As a craft beer expert, I have had the pleasure of exploring numerous bars in Western Washington. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy gastropubs, this region has a thriving craft beer scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. But for those who are serious about their craft beer, finding a bar with a good selection can be a daunting task.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Western Washington
Craft beer has been gaining popularity in Western Washington over the past decade, with more and more breweries popping up in the region. This has led to an increase in demand for craft beer, and bars have taken notice.Many bars now offer a wide selection of craft beers on tap, showcasing the best local and regional brews. But not all bars are created equal when it comes to their craft beer selection. As an expert, I have scoured the region to find the best bars that cater to craft beer lovers. Here are my top picks:
The Pine Box
Located in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, The Pine Box is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. This bar is housed in a former funeral home, giving it a unique and quirky atmosphere.But what really sets The Pine Box apart is its impressive selection of over 30 rotating taps featuring local and regional craft beers. They also have an extensive bottle list, making it a great spot to try out new and rare brews. The Pine Box also hosts regular events such as tap takeovers and beer release parties, making it a hub for the local craft beer community. And if you get hungry, their food menu is just as impressive as their beer selection.
The Noble Fir
Located in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, The Noble Fir is a cozy and intimate bar that boasts an impressive selection of craft beers. With 20 rotating taps and a focus on local and regional brews, this bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.The Noble Fir also has a knowledgeable staff who are always happy to recommend a new beer to try. But what really sets The Noble Fir apart is its outdoor beer garden, complete with fire pits and string lights. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a cold craft beer on a warm summer evening.
The Beer Junction
If you're looking for a bar with an extensive selection of craft beers, look no further than The Beer Junction in West Seattle. This bar has over 1,300 different beers available, both on tap and in bottles. They also have a rotating selection of 40 beers on tap, featuring local and regional favorites as well as rare and hard-to-find brews. The Beer Junction also hosts regular events such as beer tastings and tap takeovers, making it a great spot to discover new beers and meet fellow craft beer enthusiasts.Other Notable Mentions
While the above bars are my top picks for craft beer lovers in Western Washington, there are plenty of other bars worth mentioning:- The Red Hot in Tacoma is a popular spot for craft beer lovers, with 20 rotating taps featuring local and regional brews.
- The Hop and Hound in Bothell has an impressive selection of over 50 beers on tap, including many rare and hard-to-find brews.
- The Beer Authority in Lake City has 40 rotating taps featuring local and regional craft beers, as well as a great food menu.
Final Thoughts
As an expert in the craft beer industry, I can confidently say that Western Washington has no shortage of bars with a good selection of craft beer.Whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these bars and experience the best of what the region has to offer. So next time you're in Western Washington and craving a cold craft beer, skip the generic sports bar and head to one of these top picks for a truly unique and delicious experience.
