Like a Phoenix, The Viking tavern rises to take over 24th Ave NW.

We already reported on long-time Aquavit joint the Copper Gate being transformed into Olaf's, inspired by The Viking's mascot and bought by fans of The Viking.

Now, according to Eater.com, 10-year veteran Viking bartender Darren Miller has bought the Stepping Stone along with wife Liz Nielson. They plan to apply for a liquor license soon and feature good sandwiches, a daily soup, a few salads and snacks like hummus. (But what about the eggs?)

"Well, I've been a bartender for years and years and years, so I figured, I'm too old, fat, and grumpy to work for anyone else, so I might as well do it myself," Darren told Eater.

The duo plans to open sometime in August. The hours will likely be noon to 2 a.m. every day.

Now, if the original Viking makes its semi-promised return to the ground floor of the new Ballard Lofts development, there would be a complete Viking invasion on 24th.

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