When we went to Seattle the other month, I was pleasantly surprised at how many places had amazing cocktails and food. Seattle was an add-on to our Portland trip, so I wasn’t focused on planning it as much, and then we got there and fell in love with a few spots. Last time we went to Seattle, Joe and I were little babies at 18 years-old, so needless to say this trip was a bit different. I really liked the Pike/Pine neighborhood and Ballard. The highlights—seafood and craft cocktails. Here are a few faves!

Bar Melusine

Well hello there gorgeous tile! Bar Melusine was my favorite spot in Seattle! I planned it strategically to get there the second happy hour started at 5, and ended up staying all night. Between the 4 of us we tried every cocktail (a little ridic—but I mean we did stay all night) and loved them all. Great food, local oysters, amazing cocktails. If you can only go to one place in Seattle, this is the spot.

Canon

We made some friends at a bar, and they said we had to go to Canon. I’m SO glad we did. It’s a small vintage craft cocktail bar with incredible cocktails. Peep the back page of the menu for some seriously legit vintage cocktails. One of the drinks is $650! You’ve got to head to the bathroom in this one too, it plays old school talk radio on repeat. Such a cool vibe. Don’t miss this one!

Copal

Over in the the downtown area, Copal is this cute Latin American restaurant. I’d head that way after doing the whole Pike’s Place area, and get some yummy margaritas and food. Did I mention there’s a happy hour? A must-go!

Shiro’s Sushi

Make a reservation here in advance! We had the best sushi at Shiro’s. Jiros apprentice from Jiro dreams of sushi is the head chef. It’s a lovely place to splurge and celebrate if you’re heading to Seattle for something special.

Elm Coffee Roasters

A good way to start your day in Seattle, or just to get some work done in the afternoon. It’s a huge coffee shop a bit below downtown.  We went back a few times. Be sure to try the “One of Each” if you’re undecided on a drink, or just want a little extra boost.

Pike’s Place Market

Of course, everyone makes sure to stop by Pike’s Place while in Seattle. To be honest, it feels overwhelming and hectic to me, but I do really love strolling through the flowers. If you have any reason to buy flowers while you’re there get them here. I almost got some, but we flew out literally three hours after so it didn’t make sense.

Hazelwood

An intimate little craft cocktail spot in the Ballard neighborhood. Our friends that live in Seattle brought us here and the cocktails were SO good. There’s a tiny seating area by the bar, but head upstairs for a lounge area with a vintage feel.

Ace Hotel

The Ace Hotel is one of our go-to’s, and we’ve stayed at most of them at this point. We stayed at the Ace Hotel in Seattle, which is the very first Ace Hotel to open, and it was definitely different than the other locations. It’s super small and intimate, but I did really like the location. It’s a quick ride to most neighborhoods, and you could even see the water when you peek out the window.

A few spots we missed, but wanted to check out!

Bateau—a seafood restaurant next to Bar Melusine that looked good, and is also run by the people at Bar Melusine

General Porpoise Donuts—extravagant donuts, can’t go wrong with those!

Marmite—a brunch option with hearty food

Capitol Cider—a Cider house with vintage vibes for my gluten-free peeps

The Walrus and The Carpenter—another seafood spot by the same people that made Bar Melusine

Porchlight—a coffee shop with a record store inside

Bathtub Gin—a speakeasy-style spot in Belltown with craft cocktails, a good option for after sushi at Shiro’s

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