Hudson Public House - Maple Leaf

A few days before the big summer holiday trip to visit Country Girl's family in Utah, we stopped by Hudson Public House in Maple Leaf.  We had noticed its opening some time before as well as the newish beer shop next door to it, The Last Drop Bottle Shop.  Given the esteemed company (Last Drop has turned out to be quite the gem), we thought it worth a stop by.   We've since made another visit there and had varying experiences.

Limited, off-street parking is available on the side of the building which is nice when available.  Hudson shares the lot with a Pagliacci's and the Last Drop so there aren't loads of spots to choose from.  It's located just south of the Lake City Way intersection so there's limited street parking in front.  We were lucky both times there parking wise as we got in the lot once and the other time we found a spot on the street just in front.

The interior has a clean, modern look to it.  Lots of wood paneling with medium dark tones.  It's fairly spacious, having both a good size bar seating area and booths and tables lining the outside.  Country Girl pointed out that the ladies room is very nice as well.  Their extensive craft beer list is impressive in length, if not variety.  In addition to the usual array of ambers and IPAs (boo), they have a couple of porters and stouts (yay!).   We also tried one of their burgers (taking advantage of the fried egg topping, natch) and it was very tasty.

Unfortunately, the bartender on our first trip left much to be desired.  Despite it not being terribly busy and our being sat at the bar, we were ignored for stretches at a time.  He appeared much too busy helping out his bffs sitting next to us.  The second go-round was much better service wise.  Again, business wasn't bustling and even though we sat at a table, we got prompt service.  The bartender even changed the TV to the Olympics upon our request.

All in all, I recommend Hudson with one reservation.  It's a very nice facility with a cozy, modern feel and their dedication to craft beers is commendable.  Sadly, they suffer from the typical Seattle malady of way too many IPAs,  pale ales and ambers to the exclusion of most other varieties.