Spit Fire   

Spitfire is a study in contrasts. Tall concrete-and-exposed-brick walls make a cool, neutral background for huge modernist paintings, rich leather booths and bar stools, and 22 flat-screen TVs (all 45-inchers, showing up to nine different channels simultaneously, so there really isn't a bad seat in the house). The media room, with its 100-inch projection screen, is great for private functions. And the food? Very south-of-the-border. Their modestly priced menu balances a long list of hand-shaken margaritas (the prickly pear is mighty piquant) and sipping tequilas, a specialty de la casa. They also do a bang-up brunch -- nothing like a Bloody Maria and egg-topped enchiladas to set you right after a long Saturday night. The crowd's a mix of Belltown locals and sports fans hailing from distant neighborhoods, all sauntering in for their multiple-game fix, and staff are warm and good-natured. Because Spitfire eludes the frat-boy, sports-bar vibe, plenty of women show up, too: On days without major sporting events the house has even been known to host fashion shows. At times when there's nothing on ESPN but highlights, recaps and reruns, Spitfire screens movies (the sound muted), playing music just loud enough to encourage conversation and one more drink.