The K-Pub Replaces 21 Central

WELCOME

Move over because there's another pub in town. Formerly known as the handsome steakhouse 21 Central, The K-Pub has had new owners for more than a year. The doors have remained closed, however, due to a lengthy liquor license delay.

They are still awaiting official signage and you shouldn’t expect the iconic 21 Central sign to disappear. It has too much good curb appeal to let go -- and it is the actual address.

The K-Pub will begin by offering casual bar food -- beef and chicken burgers, fish and chips -- from dinner through 1 a.m. Manager Dave Wright is currently working with a chef to develop a more thoughtful menu, but it won’t roll out until after the holidays.

“We’ve been sitting on this property for a year now and want to get something out of the last couple of months (of 2011),” says Wright, a 28 year old Lake Washington High School graduate, alluding to the fact that closed restaurants don’t make money.

Born and raised in Kirkland, Wright has been bartending since he was old enough to pull a tap. He is excited for the opportunity to be the brains behind The K-Pub concept.

“We want to have a more modern feel,” says Wright and though they are leaving the rich mahogany paneling and booths in place, there are enough mounted flat screen TVs to catch just about any game playing at any given time.

“We aren’t specifically a sports bar, but we will show UFC fights, boxing matches, local and international sports.”

The K-Pub is hoping to attract a wide cross section of Kirkland -- young, old, sports fans, music lovers. The small stage can accommodate acoustic musicians, though Wright seems just the tiniest bit bitter about losing local band Herding Cats to Wilde Rover’s larger stage. And while there isn’t much space to dance, Wright didn’t rule out the use of the pub’s sound system on occasions.

“We want to be your hometown watering hole,” says Wright; a place where -- cue Cheer’s theme song -- everybody knows your name, no doubt.

At the time of this interview, The K-Pub was tentatively set to open Thursday, October 20. Please contact The K-Pub at 425-216-3612 for hours of operation.

SEATTLE RESTAURANT WEEK

Don’t forget to take advantage of the second half of Seattle Restaurant Week happening Sunday evenings through Thursday nights until October 27. Kirkland participants in the three courses for $28 deal include , , , , , , , and .