Seattle, a city known for its vibrant art and music scenes, boasts a wealth of excellent bars that cater to various tastes and needs. From craft beer aficionados to cocktail connoisseurs, there’s a bar for everyone in this diverse and bustling city. In recent years, new establishments have been making their mark on the city’s nightlife, often with unique themes and settings that stand out from the crowd.
Some of the city’s most popular bars are located in the iconic Pike Place Market, where visitors can enjoy fresh local brews and delicious food in the heart of one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks. Other standout options include hidden speakeasies, like Bathtub Gin Co., known for their expertly mixed cocktails, and Carnelian Bay, a bar-within-a-bar concept that has been gaining recognition for its innovative approach.
In addition to these favorites, Seattle’s rich bar scene offers numerous cozy pubs, inviting sports bars, and lively clubs for every occasion. With so many options, narrowing down the best bars in Seattle can be a challenge, but exploring the city’s diverse nightlife offerings is an adventure worth undertaking for residents and visitors alike.
Best Cocktail Bars in Seattle for a Memorable Night Out
Canon, Central District
928 12th Ave Seattle, WA 98122
Canon is a noteworthy cocktail bar in Seattle, offering a wide variety of exquisite and unique cocktails. Known for its impressive whiskey selection, Canon provides a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. This Capitol Hill gem is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Stampede Cocktail Club, Fremont
119 N 36th St Seattle, WA 98103
Located in the bustling Fremont neighborhood, Stampede Cocktail Club offers a chic and lively atmosphere with an extensive cocktail menu. Known for their creative concoctions and friendly service, this bar is perfect for a night out with friends or a casual date night.
Roquette, Belltown
2232 1st Ave Seattle, WA 98121
Opened by a renowned Seattle bartender, Roquette has quickly become one of the city’s premier cocktail bars. With a focus on top-quality ingredients, Roquette’s menu features classic and innovative cocktails in an upscale environment, making it the ideal destination for a special occasion.
Dead Line, Pioneer Square
114 1st Ave S Seattle, WA 98104
Dead Line bar presents a unique combination of craft cocktails and delicious bites. Known for its stylish ambiance, Deadline is a must-visit location for those seeking a memorable experience and top-tier drinks.
The Walrus and the Carpenter, Ballard
4743 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
This iconic seafood bar offers fresh and delectable dishes and an excellent cocktail menu. The Walrus and the Carpenter is a superb choice for those in the mood for a maritime-themed bar with outstanding drinks and tantalizing seafood options.
Radiator Whiskey, Downtown
94 Pike St Ste 30 Seattle, WA 98101
Stop by Radiator Whiskey if you’re downtown near Pike Place Market. The drink selection is impressive, and the food is magical. I recommend grabbing a seat by the window if you can!
The Pine Box, Capitol Hill
1600 Melrose Ave Seattle, WA 98122
Located in a former funeral home, The Pine Box offers a unique atmosphere and an extensive selection of craft beers alongside a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu. This themed bar is an excellent option for those seeking a different and interesting experience.
Rob Roy, Belltown
2332 2nd Ave Seattle, WA 98121
Tucked away on a quiet street in the Belltown neighborhood, Rob Roy has become a local favorite for its expertly crafted cocktails and inviting, dimly lit atmosphere. This Seattle institution is known for using inventive ingredients and techniques to consistently impress its patrons.
Navy Strength, Belltown
2505 2nd Ave Ste 102A Seattle, WA 98121
This tropical-themed bar brings a taste of the islands to Seattle with its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktail menu. Navy Strength‘s tiki-inspired drinks will transport you to a sunny paradise while remaining in the city’s heart.
Foreign National, Capitol Hill
300 E Pike St Ste 1200 Seattle, WA 98122
Foreign National is a Vietnamese-inspired bar located in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The bar features a dark and transporting atmosphere with a massive mosaic disco ball suspended from the ceiling.
Rumba, Capitol Hill
1112 Pike St Seattle, WA 98101
Distinctive as one of the best rum-focused bars in the Pacific Northwest, Rumba offers a diverse selection of delicious cocktails. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff ensure you’ll have an unforgettable experience at this Seattle hotspot.
Bait Shop, Capitol Hill
606 Broadway E Seattle, WA 98102
This casual, nautically-themed bar serves up delicious libations alongside mouth-watering bites. Bait Shop‘s fun environment and creative drink menu make it a go-to location for a night on the town.
Bathtub Gin, Belltown
2205 2nd Ave Seattle, WA 98121
Hidden away in an alley, Bathtub Gin is an intimate speakeasy-style bar. Known for its gin-focused cocktail menu and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a romantic date night or a quiet evening with friends.
Deep Dive, Denny Triangle
Deep Dive boasts a unique underwater grotto-themed atmosphere and a sophisticated cocktail menu that features innovative and artistic drinks. With an entire section dedicated to non-alcoholic options using zero-proof spirits, this bar truly caters to all tastes.
Life on Mars, Capitol Hill
722 E Pike St Seattle, WA 98122
Life on Mars is a vibrant, music-focused bar that offers an extensive list of expertly crafted cocktails. Its eclectic and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect location for a night out with friends or a casual date.
Bar Sabine, Ballard
5307 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
Bar Sabine is a café, bakery, and bar located in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes with Middle Eastern spices and herbs, as well as espresso drinks and colorful cocktails. The bar is open daily, and the atmosphere is inviting with fun lights and music. In addition to the indoor seating, they also have an outdoor patio and alleyway seating area.
New Luck Toy, Seaview
5905 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98136
New Luck Toy is a bar and restaurant located in Seattle’s West Seattle neighborhood. Its menu features updated versions of classic Chinese dishes, including General Tso’s chicken and honey pecan prawns, along with a variety of cocktails.
Unicorn Bar, Capitol Hill
1118 E Pike St Seattle, WA 98122
Unicorn is a carnival-themed bar and restaurant located in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The bar has a fun and colorful atmosphere with arcade games, a photo booth, and a massive unicorn head mounted on the wall. The menu features creative cocktails, including their famous Jell-O shots, and a variety of carnival-inspired food, such as corn dogs and funnel cakes.
Pie Bar, Capitol Hill & Ballard
Pie Bar is a dessert and cocktail bar located in Seattle, Washington. The bar specializes in classic American pie recipes with high-end cocktails that complement the pies. The bar has two locations in Seattle, one in Capitol Hill and another in Phinney Ridge. The menu features a variety of sweet and savory pies, including apple, pecan, chicken pot pie, and more. The cocktails are also a highlight of Pie Bar, with unique creations like the “Pie-tini” and “Bourbon Peach Pie.” The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with warm and rustic decor.
Phocific Standard Time, Denny Triangle
1923 7th Ave Fl 2 Seattle, WA 98101
Phocific Standard Time is a Vietnamese-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant located in downtown Seattle. The bar is known for its creative cocktails that feature Vietnamese ingredients, such as pandan leaf and pho broth. The menu also includes small plates and entrees that fuse traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern techniques. The bar has a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a chic and stylish decor.
Beveridge Place Pub, Seaview
6413 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98136
Beveridge Place Pub is a neighborhood bar located in West Seattle, Seattle. The bar offers a comfortable and lively setting with a focus on providing guests with the best beverage selection possible. The bar features a huge selection of craft beers and ciders on tap, as well as a variety of bottled beers, wines, and spirits. Beveridge Place Pub also hosts events like quiz night every Wednesday from 8 pm to 10 pm. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with casual and rustic decor.
Knee High Stocking, Capitol Hill
1356 E Olive Way Seattle, WA 98122
Knee High Stocking Co. is a speakeasy-style bar located in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The bar is known for its craft cocktails and vintage atmosphere, inspired by the Prohibition era. The entrance to the bar is discreet, with a doorbell that guests must ring to be let in. Once inside, guests are transported to a cozy and intimate space with dim lighting and vintage decor.
Carnelian Bay, Fremont
3401 Evanston Ave N Seattle, WA 98103
Carnelian Bay is a neotropical sci-fi bar located in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood. The bar is an expansion of Dreamland Bar and Diner and is situated on its covered patio. The bar offers a unique and immersive atmosphere with a mix of sci-fi and tropical decor, including tiger fountains and grottos. The menu features a variety of creative cocktails, including tropical drinks and sci-fi inspired creations.
Inside Passage, Capitol Hill
1108 Pike St Seattle, WA 98101
Inside Passage is a nautical-themed cocktail bar located in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The bar is situated inside the restaurant Rumba and is accessed through a secret passage. Once inside, guests are transported to a cozy and intimate space with a dimly lit atmosphere and a unique decor, including a giant sea monster hanging from the ceiling. The menu features a variety of creative cocktails, including tiki-inspired drinks and original creations, as well as beer, wine, and small plates.
Dreamland, Fremont
3401 Evanston Ave N Seattle, WA 98103
Dreamland is a stylish bar that not only offers a wide selection of wines but also serves handcrafted cocktails. The atmosphere is both intimate and inviting, making it perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
Wine and Beer Bars in Seattle
Old Stove Brewing, Downtown
1901 Western Ave Ste A Seattle, WA 98101
Old Stove Brewing is a popular place to enjoy craft beer in Seattle. They offer a diverse range of beers, including ales, lagers, and stouts. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great destination for an evening out with friends or family.
Fremont Brewing, Fremont
1050 N 34th St Seattle, WA 98103
Fremont Brewing is known for its high-quality craft beers that cater to a variety of tastes. Patrons can enjoy great beers with unique flavors and pub-style bar snacks to accompany their beverages.
Perihelion Brewery, Beacon Hill
2800 16th Ave S Seattle, WA 98144
Located in Beacon Hill, Perihelion Brewery offers an interesting selection of craft beers and ciders on tap. This welcoming establishment is perfect for casual gatherings and sharing drinks with friends while savoring local flavors.
Elysian Brewing, Capitol Hill
1221 E Pike St Seattle, WA 98122
Elysian Brewing has several locations in Seattle, each offering a unique ambiance and an extensive beer menu. The brewing company is known for its innovative and delicious ales, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Skal Beer Hall, Ballard
5429 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
Skal Beer Bar is a cozy spot in Ballard where patrons can enjoy Scandinavian-inspired beers, cocktails, and bar snacks. The selection of craft beers and ciders includes both local and imported options, creating a diverse drinking experience.
Optimism Brewing Company, First Hill
1158 Broadway Seattle, WA 98122
Optimism Brewing Company is located on Capitol Hill and offers a spacious, modern taproom where you can enjoy a wide variety of beers. The emphasis is on quality and creativity, making it an ideal spot for enthusiasts looking to try new brews.
Georgetown Brewing Company, Industrial District
5200 Denver Ave S Seattle, WA 98108
Known for its Manny’s Pale Ale, Georgetown Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for beer lovers. The taproom showcases a mix of permanent and rotating taps, ensuring there’s always a new brew to taste and enjoy.
Taproom, Downtown
1525 1st Ave Ste 16 Seattle, WA 98101
The Taproom features a vast selection of local craft beers that cater to everyone’s tastes. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax after work or catch up with friends.
Left Bank, South Park
8526 14th Ave S Seattle, WA 98108
Left Bank is a wine bar situated in Seattle that focuses on serving natural wines. The cozy space has a delightful ambiance, making it perfect for a relaxing evening. The selection of reasonably-priced wines includes bottles from various regions, which pairs perfectly with the bar’s light snacks.
Bottlehouse, Madrona
1416 34th Ave Seattle, WA 98122
Bottlehouse is a charming wine bar that offers a wide range of wines by the glass and bottle, as well as a selection of local craft beers. The friendly staff can help guide you through their menu to find your perfect drink for the evening.
Parlour Wines, Madison Park
1803 42nd Ave E Seattle, WA 98112
Parlour Wines is another excellent option for wine enthusiasts in Seattle. The wine bar features an extensive inventory of wines, as well as occasional tastings and events for patrons to explore and enjoy.
Popular Seattle Neighborhoods for Bar Lovers
Fremont
Fremont, often referred to as the “Center of the Universe,” is a vibrant neighborhood in Seattle known for its eclectic mix of bars and eateries. From creative cocktails to local breweries, Fremont offers a diverse range of options for bar lovers. A visit to this neighborhood would be incomplete without trying out an adventurous drink at one of its many establishments.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a bustling and lively area, known for its LGBTQ+ community, art scene, and thriving nightlife. With an assortment of bars and clubs, Capitol Hill attracts a diverse crowd and offers something for everyone. From upscale cocktail lounges to casual sports bars, this neighborhood caters to a wide variety of tastes and preferences.
Pioneer Square
Located in the heart of Seattle, Pioneer Square is a historic neighborhood with an array of bars that capture its timeless charm. This area is known for delicious cocktails and Latin-inspired food, creating a unique and moody ambiance. For those who enjoy a retro cocktail lounge experience, Pioneer Square is a must-visit destination.
Alki
Alki is a picturesque neighborhood situated along the waterfront, offering stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. While not as bustling as other neighborhoods, Alki has a selection of laid-back dining and drinking establishments that emphasize quality and ambiance. With its serene environment, it is a perfect place to unwind with a delicious cocktail and enjoy a picturesque sunset.
Central District
The Central District is a diverse neighborhood in Seattle that caters to both sports fans and art enthusiasts. This area boasts a collection of sports bars and venues for live performances, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both excitement and entertainment. Whether you want to watch the big game or take in a live show, the Central District offers a dynamic and engaging bar scene.
