Stumbling Monk — Restaurant in Seattle

I have loved this pub for over 10 years now. Low key, dim lighting, sort of medieval feel with front door/dark lighting/European beer selection. It is not quite a dive bar, but not is it upscale by any means. The booth seatings have definitely seen their days, worn and sometimes split, but comfy nonetheless. There are also wooden chairs around round wooden tables for seating. Games are available on shelves to play. An old school typewriter rests on the side bar area, apparently retired from years earlier where paper was inserted for patrons to type whatever message came to them to express. A wall of cardboard coasters each displaying art created by patrons over the years can be seen to the side of the bar. The beer selection from Europe and Asia is extensive and definitely suited for distinguised tastes and connoiseurs of fine beers of the world. The bar staff are down to earth and friendly, laid back, and unpretentious. It never really gets loud and never rowdy, so conversation can be had (and heard) and is a good place to catch up with friends and chat over a pint of hefeweizen or chalice of flemish ale. The bathrom is small and definitely not "polished" by any means and reminiscent of typical brit pub lous, minus a urinal. A note that if using a debit or credit card, that the minimum is $10, so plan on 2 drinks or covering a friend to make the minimum, or else bring cash. Most selections are $6-8. Great neighborhood pub...

I really want to love this bar because I love Belgian beer. But good beer alone is not enough to make a bar worth visiting. I've gone here twice now, and both times I was left wondering how this place stays in business. It was mostly empty, with no music playing making it feel lifeless.

If they really want to remain a Capitol Hill staple, they need to think about how they'll attract more customers. For example, they really ought to serve food in addition beer, otherwise people will leave as soon as they get hungry. I'd also recommend adding some TVs to play European soccer matches. Something to give people a reason to return on a regular basis to watch their favorite teams.

Ultimately I'm rooting for this bar to succeed, but it's hard for me to justify coming...

This is a terrific and yet, excentric bar. It is dedicated almosy entirely to belgian beer, so if you're looking to drink something else, you're wasting your time. The selection is small but extremely well-curated, including exotics that are almost never available in the US. Also, there isn't a single tv, which I find quite refreshing.

The place seems to be run by a one-man show bartender/owner. Unlike the typical bartender that calls you "honey", this man is very quiet and reserved. The place is a bit dark, and the restrooms are a bit dodgy, but this is still a fantastic place. If you have a taste for Belgian beer, you really will be stumbling when you walk out...