The Crocodile Cafe is a Belltown landmark that immediately took root upon its unveiling in 1991. At that time, you might recall, the Seattle scene was white-hot star-stuff, and Croc creator Stephanie Dorgan opened the restaurant and the 'Live Bait Lounge' on the corner of Second and Blanchard. The actual cafe part of The Crocodile Cafe serves hearty, greasy-spoon-type barfood, like jumbo sandwiches that come with plates of fries. In back is another bar area, darker and decorated with a running series of works by local artists, while the showroom consistently features both local and national bands (Ms. Dorgan's husband is REM's Peter Buck). The Big Names play here, and the Young Turk local contenders - in line to become the Big Names of tomorrow, kid - do too.

The Croc is so close to the Ace you'll probably go there more than once during your stay.

www.thecrocodile.com