Chloe's Guidebook
Good food in and around the neighborhood
Where I like to eat, with a focus on businesses in the CD and neighboring areas (including Capitol Hill)!
Reservations book out months in advance, but you can simply head there when they open to put your name on the day’s waitlist. They’ll give you an estimated time and a call when your table is ready, and you can come right back over in 5 minutes. They are very busy, but the service here is also super friendly. I’ve dined here by myself a bunch of times and I have never once felt alone!
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COMMUNION Restaurant & Bar
2350 East Union StreetReservations book out months in advance, but you can simply head there when they open to put your name on the day’s waitlist. They’ll give you an estimated time and a call when your table is ready, and you can come right back over in 5 minutes. They are very busy, but the service here is also super friendly. I’ve dined here by myself a bunch of times and I have never once felt alone!
Always busy, but if you come alone, you’ll probably be able to find yourself a stool at the window for people-watching over your fried chicken sandwich and collard greens.
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Fat's Chicken and Waffles
2726 E Cherry StAlways busy, but if you come alone, you’ll probably be able to find yourself a stool at the window for people-watching over your fried chicken sandwich and collard greens.
A trendy spot that’s open later than most. The decor is also very cool. Who ever would have thought to use fish bones the way they have? I love the Hokkien Wok Noodles. They can be a little greasy, but you’ll have more than enough for leftovers the next day. The Beef Cheek Noodles are also really good. Most of the menu is quite good, though I’ve been there on an off night once or twice. Everything I’ve had from the cocktail menu has been a winner.
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Reckless Noodle House and Cocktails
2519 S Jackson StA trendy spot that’s open later than most. The decor is also very cool. Who ever would have thought to use fish bones the way they have? I love the Hokkien Wok Noodles. They can be a little greasy, but you’ll have more than enough for leftovers the next day. The Beef Cheek Noodles are also really good. Most of the menu is quite good, though I’ve been there on an off night once or twice. Everything I’ve had from the cocktail menu has been a winner.
There’s a line that forms soon after they open. That line is a lot shorter and faster during the week. Their specialty is the cruffin, a croissant/muffin hybrid, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on offer there.
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Temple Pastries
2524 S Jackson StThere’s a line that forms soon after they open. That line is a lot shorter and faster during the week. Their specialty is the cruffin, a croissant/muffin hybrid, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on offer there.
They’ve recently moved across the street to the new Midtown Square development! If you want donuts, be there early because they always sell out well before 2pm.
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Raised Doughnuts
2301 23rd AveThey’ve recently moved across the street to the new Midtown Square development! If you want donuts, be there early because they always sell out well before 2pm.
Fried cheese curds! Generous servings of well-done fries, too. You can’t go wrong with a cheeseburger, though their specials are good too.
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Feed Co Burgers
1190 24th AveFried cheese curds! Generous servings of well-done fries, too. You can’t go wrong with a cheeseburger, though their specials are good too.
Another coffee shop near the junction of 23rd and Union. One where you can even get a haircut!
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Squirrel Chops
2201 E Union StAnother coffee shop near the junction of 23rd and Union. One where you can even get a haircut!
A neighborhood institution up on Madison. They have lots of options for the non-sushi eaters in your life too. If you can’t sit at the sushi bar, though, it’s best to get takeout and enjoy at home.
Jae's Asian Bistro & Sushi
2801 East Madison StreetA neighborhood institution up on Madison. They have lots of options for the non-sushi eaters in your life too. If you can’t sit at the sushi bar, though, it’s best to get takeout and enjoy at home.
Arguably the city’s most famous vegetarian restaurant and so close, right on Madison. If you can, get a seat in the light- and plant-filled atrium. They also now have a permanent covered outdoor seating area! I do tend to prefer their brunch to their dinner menu.
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Cafe Flora
2901 E Madison StArguably the city’s most famous vegetarian restaurant and so close, right on Madison. If you can, get a seat in the light- and plant-filled atrium. They also now have a permanent covered outdoor seating area! I do tend to prefer their brunch to their dinner menu.
A charming sit-down brunch spot situated in an older home on 34th. Now with a covered patio area, too.
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Hi-Spot Cafe
1410 34th AveA charming sit-down brunch spot situated in an older home on 34th. Now with a covered patio area, too.
This Korean place is tucked away in nearby Madison Park at the Lake Washington end of Madison. It’s pretty small inside, but there are a few covered two-tops outside.
Hanok
4021 East Madison StreetThis Korean place is tucked away in nearby Madison Park at the Lake Washington end of Madison. It’s pretty small inside, but there are a few covered two-tops outside.
Schmancy eats up on 34th. If they have the salad with the crab and peas, definitely get that.
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Vendemmia
1126 34th AveSchmancy eats up on 34th. If they have the salad with the crab and peas, definitely get that.
A neighborhood steakhouse on 34th, for when all you want is some meat and potatoes.
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Red Cow
1423 34th AveA neighborhood steakhouse on 34th, for when all you want is some meat and potatoes.
In nearby Capitol Hill, sample from lots of different world cuisines in one cute and colorful location that transports you with its evocative decor. Be mindful that dishes are of varying size, though all are meant for sharing.
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Nue
1519 14th AveIn nearby Capitol Hill, sample from lots of different world cuisines in one cute and colorful location that transports you with its evocative decor. Be mindful that dishes are of varying size, though all are meant for sharing.
Most consistent Ethiopian in the Central District. Get some takeout, maybe a veggie combo with a meat dish like lamb tibs, doro wat, or, for the adventurous, kitfo! If raw beef isn’t your thing, you can ask them to cook the kitfo, but it’s not the same.
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Cafe Selam
2715 E Cherry StMost consistent Ethiopian in the Central District. Get some takeout, maybe a veggie combo with a meat dish like lamb tibs, doro wat, or, for the adventurous, kitfo! If raw beef isn’t your thing, you can ask them to cook the kitfo, but it’s not the same.
Recently declared Seattle’s best BBQ by none other than J. Kenji Alt-Lopez himself. Near some other spots on Jackson, their mac and cheese is lusciously creamy. I don’t even understand how. Don’t come too late or else the meat options become limited. Get takeout or enjoy their patio area. What kind of ‘cue is it? Their catchphrase is, “Homesick for Kansas. Inspired by Texas. Found in Seattle.”
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WOOD SHOP BBQ
2513 S Jackson StRecently declared Seattle’s best BBQ by none other than J. Kenji Alt-Lopez himself. Near some other spots on Jackson, their mac and cheese is lusciously creamy. I don’t even understand how. Don’t come too late or else the meat options become limited. Get takeout or enjoy their patio area. What kind of ‘cue is it? Their catchphrase is, “Homesick for Kansas. Inspired by Texas. Found in Seattle.”
The first place I think of when I want Mexican, and not too far, in Rainier Valley. Sadly, you can no longer eat on the bus, but their carne asada burritos and lengua tacos are still great! I wish their nacho fries were crispy like they used to be. Still hits the spot, though. Make sure to ask for escabeche (pickled carrots, jalapeños) and lime on the side!
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Taqueria El Asadero
3513 Rainier Ave SThe first place I think of when I want Mexican, and not too far, in Rainier Valley. Sadly, you can no longer eat on the bus, but their carne asada burritos and lengua tacos are still great! I wish their nacho fries were crispy like they used to be. Still hits the spot, though. Make sure to ask for escabeche (pickled carrots, jalapeños) and lime on the side!
Nearby, in the International District. Not as many carts roaming the space as some other dim sum restaurants, but you can order off a menu. This place is packed on weekends, so come early or on a weekday if you can.
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Harbor City Restaurant
707 S King StNearby, in the International District. Not as many carts roaming the space as some other dim sum restaurants, but you can order off a menu. This place is packed on weekends, so come early or on a weekday if you can.
The original location on 23rd near Cherry, where I’m pretty sure they still have a picture with Oprah on the wall! I always go with the spicy. It’s really not so spicy. Also, the parking lot is supposed to be one-way only, but no one seems to realize that. Be careful!
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Ezell's Famous Chicken
501 E Jefferson StThe original location on 23rd near Cherry, where I’m pretty sure they still have a picture with Oprah on the wall! I always go with the spicy. It’s really not so spicy. Also, the parking lot is supposed to be one-way only, but no one seems to realize that. Be careful!
In nearby Capitol Hill. Great for late-night Mexican. Grab a seat along the window for prime people-watching. I love that there’s always someone making tortillas fresh by the front door.
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Fogón Cocina Mexicana
600 E Pine StIn nearby Capitol Hill. Great for late-night Mexican. Grab a seat along the window for prime people-watching. I love that there’s always someone making tortillas fresh by the front door.
In nearby Capitol Hill. A grownup, cloth napkins kind of place for pizza where you can still take the kids.
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Bar Cotto
1546 15th AveIn nearby Capitol Hill. A grownup, cloth napkins kind of place for pizza where you can still take the kids.
At the edge of Capitol Hill and downtown, a sleek and sexy environment with vegan-friendly dishes and homey flavors.
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Mamnoon
1508 Melrose AveAt the edge of Capitol Hill and downtown, a sleek and sexy environment with vegan-friendly dishes and homey flavors.
Nearby, in the I-D, not your Mom’s pho shop, but your cool aunt’s pho spot, where you can also get a cocktail or shot of Jameson with pho broth chaser.
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Pho Bac Súp Shop
1240 S Jackson StNearby, in the I-D, not your Mom’s pho shop, but your cool aunt’s pho spot, where you can also get a cocktail or shot of Jameson with pho broth chaser.
A sultry spot for a date night on 15th in nearby Capitol Hill. Share some tapas and settle in for quiet conversation.
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Bar Vacilando
405 15th Ave EA sultry spot for a date night on 15th in nearby Capitol Hill. Share some tapas and settle in for quiet conversation.
Cookies to die for, and they’re just down the street! They have a regular and rotating monthly menu, though the specials often cost a little bit more. The thing is, they will hook you for life with their free cookie promos.
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Lowrider Baking Company
2407 E Union StCookies to die for, and they’re just down the street! They have a regular and rotating monthly menu, though the specials often cost a little bit more. The thing is, they will hook you for life with their free cookie promos.
Delicious Malaysian food in a colorful little restaurant on the Hill, recently relocated and reopened under new management.
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Kedai Makan
1449 Bellevue AveDelicious Malaysian food in a colorful little restaurant on the Hill, recently relocated and reopened under new management.
Excellent vegan food on the Hill in a light and bright room. Especially good at brunch!
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Plum Bistro
1429 12th AveExcellent vegan food on the Hill in a light and bright room. Especially good at brunch!
A great vegan spot on the Hill with a twist: a vinyl collection supplies the music! DJ John Richards of our local, but world-famous, KEXP is a partner on this venture. He is also a vegan. They are super serious about only having vegan food in the place so don’t bring in cupcakes from outside for a birthday, for example. Their brunch is good, but they’re also good for late night eats.
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Life On Mars
722 E Pike StA great vegan spot on the Hill with a twist: a vinyl collection supplies the music! DJ John Richards of our local, but world-famous, KEXP is a partner on this venture. He is also a vegan. They are super serious about only having vegan food in the place so don’t bring in cupcakes from outside for a birthday, for example. Their brunch is good, but they’re also good for late night eats.
The closest location of Seattle’s classic Dick’s Drive-In, on Broadway on Capitol Hill, you can get a very basic burger and a pretty delicious hand-dipped milkshake. The fries are so floppy, but they are hand cut everyday from real potatoes! But let’s not forget that the burgers are, like, $2!! None of this may be why you come here; this Dick’s has been featured in music videos by Seattle’s own Sir Mix-a-Lot and Macklemore and is a fun throwback spot in general.
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Dick's Drive-In
115 Broadway EThe closest location of Seattle’s classic Dick’s Drive-In, on Broadway on Capitol Hill, you can get a very basic burger and a pretty delicious hand-dipped milkshake. The fries are so floppy, but they are hand cut everyday from real potatoes! But let’s not forget that the burgers are, like, $2!! None of this may be why you come here; this Dick’s has been featured in music videos by Seattle’s own Sir Mix-a-Lot and Macklemore and is a fun throwback spot in general.
This restaurant in the heart of nearby Capitol Hill has a big ol’ Instagrammable flower wall. Also, tall ceilings, and retractable walls create great air flow. So much so that I felt safe enough to make this my first eat-indoors-again place. And the fusion/Asian food was good too!
Di Fiora
1320 University StreetThis restaurant in the heart of nearby Capitol Hill has a big ol’ Instagrammable flower wall. Also, tall ceilings, and retractable walls create great air flow. So much so that I felt safe enough to make this my first eat-indoors-again place. And the fusion/Asian food was good too!
Hand-pulled noodles nearby on Capitol Hill. Yes, one crispy chicken bao and one order of noodles is probably a little too much to eat, but I believe in you. If you come with a group, have a friend scope a table while you’re in line placing your orders. It’s small and often busy here. Turnover is pretty fast, though, so solo diners can manage fine on their own too.
Biang Biang Noodles
601 East Pike StreetHand-pulled noodles nearby on Capitol Hill. Yes, one crispy chicken bao and one order of noodles is probably a little too much to eat, but I believe in you. If you come with a group, have a friend scope a table while you’re in line placing your orders. It’s small and often busy here. Turnover is pretty fast, though, so solo diners can manage fine on their own too.
Sichuanese at the top end of Broadway in Capitol Hill from a chef who was formerly known for prix fixe fine dining. This place changed how I make fried rice. (Maitake mushrooms and Sichuan peppers together are a revelation. There’s bacon, too, but it’s all about the mushrooms and peppercorns for me.) A little pricy here for the portion size, so don’t expect much in the way of leftovers.
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Lionhead
618 Broadway ESichuanese at the top end of Broadway in Capitol Hill from a chef who was formerly known for prix fixe fine dining. This place changed how I make fried rice. (Maitake mushrooms and Sichuan peppers together are a revelation. There’s bacon, too, but it’s all about the mushrooms and peppercorns for me.) A little pricy here for the portion size, so don’t expect much in the way of leftovers.
This location in the I-D is the biggest one and so very fast. Order everything, but especially the Q-bao. They come as an order of four, but you’ll probably want all four to yourself. Those juicy meat pillows. And the xiao long bao (soup dumplings). And the crisp, pickled cucumbers. Even the sesame dressing that goes with the A-choy salad. Seriously, order everything.
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Dough Zone™ Dumpling House
504 5th Ave SThis location in the I-D is the biggest one and so very fast. Order everything, but especially the Q-bao. They come as an order of four, but you’ll probably want all four to yourself. Those juicy meat pillows. And the xiao long bao (soup dumplings). And the crisp, pickled cucumbers. Even the sesame dressing that goes with the A-choy salad. Seriously, order everything.
Vietnamese food is not one of Seattle’s strengths, but this spot in the I-D is pretty solid. And kudos to them for thinking about lychee cocktails and vibes long before you found that in many Asian restaurants here.
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Tamarind Tree
1036 S Jackson StVietnamese food is not one of Seattle’s strengths, but this spot in the I-D is pretty solid. And kudos to them for thinking about lychee cocktails and vibes long before you found that in many Asian restaurants here.
Do me proud at this diner at the border of the CD and Capitol Hill. Go for brunch on a day when you’re feeling strong, and order The Chub or The Little Rob, a Bloody Mary, and a Colonel Parker (adult milkshake with whiskey and peanut butter, oh my) to finish. Your stomach will explode, but you’ll die so happy. Come early if you don’t want to wait in line. Hipsters wake up late.
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Skillet Diner
1400 E Union StDo me proud at this diner at the border of the CD and Capitol Hill. Go for brunch on a day when you’re feeling strong, and order The Chub or The Little Rob, a Bloody Mary, and a Colonel Parker (adult milkshake with whiskey and peanut butter, oh my) to finish. Your stomach will explode, but you’ll die so happy. Come early if you don’t want to wait in line. Hipsters wake up late.
I hate that they’ve been on Pine all this time, but I’m still out of their delivery zone. Some people say it’s not the best pizza, but they sell slices of pepperoni with jalapeño and pineapple late at night and I think they’re actually pretty good. I like coming here for a drink if I’m grabbing a drink alone. It’s mostly punks and people wearing flannel, so no one’s gonna bother you.
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Big Mario's Pizza
4350 Leary Way NWI hate that they’ve been on Pine all this time, but I’m still out of their delivery zone. Some people say it’s not the best pizza, but they sell slices of pepperoni with jalapeño and pineapple late at night and I think they’re actually pretty good. I like coming here for a drink if I’m grabbing a drink alone. It’s mostly punks and people wearing flannel, so no one’s gonna bother you.
Ginger beer to which no other ginger beers compare. You can get some shipped through the mail for a reason. If you’re at Pike Place, grab a cup at that location to sip on while you wander.
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Rachel’s Ginger Beer
1610 12th AveGinger beer to which no other ginger beers compare. You can get some shipped through the mail for a reason. If you’re at Pike Place, grab a cup at that location to sip on while you wander.
Fun to explore for unusual snacks and beverages, alongside reasonably priced and well-designed ceramics and housewares. Don’t miss the deli case and bakery section near the equally strong food court, which features local restaurants and a Kinokuniya bookstore, for your manga and Korean fashion magazine needs!
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Uwajimaya
600 5th Ave SFun to explore for unusual snacks and beverages, alongside reasonably priced and well-designed ceramics and housewares. Don’t miss the deli case and bakery section near the equally strong food court, which features local restaurants and a Kinokuniya bookstore, for your manga and Korean fashion magazine needs!
In the part of the CD that’s closer to Seattle U/First Hill, this place has a full bar, a couple taps, and most importantly, really good sandwiches, including popular vegan option Emilio Pestovez and very not-vegan options like Fast Eddie or The Gooch. The patio is a great option on a nice day.
HoneyHole Sandwiches - Central District
1305 East Jefferson StreetIn the part of the CD that’s closer to Seattle U/First Hill, this place has a full bar, a couple taps, and most importantly, really good sandwiches, including popular vegan option Emilio Pestovez and very not-vegan options like Fast Eddie or The Gooch. The patio is a great option on a nice day.
Seattle is a great place to eat seafood, especially raw oysters! Taylor Shellfish Farms combines a market-like experience with a cafe dining experience. If this Capitol Hill location is packed, you might try the one in Pioneer Square or in Queen Anne, though each location has a different vibe and menu.
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Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar
1521 Melrose AveSeattle is a great place to eat seafood, especially raw oysters! Taylor Shellfish Farms combines a market-like experience with a cafe dining experience. If this Capitol Hill location is packed, you might try the one in Pioneer Square or in Queen Anne, though each location has a different vibe and menu.
A new pizza joint from alums of well-regarded Ethan Stowell restaurants, this place offers an abbreviated list of pies that includes a carbonara pizza to die for. The booths on the right hand side, against the window, are ever so slightly bigger, by the way.
Jackson Street Pizza Lounge
A new pizza joint from alums of well-regarded Ethan Stowell restaurants, this place offers an abbreviated list of pies that includes a carbonara pizza to die for. The booths on the right hand side, against the window, are ever so slightly bigger, by the way.
Drinks in the Central District
Making the rounds to have some rounds! Everything listed here is walkable, with the exception of Canon.
A rare drinking establishment where kids are welcome. This used to be an old print shop, which explains the ambiance, but people come here for the excellent tap selection and a seat on the patio. They offer tasting flights! Make sure to get some food from the food truck parked outside too. The food truck calendar is online, if you want to plan ahead.
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Chuck's Hop Shop & Kegs to go
2001 E Union StA rare drinking establishment where kids are welcome. This used to be an old print shop, which explains the ambiance, but people come here for the excellent tap selection and a seat on the patio. They offer tasting flights! Make sure to get some food from the food truck parked outside too. The food truck calendar is online, if you want to plan ahead.
The latest addition to the CD’s burgeoning food and drink scene, over on Cherry near the Twilight Exit. They’re still working on an all-weather patio, but have opened for business in the meantime. I haven’t gotten to know their beers yet, but I’m excited to support a Black-owned business looking to bring more representation to the brewing world. Food is available during some business hours and is brought to you by Umami Kushi, who make okazu pan, the most delicious Japanese snack, made of bread that is filled with things like curry beef or chicken adobo before being encrusted in panko and fried.
Metier Brewing Company Taproom
2616 East Cherry StreetThe latest addition to the CD’s burgeoning food and drink scene, over on Cherry near the Twilight Exit. They’re still working on an all-weather patio, but have opened for business in the meantime. I haven’t gotten to know their beers yet, but I’m excited to support a Black-owned business looking to bring more representation to the brewing world. Food is available during some business hours and is brought to you by Umami Kushi, who make okazu pan, the most delicious Japanese snack, made of bread that is filled with things like curry beef or chicken adobo before being encrusted in panko and fried.
Near some other hot spots on Jackson, they offer both covered and uncovered patio seating and get really busy on nice days. It’s a small, but mighty tap list. The one beer with the hard-to-pronounce name is what I always get. The food is only okay. They seem to keep changing their food program and it’s nothing special right now.
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Standard Brewing
2504 S Jackson StNear some other hot spots on Jackson, they offer both covered and uncovered patio seating and get really busy on nice days. It’s a small, but mighty tap list. The one beer with the hard-to-pronounce name is what I always get. The food is only okay. They seem to keep changing their food program and it’s nothing special right now.
A dive bar that’s moved locales a bunch of times but is forever a favorite neighborhood mainstay. On Cherry for now. The patio is super popular, but also closes pretty early to be respectful of their neighbors. Lots of locals come here just for the food. They make great burgers and the portions on their tots are generous. Peanut butter and beef sounds wild, but it works. Sunday is karaoke night! Loud, but a good time.
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Twilight Exit
2514 E Cherry StA dive bar that’s moved locales a bunch of times but is forever a favorite neighborhood mainstay. On Cherry for now. The patio is super popular, but also closes pretty early to be respectful of their neighbors. Lots of locals come here just for the food. They make great burgers and the portions on their tots are generous. Peanut butter and beef sounds wild, but it works. Sunday is karaoke night! Loud, but a good time.
A sophisticated spot on 34th for quiet conversation over wine and cheese. Take home a bottle from their small bottle shop in the front.
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Bottlehouse
1416 34th AveA sophisticated spot on 34th for quiet conversation over wine and cheese. Take home a bottle from their small bottle shop in the front.
At the edge of the CD and Capitol Hill, it’s a beautiful and moody room where you’ll need to prepare to drop some cash, but the bartenders here make some inspired cocktails. The bottle-aged drinks have treated me well. They also have America’s largest spirit collection!
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Canon
928 12th AveAt the edge of the CD and Capitol Hill, it’s a beautiful and moody room where you’ll need to prepare to drop some cash, but the bartenders here make some inspired cocktails. The bottle-aged drinks have treated me well. They also have America’s largest spirit collection!
This is a local favorite that’s recently reopened. They’ve got a new patio space in their latest location in Midtown Square. Also, kids are now allowed until 8pm. Adults will love the local pour and low (for Seattle) prices and really solid PacNW-style pub food.
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Neighbor Lady
1133 E Union StThis is a local favorite that’s recently reopened. They’ve got a new patio space in their latest location in Midtown Square. Also, kids are now allowed until 8pm. Adults will love the local pour and low (for Seattle) prices and really solid PacNW-style pub food.
Sightseeing
Some of my favorite places and where I take visitors from out of town
My most favorite part of the Washington Park Arboretum! Traipse along the waterfront on mulched paths and right over Lake Washington itself on floating pedestrian bridge segments. Climb onto a platform and just stare off into the distance. Spot great blue herons and lots and lots of ducks and geese fishing!
Arboretum Waterfront Trail
Arboretum Waterfront TrailMy most favorite part of the Washington Park Arboretum! Traipse along the waterfront on mulched paths and right over Lake Washington itself on floating pedestrian bridge segments. Climb onto a platform and just stare off into the distance. Spot great blue herons and lots and lots of ducks and geese fishing!
Go for a walk down by the sound on a Sunday morning, when parking is free and it’s not too busy yet. Park at the top of the Olympic Sculpture Park and head down to the trail to enjoy rugged natural beauty alongside industrial and urban scenery.
Elliot Bay Trail
Elliot Bay TrailGo for a walk down by the sound on a Sunday morning, when parking is free and it’s not too busy yet. Park at the top of the Olympic Sculpture Park and head down to the trail to enjoy rugged natural beauty alongside industrial and urban scenery.
A moderate and pretty busy hike about an hour east of Seattle. Don’t accidentally turn around before you miss the views at the top. If you think you’re there but you haven’t seen the lake below, keep going just a little bit further. Everyone’s hanging out there on the ledge, just past the first few lookouts.
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Rattlesnake Ledge Trailhead
Snoqualmie Valley TrailA moderate and pretty busy hike about an hour east of Seattle. Don’t accidentally turn around before you miss the views at the top. If you think you’re there but you haven’t seen the lake below, keep going just a little bit further. Everyone’s hanging out there on the ledge, just past the first few lookouts.
See how boats get from the waters of our lakes out to Puget Sound, which can sometimes be three stories’ worth of height in difference! Also don’t miss the salmon runs that happen via the fish ladder from mid-June to September.
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Kunci Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden)
3015 NW 54th StSee how boats get from the waters of our lakes out to Puget Sound, which can sometimes be three stories’ worth of height in difference! Also don’t miss the salmon runs that happen via the fish ladder from mid-June to September.
Grab a Cuban sandwich from Paseo, lots of napkins, and head down here for an incredible view of the city and houseboats surrounding Lake Union. Wipe the grease from your chin and point out the yachts you’d buy if you were the yacht-buying type. Talk about that person who just climbed out of a kayak in a banana suit. And if you bought a kite at that toy shop in Pioneer Square, the hill is a reliable spot to fly a kite!
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Gas Works Park
2101 N Northlake WayGrab a Cuban sandwich from Paseo, lots of napkins, and head down here for an incredible view of the city and houseboats surrounding Lake Union. Wipe the grease from your chin and point out the yachts you’d buy if you were the yacht-buying type. Talk about that person who just climbed out of a kayak in a banana suit. And if you bought a kite at that toy shop in Pioneer Square, the hill is a reliable spot to fly a kite!
Motor around Lake Union on a covered boat. There’s room on board for a cooler, so bring lunch and beverages. You can also plug into the sound system on board and listen to your own music as you fantasize about what life would be like on a houseboat or if you worked on a cargo ship. I believe the answer to both is: damp.
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Syarikat Bot Elektrik | Sewaan Bot Seattle | Sewaan Bot Elektrik Lake Union
2046 Westlake Ave NMotor around Lake Union on a covered boat. There’s room on board for a cooler, so bring lunch and beverages. You can also plug into the sound system on board and listen to your own music as you fantasize about what life would be like on a houseboat or if you worked on a cargo ship. I believe the answer to both is: damp.
For a really unique Seattle experience, take a seaplane tour. You’ll get a great sense of the city’s geography, which is truly spectacular from above. Flights depart from South Lake Union. They do make you weigh in for safety and weight distribution reasons. But if you’re lucky, you might fly directly over a stadium during a big moment with confetti cannons going off!
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Kenmore Air
950 Westlake Ave NFor a really unique Seattle experience, take a seaplane tour. You’ll get a great sense of the city’s geography, which is truly spectacular from above. Flights depart from South Lake Union. They do make you weigh in for safety and weight distribution reasons. But if you’re lucky, you might fly directly over a stadium during a big moment with confetti cannons going off!
Great for a quirky photo op if you’re exploring the Fremont neighborhood. I generally like to not tell people where we’re going when we go here. Then, bam, giant troll under a bridge!
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Troll Fremont
Troll Avenue NorthGreat for a quirky photo op if you’re exploring the Fremont neighborhood. I generally like to not tell people where we’re going when we go here. Then, bam, giant troll under a bridge!
On Sundays, a parking garage turns into a vintage flea market and streets outside fill with vendors hawking food and wares. In the winter, you’ll find the outdoor market under the bridge, on account of the rain. Pair this with a trip to the Fremont Vintage Mall.
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Pasar Jalan Ahad Fremont
3401 Evanston Ave NOn Sundays, a parking garage turns into a vintage flea market and streets outside fill with vendors hawking food and wares. In the winter, you’ll find the outdoor market under the bridge, on account of the rain. Pair this with a trip to the Fremont Vintage Mall.
Red room! Make sure to observe the book return system. It’s pretty neat!
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Perpustakaan Awam Seattle
1000 4th AveRed room! Make sure to observe the book return system. It’s pretty neat!
Now, this is where you get your views from the 73rd floor. Eat your heart out, Space Needle.
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Sky View Observatory Columbia Center
700 4th AveNow, this is where you get your views from the 73rd floor. Eat your heart out, Space Needle.
While Columbia Tower is now the tallest building west of the Mississippi, Smith Tower once held that title. It is still iconic and charming as ever. Put on a clean shirt and enjoy some craft cocktails as well as the 360-degree view.
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Menara Smith
506 2nd AveWhile Columbia Tower is now the tallest building west of the Mississippi, Smith Tower once held that title. It is still iconic and charming as ever. Put on a clean shirt and enjoy some craft cocktails as well as the 360-degree view.
It’s free! And that view! Get some culture. Get some steps. Get the ‘gram. I like to come on Sunday mornings when parking is free and plentiful. It’s easy to miss stuff if you aren’t thorough, so spend some time.
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Taman Patung Olimpik
2901 Western AveIt’s free! And that view! Get some culture. Get some steps. Get the ‘gram. I like to come on Sunday mornings when parking is free and plentiful. It’s easy to miss stuff if you aren’t thorough, so spend some time.
An old-growth forest right in city limits? Yup, we’ve got that right here. Explore the interior of the park to get lost amongst the trees. Or jog, bike, or scoot along the 2.5 mile path that rings the park. Watch for great blue herons and turtles along the shore. Just don’t leave anything valuable in view in your car, as this park does have more than its share of break-ins. If you want to bike here, take Lake Washington Blvd along the lake!
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Seward Park
5900 Lake Washington Blvd SAn old-growth forest right in city limits? Yup, we’ve got that right here. Explore the interior of the park to get lost amongst the trees. Or jog, bike, or scoot along the 2.5 mile path that rings the park. Watch for great blue herons and turtles along the shore. Just don’t leave anything valuable in view in your car, as this park does have more than its share of break-ins. If you want to bike here, take Lake Washington Blvd along the lake!
A challenge to get to without a car, but the views of the city skyline across the water are unbeatable! Once you’re here, grab something to eat from a place along the water and pretend you’re on a beach vacation!
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Alki Beach
A challenge to get to without a car, but the views of the city skyline across the water are unbeatable! Once you’re here, grab something to eat from a place along the water and pretend you’re on a beach vacation!
So lovely that I once almost got married here! Also free, but why not donate? There’s a box for that.
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Taman Kubota
9817 55th Ave SSo lovely that I once almost got married here! Also free, but why not donate? There’s a box for that.
This is the spot from which all shows and movies about Seattle would film their B-roll, back before drones existed. Think Frasier. It’s in a residential pocket that’s a little distant from other things, but is up Queen Anne hill from the Seattle Center, if you’re going there.
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Taman Kerry
211 W Highland DrThis is the spot from which all shows and movies about Seattle would film their B-roll, back before drones existed. Think Frasier. It’s in a residential pocket that’s a little distant from other things, but is up Queen Anne hill from the Seattle Center, if you’re going there.
Strong showings in the modern and ethnic art collections here. There’s always something interesting in the traveling exhibitions too. A great way to spend a day downtown. Free on First Thursdays!
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Seattle Selfie Museum
92 Union StStrong showings in the modern and ethnic art collections here. There’s always something interesting in the traveling exhibitions too. A great way to spend a day downtown. Free on First Thursdays!
In nearby Capitol Hill, home to the sculpture that helped inspire Soundgarden’s Black Hole Sun. It’s got a beautiful conservatory and the Asian Art Museum, too. Both worthy of a visit. But if you want to keep things free, you can also climb the water tower, have a picnic, maybe catch some music if there’s something happening on the outdoor stage by the reservoir on a summer weekend.
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Taman Sukarelawan
1247 15th Ave EIn nearby Capitol Hill, home to the sculpture that helped inspire Soundgarden’s Black Hole Sun. It’s got a beautiful conservatory and the Asian Art Museum, too. Both worthy of a visit. But if you want to keep things free, you can also climb the water tower, have a picnic, maybe catch some music if there’s something happening on the outdoor stage by the reservoir on a summer weekend.
Not as big as some noteworthy bookstores (say, Powell’s in Portland), but it’s lovely all the same and close by in Capitol Hill. It’s such an inviting space. Buy yourself a staff pick. There are so many to choose from. Or just wander until something catches your eye.
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The Elliott Bay Book Company
1521 10th AveNot as big as some noteworthy bookstores (say, Powell’s in Portland), but it’s lovely all the same and close by in Capitol Hill. It’s such an inviting space. Buy yourself a staff pick. There are so many to choose from. Or just wander until something catches your eye.
It’s massive. And drop dead gorgeous. I’ve always been a sucker for parks built on the sites of old forts. The beach and sea cliff components of this particular one makes me feel like I’m out on the peninsula or one of the islands when I’m here. I wish it wasn’t so far from me or else I’d be there all the time.
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Taman Discovery
3801 Discovery Park BlvdIt’s massive. And drop dead gorgeous. I’ve always been a sucker for parks built on the sites of old forts. The beach and sea cliff components of this particular one makes me feel like I’m out on the peninsula or one of the islands when I’m here. I wish it wasn’t so far from me or else I’d be there all the time.
A neighborhood gallery and performance space for Black art. Check their website for information about what’s happening. You might be here for things like their annual Walk the Block event, which turns other neighborhood venues and private homes into spaces for art, music, dance, and community-building.
Wa Na Wari
911 24th AveA neighborhood gallery and performance space for Black art. Check their website for information about what’s happening. You might be here for things like their annual Walk the Block event, which turns other neighborhood venues and private homes into spaces for art, music, dance, and community-building.
This museum really does an excellent job of showcasing cool contemporary, local art. It’s like a First Thursday art walk rolled into one tiny maze of a building. Don’t miss the bathrooms or the so-called gift shop downstairs!
Museum of Museums
900 Boylston AveThis museum really does an excellent job of showcasing cool contemporary, local art. It’s like a First Thursday art walk rolled into one tiny maze of a building. Don’t miss the bathrooms or the so-called gift shop downstairs!
Nightlife
Places to go out, probably to dance or hear music
A raucous bar where the drag goes down. Check their calendar for a full slate of events. Are you going to wait forever to get a drink at the bar? Possibly.
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Queer/Bar
1518 11th AveA raucous bar where the drag goes down. Check their calendar for a full slate of events. Are you going to wait forever to get a drink at the bar? Possibly.
I saw pics of Princess Nokia here recently and was like, “I know that place!” Do not, however, climb on the counter like she did. Security will kick you out. I love the summertime rooftop parties here best. All in all, they have three floors, including the roof. But, if you need it, this is the place to dance after the other places close. Mostly house music. A challenge to get to without a car due to its SoDo location. Events-based, so make sure to check their calendar.
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Monkey Loft
2915 1st Ave SI saw pics of Princess Nokia here recently and was like, “I know that place!” Do not, however, climb on the counter like she did. Security will kick you out. I love the summertime rooftop parties here best. All in all, they have three floors, including the roof. But, if you need it, this is the place to dance after the other places close. Mostly house music. A challenge to get to without a car due to its SoDo location. Events-based, so make sure to check their calendar.
A great room to see artists like Japanese Breakfast or some of our bigger hometown heroes in. Sometimes they host nights for dancing too. Super walkable from the CD, especially coming home when you’re sweaty from the show!
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Neumos
925 E Pike StA great room to see artists like Japanese Breakfast or some of our bigger hometown heroes in. Sometimes they host nights for dancing too. Super walkable from the CD, especially coming home when you’re sweaty from the show!
I will say that I don’t love how there are sometimes queues outside when there’s plenty of room inside. But does this room get hot and sweaty and packed? Yes, especially on some themed dance nights. Other nights, you’ll have so much room you could dance with your eyes closed. The people-watching here is also usually top-notch. Will you maybe not feel cool enough to be here? Probably. But no one cares and you shouldn’t either. Oh, and there are two rooms/two bars to choose from on busier nights! It’s walkable, so check out their lineup calendar and catch a show or come shake your butt.
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Chop Suey
1325 E Madison StI will say that I don’t love how there are sometimes queues outside when there’s plenty of room inside. But does this room get hot and sweaty and packed? Yes, especially on some themed dance nights. Other nights, you’ll have so much room you could dance with your eyes closed. The people-watching here is also usually top-notch. Will you maybe not feel cool enough to be here? Probably. But no one cares and you shouldn’t either. Oh, and there are two rooms/two bars to choose from on busier nights! It’s walkable, so check out their lineup calendar and catch a show or come shake your butt.
Hands down the best-sounding room in town for live shows. Recently moved to a new location downtown, and there’s even more room on the floor now. Overall, it’s greatly expanded and there are three venues in the building now instead of just one! But the thing I feared they would lose instead got better: the stage is even taller than it already was. Short people know how it goes! Don’t forget to peep the giant crocodile overhead too. Sadly, I don’t think the cool multicolored pane windows came along in the move.
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The Crocodile
2505 1st AveHands down the best-sounding room in town for live shows. Recently moved to a new location downtown, and there’s even more room on the floor now. Overall, it’s greatly expanded and there are three venues in the building now instead of just one! But the thing I feared they would lose instead got better: the stage is even taller than it already was. Short people know how it goes! Don’t forget to peep the giant crocodile overhead too. Sadly, I don’t think the cool multicolored pane windows came along in the move.
Pinball! This is a piece of “old Seattle” downtown, a little rough around the edges. Instead of the cheap hot dogs, get pizza at Rocco’s nearby, though! (Get your hotdog from a cart on the street and get it Seattle style with cream cheese and grilled onions.)
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Shorty's
2316 2nd AvePinball! This is a piece of “old Seattle” downtown, a little rough around the edges. Instead of the cheap hot dogs, get pizza at Rocco’s nearby, though! (Get your hotdog from a cart on the street and get it Seattle style with cream cheese and grilled onions.)
Nearby on Capitol Hill, this place feels like an actual circus on Fridays and Saturdays. Or a zoo. Something of a meat market. The drinks are sugar bombs, but your energy will match the chaotic clown energy of the bar’s design scheme.
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Unicorn
1118 E Pike StNearby on Capitol Hill, this place feels like an actual circus on Fridays and Saturdays. Or a zoo. Something of a meat market. The drinks are sugar bombs, but your energy will match the chaotic clown energy of the bar’s design scheme.
Another arcade bar downtown, but with a decidedly artsier vibe than Shorty’s. Really, check out the art. It’s gorgeous.
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Jupiter Bar
2126 2nd AveAnother arcade bar downtown, but with a decidedly artsier vibe than Shorty’s. Really, check out the art. It’s gorgeous.
Arcade games *and* board games! On the Hill heading towards downtown.
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Raygun Lounge
501 E Pine StArcade games *and* board games! On the Hill heading towards downtown.
It’s a stripped down space to bop your head and maybe even dance downtown, with probably only locals supporting their DJ friends here. The lowkey companion to Kremwerk next door.
The Timbre Room
1809 Minor AveIt’s a stripped down space to bop your head and maybe even dance downtown, with probably only locals supporting their DJ friends here. The lowkey companion to Kremwerk next door.
Next door to Timbre Room downtown, this place has much more of that oontz-oontz vibe. Fair warning: it gets steamy when it gets crowded.
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Kremwerk
1809 Minor AveNext door to Timbre Room downtown, this place has much more of that oontz-oontz vibe. Fair warning: it gets steamy when it gets crowded.
This is a recommendation for Emerald City Soul Club at Lo-Fi. I don’t know how to soul dance specifically, but ECSC has provided some of my giddiest nights of dancing ever. Everyone is all smiles when they come to ECSC. It feels so very wholesome.
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LO-FI Performance Gallery
429 Eastlake Ave EThis is a recommendation for Emerald City Soul Club at Lo-Fi. I don’t know how to soul dance specifically, but ECSC has provided some of my giddiest nights of dancing ever. Everyone is all smiles when they come to ECSC. It feels so very wholesome.
A nice place downtown to have dinner while you see artists like Zoe Keating or Sea Wolf or maybe a holiday cabaret. Reservations for booths sell out quickly, but you might make a new friend at one of the seats ringing the room. As far as booths go, they say 6 will fit, but it’s a tight squeeze, even for close friends!
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The Triple Door
216 Union StA nice place downtown to have dinner while you see artists like Zoe Keating or Sea Wolf or maybe a holiday cabaret. Reservations for booths sell out quickly, but you might make a new friend at one of the seats ringing the room. As far as booths go, they say 6 will fit, but it’s a tight squeeze, even for close friends!
A classic bar downtown that had a really big hand in the revival of craft cocktails. Nice, but not pretentious. Great to visit after a day roaming Pike Place Market and the waterfront. You’ll find tourists alongside coworkers at happy hour alongside longtime Seattleites who have somehow never been here and finally only went because I said, “What?!”
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Zig Zag Cafe
1501 Western AveA classic bar downtown that had a really big hand in the revival of craft cocktails. Nice, but not pretentious. Great to visit after a day roaming Pike Place Market and the waterfront. You’ll find tourists alongside coworkers at happy hour alongside longtime Seattleites who have somehow never been here and finally only went because I said, “What?!”
Go underground downtown for dinner and a slinky cabaret show. I’m always impressed with what the performers are able to do in such a limited space and minimal set design.
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Can Can Culinary Cabaret
95 Pine StGo underground downtown for dinner and a slinky cabaret show. I’m always impressed with what the performers are able to do in such a limited space and minimal set design.
(Temporarily closed due to a fire) Incredible cocktails alongside solid, hearty Italian food in a setting on the edge of First Hill and downtown that feels like it would be fitting for some mob bosses to have a meeting. Book the Cougar Room for a party and you’ll really feel it! Nights when there’s a piano player add to the vibe. The mirrored bar can be a bit distracting but also helpful for sneaking glances at a date!
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Vito's
927 9th Ave(Temporarily closed due to a fire) Incredible cocktails alongside solid, hearty Italian food in a setting on the edge of First Hill and downtown that feels like it would be fitting for some mob bosses to have a meeting. Book the Cougar Room for a party and you’ll really feel it! Nights when there’s a piano player add to the vibe. The mirrored bar can be a bit distracting but also helpful for sneaking glances at a date!
Art bar! This place is sometimes dead quiet. Other times you’d be hard-pressed to find a seat. It’s in an awkward location at the border of downtown and Capitol Hill and First Hill. Regardless, come and gawk at the art. It is wall to wall art. And it’s all for sale too! Some nights there are DJs providing ambiance. All nights, there are bartenders providing excellent craft cocktails. They do an amazing job even during busy events.
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The Hideout
1005 Boren AveArt bar! This place is sometimes dead quiet. Other times you’d be hard-pressed to find a seat. It’s in an awkward location at the border of downtown and Capitol Hill and First Hill. Regardless, come and gawk at the art. It is wall to wall art. And it’s all for sale too! Some nights there are DJs providing ambiance. All nights, there are bartenders providing excellent craft cocktails. They do an amazing job even during busy events.
Probably the loudest room I’ve been in in Seattle. But I mean, it’s metal. What did you expect? It can be awkward to find a place to stand and depending on the band, you might feel like you’ll lose your eyesight to the light show. But I’m pretty sure there isn’t another venue like this in Seattle.
Funhouse
109 Eastlake Ave EProbably the loudest room I’ve been in in Seattle. But I mean, it’s metal. What did you expect? It can be awkward to find a place to stand and depending on the band, you might feel like you’ll lose your eyesight to the light show. But I’m pretty sure there isn’t another venue like this in Seattle.
Near Broadway on Capitol Hill. I’m still not sure how I feel about karaoke these days, but at least this is booth karaoke? You get your own room, an iPad to make your song selections, and a server who will bring drinks to you!
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Rock Box
1603 Nagle PlNear Broadway on Capitol Hill. I’m still not sure how I feel about karaoke these days, but at least this is booth karaoke? You get your own room, an iPad to make your song selections, and a server who will bring drinks to you!
This place holds it down at the North end of Broadway. Not huge, but I like their drink menu. I want to say there’s a couple slushee machines too?
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Bait Shop
606 Broadway EThis place holds it down at the North end of Broadway. Not huge, but I like their drink menu. I want to say there’s a couple slushee machines too?
Do people still talk about how this was the last place Kurt Cobain was seen alive? Still pretty grungy here, but that’s why people come, I think. It’s why I come, anyway. Also, there’s a surprise back patio!
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Linda's Tavern
707 East Pine StreetDo people still talk about how this was the last place Kurt Cobain was seen alive? Still pretty grungy here, but that’s why people come, I think. It’s why I come, anyway. Also, there’s a surprise back patio!
Nasihat bandar
Cara Bergerak Ke Kawasan Sekitar
Using Public Transit
Get yourself an Orca card if you plan to use the bus or light rail to get around. Otherwise, have exact change ready for the bus driver. Also download the OneBusAway app, but still plan to be at your stop ahead of time for any bus rides. The buses here do not wait for you if they arrive ahead of their planned arrival. Luckily, most bus routes serving the neighborhood run every 15 minutes or so. The #2 bus reaches downtown in 25 minutes max during peak commute hours. Take the #11 back, if needed. The #48 goes directly to UW campus. Lastly, the #8 bus runs all the way to Seattle Center!
Barang yang perlu dibawa bersama
Always bring a hoodie
There’s a thing we have called microclimates. That means it could be snowing on Capitol Hill and perfectly dry downtown. Also, being on the Puget Sound means we often get marine layers. Everything always feels a little chillier when you’re damp. The first thing newbies learn to do here is always bring a hoodie or light sweater. Unless it’s a really hot day in the middle of summer. Then you’re fine until the sun goes down at 10pm.
Jangan ketinggalan
Check event listings in The Stranger
The Stranger is Seattle’s weekly newspaper. Find it free in boxes around town or online. Through EverOut, they maintain and publish an impressive calendar of events happening around town. This could include poetry readings, visual art openings, film screenings, live music, dance parties, standup comedy, drag shows, burlesque, etc. Best of all, they usually have an all-up list of what their editors consider top picks for the week.