What makes something a “hidden gem?” Is it really a back bar if there’s a two-hour wait? And do we really care as long as it’s unique and serves killer cocktails? No, we don’t. Whatever you call ’em, these off-the-beaten-path watering holes are worth seeking out.
Nestled behind an old-timey general store filled with craft goods, the E. Smith Mercantile Back Bar serves delectable drinks with sassy names like Peg Leg Annie, as well as pre-Prohibition libations that combine traditional ingredients with house-infused spirits. 208 First Ave. S., 641-7250, esmithmercantile.com
Photo courtesy E. Smith Mercantile
Unlike the foul, juniper-masked booze from which this joint borrows its name, Bathtub Gin & Co. embodies the class of a bygone time. Dim lights, exposed brick, polished wood—the mood is calm and warm, the drinks superb. 2205 Second Ave., 728-6069, bathtubginseattle.com
There’s no obvious signage for Knee High Stocking Company; you ring a doorbell to be greeted at this tiny speakeasy. 1356 E. Olive Way, 979-7049, kneehighstocking.com
Needle and Thread, the 30-seat speakeasy-style bar located above Tavern Law, oozes early-20th-century charm. The expertly made cocktails are almost too beautiful to drink. Pro tip: Do it anyway. 1406 12th Ave, 325-0133, mccrackentough.com/tavernlaw
Gainsbourg’s French-inspired food and drink bring a little piece of Paris to Greenwood. Vintage pulp art and French pop culture inspire this sweet spot. 8550 Greenwood Ave. N., 783-4004, gainsbourglounge.com
Ballard Annex. Photo by Morgen Schuler
A dominating chandelier and massive French Revolution–inspired paintings reign in the Bastille Back Bar, with its high ceilings and exposed brick. It’s gorgeous, with an extensive wine and cocktail list, and busy on weekends. 5307 Ballard Ave. N.W., 453-5014, bastilleseattle.com/BackBar
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Tin Lizzie Lounge, a craft-cocktail bar in the historic MarQueen Hotel, is filled with quiet alcoves with cushy furniture that make it feel like a well-kept secret with a time machine at the door. 600 Queen Anne Ave. N., 282-7407, thetinlizzielounge.com
The Tin Table feels like a speakeasy, if only because it’s hidden in the old Oddfellows Building, up a staircase and facing whatever fancy dancing is going on at the Century Ballroom. 915 E. Pine St., 320-8458, thetintable.com
Located just beyond the high ceilings and oysters on ice in the Ballard Annex, Grog’s decor is somewhat austere compared to the Annex’s lavish ocean-liner theme, giving it a hunker-down-below-deck feel. 5410 Ballard Ave. N.W., 783-5410, ballardannex.com/grog
You might feel underdressed if you show up in jeans, but the Zig Zag Cafe won’t kick you out—hospitality is its business. You’ll be seated at a proper table, too—only a few barstools here. Enjoy fresh roses on the bar and jazz from the speakers while you sip martinis. 1501 Western Ave. #202, Pike Street Hillclimb, 625-1146, zigzagseattle.com
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Check out “After Dark: A Guide to Seattle Nightlife” for the rest of our late-night suggestions.
