Description
In Seattle, places like the Baranof tend to be looked upon as a novelty. After all, how many truly working-class (and I don't mean "blue collar," see, there's a difference) bars can you name off the top of your head? Set snugly in the heart of Greenwood, another of Seattle's last great hoods staring gentrification in the face, the Baranof is one of the finest spots in town for low-key drinking. Much like 45th's infamous Moon Temple, the Baranof bar is secluded; folks have to pass through the restaurant in front to reach the debauchery in back. The lighting is dim, and beer company promotional decorations and NASCAR driver photos adorn the walls. The beer and liquor are exactly as they should be in America: watery and strong, respectively. Friday night is karaoke night, and a wilder sight you have never seen. Watching the regulars sing their hearts out to Chris Isaak songs with zero shame makes me yearn for my equally shameless hometown back East. Every now and then, younger folks will make their way in to view the spectacle that is the Baranof. But if you ask me, the bigger freak show can be seen in our trendier nightspots. BRIAN J. BARR
