Zig Zag Café

Introduction

Zig Zag Café is a storied icon in Seattle’s cocktail and hospitality landscape. Tucked away on the Pike Hillclimb near Pike Place Market, this bar is celebrated for spearheading the city’s craft cocktail movement, reviving forgotten classics, and fostering a community rooted in craftsmanship and conviviality. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or a curious traveler, this comprehensive guide covers Zig Zag Café’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, menu highlights, and insider tips to elevate your Seattle experience.

Early History and Location

Founded in 1999, Zig Zag Café began as a low-key lounge managed by Ben Dougherty and Kacy Fitch. By 2002, they had purchased the business, transforming it into a hidden haven for cocktail lovers (Seattle Met). Its location—down a staircase at 1501 Western Avenue, just below Pike Place Market—adds to its mystique and charm. Visitors are drawn to its discreet entrance and intimate atmosphere, making it a favorite for both locals and out-of-town guests (Destinationless Travel).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

• Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and Sundays from 5:00 PM to midnight.
• Tickets & Cover: No tickets or cover charge required. Seating is first-come, first-served; reservations are typically not accepted.
• Location: 1501 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101.
• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible with helpful staff, and accessible via the Hillclimb entrance.

Public transit and rideshares are recommended, as parking in the area is limited. The café’s proximity to Pike Place Market and the waterfront makes it an ideal stop during a day of sightseeing.

Zig Zag’s Role in the Cocktail Renaissance

At a time when sugary “-tini” drinks dominated American bars, Zig Zag Café emerged as a leader in reviving pre-Prohibition cocktail recipes and rare spirits. Dougherty, Fitch, and their team delved into vintage cocktail books, perfecting classics and elevating the standard for balance and quality (Seattle Met). Their dedication placed Seattle on the national cocktail map, inspiring a new wave of craft bars across the country.

The Murray Stenson Legacy

The arrival of bartender Murray Stenson in the early 2000s marked a turning point for Zig Zag Café. Stenson’s deep knowledge, meticulous technique, and approachable hospitality transformed the bar into a pilgrimage site for cocktail enthusiasts (Eater Seattle). His mentorship shaped a generation of bartenders, many of whom went on to open acclaimed establishments in Seattle and beyond (Serious Eats). Stenson’s philosophy—a seamless blend of art, service, and community—continues to define Zig Zag’s ethos.

Revival of “The Last Word” and National Influence

Stenson famously unearthed “The Last Word,” a balanced cocktail of gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice, from Ted Saucier’s Bottoms Up (1951) (Seattle Met). Adding it to Zig Zag’s menu, he sparked a craft cocktail resurgence that spread from Seattle to New York, San Francisco, London, and beyond. The drink’s rise from obscurity to modern classic status cemented Zig Zag’s place in cocktail history.

Influence on Seattle’s Bar Scene

Zig Zag’s success served as a model for Seattle’s burgeoning cocktail scene. Its influence is seen in bars like Canon, Bathtub Gin & Co., and Tavern Law, which adopted Zig Zag’s focus on technique, rare ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere (Explorer Sue). Many of Seattle’s top bartenders got their start at Zig Zag or were inspired by its approach. The café’s legacy also lives on in the city’s thriving mocktail movement, which offers sophisticated non-alcoholic options.

Menu Highlights and Beverage Program

Culinary Offerings

Zig Zag Café’s menu showcases New American and Mediterranean influences, built on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients:

• Small Plates: Marinated olives, brined Rainier cherries with herbed yogurt, buttermilk fried Hama Hama oysters, deviled eggs with pimenton.
• Salads & Vegetables: Roasted beet salad, burrata with grilled peaches and miso, roasted summer squash with whipped feta.
• Entrees: Wild mushroom pasta, Washington NY strip steak frites, sockeye salmon, the acclaimed Zig Zag burger.
• Cheese & Bread: Fromage plate, Macrina baguette with cultured butter.
• Desserts: Chocolate pots de crème, peach cobbler with mascarpone biscuit topping.

Beverage Program

Internationally recognized for its cocktail program, Zig Zag offers:

• Signature Cocktails: “Backhanded Compliment,” “Acid Adjusted Blood And Sand,” “Good Night, And Good Luck.”
• Classics: Faithful renditions of the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Sazerac, and, of course, The Last Word.
• Wines & Beer: Curated list of local and international wines and craft beers.
• Non-Alcoholic: House-made sodas and creative mocktails ensure everyone is included.

The ambiance—dim lighting, jazz-age décor, and a verdant patio—creates a perfect setting for both casual evenings and special occasions.

Nearby Attractions

• Pike Place Market: Just steps away, this world-famous market is a haven for food, crafts, and local culture.
• Seattle Waterfront: Access the waterfront via the Hillclimb, enjoy scenic views, shops, and the Seattle Aquarium.
• Cultural Landmarks: The Seattle Art Museum and Olympic Sculpture Park are a short walk away.

Recognition and Legacy

Murray Stenson was named “Best Bartender in America” at the 2010 Tales of the Cocktail festival (Eater Seattle). Zig Zag Café’s influence has been profiled by national food and drink authorities and remains a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers and industry professionals alike (Seattle Times).

Preservation and Evolution

Zig Zag Café is both a living archive and an incubator for cocktail innovation. The bar maintains a collection of vintage cocktail books and rare spirits, educating both staff and patrons (Seattle Met). While rooted in tradition, the menu evolves regularly, ensuring relevance and creativity in Seattle’s ever-changing dining scene.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive Early: Limited seating means earlier visits (especially weekdays) reduce wait times.
• Dress Code: Smart casual is appropriate.
• Payment: Both cash and credit cards accepted.
• Reservations: Generally not accepted except for select large parties—call ahead for details.
• Photography: Photos are welcome; quieter hours offer the best ambiance for pictures.
• Accessibility: Let staff know about any special requirements.

FAQ

Q: What are Zig Zag Café’s hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday 5 PM–2 AM; Sunday 5 PM–midnight.

Q: Do I need tickets or a reservation?
A: No tickets or cover charge; seating is first-come, first-served.

Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, including through the Hillclimb entrance.

Q: Are vegan/vegetarian options available?
A: Yes, the menu includes several plant-based dishes.

Q: Are non-alcoholic drinks available?
A: Yes, including house-made sodas and mocktails.

Q: Can I attend cocktail workshops or events?
A: Check the official website for upcoming events.

Internal Links

• Seattle’s Best Cocktail Bars
• Guide to Pike Place Market
• Seattle Nightlife Hotspots