Sea- The Local Vine or Purple Cafe

[washingtonred]

I have a few hours to myself Friday evening in Seattle. If you had to pick one... Which? and Why? Thanks!

[foodieseattlelady]

If I were picking just between the two, I would choose Purple Cafe because they have a larger selection of Washington and Oregon wines. Sadly, the Local Vine's selection is anything but local and quite over price to boot.

Another suggestion would be The Tasting Room, located off of Post Alley in the Pike Place market. As the retail side of a wine cooperative, you may even have one of the wine makers pouring for you.

[washingtonred]

Just an update... I chose the Local Vine on my trip, and was very glad I did. The staff was friendly and knowledgable. (One gentleman, Todd I believe, was also helpful in pointing me toward just the kind of place I wanted to find for dinner) I enjoyed a nice flight of Italian Reds, and was able to chat briefly with one of the owners, Sarah. She is a gracious host anxious to make sure her patrons are enjoying themselves. Next time, I'll pencil them in for a meal.

[jimwillis]

Not a huge fan of the Local Vine. Yes, they have Screaming Eagle by the glass, if you can pony up $400, but they're a little pricey, and the food is a bit lacking. Purple is pretty good, but the wine list is a bit corporate and so is the atmosphere. I'd recommend Portalis - the wine selection is not dominated by huge producers and corporate bullshit, and the staff there is knowledgeable and they have the best pate in town. Great selection of Belgian/German beers as well!

[foodieseattlelady]

Portalis is fantastic!! They are by far the best wine bar in Seattle! Now, if they would just open a location closer to downtown or Madrona...

[Lisa329]

I vote for Local Vine over Purple Cafe, based mostly on atmosphere. Purple Cafe seems like its trying too hard to be chic and hip - although they do have a large wine selection. I like the atmosphere at Local Vine, they are knowledgable and helpful and have some unique wines.

[TripChick]

I'm not familiar with The Local Vine, but I second the Smash in Wallingford nomination. I've been to Purple and it is just too noisy for me, it kills the entire experience.

[GreenLakeDave]

Smash in Wallingford is a great place for wine flights, not sure if you're looking for a place downtown or not.

[washingtonred]

Staying on 6th and Seneca. Hoping to stay within walking distance~ I'm fairly knowledgable when it comes to wine, just looking to spend a little time and maybe try some things I might not ordinarily run across.

[Lauren]

I can't believe I didn't think of Smash! It's walking distance from my house and I'm meeting friends there soon. I love Smash.

[Lauren]

I'm not familiar with The Local Vine. Regarding Purple Cafe, I guess it depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a place to have knowledgeable staff introduce you to new wines, Purple is not the place. Portalis would be my choice.