The world can be a heavy place. And sometimes, all it takes to lighten things up a bit is a trip to a themed restaurant or bar with a friend or two. In 2021, Seattle's Octopus Bar re-opened in a brand new space, with some new decor and drinks—but with the same under-the-sea theme that has made it a beloved local treasure for the better part of a decade. If you can't make it to the ocean anytime soon, this is the next best thing.
The Octopus Bar is located in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood, where it has been since 2014.
Its original location was just up the street from where it stands now, at 2121 N. 45th St.
The new space has quadruple the capacity of the old one, and it's a lot more enticing.
Although the old Octopus Bar was an absolute gem, it didn't really have a coercive look. This one is decidedly ocean-themed, and it's fantastic.
When COVID first hit the community and local restaurants and bars were closed, this bar was just beginning its renovating stages.
To keep money coming in, the owners sold takeout cocktails known as Tackle Boxes and a to-go sandwich stand called the Salty Shack.
Although the bar has fully reopened, the Salty Shack remains a hot commodity, so feel free to come hungry when you visit.
It's standard bar fare you'll be feasting on, but it's quite tasty.
This is a sports bar at heart, so you can almost always catch the biggest game on TV when you come.
Of course, on a warm summer day, there's no better place to be than the outdoor patio.
The drinks here range from your standard beer and well drinks to fabulous fruity creations and seasonal slushies.
The drinks here pack a powerful punch, so make sure to hand over the keys if you plan to enjoy several of them (which you'll probably want to do).
The aesthetics may seem a bit over the top here—but that's kind of the point.
This is not a place to come and take life too seriously. Check your troubles at the door, grab a seat, and set sail for a great time.
The Octopus Bar is open daily until 2 a.m.
On weekdays, opening time is 2 p.m., but they open at noon on Saturday and Sunday.
Do you have a favorite themed bar in Washington? Check out the Octopus Bar the next time you need a nice low-key evening out in the Emerald City.
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