When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Fast Penny Spirits
Why Fast Penny Spirits is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Fast Penny Spirits stands out as a premier destination for friends and enthusiasts to gather and enjoy exceptional Italian-inspired amaro crafted with care and a deep sense of social responsibility. Located in Seattle and proudly woman-owned and operated, this award-winning distillery combines rich heritage with modern sustainability. What makes Fast Penny Spirits particularly special is their dedication to producing luxurious, herbaceous spirits made from the highest-quality, wild-crafted, organic, and consciously sourced botanicals. Visitors can savor their signature Italian-style amari—Amaricano and Amaricano Bianca—that offer beautifully complex flavors perfect for sipping neat or enhancing cocktails. The distillery's ambiance celebrates craftsmanship and community, making it an inviting spot for social gatherings, tastings, and educational experiences about amaro's cultural significance. Beyond just great spirits, Fast Penny Spirits integrates its commitment to environmental impact and social equity through initiatives like their 3% Pretty Penny give-back program, which supports women, local communities, and the hospitality industry. This focus on quality, sustainability, and empowerment elevates the experience, transforming a typical meetup into a meaningful celebration of culture, flavor, and positive change.
Here's what people think of Fast Penny Spirits
As of recent, Fast Penny Spirits holds a 5-star rating based on 14 reviews.
Consumers consistently praise Fast Penny Spirits for their outstanding product quality and the distinct, captivating flavors of their amaro offerings. Reviewers highlight the smooth, herbaceous notes and the beautifully balanced bitterness and sweetness that make Amaricano and its variants uniquely enjoyable. Many appreciate the brand’s authentic Italian inspiration and the evident care in crafting spirits with wild-crafted and organic botanicals. The company’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility also earns considerable respect, with users admiring its status as a Certified B Corporation and the Pretty Penny give-back program that empowers women and supports local communities. Positive reviews often mention the welcoming and educational atmosphere that enhances visits, making Fast Penny Spirits not just a distillery but a community hub. On the other hand, given its highly specialized product line focusing mainly on amaro, some customers may find limited variety if they prefer a broader range of spirits. Additionally, since it operates primarily out of Seattle, availability can be regionally restricted for some enthusiasts wishing to purchase. Despite these minor caveats, the overwhelmingly positive customer sentiments, reflected in a perfect 5.0 rating over 14 reviews, indicate a strong reputation for quality and community impact. Overall, Fast Penny Spirits enjoys acclaim for its exemplary product craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and role as a socially conscious beverage producer.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Steven Blair
First thing is that both Amaricano and Amaricano Bianca are excellent amari! Second, we truly enjoyed visiting Fast Penny, the drinks we had there were quite tasty, and we enjoyed the tour and conversation with Jamie and her husband. Lastly, we had a shipping issue with our last order, which was not the fault of Fast Penny; but, Jamie made it right for us, promptly sending a replacement. Thank you...Fast Penny fully deserve the 5-star review.
Maggie C.
truly such a hidden gem! had the most wonderful time — Greg was so knowledgeable and I learned so much about the spirits and enjoyed a truly delicious cocktail. I cannot recommend enough
Anya Ko
We spent an absolutely amazing Friday night touring the Fast Penny Spirits distillery. Our guide, Adam, was incredibly knowledgeable and funny. Cocktails he made for us (Cloister and Amaro Martini) are our new favorites. Very special experience and space. Highly recommend!
Kane Francetich
Truly amazing! Complex and satisfying. Neat, over ice, or in a cocktail. So good. And their service is exceptional too.
Douglas Winslow-Nason
Not many places can be called magical, but this is one. Learning the blend of art and science that goes into making their product on an amazing tour was a very special evening.
How to reach Fast Penny Spirits
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Website: None
Why Fast Penny Spirits may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Fast Penny Spirits with your friends?
Fast Penny Spirits offers a truly unique and inviting setting for gathering with friends or family. As a woman-owned, award-winning amaro distillery rooted in Italian tradition yet proudly based in Seattle, it balances heritage with modern craft and community purpose. Guests come not only to enjoy the rich, herbaceous flavors of their artisanal Amaricano amari but also to immerse themselves in a warm, welcoming atmosphere where passion for quality and sustainability shine. The distillery’s intimate setting, tucked near the Ballard Bridge and a working shipyard, provides an idyllic backdrop for meaningful social experiences. Whether you’re seeking to discover sophisticated, handcrafted spirits or simply searching for a convivial space to connect, Fast Penny Spirits encourages camaraderie through its thoughtfully designed tasting deck and engaging distillery tours. The founders’ philosophy of supporting women, local communities, and sustainable practices adds an inspiring dimension to every gathering, making your visit about more than just drinks — it becomes an empowering celebration of connection and craft. This is a place where friendships are toasted with complexity, care, and a touch of Pacific Northwest charm.
What activities can groups enjoy at Fast Penny Spirits?
Groups visiting Fast Penny Spirits can enjoy a variety of interactive and memorable activities designed for socializing and learning. The highlight for many is the VIP Distillery Tour, a 45 to 60-minute immersive experience that delves into the craft of making Italian-style amaro. Led by the passionate distilling team, this tour provides an insider’s look at how Fast Penny blends high-quality, wild-crafted botanicals—including unique ingredients like fresh truffles and Yakima hops—to create their signature Amaricano and Amaricano Bianca spirits. The process is elevated by sustainable practices and innovative techniques, making the tour both educational and inspiring.
After the tour, groups can relax on the FPS Tasting Deck, where they sample expertly crafted cocktails made from Fast Penny’s amari or savor the spirits neat or over ice. The tasting sessions encourage conversation and exploration of flavor profiles, perfect for bonding with friends or family over shared discovery. The distillery’s prime location near the Ship Canal Bike Trail and free parking at the shipyard make it easily accessible for larger gatherings. Additionally, the distillery’s emphasis on sustainability and community-driven initiatives can be a great conversation starter or common interest for groups wanting to support ethical businesses together. This combination of learning, tasting, and community spirit makes Fast Penny Spirits ideal for a group seeking a meaningful social outing.
Why is Fast Penny Spirits perfect for a group meetup?
Fast Penny Spirits stands out as a premier venue for group meetups due to its combination of intimate yet spacious environment, premium product offering, and community-centric ethos. Its location near Seattle’s Ballard Bridge means it is centrally accessible for local friends as well as visitors from greater Seattle, making logistics simple for any gathering. The distillery’s warm ambiance and friendly, knowledgeable staff help groups feel at ease, encouraging relaxed conversation and shared enjoyment. The VIP tours are perfect for special occasions or casual hangouts alike, giving groups a guided, interactive experience that fosters connection.
Moreover, the distillery provides a dedicated tasting deck which serves as a social hub — a place designed for sitting together, sharing stories, and savoring exquisite cocktails crafted with rich Amaricano spirits. The 5.0 rating from fourteen reviews highlights customer satisfaction, reflecting consistently positive group experiences. The fact that it is woman-owned and B Corporation certified underlines a commitment not only to quality but to empowering women and supporting social causes, making any meetup feel like part of something bigger. This ethos resonates strongly with groups looking not just for a great night out but a meaningful one. In essence, Fast Penny Spirits offers more than spirits; it offers an experience that elevates friendship and community.
What makes the cocktails and spirits at Fast Penny Spirits unique?
The cocktails and spirits at Fast Penny Spirits distinguish themselves through their foundation in authentic Italian amaro tradition, elevated by local Pacific Northwest ingredients and expert craftsmanship. Founder Jamie Hunt, drawing on her Sicilian heritage and the region’s abundant wild-crafted botanicals, developed Amaricano and Amaricano Bianca after years of meticulous recipe testing and refinement. Each ingredient is consciously sourced—from cocoa nibs and Rainier cherries to fresh local truffles—creating complex but approachable flavor profiles that invite sipping neat, over ice, or as part of inventive cocktails.
The Amaricano amari are celebrated for their “rich, herbaceous, and beautifully complex” character, combining a velvety bitterness with fruity and botanical notes that make them versatile for different drinking preferences. Their smoothness has earned Fast Penny Spirits several awards, including a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, affirming the quality of their craft. Beyond flavor, the distillery’s sustainable and conscious production practices also contribute to the uniqueness of these spirits — blending traditional Italian amaro philosophy with a progressive, eco-aware approach. Sampling these spirits is not merely drinking; it’s experiencing a thoughtful, place-based story in a glass, perfect for groups seeking a special taste adventure.
How does Fast Penny Spirits support the community and sustainability?
Fast Penny Spirits is deeply committed to social responsibility and environmental sustainability, weaving these values into every aspect of their business and making it a gathering place aligned with conscious choice. As a Certified B Corporation, the distillery meets high standards for verified positive impact on workers, community, and the environment. Their business model includes a 3% revenue give-back initiative called the Pretty Penny program, which donates proceeds to empower women entrepreneurs, support local communities, and promote sustainable hospitality industry practices.
The commitment to sustainability extends to the sourcing of ingredients, prioritizing wild-crafted, organic botanicals from the Pacific Northwest to reduce environmental impact and celebrate regional biodiversity. Additionally, the distillery’s innovative use of white oak foeders and sustainable distillation techniques highlight their dedication to eco-friendly production. Groups meeting here can feel proud knowing their social outing contributes to broader causes — enhancing the experience with an ethic that enriches community and nurtures the environment. This shared value system is a strong draw for people wanting their social life to reflect their principles.
What amenities does Fast Penny Spirits offer for group comfort and convenience?
Fast Penny Spirits is thoughtfully equipped to provide comfort and convenience for groups of all sizes. The distillery’s location adjacent to the Coastal Transportation Shipyard offers ample free parking—a rare and valuable amenity in Seattle’s busy areas—making arrival and departure hassle-free even for larger parties. The proximity to the Ship Canal Bike Trail appeals to those who prefer an active arrival by bicycle. For groups interested in accessibility, the venue’s layout and staff friendliness ensure a welcoming atmosphere for guests with varying needs.
Inside, the dedicated tasting deck serves as an inviting social area with ample seating, ideal for groups to congregate and linger comfortably while savoring cocktails and chatting. The distillery maintains hygiene and safety standards strictly, ensuring a clean and safe environment. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable, adept at guiding groups through tastings and answering questions, which enhances the overall experience and makes everyone feel valued. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an afternoon with friends, the amenities at Fast Penny Spirits add layers of ease, making it a standout choice for memorable meetups.
What makes the history and founding story of Fast Penny Spirits special?
The story behind Fast Penny Spirits is one of resilience, innovation, and empowerment, adding a rich narrative layer to your visit. Founded by Jamie Hunt and Holly Robinson, two powerhouse women who launched the distillery during a global pandemic after three years of deliberate development, the brand embodies determination and community spirit. The partnership was born out of a desire to champion other women, uplift local businesses, and make meaningful waves in the spirits industry, all while honoring Jamie’s Sicilian heritage and love for amaro.
Their journey from painstaking recipe development—crafting tinctures from individual botanicals and blending hundreds of combinations—to achieving international recognition with multiple awards, speaks to their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. The distillery's name, Fast Penny, and its branding inspiration from burlesque, combine playfulness with elegance, reflecting a zest for life and creativity that permeates the visitor experience. This backstory enriches every sip and gathering, providing a conversation starter and a context of shared inspiration when you rally here with friends or family.
Visiting Fast Penny Spirits offers a vibrant blend of sophisticated spirit tasting, thoughtfully curated group experiences, social responsibility, and a welcoming atmosphere that together craft an ideal destination for your next meetup. Whether you come for the award-winning Amaricano, the insider distillery tour, or simply to enjoy good company in a lively yet intimate setting, Fast Penny Spirits invites you and your companions to create memorable moments steeped in community, craft, and care.