Late-night eateries are an important part of Seattle’s culture. Its burgeoning music scene is well complemented by the accompanying bars and food spots. For those craving something beyond cream cheese hot dogs and Dick’s Drive-In, here’s our list of the places to keep in mind when cruising through the streets of Seattle after hours.
Ba Bar
Ba Bar offers Vietnamese food inspired by street food in Saigon. With gourmet pho, killer cocktails, the house specialty of banh cuon, and pastries made fresh daily, the options are not only delicious but also varied. As a late-night spot, it’s extra awesome with its Late Night Happy Hour. Ba Bar has two other locations—one in South Lake Union and one in the University Village—but both close earlier than the one on Capitol Hill.
Beth’s Cafe
Starting as a nickel slots gambling parlor back when it was founded in 1954, Beth’s Cafe is your typical 24-hour American diner—greasy, large portions, and breakfast served all day. In fact, at Beth’s, the entire menu is available all day, including for takeout. If you’re brave enough, try their famous 12-egg omelette!
Big Mario’s Pizza
Mario Vellotti, a.k.a. Big Mario, moved to New York from Naples in 1964. He’s been making pizza pretty much ever since. First, he made pizza all over New York, and now he’s brought New York-style pizza to Seattle. With pizza by the slice, whole pies, and a full bar, this place on Capitol Hill will take care of you. You can also find them in Fremont or on Queen Anne, though they won’t be open quite as late.
Café Presse
Café Presse is the product of two people passionate about French food, culture, and lifestyle. Bringing the French bar/café scene to Seattle, Café Presse is open until 2 am with an After Hours Happy Hour from 11 pm to 1:30 am. With house-made pastries, affordable French wine, and classic Parisian café dishes, the decade-old Café Presse is an excellent option on Capitol Hill for a place to relax late at night.
Damn the Weather
Damn the Weather, named cleverly after both a cocktail and a typical Seattle sentiment, is a louche cocktail bar that twists traditional pub food into delightful deviations. The brick building in Seattle’s oldest neighborhood is a classic setting for daring dishes such as fried chicken skins or a spaghetti and meatball burger. Staying open until the wee hours on the weekend, patrons will find that unusual dishes never tasted so good.
Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge
This neighborhood bar offers generously portioned diner food all day and prides itself on being a contributing member of its community, staying active in philanthropy and creating an inclusive atmosphere within its walls. While the diner is open 24/7, the bar is open from 6 am to 2 am daily, and the food knows no limits. Check out Lost Lake for a quick drink, 4 am waffles, and everything in between.
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