The term “nightlife” need not equate to a binge-drinking bump and grind. Seattle has much to offer those who’d prefer to spend Friday evening crowded round a dimly lit table, pontificating on issues of the day or simply laughing with friends.
The U District’s Star Life on the Oasis (1405 N.E. 50th St., 206-729-3542) is a prime setting for alcohol-free mind expansion. What better place to engage in passionate conversation —and to see people actually drinking coffee until midnight—than here among university students trying ideals on for size. Bring your philosophy buddies for a round of debate over the big center tables or hole up with a novel at one of the more intimate, mismatched seats. The super-indie Grand Illusion Theater, housed in the same building, serves as a built-in conversation piece.
Fremont Coffee (459 N. 36th St., 206-632-3633, www.fremontcoffee.net) is similar in its offerings of intimacy and audience. Coffee, alternative sodas, and cafe noshes are served from the living room of the old house. Remaining rooms are open to writers of the great American novel, surfers of the Internet, and proponents of good old-fashioned chat. You’ll have to make your night an early one, though—the house is dark by 9 p.m.
B&O Espresso (204 Belmont Ave. E., 206-322-5028) on Capitol Hill is a scene of low lights and shabby elegance. Nab a seat along the bench-lined windows, painted with nouveau designs, facing East Olive Street. It’s the place to go and discuss the play you just saw or the play you were just in—or to just get lost in the atmos-phere, the lengthy dessert menu, or the hookah smoke curling across the front patio.
Finally, cap the night at downtown’s Le Pichet (1933 First Ave., 206-256-1499, www.lepichetseattle.com). Traffic slows after the dinner rush, and in the relaxed, uncontrived French ambience, you can enjoy an exquisite cheese plate with your verbal sparing partner. Wax intellectual, wax French, or just practice your French exhale. But don’t be tacky. Keep your voice low and let the old French melody be your lullaby.
