Best Bars in Seattle

Bathtub Gin & Co.

A Prohibition-era-style speakeasy hidden in the former boiler room of Belltown's Humphrey Building, reached via an unmarked alley door. Go for the intimate multi-level hideaway atmosphere and an extensive gin-forward cocktail list. Practical note: the space is small, so reservations are recommended; open daily 5 PM to 2 AM.

Bars

Canon

A world-renowned cocktail bar and "whiskey and bitters emporium" with an encyclopedic menu and one of the largest spirits collections in the Western Hemisphere, served in playful vessels like light bulbs and nesting dolls. Go for an ambitious, theatrical cocktail experience that consistently ranks among the world's best bars. Practical note: it is tiny and does not take reservations, so expect a wait or arrive right at opening.

Bars

Damn the Weather

A sophisticated cocktail bar and New American restaurant in historic Pioneer Square, open since 2014. Go for inventive seasonal cocktails paired with solid bar food in one of Seattle's most beautiful old-brick neighborhoods. Practical note: it works well as both a dinner spot and a drinks destination, with extended weekend hours.

Bars

Deep Dive

A swanky, Jules Verne-inspired speakeasy-style cocktail lounge at the base of the Amazon Spheres from acclaimed chef Renee Erickson. Go for refined, original cocktails, an exceptional spirits selection, and a richly designed underwater-themed room. Practical note: it is strictly 21+ and reservations are advised for the moody, intimate space.

Bars

Inside Passage

An immersive, undersea-themed tropical cocktail bar hidden behind the restaurant Rumba on Capitol Hill, with dramatic lighting and custom sculptures including a giant octopus. Go for transportive tiki-leaning drinks in one of the most atmospheric rooms in the city. Practical note: parties are capped at six and reservations are strongly recommended; closed Mondays.

Bars

Navy Strength

An award-winning Belltown tropical and tiki-forward cocktail bar with an ever-changing globe-spanning drink menu and snacks like nachos and oysters. Go for creative, well-balanced tropical cocktails from a team that won Best New American Cocktail Bar at the Spirited Awards. Practical note: closed Mondays and Tuesdays, opens at 4 PM the rest of the week.

Bars

Percy's & Co.

An apothecary-inspired cocktail bar and Southern-leaning restaurant set in a historic Ballard Avenue building that has housed bars since 1898. Go for botanical, tincture-driven cocktails and a lively neighborhood vibe in Ballard's walkable historic district. Practical note: late hours on weekends (until 2 AM Friday and Saturday) make it a good evening anchor.

Bars

Rob Roy

A dark, mid-century-modern classic cocktail lounge in Belltown with black leather seating and a serious, bartender-driven program. Go for impeccably executed classics and a "bartender's choice" off-menu drink in a relaxed late-night setting. Practical note: open daily from 4 PM until 2 AM, making it a reliable nightcap stop.

Bars

Triangle Spirits

A revived historic corner bar in Fremont's landmark triangle building, serving classic Americana fare centered on fried chicken alongside fresh cocktails and a deep whiskey list. Go for an unpretentious, welcoming neighborhood pub experience with quality drinks. Practical note: open daily from 11 AM, it is one of the few spots here good for both day and night drinking.

Bars

Zig Zag Cafe

A legendary, low-key craft cocktail bar tucked along the Pike Street Hill Climb stairs behind Pike Place Market, credited with reviving the classic Last Word cocktail. Go for expertly made classics in an intimate, unpretentious setting steps from the waterfront. Practical note: the entrance is down the staircase off Western Ave and easy to miss; it opens at 5 PM nightly.