Buster’s Brown Bag

As you might expect from this Greenwood establishment’s name, which conjures up images of classic deli sandwiches and pinstripe-suited office workers on the go, happy hour (4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday) isn’t a big draw at Buster’s. In fact, we had the place pretty much to ourselves on a recent visit. Admittedly, snack options are scanty; our server mentioned the soft pretzel ($2) and Buffalo wings ($3), and the latter isn’t even on the menu. Yet $2.50 draft beers, $3 house wines, and thoughtful service make the place worth stopping by after work. And with sandwiches of house-smoked pastrami or house-roasted chicken, turkey, or beef on homemade ciabatta bread on offer, plus adequate vegetarian options, you won’t much mind getting sucked into having dinner. You could cut a couple of sandwiches into quarters and share them around the table for a convivial approach to appetizers—a do-it-yourself happy hour of sorts. (You can skip the fries, which, gallingly, cost extra.) I recommend the Monte Cristo sandwich ($6.95), a cross between French toast and ham-and-cheese with fillings tucked between slices of bread dipped in egg batter, then grilled (a meatless version is also available, with Granny Smith apple slices). It’s an unlikely partner with beer, but a surprisingly good one. If it’s mellow conversation you’re after, the utter lack of “scene” and the high-ceilinged space make Buster’s a fine bet. Just think of it as a clean, well-lighted place for beer. 8550 Greenwood Ave. N., 206-781-2224. GREENWOOD