Where to drink alone in Seattle

Pull up a bar stool.

A low-lit bar in Seattle with plush seating and velvet couch pillows

The Founders Club’s speakeasy aesthetic should allow you to keep a low profile.

Photo via Founders Club

Don’t know what you’ve heard during this lovey-dovey season, but “one” is not the loneliest number. Not by a longshot.

Treating yourself to a nice, quiet drink or meal solo is one of life’s great pleasures. Particularly in Seattle, where there are so many cool nooks to curl up in on a winter’s day. Here are just a few local options that should satisfy all the lone rangers out there.

For dive lovers 🍻

  • Twilight Exit | Central District | The neighborhood haunt offers warm vibes, good convo, and stiff drinks. What more do you need?
  • Waterwheel Lounge | Ballard | A place is solid when the bartenders pal with the regulars and Pabst leads the beer list. If you’re brave, grab the mic during Waterwheel’s epic karaoke nights.

For bookworms 📚

A lounge with a green-accented fireplace and leather couches

The Fireside Room is worthy of winter hibernation.

Photo via Hotel Sorrento

For foodies 🍽️

  • Off Alley | Columbia City | The space is tight, but the wine list and rotating snacks with creative uses of offal is even tighter.
  • TOMO | White Center | Grab a seat at the bar during low-key hours — and make sure you order those mounds of icy deliciousness known as kakigori.

For 40+ singles ❤️

  • Founders Club | Downtown’s Fairmont Olympic | The speakeasy located behind an inconspicuous bookcase offers a sophisticated atmosphere without pretension — see who catches your eye.
  • Light Sleeper | Chophouse Row | You’ll get a natural wine education and a chance to get acquainted with neighbors at the lively locale.
  • The Doctor’s Office | Capitol Hill | Cure whatever ails you with a well-crafted cocktail or rare spirit at the intimate 12-seater. If bartender/local historian Andrew Bohrer is there, chat him up — he has some stories.

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