here as soon as you walk in.   

Some drinks I tried-  

Blind Swine 

  • Vodka 
  • Piparras Pepper Brine  
  • *Chorizo-wrapped Piparras Pepper  

Fairweather Fan 

  • Strawberry Liqueur 
  • Oloroso Sherry 
  • Bruto Americano 
  • Gin 
  • Lemon Juice  

Homecoming 

  • Orgeat 
  • Lime 
  • Jalapeño 
  • Cucumber 
  • Mezcal  

I also can’t say enough about the smash burger. It’s not overly heavy so it doesn’t leave you feeling too full/sick after- but it's so TASTY and I am obsessed. I also love that it comes with some shoestring fries on the side.   

The Burger 

  • House-made Burger Sauce 
  • Pickles 
  • Chopped Onion 
  • Iceberg Lettuce 
  • American Cheese 
  • Fries with Pimenton & Comeback Sauce on the side  

Address- 704 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA   

Third Stop- Gantry Public House   

In the heart of the stadium district there’s a dive bar feel that is a perfect place to watch any game. Hello, Gantry Public House!

They have a great selection of pub food- think burgers, sandwiches, quesadillas, nachos and drink specials. AND it’s steps away from the action without buying box seats.

I tried some fun Mariners inspired cocktails that were crowd favorites. I could totally see myself coming here before or after a game, especially when you really want to let loose. I recommend the nachos and the espresso martini.

Address- 904 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA

More information- https://www.gantryseattle.com/

Extra Credit-

I also wanted to mention two stops as an honorable mention.   

Rojo’s Mexican- Delicious, affordable vegan options. This lunch spot was recently voted best new restaurant. Highlighted by shredded jackfruit carnitas, seitan carne asada and flavorful soaks and seasonings. I recommend the loaded burrito.   

More information- https://www.rojosmexicanfood.com/

Address- 217 James St, Seattle, WA

SOMI- South of Mill- Open for lunch, dinner and now brunch on the weekends. I loved the burrata, lasagna and the vibe inside was amazing if you are looking for more of a sit down and stay awhile place.  

More information- https://www.southofmill.com/about  

Address- 209 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 

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