Zig Zag Cafe

Zig Zag Cafe is a legendary classic-cocktail bar tucked on the Pike Place Hill Climb — birthplace of the revived Last Word cocktail. A friend sends you here for expertly made drinks in a cozy, low-key room, plus live jazz early in the week. Caveat: it's easy to walk past, hidden below the Market.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is there a happy hour at Zig Zag?

Yes, weekday happy hour runs 5-6pm, right when they open. It's a good window to get a seat and a deal before the evening crowd. Late-night food is served until 11pm daily.

Does Zig Zag have live music?

Yes — live jazz plays Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday from 8 to 10:30pm. It's a lovely, intimate way to experience the room. Those nights are also quieter than weekends, so it's a great combo.

Do they serve food at Zig Zag?

They do — a solid small-plates and bar menu that goes well beyond token snacks, served until 11pm. You can absolutely make a light meal of it alongside drinks. But the cocktails are the headline.

Is Zig Zag 21+?

Yes, it's a bar and requires everyone to be 21 with valid ID. Bring identification regardless of age, as they card.

Do I need a reservation at Zig Zag?

It's smaller and can fill on weekend nights, so reservations via Resy or OpenTable help then. On weeknights you can usually walk in. Early evening is your best bet for a table without planning.

Is Zig Zag good for a date?

Very. It's cozy, dimly lit, and the drinks are excellent — exactly the kind of unhurried spot that makes conversation easy. Aim for a jazz night if you want a little extra atmosphere.

What's Zig Zag known for?

It's internationally famous as a cradle of the classic-cocktail revival, and it's where the modern Last Word cocktail was rediscovered. The bartenders take craft seriously without any pretension. Come for a properly made classic.

Where exactly is Zig Zag Cafe?

It's on the Pike Street Hill Climb, the staircase connecting Pike Place Market down toward the waterfront, at 1501 Western Ave. It's genuinely easy to miss — look for the sign on the stairs. Once you find it, you'll always know.

Nearby in Ask Seattle

• Pike Place MarketMarket0.13 km · 2 min walk
• Seattle Art MuseumMuseum0.22 km · 3 min walk
• Seattle AquariumAttraction0.23 km · 3 min walk
• Seattle Great WheelAttraction0.31 km · 4 min walk
• Top Pot Doughnuts (Belltown Flagship)Café0.68 km · 8 min walk