Many consider Portland to be America’s craft beer capital, but nowadays Seattle has its own collection of noteworthy breweries. One of the first in Washington, Pike Brewing Company in Pike Place Market, still brews commendable beers, and enthusiasts can tour its Microbrewery Museum. We also tried some newer operations, including several clustered within walking distance of the Hotel Ballard. I found no shortage of stylish, lively taprooms and thoroughly delicious, character-filled brews.

Obec Brewing

When we visited, Obec’s chic taproom had been open just three weeks, and its owner, Wayne Jehlik, served our beers himself. “My brewing style is more European,” he told us. “I’m a big fan of getting some of that residual sugar out of there, to give me an easier morning after.” I’m quite fond of his beers, particularly the classy Belgian Singel; the Inaugural India Red Rye, a bitter, fresh and floral beer with notes of berry; and the Inaugural Porter, redolent of bacon and coffee, with prickly bubbles keeping it in balance. Obec (pronounced “OH-betz”), which means “community” in Czech, is my new favorite microbrewery in Seattle.

Obec
1144 NW 52nd Street. Tel. (206) 659-0082