Here’s a new and welcome addition to the Alberta Arts District: The Hilt, where excellent Mediterranean food and cocktails can be had at reasonable prices. This place is clearly managed by pros who’ve taken the time and and effort to create an inviting (and refreshingly non-gimicky) ambiance, design an appealing menu, and hire friendly, skillful bartenders. I love the extra-large patio and the Happy Hour specials (half-off starters, $1 off drinks).

The menu features a good selection of Greek appetizers, pizza, and mouth-watering $6 to $9 entrees (try the Wild Mushroom Fettuccini). Vegetarian options are many and include a Roasted Zucchini Garbanzo Burger, yum! The outlook for vegan dining looks promising. Cocktails are tasteful, generous, and rely heavily on bitters to pack a punch. Try the Hilt Manhattan or the Sazerac (Peychaud bitters and absinthe). On tap are some hometown favorites including the Lucky Lab Stumptown Porter and Alameda Horseshoe Hefeweizen.

This particular space has been something of a revolving door over the last few years, having housed the now-closed cajun restaurant Lagniappe (and a few other places I already forgot), so I’m hoping The Hilt’s here to stay on Alberta.

Stop by after work and grab a picnic table. Cheers!

Location: 1934 NE Alberta St, 97211

To view an interactive map of the Alberta Arts neighborhood, click here!