Sporty’s Beef & Brew (6503 Evergreen Way, 425/347-1733, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, $8) serves burgers and beer and attracts sports fans with its large-screen televisions. Two other restaurants offer full-menu dining in a brewpub environment.

Right on the main Colby strip downtown, Flying Pig Brewing Co. (2929 Colby Ave., 425/339-1393, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Sun.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–midnight Fri.–Sat., $12) prepares the better menu of the two. By day, servers bring out pub classics like pulled pork and French dip sandwiches and big burgers. But at night, the chefs really roll up their sleeves to serve gourmet dishes such as seafood cioppino, crab cakes, and rib eye with green peppercorn butter.

For beer and atmosphere, Scuttlebutt Brewing Co. (on the waterfront at 1524 W. Marine View Dr., 425/257-9316, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat., closed Sun.,$10) wins the prize. Situated at Everett Marina, Scuttlebutt brews up consistent award-winning ales that run the rainbow from light blonds to deep porters. The good brews are a magnet for locals during after-work hours.