This new downtown bar and another on Capitol Hill are both excellent

Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 13:29 GMT by Seattle Times
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Pitch the Baby on Capitol Hill and WeRise Wines downtown are both worth celebrating and are great places to celebrate. Our food writer shares all the details.

Two New Women-Owned Bars in Seattle: Each Excellent in Its Own Way

Seattle's vibrant bar scene has welcomed two exciting additions, both helmed by women entrepreneurs, each bringing a distinct flavor to the city's nightlife. These spots stand out not just for their ownership but for their innovative approaches to cocktails, ambiance, and community focus. One offers a cozy, intimate escape with a nod to classic mixology, while the other channels a bold, historic vibe with creative drinks and bites. Together, they exemplify the evolving diversity in Seattle's hospitality landscape, proving that great bars can thrive by blending tradition with fresh ideas.

First, let's dive into The Doctor’s Office, a charming newcomer tucked away in Capitol Hill. Owned by the team behind the beloved Honeyhole sandwich shop—spearheaded by women who have long been fixtures in the local food scene—this bar opened its doors with a mission to provide a serene, almost therapeutic retreat from the hustle of everyday life. The name itself evokes a sense of healing, perhaps a playful antidote to the stresses of modern existence. Housed in a compact space that was once part of a larger venue, The Doctor’s Office prioritizes intimacy over volume. With seating for just about 20 patrons, it's designed for those seeking a quiet conversation or a solo sip rather than a raucous party atmosphere.

The cocktail menu here is a masterclass in precision and elegance. Drawing inspiration from timeless recipes, the drinks are crafted with high-quality spirits and house-made ingredients. Standouts include the signature Old Fashioned, elevated with a custom bitters blend that adds subtle layers of spice and citrus, and a meticulously balanced Martini that avoids the pitfalls of over-dilution or imbalance. For those preferring something lighter, there's a refreshing spritz variation featuring local botanicals and effervescent wine. The bar's philosophy emphasizes "prescribed" drinks—tailored suggestions based on your mood or preferences, much like a doctor might recommend a remedy. Non-alcoholic options are thoughtfully included, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.

Beyond the drinks, The Doctor’s Office shines in its attention to detail. The decor features warm lighting, plush seating, and subtle medical-themed accents—like vintage apothecary bottles lining the shelves—without veering into gimmickry. It's a space that feels personal and inviting, encouraging lingering over a well-made beverage. Small plates complement the menu, with items like artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and perhaps a nod to Honeyhole's sandwich expertise in the form of elevated bar snacks. Prices are reasonable for the quality, making it accessible for a midweek unwind or a special date night. Since opening, it has quickly become a neighborhood favorite, praised for its calm energy in the often frenetic Capitol Hill area.

Shifting gears to Pioneer Square, Good Bar emerges as a bolder counterpart, owned by a dynamic woman entrepreneur with a passion for revitalizing historic spaces. This bar occupies a stunning, century-old building that once housed various enterprises, now transformed into a lively yet sophisticated watering hole. The name "Good Bar" is straightforward, but the experience is anything but ordinary—it's a celebration of good times, good company, and, of course, good drinks. The owner, drawing from her background in hospitality and community building, aimed to create a venue that honors Pioneer Square's gritty heritage while infusing it with modern flair.

The interior design is a highlight, blending exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood accents, and industrial lighting that pay homage to the neighborhood's past. It's spacious enough for groups but includes cozy nooks for intimate gatherings. The vibe is energetic yet approachable, making it ideal for after-work drinks, weekend outings, or even casual business meetings. Music plays at a volume that enhances rather than overwhelms, often featuring local artists or themed playlists that tie into Seattle's cultural scene.

Cocktails at Good Bar are inventive and thematic, often incorporating seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. A standout is the "Pioneer Punch," a rum-based concoction with fresh herbs, citrus, and a hint of spice that evokes the exploratory spirit of the area's namesake. Another favorite is a whiskey sour variation using Washington-state rye, balanced with house-infused syrups for a unique twist. The menu extends to beer and wine, with a curated selection of regional brews and vintages that support small producers. Food options are more substantial here, designed to pair perfectly with the drinks—think shareable plates like gourmet sliders, charcuterie boards, and vegetarian-friendly small bites such as roasted vegetable skewers or truffle fries. The emphasis on sustainability is evident, with efforts to minimize waste and source ethically.

What sets Good Bar apart is its community-oriented ethos. The owner has hosted events like trivia nights, live music sessions, and even pop-up collaborations with local chefs, fostering a sense of belonging in Pioneer Square. It's a place where regulars mingle with newcomers, and the staff's warmth adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Pricing is competitive, with happy hour specials that make it an attractive option for budget-conscious patrons without skimping on quality.

Both bars, while distinct, share common threads: a commitment to excellence driven by female leadership, a focus on quality over quantity, and an ability to carve out unique niches in Seattle's competitive bar market. The Doctor’s Office appeals to those craving a refined, low-key experience, where the art of the cocktail takes center stage in a soothing environment. Good Bar, on the other hand, thrives on energy and innovation, turning a historic space into a hub for social connection. Visiting either—or better yet, both—offers a glimpse into why Seattle's food and drink scene continues to innovate. These women-owned establishments not only serve great drinks but also contribute to a more inclusive and creative hospitality landscape, inviting everyone to raise a glass to progress and good taste. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or just looking for a new spot to unwind, these bars deliver excellence in their own remarkable ways, enriching the city's nightlife one sip at a time.

Read the Full Seattle Times Article at:
[ https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/2-new-women-owned-bars-in-seattle-each-excellent-in-its-own-way/ ]

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This new downtown bar and another on Capitol Hill are both excellent

Two New Women-Owned Bars in Seattle: Each Excellent in Its Own Way