Redhook's Forecaster's Pub held a reopening of sorts June 4 after several months of renovations to its kitchen, pub and patio.
And let me just say, my reaction upon entering was a good one.
It was the Redhook I was hoping to encounter when I stepped inside for the very first time last fall after moving here from Minnesota.
The use of wood, the large windows and the light made it seem – well – more worthy of one of the Northwest's original breweries. (This Bavarian-style building was constructed in 1994 in Woodinville but Redhook's roots go back to 1981.) There's more seating overall and you have your choice of sitting at a new bar, at small tables, or along one wall, at family-style long wooden tables. It's casual and cool at the same time.
Our server was friendly and knowledgeable about the new cocktails and seemed happy to be there. The opening party (which started after an hour for the media to behold the new digs) benefitted the Woodinville Firefighters Benevolent Fund. Many firefighters made a showing at the event before heading back out on duty for the night.
The beverage menu, which of course has Redhook beers (some of which you can't find anywhere else), also features guest beer and wine and now at least a half dozen cocktails. I tried a hibiscus sunrise, which had Absolut vodka, cranberry and muddled lemons. It was refreshing and pleasantly not as sweet as I imagined it might be.
The food menu has been expanded as well, with pub fare from pulled pork sliders to French fries to mac and cheese. Our samples included items from both their pub and catering menus.
The pub's summer hours (Memorial Day - Labor Day) are now in effect. (No reservations are taken during this time):
Monday - Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm
Sunday: 11 am - 10 pm
Note: Minors are welcome in the Pub except Friday and Saturday nights after 9 p.m.
Have you checked out the renovated brewery? What are your impressions? Tell us in comments.
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