Maybe you’ve been to Irwin’s more established location in Wallingford (2123 N.

Published 7:00 am Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Maybe you’ve been to Irwin’s more established location in Wallingford (2123 N. 40th St.), a happy little cafe on the corner you’ve probably passed by a million times while cruising from the U District to Fremont or vice versa. Owner Linda Fecher’s second location is in an old City Light and Power station sandwiched between biotechs right off the southeast end of Lake Union. Opened there months ago, the Hydro House serves Caffe Vita, a wide selection of their own baked goods, and a mean club sandwich. Also, you must see their obscenely overstuffed pies and cakes (full menu on their website). Irwin’s hidden patio also rewards you with a rare and sweeping view of Lake Union. It’s a view you can’t get many places unless you’re willing to drop a lot more money in one of the lake-rim restaurants or hang outside in a park. This view comes complete with tables, chairs, and shade, and can be yours for a mere $2 worth of caffeine. (Apologies for the ultra-blue tungsten setting on my phone.) No one will ever find you here.Irwin’s at Hydro House

1201B Eastlake Ave. E., open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.