Hitchcock's Mind Games

Florian Raymann

No mind games here.

The Watering Hole: Hitchcock, 133 Winslow Way E., (206) 201-3789. BAINBRIDGE ISLAND

The Atmosphere: It's 5:30 on a Saturday evening and Hitchcock is already suspensefully abuzz. The spare, narrow space sinks into itself with tables and booths quickly filled by early diners. Those in the back are treated to a view of the open kitchen, peering curiously into the lair of Chef/owner Brendan McGill and his crew; busily stuffing, rolling, chopping and whisking the night's creations into being.

Those expecting dark thrills may be disappointed in the restaurant's spare simplicity. For most, the name Hitchcock evokes mindbending visions of unexpected horrors. For its owners, the restaurant's name is simply that of some of Bainbridge's earliest homesteaders, relatives of McGill's wife Heidi, and the restaurant reflects little but a modern take on the island's renown small town charm.

The Barkeep: Not what you'd expect at Bainbridge Island's hottest spot, Andrew Martino is a quiet, yet attentive barkeep, keeping a detailed eye on the bar and its patrons. Andrew's been bartending for about six years, having been raised "in the business" working with his father, a longtime owner of Seattle's Il Bistro. Martino lives near Greenlake and cites the amazing commute as one of his favorite things about working at Hitchcock.

That trip across the water attracts a big Seattle crowd, and Hitchcock has quickly become a "destination" eatery, with more visitors that locals waiting for their chance to snag a table. Martino is also a fan of his weekly rotating martini list, which features a variety of his own creations. Asked what his favorite martini is, Martino thinks for a bit and responds simply, "I guess that depends what time of day it is." Given the choice though, he would end a long day with a beer and nice rum.

The Drink: Gin, lemon, lime, sugar, green chartruse, egg white, and peychaud bitters shaken into a Sour Monk. It's a mellow, mysterious drink. The sweet of the chartreuse is tempered by the citrus and bitters while the egg white adds unexpected texture.

The Verdict: Martino cites three reasons everyone should come visit Hitchcock - the gorgeous ferry ride, the highest quality of food sourced from local farmers, and...cocktails. Don't be scared of the journey, you're more likely to go psycho over Hitchcock than you think.