There is a beer on tap in West Seattle that tastes like flowers. A gulp of the Laurelwood Workhorse IPA is like lying in a breezy meadowful of wild poppies and clover—a picturesque nature fantasy that fits with the Celtic Swell’s panoramic view of Alki Beach. The Laurelwood’s brewed in Portland, but if you’re wanting to support local, there’s also Odin’s Ruby Red Ale and Hale’s Cream Ale; the Celtic being an Irish pub, Guinness also flows in abundance. A refreshing craft beer really is priceless—but at the Celtic Swell Happy Hour (Mon.-Fri.), all of these delicious draughts are a dollar off. (So are wells; and Bud and Corona are $2.50.) Food’s also available on the cheap—luscious cheese fries, creamy potato leek soup, a crunchy blue cheese wedge salad and more will all spring you only $5 each. (There’s also traditional Irish fare like shepherd’s pie and soda bread on the reasonably priced regular menu). And it’s fresh food, too—not the suspicious sort that’s been shoved in the microwave in back and re-heated a few times over. Locals love haunting the Swell at all hours, but with its exciting drinking options, quality eats, cheery bargirls, and a lovely locale, this place has got all of the makings of a perfect happy hour. ERIN K. THOMPSON
