Fado is the Denny's of Irish pubs. They push the authenticity, but they're trying way too hard and way too brand-focused. The food is overpriced and just barely okay. (I had high hopes for the boxie with cheese dip/sauce, but it was awful.) I'm a fan of pub food, I'm a fan of gastro-pub food, but Fado falls flat.

Also, the service absolutely sucks. I was watching Monday Night Football at the bar and they changed the channel to soccer. I got up to change seats (there were still plenty of other empty seats and televisions showing the Packers game) and this whiny guy comes around and gets all "We're actually a European Sports Bar". Then he follows up with "This is the only tv with a DVR that'll show the game." Which is it? Are you a European Sports Bar showing only cricket and "football" at all hours of the day and night (like Duck Island or countless other places) or are you showing Monday Night Football on all screens but one? And why does it matter? I'm making space for your regular--don't give me attitude. Asshole.

If you're looking for an Irish pub experience on this block, go to the Owl 'n Thistle. It doesn't suck, and the happy hour prices are actually, well, happy.

Better yet, head out the Galway Arms in the U-District and be treated well by pretty Irish girls (and boys).

Always a favorite for St. Patty's day. Great music, Irish food, bartenders, great drinks! This'll be a worthy tradition.

A place where you get so wasted you get thrown in prison! Yes - haven't found a place like that since I went to Mexico!!! Thank you Fado for the strong drinks, I heart you.

soccer matches, filling food, nice people, nice music. We need more places like this in Seattle.

i got really drunk here one time with some lousy people and later ended up in prison. i would say it wasn't worth it.

I've walked by Fado many times while thinking that it's just another Irish pub, but it's way better than that. Sure, there's the traditional Irish pub fare but also they've got something going on there that could only be described as Irish Fusion, and they're doing it right. Add to that some great deserts (Guiness ice cream!) and pretty mediumish prices.