Black Water

It was good but not great

Tried the lamb curry — rich, spicy, and perfectly cooked.

I was a bit overdressed for the night, but the menu was great and the ambiance is absolutely something that spoke to my Metal heart. Cirith Ungol on the PA while I ate my vegan mac and cheese? Absolutely lovely. Next time I'm wearing my leather.

I love you black water. Always a good time here :)

The bartender was also the server and order-taker, which meant you had to get her attention to get served, and she was busy. The atmosphere is dark. Food was good but unremarkable.

Tried to attend an event that was advertised as being "cash at door". I didn't know if that meant literal cash or just "you pay" at the door, similar to "cash bar" at an event means it's not an open bar, not cash only, but I was ready to pull out $$ at an ATM there if needed. Arrived to find it was literal cash only, and they had no tap-to-pay or Venmo, there was no ATM on site, and the Black Water employee taking money at the door said "There might be an ATM at the 7/11 a few blocks down." Yeah, pass.

Once the home of Laurelhurst Brewing, this spot has been reborn into something even better: a vegan burger bar that serves actual joy. The housemade patties put the Beyond/Impossible stuff to shame—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and paired with fries that hit that improbable sweet spot between fluffy and golden. The Scorpion Burger with sautéed jalapeños is a must if you're craving heat and comfort at the same time. The bar rotates eclectic local brews and house sodas that make you pause between sips. It's not just about food or drink here—it’s a space for weirdness and wonder: live music, pinball machines, all-ages shows, a record/game store in the same building, and on my last visit? A group playing Gaslands across multiple tables in the main space. Glorious chaos.

No bike rack and wouldn’t let me bring in my scooter. Seriously mixed messages from a vegan bar. Guess you can only go here if you’re in a car.

Adorable lil punk bar with amazing food to boot. The staff was so friendly as well. Definitely recommend.

The tofu chicken sandwich was amazing. Fries and the fry sauce were also worth the trip. Great and friendly service, I'll go back again.