If you can’t decide between a burger or pasta, swing by the redesigned modern digs in Greenlake that now houses Darkalino’s and Lil Woody’s. There, in the former space of Burgundian Bistro (2253 N 56th St), you’ll have the choice to decide between Darkalino’s casual Italian fare or Lil Woody’s go-to burgers.

Or, if you still can’t decide – get a little of both. 

Opening its doors this week, Lil Woody’s brings their signature burgers and shakes to one half of the Greenlake collab, while Darkalino’s takes over the other half of the building offering up their house-made pastas, focaccia sandwiches, and cocktails.

Speaking of cocktails, Lacy Bacon is at the helm as GM (and cocktail guru) for Greenlake’s Darkalino’s. Bacon’s cocktail mastery is well known in the biz, as she has put together impressive programs at several bars and restaurants around town including Dreamland Diner, Taylor Shellfish, and Westward. 

And although the drinks promise to be Italian-inspired, they will differ from those on the menu at Darkalino’s original joint in Pioneer Square. This summer you can look for Bacon and team to offer up the Malfy Rosa Negroni, a rotating Frozen Martini, and Spritzes (Cosmo, Darkalino’s and Aperol).

Brunch is a Must

And, if you swing by for brunch (I can’t wait for the Panne Frattau), you can make it a boozy one with the requisite Bloody Mary, an Amaro Espresso Martini, or the Regale – which promises to be a perfect sipper with vodka, pomegranate syrup and Prosecco.

Whether it’s brunch or dinner, Darkalino’s Greenlake kitchen is in good hands with Executive Chef Sean Russo, who has spent time at W Bellevue’s Lakehouse restaurant and The George at The Fairmont Olympic. At Greenlake, Russo will bring some down home Italian comfort to diners inspired by his Sicilian ancestors. 

You should notice some similarities between the new Lil Woody’s in Greenlake and their other haunts in Ballard, Capitol Hill and White Center as they brought in the same architect, Kevin Richards of Richartz Studios, to design. Darkalino’s also tapped the mastermind behind the original Darkalino’s, architect Tom Kundig, to create their new modern setting in Greenlake. The buildout is a collaboration with artist Al-Baseer Holly and showcases his work that include some expressive wall murals. 

A bit off the beaten path in Greenlake, the new Darkalino’s/Lil Woody’s combo should be a hit for fast casual or a relaxing start to your weekend.