When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Damn the Weather
Why Damn the Weather is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Damn The Weather, located at 116 1st Ave S in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square, is an inviting restaurant and bar that has been delighting guests since its establishment in 2014. Known for its “farm-to-face” approach, this lively venue combines fresh, locally sourced ingredients with creative comfort food recipes, making it an excellent gathering place for friends looking to enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The ambiance is charmingly rooted in the neighborhood's history, offering a unique "historic-hangout" vibe that complements its modern culinary twists. Whether meeting for lunch, dinner, or drinks, visitors can indulge in a diverse menu featuring well-crafted cocktails alongside flavorful American fare, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to accommodate different dietary preferences. With hours stretching from 11:00 AM well into the evening during weekends, Damn The Weather serves as a perfect spot for casual meetups, special occasions, or unwinding after work. The combination of quality food, welcoming service, and a warm atmosphere creates an excellent backdrop for memorable social experiences in one of Seattle’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods.
Here's what people think of Damn the Weather
As of recent, Damn the Weather holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1476 reviews.
Customer reviews of Damn The Weather are largely positive, with an overall rating around 4.4 stars based on approximately 1,476 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the establishment’s fresh and tasty food, noting the creativity behind their comfort food dishes, such as the Rigatoni Bucatini which gets highlighted for being both delicious and freshly made. The cocktail selection also receives high marks for its imaginative and refreshing drinks, with recommendations like the "Daisy Cutter" standing out for their quality and flavor. Guests often commend the attentive and knowledgeable staff, mentioning servers by name who elevate their dining experience through helpful recommendations and personable service. The atmosphere, described as a blend of historic charm and a lively bar scene, is another consistent area of positive feedback, making it a favorite meeting spot within Pioneer Square. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on occasional wait times and inconsistencies during peak hours, with a few customers wishing for quicker service or more seating options. Some also point out that prices can be on the higher side for the area, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious visitors. Overall, the strong majority of reviews reflect a satisfying dining experience marked by friendly service, quality food, and a welcoming environment, cementing Damn The Weather as a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable social dining experience in Seattle.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kris Simpson
This one of our favorites and we try and pop in every time we are in Seattle. The oysters and fish dishes are superb. The service and atmosphere are warm and cozy - every time! Don’t miss this gem if you are in town!
Sasha Kemble
With a mid-week day off, friends and I converged on Damn the Weather for some fancy drinks and a late lunch. There were a variety of cocktails on the menu. We enjoyed some fresh Washington oysters (Olympia wild and Penn Cove), a tasty Caesar salad with anchovies, and a chicken sandwich with delicious fries. Our server was friendly and personable, and the beautiful brick building reveals why Pioneer Square remains so charming. This was my second time here, and it will remain a delightful treat when in the area. Though it was easy to run up our bill, it felt of good value for a great day walking around the city. Enjoyed it so much, forgot to take pictures after the first drink!
John Victor Calabig
We went for lunch as we have always wanted to try this place sadly we were disappointed with our visit. The location is close to us and ambience is great however they were playing loud music a big no-no in my book. I ordered the house ice tea which was great and the underwhelming crispy chicken sandwich, it was perfectly fried but under seasoned, the fries were mushy but the garlic aioli was delicious. My partner ordered the pesto grilled cheese it wasn’t great either it was bland however the salad dressing was good. I’m not sure I’d we will try the food here gain.
MAXIM PAK
Great food with French influence, steak frites was good especially fries in duck fat. Not too good of wine selection. We ordered 2 glasses of French Syrah Grenache and it tasted awful. Likely they had the bottle open for a long while. The waiter was cool to change the wines to a different type though.
Justin Newgaard
Had a great dinner with a friend. No reservation, but luckily two seats at the bar. Place was super busy which is always a great sign. Not any real vegan options but they are ways to do that without anyone jumping through hoops. The Brussels sprouts were the highlight, incredible bite to them! They are perfectly cooked so they melted in your mouth but were still crispy. Drinks are fabulous, bartenders were amazing. Easily a great date spot in pioneer square
How to reach Damn the Weather
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Why Damn the Weather may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Damn the Weather with your friends? Because it offers a unique blend of a cozy atmosphere, exemplary food, and a lively yet intimate setting perfect for social gatherings. Located in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, Damn the Weather provides a refuge from the city's often gloomy weather, making it an inviting and warm place for friends or family to congregate. With a strong reputation reflected in its solid 4.4-star rating from over 1,400 reviews, this bar-restaurant hybrid has earned admiration for both its culinary offerings and its spirited ambiance. Whether you are looking to escape the rain, celebrate a special occasion, or simply spend quality time with loved ones, Damn the Weather offers an experience that feels both special and comfortably familiar. It’s not just a place to eat or drink; it’s a social hub with thoughtfully prepared dishes paired with attentive service, making it ideal for any group meetup, big or small.
What activities can you enjoy at Damn the Weather? While primarily known as a bar with excellent food, this establishment offers several engaging options that make it perfect for group hangouts. First and foremost, the environment is cozy and intimate, enhanced by exposed brick walls and a friendly vibe, making it a warm place to relax and chat even when the Seattle skies are dreary. The food menu, although not extensive, is carefully curated to satisfy a wide range of tastes, featuring standout dishes such as spaghetti bolognese with parmesan, fresh crudo, and addictive shishito peppers. Their famous duck fat fries, cooked in chicken fat and dusted with fennel seed, are a must-try and perfect for sharing among friends. The bar itself offers an array of cocktails, beers, and drinks, like the refreshing Daisy Cutter cocktail, all expertly crafted to complement the food and mood of the place. This combination of quality drink options, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere makes Damn the Weather a great spot for groups to enjoy a laid-back evening.
Why is Damn the Weather perfect for group meetups? The answer lies in its balance of ambiance and service tailored to small groups. Despite being cozy and somewhat small, the intimate setting creates a sense of exclusivity and comfort that larger venues often lack. The staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, with servers frequently praised for making guests feel welcomed and well cared for. This attention to detail enhances the social experience, ensuring that groups can focus on enjoying their time together without any hassles. Additionally, its prime location in the heart of Pioneer Square means the venue is easily accessible, with nearby attractions like Smith Tower and Waterfall Garden Park providing perfect pre- or post-meetup activities. The presence of nearby paid parking adds convenience for those who drive. Together, these factors create a seamless experience for friends and family, making Damn the Weather an inviting choice for any occasion looking to bring people together.
What makes the food and drinks special at Damn the Weather? The kitchen is committed to turning out excellent dishes each day, prepared with care by a skilled culinary team. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the fresh, flavorful quality of the food—from the rich, hearty pasta to the perfectly cooked burger and delicate crudo. The meticulous choice of ingredients and attention to detail elevates simple bar food into something memorable and satisfying. The cocktail program also deserves mention, with expertly mixed drinks recommended personally by the staff, ensuring you find the perfect sip to suit your mood. The small but effective menu guarantees quality over quantity, which makes ordering easy for groups and ensures every item served is at its best. This focus on high-quality food and drink fosters an atmosphere where everyone in a group can find something they love, from beer lovers and cocktail aficionados to those seeking hearty, comforting meals.
How does the atmosphere contribute to the overall experience at Damn the Weather? The vibe here is one of "chill and intimate" — a perfect antidote to Seattle’s notorious rainy weather. Exposed brick and a snug, thoughtfully designed interior create a welcoming ambiance that encourages conversation and connection. Though the bar can get busy, the warmth of the space and the crowd's easygoing nature actually add to the charm rather than detract from the experience. For groups, this means you can share laughs, enjoy good music, and feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden gem rather than a crowded tourist spot. This authenticity is part of what makes Damn the Weather a local favorite, where people feel comfortable enough to linger and make memories, whether over a casual drink or a celebratory meal. The setting’s cozy nature also makes it well suited for intimate celebrations, making every visit feel special.
What practical tips can help maximize your visit to Damn the Weather for a group meetup? Since the venue is popular and tends to get crowded, especially on weekends, planning ahead can enhance your experience. Arriving a little earlier or making a reservation when possible can help secure your spot, ensuring your group can sit together comfortably. The small size of the space means that larger groups might need to split up slightly or plan for peak times when the flow is steadier. Given that the menu is not extensive, it’s wise to peruse offerings in advance or be ready to try shared plates, which can make ordering more interactive and communal. Also, taking advantage of their cocktail selections and specialty items like duck fat fries can add a fun and indulgent twist to your gathering. Lastly, the neighborhood offers opportunities to extend your outing with a walk or a visit to nearby landmarks, turning your meetup into a full day or evening adventure.
Why do locals and visitors alike recommend Damn the Weather as a meetup spot? From many reviews, a consistent theme emerges: the staff’s warm hospitality and the high quality of both food and drink. Guests often mention feeling welcomed and appreciated by the servers, which truly elevates the social experience. The trendy-yet-unpretentious vibe draws a diverse crowd that adds to the liveliness without compromising comfort. The restaurant’s efforts to maintain an inviting atmosphere, coupled with a focus on great flavors and reasonable pricing for the quality, resonate well with both repeat visitors and newcomers. With its combination of cozy ambiance, excellent culinary offerings, and service that feels personalized, Damn the Weather stands out as a reliable choice for a memorable gathering place. Whether you are a local looking for a regular hangout or visiting Seattle and wanting an authentic dining experience, this place checks all the boxes for a top-notch group meetup.
In summary, Damn the Weather offers everything you need for an enjoyable and memorable meetup with friends or family. Its blend of cozy, inviting atmosphere, carefully crafted menu, attentive service, and prime location in Seattle's vibrant Pioneer Square creates a setting that encourages connection and celebration. The quality and creativity in the food and drink, highlighted by such items as the duck fat fries and expertly suggested cocktails, make the dining experience a highlight of any visit. Perfect for small to medium-sized groups, this friendly and warm hangout offers a refuge from the weather and everyday routine, inviting you to relax, share great tastes, and create lasting memories with those who matter most.