Just across the rainy street from World Beat Cafe was a near opposite bar. Where WBC was new, it was lived in. Where WBC was obsequious, it was casual. And where WBC was obviously trying to be something, the Ravenna Pub was just being.

It was pretty dark inside, because there was minimal lighting, and there were a lot of tables that didn't have many people at them. A few sat around the edges, drinking and talking, and there were a couple people at the bar. We went there and were served with alacrity by the bartender, who was attentive for a moment, and then moved on to talk with a friend at the bar, and then took more orders from a couple young women who came up.

Curiously enough, I got flirted with by one of the ladies, who gave me eyes. It was flattering, although odd.

The drinks were decent in flavor, strong on the booze end and not too pricey. The bar was that sort of comfortable neighborhood place that everyone should find, and which Ballard has a few of up on 65th, notably the Tin Hat. I rather liked the vibe of the Ravenna Pub, and it's the place I'd hit if I were in the area.