Clam chowder’s as American as apple pie, making the iconic Ivar’s Salmon House an ideal place for an Independence Day dinner. Situated on North Lake Union, it offers a picture-perfect view of the 10 p.m. fireworks show. And you’ve got two outdoor dining/viewing options, both featuring Ivar’s classic white chowder. If you’re keeping it casual (and are over 21), the Whalemaker Lounge boasts the happiest happy hour in Seattle. You can settle in at 3 p.m. and stay til close, enjoying sharable (and under $10) bites of popcorn shrimp and fresh oyster shooters. To keep with the summer theme, suck on some adult popsicles, made with raspberry vodka and Blue Curacao liquor. Or, if you want to lend some style and romance to the overhead show, stay on the restaurant side of the deck (and definitely make a reservation for outdoor seating ahead of time, like now). Share a bottle of Chardonnay with your date, dine on crab legs or salmon carpaccio; and, although there is no apple pie on the dessert menu, Ivar’s offers fresh strawberry shortcake with whipped cream that’s just as summery and all-American. ERIN K. THOMPSON

Mon., July 4, 3-11 p.m., 2011