10 Best Cocktail Bars in Seattle

Curious if you've experienced the true essence of Seattle's cocktail culture? You may have heard buzz about the 10 best cocktail bars in the city, but have you truly uncovered the hidden gems that offer a unique blend of flavors and ambiance? As you explore the list of renowned establishments, you might find yourself drawn to the intriguing stories behind each bar, enticing you to discover what makes them stand out in Seattle's bustling cocktail scene.

Key Takeaways

• The Nest at Thompson Seattle: Rooftop bar with city views and special cocktails like Moon Lake.
• Canon: Offers over 4,000 spirits, famous for barrel-aged cocktails, cozy library-like atmosphere.
• Zig Zag Cafe: Classic and new cocktails, vintage interior, popular for the vodka-based Sucker Punch.
• The Backdoor: Speakeasy design, inventive cocktails like Bonnie and Clyde, hidden location for a unique experience.
• Sol Liquor Lounge: Makes own spirits, seasonal ingredients, cocktail flights, popular spot in the neighborhood.

The Nest at Thompson Seattle

The Nest is located on top of the Thompson Seattle hotel. It has a rooftop bar that gives you a wide view of the city, including Elliot Bay. This place is known for making special cocktails, like the Moon Lake. It's a good spot for watching the sunset in a fancy setting. You'll find it at 110 Stewart St.

This bar is popular for its well-made drinks and stylish rooftop area. It's a place people recommend for a unique drinking experience in Seattle. Whether you live in Seattle or are visiting, The Nest aims to impress with its mix of great views and tasty beverages.

In short, The Nest offers a straightforward yet refined experience. It's all about enjoying good drinks with a view. The atmosphere is upscale, making it a hit for those who like a bit of luxury. And while the focus here is on providing clear, useful information, let's not forget that a little humor can make even a practical description a bit more enjoyable.

Canon

Canon in Seattle is known for its huge selection of over 4,000 spirits, making it a favorite among cocktail lovers. It ranks #6 on Drinks International's list of the best cocktail bars. Because it's so popular, it's a good idea to make a reservation if you want to visit. Canon is famous for its wide range of drinks, including special barrel-aged cocktails.

When you visit Canon, you'll find yourself in a place that feels like a cozy library, perfect for enjoying their carefully made cocktails. They offer more than just a large variety of spirits; their unique barrel-aged cocktails add something special to their menu. Canon is a great place for both experts and those new to cocktails. It stands out in Seattle as a top spot for an unforgettable cocktail experience.

The bar's focus is on providing a high-quality experience with a large selection of drinks. Whether you know a lot about cocktails or are just starting to explore, Canon makes sure every visit is worth it. Its attention to detail and variety of drinks make it a must-see in Seattle.

Zig Zag Cafe

Zig Zag Cafe is located in Seattle at 1501 Western Ave. It's well-known for its classic and new cocktails, served by experienced bartenders. The cafe is a good choice for dates or casual nights out, with a friendly environment for enjoying drinks. The drink menu changes with the seasons and includes both well-known and unique cocktails, catering to all tastes.

The cafe's interior has a vintage look, making it feel like you're stepping back in time. A popular drink here is the vodka-based Sucker Punch, known for its creativity and quality. Zig Zag Cafe is a top spot for anyone interested in Seattle's cocktail scene, whether you're a cocktail lover or just looking for a nice place to unwind.

The Backdoor

The Backdoor is a bar located in Fremont, Seattle, at 462 N 36th St. It's designed like a speakeasy, which means it has a secretive and exclusive feel, similar to hidden bars from the 1920s. This place is great for anyone who loves trying new and inventive drinks. One of their popular cocktails is called the Bonnie and Clyde, which has mezcal in it. The bar has a dark and moody atmosphere, making it a good spot for hanging out late at night with friends or a date.

The Backdoor stands out because of its unique approach to making cocktails and its hidden location. It's a spot where you can enjoy a different kind of evening in Fremont. If you like cocktails and are looking for an interesting place to go, The Backdoor is worth checking out. It offers a mix of fun and mystery with its drink menu and setting. Whether you know a lot about cocktails or just want to try something new, you'll likely find something you enjoy here.

Sol Liquor Lounge

Sol Liquor Lounge is a cocktail bar located at 607 Summit Ave E in Seattle. It's known for its unique approach to cocktails, especially because it makes its own spirits. The bar constantly updates its menu to include seasonal ingredients, which means customers always have new and interesting cocktails to try.

If you like classic cocktails or want to try something new, Sol Liquor Lounge can meet your needs. They also offer cocktail flights, which let you taste different drinks at once. The combination of good drinks, a friendly atmosphere, and reasonable prices, marked as $$, makes this bar a popular spot in the neighborhood.

When you're looking for a place to enjoy a variety of cocktails, Sol Liquor Lounge is worth a visit for its diverse and changing drink options.

Stampede Cocktail Club

Sol Liquor Lounge is known for its unique cocktails made with house-produced spirits. For a different experience, visit Stampede Cocktail Club located at 119 N 36th St in Seattle. Owned by Paul Shanrock, this place in Capitol Hill is great for an enjoyable evening. The bartenders here change the menu every six months, so you'll always find something new and interesting to try.

At Stampede Cocktail Club, expect to find unusual drink mixes like aperol and mezcal. They use homemade ingredients, such as smoked salted whipped cream, making their cocktails stand out. Whether you're an expert in cocktails or just looking for a fun night, this club offers a notable experience in Seattle's lively cocktail scene. Make sure to visit and try their inventive drinks in a friendly and energetic setting.

Dark Room

If you visit Dark Room in Seattle, you'll find a bar that mixes Wu-Tang Clan music with Korean-inspired flavors in their drinks. The bartenders, Matthew Gomez and Matt Hassler, are known for creating unique cocktails. One of their most popular drinks is the Shame on a Negroni. Other drinks to try include Teachers Pet and Kimcheech & Chong, which are both different from usual cocktails because of their unique flavors. You can find Dark Room at 8505 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103.

This bar is special because it's listed as one of the 16 Essential Seattle Bars, meaning it's recognized for its quality drinks and originality. It's a good place to go if you like cocktails or if you want to try something new. The drinks are made with care and are meant to be enjoyed by everyone, whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or just curious.

Percys & Co. Seattle

If you're in Seattle and looking for unique drinks, check out Percys & Co. in the Ballard area. Owned by Jeff Ofelt, this bar specializes in making special cocktails with herbs and fruits. They aim to please people who love trying new and complex drinks.

One example from their drink list is the Mi Esposa, which mixes mezcal infused with lime leaf, offering a strong and flavorful taste. The use of local herbs and fruits in their drinks gives you a real taste of the Pacific Northwest.

You can find Percys & Co. at 5233 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107. The place has a comfortable and welcoming vibe, perfect for sitting back and enjoying some innovative drinks. It's a great spot for both cocktail lovers and those new to such drinks, promising an interesting experience.

The language here is straightforward and aims to inform you about what makes Percys & Co. unique, without getting too fancy or emotional about it. A touch of humor might pop up, but the main goal is to keep things light and engaging while providing all the necessary information.

The Doctors Office

Looking for a top-notch cocktail spot in Seattle? Check out The Doctors Office on Capitol Hill. They take their cocktail recipes very seriously. In fact, they've tested over 300 recipes to make sure they're serving the best drinks possible. The place is run by Matthew Dr. Matt Powell and is located at 1631 E Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98102. They're famous for making an excellent Negroni and for their focus on perfecting classic cocktails.

The bar stands out because of its detailed approach to making drinks. If you're into cocktails, this place should be on your list. The Doctors Office is known for its high-quality drinks and great service. Whether you like traditional cocktails or want to try something new, this bar is worth visiting. They're all about mixing drinks the right way, in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Life on Mars

Life on Mars is a vegan-friendly bar located on Capitol Hill at 722 E Pike St, Seattle, WA. It's known for its simple yet tasty cocktail menu, featuring drinks like the Appletini. This place is all about plant-based food options and has a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice in the neighborhood. The bar's drink list includes a variety of spirits mixed with fruit juices. Adding to its charm, Life on Mars has a collection of vinyl records, giving it a retro vibe.

Whether you're vegan or just in the mood for a refreshing cocktail, this bar has something for everyone. It offers a great mix of tasty vegan dishes, signature drinks, and an energetic setting. If you're looking for a unique bar experience in Capitol Hill, Life on Mars is worth checking out. It's a place where you can enjoy good food and drinks in a fun setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Drink Is Seattle Famous For?

Seattle is well-known not just for its coffee but also for its unique cocktails. The 'Emerald City Cocktail' is a mix of gin, mint, lime, and a sweet element. The 'Rain City Sour' combines bourbon with a splash of red wine.

If you're interested in flavors from the Puget Sound, try the 'Sounder Sipper.' For celebrations, the 'Space Needle Sparkler' is a fizzy option. While coffee might be the first drink you think of, Seattle's cocktail scene offers a variety of tasty drinks worth exploring.

Where Can I Go Out in Seattle?

Seattle offers many places to go out, with a mix of cool bars and warm cafes. The city's nightlife is full of options.

If you like trying new cocktails or prefer classic drinks, you'll find a spot in Seattle. It's time to check out new places and have fun in this lively city.

Keep it simple and enjoy exploring!

How Many Bars Are in Seattle?

Seattle has more than 1,000 bars. This means you have many options, from fancy places that mix special drinks to simple, quiet spots.

These bars offer a wide variety of drinks and styles. If you like trying new drinks or enjoy watching bartenders create something unique, Seattle's bars are worth checking out.

You're likely to find a place that becomes your go-to in the city.