The Kraken Bar & Lounge – Visitor Guide & Overview
5828 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 | Phone: +1 206-385-9609 | Rating: 4.5 stars
| Get Directions |
|---|
| Click Here to Get Directions |
Overview
The Kraken Bar & Lounge is a laid-back, pirate-themed dive bar located in the heart of Seattle’s University District. It’s a local favorite for live punk and metal shows, retro pinball games, strong drinks, and delicious pub-style food. Founded in 2011 by William Knupp and Kat & Daniel Colley, it continues to thrive as a lively community hub.
Quick Info Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 5828 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 |
| Contact | +1 206-385-9609 |
| Website | krakenbarandlounge.shop |
| Hours | Daily: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Rating | 4.5 stars |
| Delivery | Takeout available; no delivery |
| Ownership | Women-Owned Business, founded in 2011 |
| Atmosphere | Casual, pirate-themed, punk rock dive bar |
Features & Vibe
| What to Expect | Details |
|---|---|
| Live Music & Events | Weekly punk & metal shows, Open Mic Tuesdays |
| Games | Pinball & arcade machines |
| Food & Drink | In-house smoked pork, beef, chicken; strong cocktails; $5 drafts |
| Community Feel | Judgment-free, inclusive, LGBTQ-friendly |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-accessible entrance |
| Parking | Free street parking |
| Group Friendly | Great for hanging out, catching up, or weekend fun |
Menu Highlights
Sandwiches & Burgers
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| BLT | $10 |
| Bacon Blue Burger | $12 |
| Field Burger | $11 |
| Chicken Torta | $12 |
| Chicken Thigh Ciabatta | $13 |
| Grilled Chicken Ciabatta | $13 |
| Ham & Gruyere | $11 |
| Grilled Cheese | $9 |
| Beef Brisket Sandwich | $14 |
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Impossible Burger | $13 |
| Chipotle Black Bean Burger | $11 |
| Mixed Green Salad | $8 |
| Granny Smith Apple Slaw | $6 |
| Vegetarian Slaw | $6 |
Smoked & Specialty Meats
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Smoked Pork Plate | $20 |
| Smoked Beef Brisket Plate | $25 |
| Smoked Chicken Plate | $22 |
Sides
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Fries | $5 |
| Tots | $6 |
| House Slaw | $4 |
| Pickles | $3 |
Drinks & Pairings
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Fresh Lime Cocktails | $9 |
| Draft Microbrews | $7 |
| Alcohol-Free Drinks | $6 |
| Growlers & Well Drinks | $12 |
Note:
- Prices are approximate and subject to change without notice
Live Music & Events
| Live Music & Events |
|---|
| • Regular punk and metal shows • Best headphones deals • No karaoke available • Some shows have a $7–$10 cover charge • $10 typically supports the bands • Great audio setup, intimate concert experience |
Games & Entertainment
| Games & Entertainment |
|---|
| • Classic pinball machines upstairs • Nearby concert tickets • Arcade-style games available • Small pinball lounge area loved by patrons • Cult-classic movies often playing • Occasional casual pinball tournaments |
Food Highlights
| Food & Menu Highlights |
|---|
| • Smoked meats (pork, beef brisket, chicken) • Best restaurants near me • Popular: Grilled Cheese, Bacon Blue Burger, Field Burger • Vegetarian options: Impossible Burger, salads • Vegan options available • Pickles with meals praised • House-made sauces and slaws |
Drinks & Pricing
| Drinks & Pricing |
|---|
| • Draft microbrews for $5 • Cocktails well-received (fresh limes noted) • Alcohol-free drink options now available • Price per person ranges from $1–$50 depending on visit • Growlers and well drinks available • Known for strong drinks, but one review mentioned a weak drink experience |
Atmosphere & Vibe
| Atmosphere & Vibe |
|---|
| • Nautical punk dive bar with pirate theme • Dark, loud, quirky, and full of character • Separate space for bar and stage • Friendly, welcoming, inclusive (LGBTQ+ safe space) • Community-focused, punk “family” environment • Wheelchair accessible including restrooms • Not a “high-end” spot – proudly a dive bar |
Customer Service
| Customer Service |
|---|
| • Staff often described as friendly and protective • Bartenders are attentive and engage regulars and newcomers alike • Security concerns handled well by staff (e.g., removing disruptive patrons) • Some negative reviews mention past tension over mask and vaccine policies during COVID |
Community Perception
| Community Perception |
|---|
| • Many regulars and returning customers • Highly regarded as a neighborhood staple • Popular with sober patrons too • Seen as a safe, open place for all types of guests • Described by fans as “home away from home” and “most metal spot in town” |
Facility Features
| Facility Features |
|---|
| • Multiple restrooms, one is wheelchair accessible • Free street parking available • Outdoor seating occasionally mentioned • No delivery, but takeout is available |
Additional Tips
- Happy hour offers affordable beers and cocktails.
- Vegan and vegetarian options available.
- The vibe is grungy, fun, and all about good times with good people.
- Be mindful of your drink—staff are attentive and supportive if you need help.