10 Favorite Drink Spots in Olympia, Washington
It’s so fun to watch the recent developments in my hometown with the opening of some awesome and innovative new small businesses and restaurants! It’s also still bustling with tried and true faves from years past, some of which I’ve grown up loving for 28 years! Today I’m compiling my favorite drink spots in Olympia, Washington so newbies can take note and perhaps locals can add a new place or two to their to-visit list!
10 Favorite Drink Spots in Olympia, Washington
1. Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
Chelsea Farms is a hotspot downtown in the 222 Market - a gorgeous little collection of shops including a killer ice cream spot, cake maker extraordinaire (she makes the cakes for pretty much every occasion of mine!), the cutest floral shop, yummy Mexican food, and a local bakery! If you love oysters or other kinds of seafood and meat, you’ll thrive at this spot, and they also happen to make my favorite cocktails in town. I’m a sweet cocktail kind of gal (I go easy on the alcohol) and I’ve had multiple phenomenal drinks at Chelsea Farms without ever having to ask the bartender to customize them sweeter. I’ve even asked a server to surprise me with a mocktail before and it was just as stunning! But trust: My alcohol-lover friends say their drinks are just as epic. You’ll also want to try a dessert while you’re there (the eclairs if they have them), and consider sitting outdoors on their heated patio if the weather permits.
2. Rumors Wine Bar
Hands down my fave wine bar in town, Rumors is the spot to be to unwind from a long workday and relax + enjoy a glass. They also host Paint & Sips, Wine 101 classes, and so much more. I love grabbing a seat at the bar and working on my laptop with a glass of Sweet Kiss (a super sweet red) in hand! They also have delish charcuterie and the most incredible chocolate molten lava cake… just trust me.
3. Briggs Taphouse
A newer favorite as of 2022, Briggs Taphouse is currently in close proximity to me so you know where I’ll be spending most of my warmer days of the year! It’s also located right next door to Humble Cow Ice Cream (equally delish). I’m not a big beer gal, so I always opt for whatever cider they have on the menu. Pair your bev with one of their fabulous pizzas or salads and you’ve got yourself a party on the patio! *A great dog-friendly spot for pet lovers.
4. Koko’s Restaurant and Tequila Bar
I am obsessed with our newer Mexican spot in town, Koko’s. The friendliest staff and most delicious food & margs makes this the best brunch AND dinner spot. They always have some sort of special to offer, and exciting new menu items. I must recommend their mango dulce margarita - just perfection!
5. Cheeky Martini Bar
A unique spot in the heart of downtown is Cheeky - you’ll feel like you transported to a different time when you walk in! Largely known to be our only plant-based bar in town, this vegan establishment will wow you with their over the top cocktail creations. Their small bites menu is also sure to impress - you’ve gotta give their queso a taste; it’s cashew-based and has just the perfect amount of spice. Their tacos noir and hummus and pita plates are also fab. As for the stars of the show, you must try their chocolate martini, island daquiri, and The Gilbert Baker (named after the queer icon himself)! Pro Tip: Ask for “a bubble” on top of your drink - you won’t be prepared for the kind of magic comes next…
6. Matchless Brewing
If you’re looking to kick back and relax at a fun, casual spot, Matchless is for you! This place is a nice escape from the hustle & bustle of the city, located a little further out in Tumwater, complete with guest food trucks, cool games, and live music in the warmer months. They’ve decked this place out with nice, large wooden tables and couches - perfect for a larger gathering of friends The best part? You can order food from a variety of nearby establishments, or bring your own food. Totally casual and welcoming. As per usual, I opt for the rotating cider on the menu!
7. Anthony’s Homeport (+ Hearthfire)
Anthony’s is a staple to the Pacific Northwest - if you know, you know! This waterfront higher-end dining chain will pamper you and make you feel as though you live a life of luxury (even if for just the night). Don’t even get me started on the Bailey’s Irish Cream Chocolate Mousse! They always have a rotating seasonal menu of delicious cocktails, plus all the classics + beer and wine for the tried and true folks. If you’re on a bit of a budget but still want to live lavishly, I highly suggest their Sunset Dinner on weeknights before 5:30. In the summer months, an outdoor weekend brunch hits the spot.
8. Swing Wine Bar
My favorite part about Swing that you won’t find anywhere else is their breathtaking view - they sit on the hill overlooking Capitol Lake’s picturesque campus. Ask for some fondue (or a full meal!) and discover a new favorite wine while the evening’s sun sets and you take in everything that makes this city so special.
9. 3 Magnets Brewing Co.
Let’s start by praising the rad owners of 3 Mags - Sara and Nate are local gems who do such great work for our community and are also just super cool humans! I’ve had the pleasure of briefly working with both of them on a couple different endeavors, and enjoy my time at their place time and time again. I’ve had meaningful meetings, client lunches, and a super successful networking group fundraiser here and am happy for the memories I’ve been able to make. I am always blown away by their inventive dishes and drinks - definitely an integral part of the fresh culinary scene in town with their fabulous Chef Magaña who is a delight! Don’t forget to play a game of cornhole while you’re there.
10. Nicole’s Bar
Nicole’s is your quintessential, perfect hometown bar! The owner has created the best LGBTQ+-friendly spot to catch your favorite sports game on the big screen, or attend the most fabulous drag brunches with top-tier talent. The great news: The food and bev are equally as good as the atmosphere!
Each of these places have such unique offerings and that’s why I love having a variety to choose from depending on what I’m craving on any given day! I’m proud to be an Olympian for many reasons, but these iconic spots are certainly 10 of them.
Which spot are you excited to try next? Have your own fave to add to this list? Sound off in the comments!
