Liberty is one of those rare places that felt like a neighborhood fixture as soon as it opened. The comfy couches and friendly staff really make having drinks at this place feel like going over to a good friend's and relaxing in their living room, and owner Andrew Friedman clearly wants his guests to be as comfortable as possible. The cocktail list is creative and classy, and the cocktails themselves are memorable, not least because of Liberty's attention to what some might call the "details" of using fresh juices, simple syrup, and top shelf liquor. The sushi is great -- as well as being a great concept. Why hasn't anyone thought of serving sushi until 2 a.m. before??? Plus I swear something about sushi -- the wasabe maybe? -- makes hangovers easier.
Liberty is also a great place to go with a group or alone. Something about Liberty makes all customers check their pretensions at the door, which means people are (gasp!) friendly. Even though Liberty's no longer in my neighborhood, every time I make the trip, I feel like I'm at a neighborhood bar. Something that's sadly becoming a rarity in Seattle. RECOMMENDED.
Pros: Great cocktails, friendly servers, reasonable prices, congenial atmosphere
Cons: When its busy, the wait for sushi can be a little long because there's only one chef
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