Unicorn Jizz is the best kind there is—not to say I feel like I have an abundance of authority to state this. I am referring to the blend of Mango Vodka and fresh juices available at Unicorn on Seattle’s Capitol Hill.
“Ridiculous,” admits owner Adam Heimstadt, “but completely awesome.”
It’s his specialty cocktail and recommendation for any first timer looking to get into the spirit of his unique establishment. After guzzling one, I wholeheartedly agree.
The Unicorn-Dog is his food pick.
“I never thought I’d love a corndog, but these are dressed up and turned into a real gourmet dish.”
It is delicious, so much so that I neglected to take notes while finishing it. Here’s what I do remember: spicy, sweet, crispy, gooey. It’s one of the ten variations of the corndog available. While pretty much everything on Unicorn’s menu is interesting and original, the burger add-ons may be the most notable; you may opt to deep fry your entire burger, or simply add a patty (up to 15). I can only imagine these are meant to accompany the Man-a-Corn—a shot of blackberry whiskey dropped into Rolling Rock. “Man up!!” the menu gawks.
What’s even more intriguing than Unicorn’s food selection is its interior.
“I have always been fascinated by architectural pieces from old homes and buildings,” says Adam, “and want to give them a home where they can be appreciated.”
Adam’s unique vision translates into black and white chandeliers, vertical striped walls, and rustic antique pieces.
“I used to take old antiques and refurbish them, repaint them with old school tattoo designs and stripes.”
Elaborate turquoise and gold millwork case the liquor selection. Wild cat, bison, and zebra mounts stare at you from above.
“It kills me to know so many amazing pieces get thrown out,” Adam continues, “discarded for new, generic things.”
Even the candle holders are old teacups he buys at antique stores. He’ll go every couple of weeks to replenish them because so many people take them home.
“It’s a constant project,” he says.
The very plate that my Unicorn-Dog arrived on looks like it came from the sixties, covered with orange flowers—certainly not from a modern set. While admiring it, I notice the painting on my table looks like one that should be on a wall with words much more sophisticated than mine being said about it. It is–you guessed it–a unicorn. This one’s red, with a man in short shorts and “devoted” tattooed across his chest flailing to hold on.
It works.
“There is not really a theme to the Unicorn,” Adam claims, “it’s just my style and my personal preferences of how things should look.”
In a thriving Capitol Hill bar scene it definitely stands out, but this is not the only reason Unicorn is so successful. Adam said it’s because of the competition.
“There is nothing better for a new bar than to already have thriving bars around them where we have to step up and create an environment that makes people want to come to the hill and spend money.” He continued, “The more businesses the better.”
Still, there is nothing like the Unicorn.
So, what’s this bar owner’s favorite thing about our city? Adam comes from the Midwest, and loves the fact that Seattle is surrounded by water and mountains.
“Everything was flat. Here it is beautiful, every day—even when it’s raining.”
So on Seattle’s next rainy day, go visit Adam and the rest of the Unicorn crew. Take in the sights, and take on the menu. Be sure to look out for the opening of The Narwhal this spring, a 5000 square foot expansion under the Unicorn.
A pinball machine and a whole new slew of transformed antiques and architectural pieces.
“It’s already beautiful,” says Adam.
In the meantime, you might find me there chowing on Unicorn Balls.
Visit Unicorn at unicornseattle.com and facebook.com/unicornseattle. Massive thanks to Adam Heimstadt for his time!