It’s extremely boring to be constantly talking about the weather, but at this point in the year, we can’t help it. Winter has been dragging on forever, and every promise of spring is followed by rain (fine) or another cold snap (no). But the light at the end of the tunnel is very much visible at this point, and summer is on its way. Which brings us to one important aspect of the season: rooftop drinking. Far from the dimly lit, huddled-by-the-fire-for-warmth drinking of the winter season, rooftops are decidedly bright, cheery, and bursting with good views—all of which make them prime locations for an evening (or afternoon) libation. So slap on some anticipatory sunscreen, grab your vax card, and head to one of the following bars—because summer is around the corner.
Patio Cielo (Capitol Hill)
Patio Cielo recently reopened for Fridays and Saturdays only, and we’d wager it’s only a matter of time before better weather permits expanded hours. In the meantime, though, visit this rooftop bar inside of Mercado Luna (which also houses Mezcaleria Oaxaca, taco takeout window Lado a Lado, wine shop Vinaterita, and Chonchos Churros) for a real taste of Mexico, in the form of cocktails, beer, wine, and… more cocktails.
The Lookout (Capitol Hill)
The Lookout is more of a hilltop than a rooftop, but its views, food, and general ambiance make up for its technical lack of a roof. With the Space Needle off to the left and the rest of Seattle sprawling out to its right, your drink (perhaps the Queen Bitch, the Hot Marie, or the Sazerac) will taste that much better. Plus, during happy hour, a well drink will only set you back five bucks.
Hard Rock Cafe (Downtown)
Before you dismiss this restaurant as a memory from the early aughts you don’t want to relive, hear us out. Overlooking Pike Place Market and brimming with cushy sofa-like seating, Hard Rock Cafe is downtown Seattle’s diamond in the rough. Add to that a live music happy hour, a Sunday drag brunch, and a menu that simply screams nostalgia, and you’d be remiss not to give this rooftop (and restaurant) a second chance.
Smith Tower Observatory Bar (Downtown)
Housed in the historic, 108-year-old Smith Tower, this speakeasy-style bar offers panoramic views of both Seattle and the Puget Sound. That’s likely already enough to sell you, but let’s talk about the menu: housemade, barrel-aged liquor, $5 happy hour draft beer, locally inspired cocktails (the Yesler Old Fashioned is a must) and small seasonal bites (currently featuring dishes like Taiwanese Beef Noodles and Kaffir Lime Pie) mean there’s something for everyone.
Purple Cafe and Wine Bar (Downtown)
Purple Cafe’s wine tower-slash-staircase may seem like the focal point when you walk in the door, but there’s also something to be said about its rooftop, which is surrounded by skyscrapers and therefore something of an urban oasis. Try a flight of Spanish or French wine (for only $15), and pair it with the poutine, the lobster mac and cheese, or the crab cakes.
Mountaineering Club (U District)
Perched atop The Graduate Hotel in U District, Mountaineering Club has sweeping views of Mount Rainier, downtown Seattle, the Puget Sound, and tiny little UW freshmen running off to class. Order the Rainier Cherry Bomb and some Hama Hama oysters if you’re feeling extra local and be prepared to wait if you don’t have a reservation (though we’d recommend making one).
Ben Paris (Downtown)
In case you missed it, one of the (very few) silver linings from the pandemic can now be found at Ben Paris, as of last year: an ultra-sleek rooftop dining/drinking space on an eighth floor terrace overlooking Pike Place Market. Make a reservation to guarantee your spot, and consider adding some of their special activities to the bill, like a tour of the market with the chef or a curated flight of whiskey or tequila to go with dinner.
Fog Room (Downtown)
Opened in 2018 atop the new Charter Hotel, this 16th-story bar is named for Seattle’s perpetually cool, gray skies and boasts a spare interior and muted color-palette to match. But you’ll hardly notice given the impressives views of the waterfront and the excellent cocktails they’re serving, including a range of classic ones invented in famous hotels, all of which you can now order via touchless menu at each-table.
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