Blackbird Cafe & Bar

Blackbird Cafe & Bar (the longtime Hill's, under the same owner) is a straightforward Shoreline dinner date near Richmond Beach. Sit inside or take the patio when the evening is mild, then keep the rest of the night simple.

Hours make planning easy: dinner daily 4 to 8 p.m., happy hour daily 3 to 5 p.m., lunch on weekdays from 11 a.m., and weekend breakfast or brunch from 9 a.m. to noon. They also open at 9 a.m. daily for breakfast and pastry if you want a daytime date instead.

It is a quick drive from Seattle or Everett when you want a neighborhood restaurant without downtown parking drama. Check the current menu online, then decide whether you are doing early happy hour or a proper dinner seating.