The Observatory

"The Observatory, a handsome mid-2000s vintage restaurant and bar, has become a Montavilla staple, and happily manages to keep its Northwest cuisine feeling as vital as ever. Seafood leads the appetizer offerings while the entree focus is burgers, made with everything from elk and lamb to quinoa and mushroom. Affordable cocktails are a major draw, and those primarily looking to imbibe can skip the main restaurant and settle into the cozy Over and Out next door, with a smaller food menu coming from the same kitchen." - Janey Wong, Nathan Williams

"The Montavilla stalwart known as the Observatory is an adaptable spot, whether your date prefers a craft cocktail or a cheap pilsner. Starry hanging lamps throw a romantic glow about the front room, with a mishmash of modern, vintage, and industrial design. For a “divier” experience, meander the hallway to its sporty back-end bar, Over + Out, for some pinball and pool. Dinner options nearby are abundant, including Thai Chinese food and Lebanese lemon chicken." - Asia Alvarez, Brooke Jackson-Glidden

"The Observatory opened in 2008 and quickly became a Montavilla neighborhood favorite, with an eclectic menu that includes both a lamb burger and a chipotle elk burger. The chipotle elk burger is a particular standout: The six-ounce elk patty gets a little heat and smokiness from a well-balanced chipotle mayo, with a pile crispy onions for texture. The Observatory is open for onsite dining indoors or out, as well as takeout." - Maya MacEvoy

"Framed paintings fill the walls at The Observatory, a warm and inviting restaurant in Montavilla, and the late-night menu matches the vibe with pleasing comfort food. Happy hour runs from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday and Monday, and until midnight Tuesday to Thursday, with a menu including a variety of $6 sliders, ginger mussels for $6, $3 salads, $2 cups of soup, and a heaping pile of garlic parmesan fries for $4. Drink specials are straightforward, with canned beers $2 to $3, $4 well drinks, and $5 wine pours." - Alex Frane

"Open at 11 a.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends, The Observatory offers solid pub food, along with a list of drinks like the cumin centipede, a nice tequila pick-me-up for day-drinking. For those who feel guilty drinking a cocktail during the day, it also offers a list of sparkling drinks, because everyone knows that mimosas and spritzes don’t count." - Alex Frane