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Canon

7.9Friend Score / 10

#5 of 11 Bars & Nightlife in Seattle

Known forCampfire in GeorgiaLawn BoyCanon Cocktail
Reserve a TableDirectionsBooking links · they don’t affect the Friend Score

Canon is Seattle's temple of spirits — a Capitol Hill bar with a whiskey and cocktail collection (4,000+ bottles) that reads like a reference library. A friend sends you here for a serious drink, not a scene. Caveat: it fills fast, so reserve or arrive right at 5pm.

Key facts

Hours
Wed–Sun 17:00–00:00
Fri–Sat 17:00–02:00
Price$$$
Phone
Website
Nearest transitLink light rail to Capitol Hill Station, ~10 min walk; multiple Metro bus lines on 12th Ave
Time needed1.5-2 hours
Best time to goWeeknight, right at 5pm opening, to snag a seat without a wait
Last verifiedJuly 12, 2026

Friend Score

7.9/10
  • Value7.8
  • iconic7.5
  • Freshness9.2
  • Crowd level5.0
  • Authenticity8.7
  • Accessibility7.5
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Frequently asked questions

Is Canon 21+?
Yes, it's a bar, so everyone must be 21 and up with valid ID. Bring your identification even if you look older — they card at the door.
Does Canon serve food?
Yes, there's a small food menu of shareable bites meant to go with drinks, not a full dinner. Come having eaten, or plan on snacks rather than a meal. The drinks are the reason you're here.
Can I bring a group to Canon?
It's really built for pairs or small groups of three. Large parties are tough given how tight the space is, and they don't do big reservations easily. For a group night out, this isn't the spot.
Is Canon really that expensive?
It can be, but it doesn't have to be. Standard cocktails are in normal Seattle craft-bar range; the eye-watering prices are for rare, aged spirits you won't find elsewhere. Order a menu cocktail and you'll be fine.
Do I need a reservation at Canon?
Walk-ins are welcome, but the place is small and gets slammed, especially on weekends. If you have your heart set on it, book ahead through their site. Otherwise show up at 5pm when the doors open and you'll usually walk right in.
Is Canon good for someone who doesn't drink whiskey?
Absolutely. The cocktail program is deep across every spirit, and the bartenders are genuinely good at reading what you'll like. Non-whiskey drinkers are well taken care of here.
What should I order at Canon?
Tell the bartender what spirits you like and let them steer — that's the whole point here. If you're a whiskey person, ask what's interesting and pourable that night. Their menu is famously massive, so guidance beats scanning it.
How late is Canon open?
Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday they close at midnight; Friday and Saturday they go until 2am. They're closed Monday and Tuesday. It's one of the better late-night serious-drink options in the city.

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