Seattle is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, and the city is home to a plethora of fantastic bars that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. So if you’re ready to lift your spirits with a round (or five) of the best bars in Seattle, here’s the list of our five favorite bars, in no particular order…
Canon: Whiskey and Bitters Emporium
928 12th Ave,
Seattle, WA 98122
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Capitol Hill, Canon is more than just a bar – it’s an institution. From the outside, it’s unassuming. But step inside and it’s a whole different ballgame! Picture a warm, cozy space with vintage charm, dim lighting, walls lined with whiskey bottles, and an ambiance that screams “let’s have a sophisticated good time”.
Speaking of whiskey, let’s talk numbers. Canon boasts the largest spirits collection in the Western Hemisphere. We’re talking over 4,000 labels! They’ve even got a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, which is the dream for a whiskey bar, right? And the whiskey isn’t just for show. These bartenders know their stuff.
When you stop by, you’re gonna want to try the Canon cocktail – a blend of rye, amaro, and orange that’s smoky, sweet, and 100% delicious. And if you want to get crazy, give the Campfire in Georgia a whirl, trust me on this. But you don’t have to just stick to the menu. The bartenders, or should I say, spirit whisperers, will gladly create a customized concoction just for you.
Canon serves up tasty small plates that pair perfectly with your drink of choice. Their food menu might not be as extensive as their spirits collection (which, let’s be real, would be impossible), but what they do, they do exceptionally well.
One thing to note: Canon is sort of a big deal and one of the busiest Seattle bars. So, if you’re planning to visit on a weekend, it might be worth making a reservation. Trust me, a seat at this bar is worth planning ahead for. This place is hands-down one of the coolest Seattle bars I’ve been to.
Is it family friendly?
Nope. In fact, none of these place listed here make the cut for a family outing.
Zig Zag Café
1501 Western Ave Ste 202,
Seattle, WA 98101
Hidden between the hustle and bustle of the Pike Place Market and the iconic Seattle waterfront, Zig Zag Café has an enviable location. It’s a little hard to find… it’s tucked away under the Pike Street Hill Climb, so it can be a bit of a treasure hunt. But totally worth it! In fact, I stumbled into this place on accident. And when I went looking for it the next day, I swear I couldn’t find it. It’s like I visited Narnia. Maybe leave some breadcrumbs if you’re going there (or don’t drink too much beforehand!).
Anyways, enough about me, back to Zig Zag! The atmosphere is exactly what you’d hope for in a downtown Seattle hotspot. Think classic cocktail bar vibes with a dash of speakeasy chic. It’s casual but classy, you know? Dark wood, soft lighting, and plush seating that practically begs you to sit down and stay a while. It’s the kind of place that whispers, not screams, “we’re cool, and we know it.”
The Zig Zag Café is renowned for its stellar cocktail menu, which is one part art, one part science, and all parts delicious. The bartenders here have a knack for serving up some of the most creative and tasty concoctions in the city. The Last Word, a gin-based beauty, is a perennial favorite and often gets a shout out from other travel bloggers.
Food-wise, Zig Zag Café is no slouch either. Their menu is filled with upscale pub grub that pairs perfectly with their libations. We’re talking gourmet burgers, crispy fries with aioli, and oysters that taste like they’ve just been plucked from the nearby Puget Sound.
Is it family friendly?
Nah, definitely not a family joint.
The Diller Room
1224 1st Ave,
Seattle, WA 98101
The Diller Room, a downtown favorite, seamlessly blends history, hospitality, and a whole lot of charm. Perched in the heart of downtown Seattle, The Diller Room occupies a historic building that once housed the Diller Hotel. Built back in 1890, it’s like stepping into a time machine, whisking you away to an era of vintage elegance. Picture this: exposed brick walls, high ceilings, large windows, and dark, cozy wood everywhere. It’s the sort of place where you half expect to see Hemingway scribbling in a corner.
This place boasts a stellar cocktail list that could impress even the most discerning of patrons. Their mixologists are legit as well, conjuring up cocktails that are a veritable symphony of flavors. From classic Old Fashioneds to innovative drinks with a delightful twist, there’s something for every palate.
The Diller Room isn’t just a watering hole, though. This place has serious kitchen game. Whether it’s a late-night snack or a lunchtime refuel, their menu packs a punch. The Diller Burger gets rave reviews, as does their Mac & Cheese. But honestly, you can’t go wrong with whatever you order.
This bar often hosts local bands and artists, providing a soundtrack to your evening that’s as enticing as the menu. There’s nothing like sipping on a finely crafted cocktail while vibing to some sweet tunes, amirite?
(As a total sidenote, if you’re into vintage photographs and posters, pop around the corner to Michael Maslan Vintage Posters & Photographs. He’s got an impressive collection of old school art and posters that I guarantee you’ll walk out with at least one.)
Is it family friendly?
Nope.
Bathtub Gin & Co.
2205 2nd Ave #310,
Seattle, WA 98121
Located in a former boiler room in Belltown, Bathtub Gin & Co., is true to its Prohibition-era inspiration… and is a bit of a secret. Hidden away in an alley behind a nondescript door, it’s the ultimate speakeasy experience.
Once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve walked onto the set of a glamorous 1920s movie. This is seriously one of the most unique Seattle bars I’ve visited. This multi-level bar oozes vintage charm. From the exposed brick walls to the library-themed decor, and intimate seating nooks, every inch of Bathtub Gin & Co. whispers of yesteryear’s elegance.
The cocktail list is a curated masterpiece, featuring both time-honored classics and inventive house specials. And it’s not just about what’s on the menu. If you’re feeling adventurous, just tell the bartender your preferred spirit and taste profile, and they’ll whip up a unique concoction tailored just for you. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure, but with booze!
Live jazz nights are another highlight, adding to the immersive, Prohibition-era experience. There’s something incredibly cool about sipping on a meticulously crafted cocktail while listening to soulful jazz. It’s the kind of place where you leave your phone in your pocket, get lost in the music, and simply enjoy the moment.
Given its popularity and limited seating, Bathtub Gin & Co. can get pretty packed, especially on weekends. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday might just get you the best seat in the house.
Is it family friendly?
Nope.
The Alibi Room
85 Pike St #410,
Seattle, WA 98101
Nestled in the beating heart of Pike Place Market, The Alibi Room is a quirky gem tucked away in the historic Post Alley of Pike Place Market. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the iconic gum wall. This place is the perfect retreat after a day of market exploration. Its entrance might be easy to miss (it’s part of the charm), but once you find it, you’re in for a treat.
Of all the Seattle bars i’ve been to, The Alibi Room feels the most like a neighborhood watering hole. Once inside, and you’re met with a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Exposed brick walls, warm wooden furnishings, and dim lighting set the stage for an inviting ambiance. The place oozes character, and the moment you enter, you feel as if you’ve been let in on a local secret.
Now let’s talk drinks. The “Market Fresh” cocktails, made with seasonal fruits, are a particular crowd-pleaser, according to reviews. And for the beer lovers among us, they offer a great selection of local craft brews.
Of course, no bar visit is complete without some tasty grub, and Alibi Room’s kitchen doesn’t disappoint. They serve up a medley of gourmet thin-crust pizzas that reviewers rave about. And let me tell you, the words “Bacon and Clam Pizza” come up a LOT. But if pizza isn’t your thing, don’t worry – their menu has plenty of other options that are sure to hit the spot.
Is it family friendly?
Mmm, probably not.
