Okay, the word is out: Seattle is cool. Most of those who grew up here knew that, but now (per its 1,100 new residents every week) the rest of the world knows too. Since we’re cool kids now – and cool kids do cool things – we thought we’d share a list of cool places to check out on a hot (Seattle hot) summer afternoon: our 10 favorite rooftops that may also have happy hours.
Disclaimer stuff: Not all bars are created equal. Some offer rooftop (not patio) space and a great view… and some may not allow you to hang out on the roof AND enjoy happy hour. Oh, and this list is in no particular order. If you see any out of date info or want to give us some ideas to add to this list, shoot us an email and we’ll be happy to chat.
Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails | Downtown
Price: $$
Happy Hour: 2pm – Close
What’s Popular: Chicken Sliders, Deviled Egg Trio
People are saying: “amazing rooftop”; “order the Omakase”; “great happy hour”
Also: Ping pong, shuffle board and an occasional live DJ. A good spot to watch parades (or protests).
Revel | Fremont
Price: $$
Happy Hour: 4pm – 6pm (at the bar only)
What’s Popular: Pork Belly Pancakes, Dungeness Crab Noodles, Corned Lamb Salad
People are Saying: “reasonably priced”; “no reservations accepted”; “cool, open kitchen”
Also: Quoin is an adjoining cocktail bar that pours craft cocktails and serves food from Revels menu.
The Nest | Belltown
Price: $$$$
Happy Hour: 3pm – 6pm (weekdays only)
What’s Popular: Not sure. They’re new(ish) and their menu seem to be a work-in-progress. Let’s be honest, The Nest made this list because of their view. Check it out for yourself.
People are Saying: “20% auto gratuity”; “best rooftop in Seattle”; “rosé all day”
Also: Might want to reserve a table ahead of time. They’re pretty strict about what most consider “standing room”.
Hard Rock Cafe | Downtown
Price: $$
Happy Hour: 3pm – 7pm (Sun – Fri or anytime it’s raining – seriously.)
What’s Popular: Happy Hour. Yup… No particular food or drink item. People talk about the happy hour here. Show up between 3 and 7, on any day except Saturday, or if you look outside and see rain.
People are Saying: “excellent for a party”; “pretty cool memorabilia”; “love the rooftop view”
Also: Keep an eye on their calendar. They often host live music on the 2nd floor
Terra Plata | Capitol Hill
Price: $$$
Happy Hour: 2:30pm – 5pm
What’s Popular: Roast Pig, Churros, Bone Marrow
People are Saying: “great service”; shared plates are recommended”; “delicious brunch offerings”
Also: Monday night, at 5pm, is “paella night”. Do it.
The Pink Door | Downtown
Price: $$$
Happy Hour: 3pm – 5pm (Mon-Sat)
What’s Popular: Pappardelle al Rag Bolognese, Risotto, Lasagna Pink Door
People are Saying: “perfect for a romantic date night”; “love the atmosphere and the view”; “best Italian food in Seattle”
Also: Live trapeze/burlesque shows in the main dining room on Monday/Saturday nights. Check their website for tickets.
Mezcaleria Oaxaca | Capitol Hill
Price: $$
Happy Hour: Open – 6pm (Late Night, Sun-Thu: 10-11pm; Fri/Sat: 11-12am)
What’s Popular: Gringas Tacos, Chicken Mole, anything with Mezcal in it
People are Saying: “great tacos and micheladas”: “enthusiastic and knowledgeable servers”; “delicious Sunday brunch”
Also: Rooftop is mostly covered and heated. It doesn’t have to be summer to drink outside here.
Little Water Cantina | Eastlake
Price: $$$
Happy Hour: 3pm – 6pm (Mon-Fri), (Late Night, Fri/Sat: 10pm – Close)
What’s Popular: Carnitas Tacos, Wild Boar Torta Ahogada
People are Saying: “best outdoor patio in Seattle”; “delicious happy hour offerings”; “inventive cocktail menu”
Also: Tortillas are made to order and there is a “tequila wall” of nearly 800 recycled tequila bottles.
Maximilien | Downtown
Price: $$$
Happy Hour: 5pm – 7pm (Mon – Fri), (Late Night, Mon-Thu: 10-11pm, Fri/Sat: 11pm-12am)
What’s Popular: Escargot a La Bourguignonne , Mini Croissant au Jambon
People are Saying: “great choice for brunch”; “hidden gem in The Market”; “great view of the sound”
Also: Some of the best happy hour food and drink options in the city.
Mbar | South Lake Union
Price: $$$
Happy Hour: 4pm-6pm (Sat/Sun: 5-6pm)
What’s Popular: menu changes a bit but, Mussels, Steak, Crudo
People are Saying: “views of South Lake Union and Space Needle”; “great date night spot”
Also: Get there early, and with your entire party. The place is popular (especially in the summer) and the line isn’t forgiving.
