When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse
Why Big Time Brewery & Alehouse is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse, established in 1988, proudly holds the title of Seattle’s original brew pub, making it a historic and beloved destination in the University District. Housed in a charming brick building adorned with high ceilings and stained wood, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for friends to gather. The antique bar adds to the classic American Alehouse vibe, creating a unique aesthetic that combines tradition with comfort. Patrons can enjoy a diverse selection of at least 12 beers on tap, including standard brews such as Scarlet Fire IPA, Atlas Amber Ale, and Coal Creek Porter. Weekly rotating specialty beers, including cask-conditioned “real ales,” keep the offerings fresh and exciting. The brewery’s state-of-the-art 14 barrel JV Northwest system ensures quality and craftmanship in every pour. Alongside its extensive beer selection, the kitchen serves hearty, reasonably priced American fare including pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and salads with generous portions, making it an excellent spot for a full meal or casual snacks. Open daily from noon to 8 pm, Big Time Brewery & Alehouse stands out as a great place to meet friends for both the welcoming ambiance and dynamic beer selection.
Here's what people think of Big Time Brewery & Alehouse
As of recent, Big Time Brewery & Alehouse holds a 4.3-star rating based on 502 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Big Time Brewery & Alehouse for its authentic and cozy alehouse atmosphere, highlighted by the historic brickwork and the nostalgic antique bar, which provide an inviting backdrop for social gatherings. Positive reviews frequently commend the quality and variety of the craft beers, especially favorites like the Coal Creek Porter and Scarlet Fire IPA, citing their fresh, modern taste despite the brewery's long history. The rotating selection and unique brews like oatmeal stouts and flavored sours receive particular attention for offering something new with every visit. Reviewers also appreciate the generous portions and affordability of the food menu, with pizzas and burgers commonly noted as satisfying complements to the beer. However, some negative feedback points to inconsistencies in service speed and occasional crowding during peak times, which can affect the overall experience. A few reviewers also mention that the ambiance, while classic, may feel a bit dated or smoky for some tastes. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains favorable, emphasizing Big Time Brewery’s enduring presence in the Seattle craft beer scene and its role as a friendly, reliable neighborhood destination. This balance of heritage, quality brews, and community focus secures its positive reputation even after more than three decades of operation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alexis Krystyne
Pizza was DELICIOUS!! One of our pizzas “was messy” per the chef so he/she made us a whole other one to take home. The bartender was so sweet and even working solo she kept up with the busy afternoon! Couldn’t recommend this place more 💕
Tanya Escure
Nachos were cold with burnt chips, wish we would have read reviews prior to ordering. Server seemed overworked or something… was so rude! We were here for UW graduation, stopped for a beer, my daughter’s boyfriend walked by we told him to join us. He was eating a burrito, server came unglued! Each one of us had beverages that were paid for, all were patrons here, she was about to take his burrito and toss it. There is a nice way to say “put away your burrito” and then there is the way the kids with us were treated. Not okay.
Roseanne M
Great cheeseburger. Fries were crispy and delicious. We would recommend the onion rings.Staff was friendly and efficient. Can order online. Gluten free buns available. Nice atmosphere. Convenient location. Would definitely recommend for lunch or dinner.
Todd McLaughlin
The turkey bacon havarti sandwich always hits the spot. I like how you can choose what side you want between fries, salad, or soup. The place is all ages, and if it's loud in the front, we recommend you sit in the back room. Service is good, but just a heads up, you order at the bar. The beers made on site are perfect on a sunny day.
Greg
Good beer but cocktails were weak in alcohol and big on price. Food and drink ordering are all at the bar which can result in long lines. We miss the shuttle board, juke box, and posting the sports page in the bathroom.
How to reach Big Time Brewery & Alehouse
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Why Big Time Brewery & Alehouse may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse with your friends? This spot has been a Seattle staple since 1988, lovingly dubbed the city’s "living room." With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 500 reviews, it strikes the perfect balance of casual comfort and vibrant energy, ideal for gathering friends or family. Its welcoming atmosphere invites everyone, including kids, to enjoy a meal or just unwind. The brewery offers an impressive range of house-brewed beers alongside an extensive American bar menu that features favorites like wings, burgers, and handcrafted pizzas—perfect for sharing and satisfying diverse tastes. Big Time's generous happy hours and reasonable prices add extra appeal, creating a pocket-friendly destination without sacrificing quality. Beyond the food and drink, regular themed events such as trivia nights and chess evenings cultivate a lively scene where bonds can grow over friendly competition or relaxed conversation. Whether you prefer to dive into craft brews, feast on comfort food, or simply enjoy welcoming gathering spaces, Big Time Brewery & Alehouse stands out as a go-to venue for unforgettable group meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse that make it perfect for group meetups? The brewery prides itself on hosting a range of engaging social activities that cater to different interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone in your group. For trivia lovers, weekly trivia nights spark friendly competition with rotating themes, making each event fresh and entertaining. Chess enthusiasts can gather every Tuesday for Chess Night, encouraging strategic battles and relaxed camaraderie. These recurring events are great for groups who want to enjoy more than just food and drink while strengthening connections through shared fun. The brewery’s spacious layout and open seating encourage mingling and accommodate both small and large parties comfortably. Beyond structured events, the casual, family-friendly environment caters well to mixed-age groups, allowing parents to bring kids without the stress of loud or exclusive settings. Additionally, the brewery hosts private events and group bookings, offering tailored experiences for celebrations or customized meetups. These thoughtful touches make Big Time Brewery not just a bar or restaurant but a community hub for memorable group gatherings.
What kind of food and drinks can your group expect at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse? The menu emphasizes approachable American cuisine with pub-style favorites that appeal to various palates, making it especially suitable for group sharing. Signature items like crispy chicken wings come tossed in multiple sauce varieties—buffalo, spicy honey Sriracha, garlic chili, or barbecue—providing something for every taste preference. Their burger and pizza offerings are popular crowd-pleasers, with hand-tossed pizzas like pepperoni or garlic cheese pizza bread offering rich, comforting flavors. The kitchen also whips up unique dishes, such as pork verde tacos braised in an orange coal creek porter, which offers a flavorful twist that regulars rave about. On the drinks side, Big Time Brewery brews a rotating selection of house-crafted beers, including celebrated IPAs like the "Scarlet Fire IPA" enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Happy hours from Monday to Friday and all day over weekends mean that groups can enjoy discounted pints and appetizer specials, making it easier to try multiple offerings and share diverse tastes. This solid combination of tasty, shareable meals and quality brews is a magnet for communal dining and lively conversation.
How is the atmosphere at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse ideal for hanging out with family or friends? The vibe of Big Time is relaxed and unpretentious, providing a welcoming “living room” feel that makes it easy to settle in for hours of conversation and enjoyment. The brewery is designed to accommodate families alongside groups of friends, offering a space where guests of all ages feel comfortable. Unlike more formal or loud venues, it balances casual dining with the energy of a bar, allowing everyone to find their niche. The layout supports both intimate seating for smaller groups and larger areas for celebrations, making it flexible for any meetup size. Lighting and decor contribute to a warm, inviting mood without feeling stuffy, while the staff is often noted for being friendly and attentive, enhancing the sense of community and hospitality. Such an environment makes it easy for friends to reconnect, families to bond, or colleagues to unwind after a busy day. The combination of atmosphere, service, and inclusive policy ensures your gathering will feel special and stress-free.
What makes Big Time Brewery & Alehouse a great all-day and nightlife destination for groups? What sets Big Time apart is not only its midday appeal but how it transforms into a vibrant social hub in the evenings and late nights. The brewery operates from 11:30 AM to 11 PM on most days, extending even later into the early hours on weekends, offering flexible options for daytime meals or after-work drinks. Their extensive happy hour schedules—Monday to Friday from 2 to 5 PM and again from 9 PM to close, plus all day Saturday and Sunday (excluding Husky game days)—invite groups to gather at various times to fit different schedules. This makes it easy to plan brunch, lunch, dinner, or late evening meetups without compromising on quality or value. The venue’s event calendar invites a dynamic social pulse, encouraging nightlife enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to participate in chess, trivia, or special gatherings. Whether your group seeks a lively Thursday night trivia challenge or a relaxed Sunday afternoon, Big Time Brewery’s diversified hours and activities accommodate varied social rhythms effortlessly.
How can Big Time Brewery & Alehouse accommodate private events or special group celebrations? Beyond open seating and public events, Big Time Brewery offers private event hosting and group bookings that allow for personalized celebrations. Whether you are planning a birthday party, a family reunion, or a casual work meet-and-greet, the staff is ready to help tailor the experience to your needs. The brewery’s spacious interior and welcoming atmosphere support customization, from arranging special menus to dedicating areas of the venue for private use. This flexibility ensures your group enjoys exclusivity and personal attention while still benefiting from the brewery’s full culinary and beverage offerings. Booking a private event provides the comfort of a dedicated space, allowing your group to focus on connection and enjoyment. Their commitment to hospitality and community spirit means your gathering will be handled professionally yet warmly, making Big Time Brewery a reliable choice for celebrations that feel uniquely yours.
In summary, Big Time Brewery & Alehouse is an excellent venue for group meetups because it combines a welcoming atmosphere, delicious and shareable food and drinks, engaging activities, and flexible hours that suit any schedule. Its reputation as a Seattle institution with a solid rating, combined with thoughtful event programming and family-friendly policies, creates a space where friends and family can rally comfortably and memorably. Whether gathering for casual drinks, themed trivia nights, or private celebrations, this brewery and alehouse delivers a compelling combination of quality and community spirit that makes it stand out as a gathering spot worth returning to again and again.