When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Bad Albert's Tap & Grill
Why Bad Albert's Tap & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the heart of Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, Bad Albert's Tap & Grill has established itself as a beloved local hotspot for over 20 years. What makes this establishment a fantastic place to meet up with friends is its warm, inviting neighborhood atmosphere coupled with a fantastic menu and a full bar featuring local brews and wines. The restaurant boasts 13 TVs, perfect for catching sports with friends, and a diverse food selection highlighted by its famous Dock Street Burger, giant chicken wings, and a variety of mouthwatering appetizers like bacon-wrapped asparagus and buffalo crawfish. Their menu extends from hearty breakfast options such as the Seafood Florentine Benedict to satisfying dinner plates. Whether you’re in for a casual lunch or a lively evening, the lighting and reggae-rock playlists create a relaxed vibe that’s never too loud or too crowded, making it an ideal spot for conversations and gatherings. With consistent quality and friendly, attentive staff, Bad Albert's serves as a reliable meeting place where you can enjoy solid cocktails, beers on tap, and delicious bar fare that keeps locals coming back time and again.
Here's what people think of Bad Albert's Tap & Grill
As of recent, Bad Albert's Tap & Grill holds a 4.3-star rating based on 477 reviews.
Reviewers praise Bad Albert's Tap & Grill for its friendly staff, consistently good food, and comfortable neighborhood feel. Positive reviews frequently mention the amazing wings, notable happy hour deals with half-price appetizers that actually function as full meals, and standout dishes such as the bacon-wrapped asparagus, fish tacos, and mini pizzas. The service is often described as phenomenal, with management showing great pride in quality and consistency. The bar is appreciated for a solid beer selection and well-crafted cocktails, plus a welcoming atmosphere with appropriate lighting and enjoyable music. However, some reviewers note that while the food and service are very good, the bar food might not be extraordinary or worth going out of one's way for if you’re not local. A few felt the overall vibe is casual without much novelty, described as nothing special but pleasant enough for regular visits. In summary, the majority of users express satisfaction with Bad Albert's as a dependable, well-loved neighborhood bar and grill where comfort, quality food, and good drink meet friendly service, making it a great spot to unwind with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Saroija Durant-Moore
Always a good time at Bad Albert’s! I get great service and have a great time each time I go. Tuesdays are my favorite….trivia night and some good drinks and food will never go wrong! My favorite menu items are the wonton tacos and Dock Street Burger combo! But everything is tasty and has good portions
Grace Danback
We split the Captain's Platter and a few beers and spent just around $30 total. I liked the fried Alaskan cod, my partner thought it was lacking in flavor.
Freddy Reyes
BEST EVENING EVER!!!! It may have started bad then worse before this place SAVED the night. After being rejected at one pub, I told my partner I found another place. We looked at the menu and my partner excitedly said 'They have fish and chips!' After we sat down, the bartender greeted us with menus to look at while he went to attend the other customers. He came back after 5 minutes to take our orders and within 15 minutes our orders arrived hot and fresh. Best special burger I've had! No Best mac and cheese EVER!!! The bartender returned asking how is everything? 'FANTASTIC' This bartender checked on EVERYONE not just us. It wasn't too busy just a few customers. Great service for a bartender alone on a slow Tuesday night.
Robert Schuppert-McDonald
Bad Albert's is small pub style venue in old Ballard where you can get beers on tap or by the bottle along with mixed drinks and wine. Stephen and I went for lunch. Besides our entrées we ordered a crisp chicken salad to share. I had the fish burger. It was okay, but nothing special at that price point. Stephen had a burger dip and thought it was very good. Both meals came with generous portion of large cut fries that made it to the table hot! The salad was okay. I wished they hadn't over-cooked the chicken tenders. Although the menu did say crisp I wasn't thinking the batter would be crunchy not the chicken. There are TV screens everywhere and each one broadcasting a different station. I liked the ambient background music, but also would had liked the subtitles turned on to follow the shows. FYI...they are no longer excepting Groupons so might want to trade that purchase back in for bucks.
Michael Hagen
The burgers were tall and tasty, and the beers were cold and refreshing. The only complaint is that when we went to pay, we noticed a "10% inflation fee" on the bill. We didn't see any signs or anything on the menu indicating there would be such an unusual charge. I understand that costs have increased and businesses are making adjustments. However, please adjust your base prices instead of adding tricky fees that many people won't notice until after they go to pay.
How to reach Bad Albert's Tap & Grill
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Why Bad Albert's Tap & Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bad Albert's Tap & Grill with your friends?
Bad Albert's Tap & Grill in Ballard, Seattle, is an exceptional choice for gathering with your friends because it offers a warm, neighborhood-friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome the moment they walk in. With more than 20 years of establishing itself as a local favorite, this spot has perfected the balance between a casual hangout and a vibrant social hub. Whether you're craving outstanding bar food like their famous giant chicken wings or seeking a variety of local brews on tap, Bad Albert’s checks all the boxes to satisfy diverse tastes. The staff is known for their friendly, attentive service, ensuring that your group feels taken care of throughout the visit. Add in their reggae rock playlists and comfortable lighting that is neither too dim nor too bright, and you have a perfect setting for lively conversations and relaxed moments. Importantly, it doesn't get overwhelmingly crowded or noisy, so you can enjoy quality time without distraction. This blend of outstanding food, drink, service, and ambiance makes Bad Albert’s an ideal rallying point to reconnect, celebrate, or simply enjoy a good time together.
What activities are available at Bad Albert's Tap & Grill that make it great for group meetups?
Bad Albert's is more than just a place to grab food and drinks; it offers several activities that enhance the group gathering experience. First, the bar boasts 13 TVs, making it a prime location for watching sports events with friends and sharing the excitement in real-time. For those who enjoy music and entertainment, Bad Albert's hosts karaoke nights and live music sessions, ideal for groups who want to sing along or enjoy local talent while socializing. Trivia nights are another popular group activity here, encouraging friendly competition and team bonding over fun quizzes. The restaurant also offers themed food specials, such as Monday steak nights and spaghetti nights, giving groups a great reason to return regularly and enjoy special menus together. These events, combined with a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, make Bad Albert’s a dynamic venue perfectly suited for groups looking to do more than just eat and drink.
Why is Bad Albert's Tap & Grill perfect for hosting parties or special gatherings?
Bad Albert's excels at hosting private parties or special group events with ease and professionalism. The management is dedicated to creating memorable experiences, taking pride in delivering consistent, high-quality food and attentive service tailored to your group’s needs. Whether you want to book a casual birthday party, a work celebration, or a reunion, Bad Albert’s offers a welcoming space that can accommodate various group sizes comfortably. Their full bar with local brews and award-winning food ensures your guests are well catered to, while the staff handles the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the event. Catering options are also available if you prefer to host your event elsewhere, making it a versatile choice for group gatherings. With a reputation for friendliness and a neighborhood vibe, your party at Bad Albert's will feel both intimate and festive, leaving your guests with lasting impressions of a truly good time.
What kind of food and drink options can groups expect at Bad Albert's Tap & Grill?
Food lovers gathering at Bad Albert's Tap & Grill are in for a treat. The menu is praised for its quality and generous portions, especially the chicken wings, which stand out as some of the best in Seattle with their large size and bold flavors. Their Dock Street Burger is a local favorite, alongside other hearty options like bacon-wrapped asparagus, fish tacos, buffalo crawfish, and mini pizzas. The kitchen regularly crafts specials such as spaghetti nights and steak nights, adding variety to the dining experience. For drink enthusiasts, Bad Albert’s features a full bar with an impressive selection of local craft beers and wines on tap, alongside solid cocktail offerings. The happy hour deals are particularly appealing, offering half-off appetizers that more than satisfy hunger. This combination of robust, tasty food and a broad drink selection makes it easy for groups to find something everyone enjoys without breaking the budget.
How does the atmosphere at Bad Albert's Tap & Grill enhance a meetup experience?
The atmosphere at Bad Albert's is carefully crafted to promote relaxation and connection among friends and family. Unlike many bars that can feel overly loud or chaotic, Bad Albert's strikes a balance with its lighting and music choices, such as reggae rock playlists, which create a chill, inviting vibe. The lighting is warm and soft, perfect for intimate conversations as well as group interactions. The clientele tends to be local and friendly, encouraging an inclusive and community-driven energy. It’s never too busy, so your group can enjoy ample space and a comfortable environment without feeling rushed or cramped. The service team further enhances the atmosphere by being attentive and personable, often remembered by regulars for consistently excellent treatment. Altogether, the ambiance supports both lively gatherings and more laid-back hangouts, making it a flexible venue for various social moods.
Why should you choose Bad Albert's Tap & Grill over other bars or restaurants in Ballard?
Choosing Bad Albert’s Tap & Grill means opting for a proven neighborhood staple that prioritizes quality, consistency, and community feel. With a strong 4.3-star rating from hundreds of reviews, many patrons cite the excellent wings, super friendly staff, and a vibe that’s welcoming without being overwhelming. Unlike trendier spots that come and go, Bad Albert’s has thrived for over two decades, which speaks to their ability to satisfy and adapt to their customers’ needs. Their commitment to local brews and wines supports Seattle’s rich craft beverage scene, allowing you and your friends to enjoy some of the best regional flavors. Additionally, their hosting capabilities, diverse activity nights, and broad menu catering to various tastes make it a one-stop destination for making memories. When you want a dependable, appealing, and all-encompassing venue for your next meetup, Bad Albert’s Tap & Grill stands out in Ballard’s vibrant food and drink landscape.
What practical details should you know before visiting Bad Albert's Tap & Grill?
Planning your meetup at Bad Albert’s is easy with their convenient location at 5100 Ballard Avenue Northwest, Seattle, WA. The venue operates with generous hours that accommodate various schedules: Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Fridays and Saturdays open as early as 9:00 AM and staying late until 2:00 AM, and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering flexibility whether you want brunch, an afternoon gathering, or a late-night hangout. They also offer online ordering and catering services, perfect for meeting up before or after your visit or for hosting at another venue. The ample seating and layout, combined with their approachable and helpful staff, make it stress-free to bring a group of any size. These practical considerations add convenience on top of the great food, drinks, and activities that make Bad Albert’s an outstanding meetup destination.
In summary, Bad Albert's Tap & Grill delivers an unbeatable combination of quality food, excellent drinks, a welcoming vibe, and engaging activities that make it the go-to spot for friends and family looking to gather in Ballard. Whether it’s casual nights out, special parties, or game watching, it offers a well-rounded experience designed to create great memories in a comfortable, friendly setting.