When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet
Why Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet is a distinguished tiki lounge and apothecary-themed bar nestled in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. This unique establishment blends lush Hawaiian inspiration with a garden-like speakeasy ambiance, making it an exceptional place for friends to gather. The bar showcases a carefully crafted menu of cocktails infused with Hawaiian juices, spices, and flavors, reflecting the owners' passion for plant medicine and botany. Guests can indulge in delicious Hawaiian eats while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of imported goods and lush plants that transport them to a tropical oasis. Founded by Frankie Goodman, with a background in musical theater and botany, and Kaleilani Apo, from Kauai with expertise in aquaponics, the venue embodies their shared dream of creating a welcoming space where all walks of life feel safe and connected. Their commitment to inclusivity and community, combined with the venue's cozy backyard garden and magical ambiance, makes Little Tin a memorable destination for socializing and escape. The establishment also proudly identifies as queer-owned and woman-owned, promoting a safe and happy environment for women, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and all guests.
Here's what people think of Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet
As of recent, Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet holds a 4.5-star rating based on 479 reviews.
The reviews for Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet collectively highlight an overall positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.5-star rating from nearly 480 reviewers. Users frequently praise the vibrant Hawaiian-inspired setting and the unique speakeasy tiki garden vibe that offers a refreshing departure from typical bars. Many guests commend the thoughtfully crafted cocktails and the integration of botanical and apothecary elements that enhance the sensory experience. The ambiance, lush plant decor, and inclusive atmosphere have also been celebrated as standout features that create a safe and joyful getaway. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as the bar's ability to consistently deliver a ‘magical moment’ through its music, food, and drink offerings. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to challenges such as intermittent closures and pivots during the pandemic period, which affected access and consistency. A few reviewers noted that the drink prices lean towards the higher side, and the intimate setting may limit seating at times, requiring patience or reservations. Despite these minor concerns, the overall impression remains very favorable, with many patrons returning for the welcoming ambiance and unique cultural experience. In conclusion, Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet maintains a strong reputation as a beloved, lush Hawaiian-themed neighborhood spot that values community and inclusivity, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a distinctive social environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shelby Park
This review is long overdue… Little Tin always makes me happy. Their drinks are so creative and inspired - they have a lot of tea-based concoctions and I’ve never had a cocktail I didn’t like here. Their mocktails are just as delicious and the food is so easy to snack on while you’re on your second drink. The decor inside and out on their back patio are so cute and I feel like I get teleported out of Ballard and onto a mini vacation. The price point is high admittedly, but they include tip in their pricing which is fantastic and I don’t feel a dollar wasted - so I just make sure to come here for celebratory occasions like birthdays and new jobs. Looking forward to the next visit! 💚
Gaurav Hegde
Amazing cocktails, delicious quick bites , beautiful vibe similar to a speakeasy but super pricey place. Not a place to spend the entire night at because of the super expensive drinks and food. But definitely worth a visit specially to enjoy the lovely unique cocktails they have to offer . Some of them also come with a bag of chips. Also got the chicken dumplings and the duck rolls, were good but small portions. Had to go to a different restaurant next door to have some more food. Gratuity is included in the bill so be mindful of it. Great bar in ballard but may not be a frequent visitor
George Nicholas
Two recommendations: make the tart drinks a tad bit less tart, and replace your maraschino cherries with Luxardo cherries. This place is nice enough where you could pull that off. But this was a very nice cozy place. Loved the lights. Excellent service, and whoever did the interior design was on point.
Anabelle Y
Very intimate and aesthetically pleasing! We got the tempura shrimp, dumplings, and bao cheeseburgers - all were really nice! Just be warned that there is a required 20% service charge and you do order and check out online via QR code even when dining in.
Hannelore Ohaus
I've been here twice and both times I've been delighted by the creativity and craftsmanship of the cocktails. The drinks here are both beautiful and delicious, with options for folks looking for a more adventurous cocktail or stepping just outside the comfort zone of a classic drink. The back patio is a charming little covered oasis that feels like stepping into a tropical garden and not just out the backdoor of a bar in Ballard. This would be a great place to bring a data or an out of town guest, the atmosphere and menu are sure to impress.
How to reach Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet
None
Website: None
Why Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet with your friends? This unique, vibrant venue offers an inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends the warmth of a neighborhood gathering spot with an exotic tropical flair. Owned by women, Hawaiian, and queer entrepreneurs, it celebrates diversity and inclusivity, making it a welcoming place for all kinds of groups. The space invites soulful connection through its thoughtfully crafted cocktails, inspired by botanical and tropical ingredients, and dishes rooted in family traditions and generational recipes. It’s more than a restaurant — it’s an experience that fosters joy, celebration, and heartfelt moments with your favorite people. Its combination of flavorful, innovative drinks and dishes, paired with warm, sincere service, creates an ambiance where friends and family can fully relax and bond. Whether you want to celebrate milestones, enjoy a spontaneous night out, or create new traditions, Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet offers the perfect setting for making memories together.
What activities and experiences make Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet ideal for group meetups? First and foremost, the place is designed to encourage socializing with a casual, no-reservations policy and a communal vibe. Groups can arrive and enter a laid-back environment where the waiting list system ensures a smooth, equitable flow of guests. The establishment’s happy hour from 5 to 7 PM Wednesday through Saturday is a highlight — featuring rotating tropical cocktails and tasty snacks that appeal to diverse palates, perfect for unwinding together after work or starting a weekend evening. Moreover, the menu's botanical and tropical concoctions crafted from garden herbs and family recipes offer guests a chance to share and savor unique flavors, enhancing the group’s shared experience. The music, described as soulful and lively, contributes to a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to laugh, dance, and connect. For groups looking for a venue where everyone feels included and energized by an authentic cultural flair, Little Tin is an excellent choice.
What kind of dining experience can groups expect at Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet? The restaurant embraces a warm, familial spirit, reflected in its food and drink offerings. Their dishes are inspired by the owners’ Hawaiian heritage and other generational influences, creating a menu rich in flavor and tradition. This adds depth and meaning to the meals you share with friends or family. Each cocktail is meticulously crafted from botanical ingredients—herbs, tropical fruits, and other natural elements harvested directly from their garden—which results in inventive, refreshing drinks unlike the typical bar selections. The shared focus on soul, culture, and heartfelt connection means that dining here feels like partaking in a family celebration rather than just a meal. Groups can relish not only the tastes but the stories behind each dish and cocktail, sparking conversations and deepening bonds. The balance of tradition and innovation, combined with a welcoming setting, ensures a dining experience that feels special and memorable for all guests.
How does the atmosphere at Little Tin enhance group gatherings? The ambiance at Little Tin blends vibrant energy with a cozy, intimate feel, making it perfect for groups who want to both celebrate and relax. The space is described as an "oasis for all," reflecting a strong commitment to inclusiveness and community spirit. The setting includes soulful music that encourages movement and laughter, creating a joyful soundtrack to conversations and connections. Its location in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood adds a laid-back, local neighborhood charm that helps visitors feel at home even if they’re new. The attentive, respectful, and warm staff contribute to the atmosphere by providing attentive, unobtrusive service that maintains the flow of good times without pressure. Moreover, the dog-friendly policy means groups can bring along their four-legged friends, adding an extra layer of comfort and fun for animal lovers. All of these elements together create an environment that naturally invites group camaraderie and long, leisurely gatherings.
What makes Little Tin a distinctive choice compared to other venues for hosting your social events or meetups? There are several standout features that elevate the experience here above the usual bar or restaurant visit. First, it’s a women-owned, Hawaiian-owned, and queer-owned business, making it an empowering space that supports diversity and showcases culturally rich perspectives. This authenticity translates into the creative menu and the inclusive vibe that encourages everyone’s participation and respect. The botanical cocktails and family-inspired dishes make every visit feel like stepping into a story rooted in culture and connection rather than just eating and drinking. The no-reservation, waitlist-first policy emphasizes a casual, democratic experience that lets guests show up and share space with others, adding a communal aspect to your meetup. Finally, the happy hour and late-night hours provide flexible timing options for groups looking for after-work drinks or weekend celebrations. All these factors combine to create a unique, memorable gathering place where groups can celebrate friendship, culture, and life’s delicious moments with ease and joy.
How can groups best navigate their visit to Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet to maximize their experience? Since Little Tin operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, it’s helpful to plan accordingly. Arriving early, especially during busy weekend evenings, improves your chances of seating together promptly. Alternatively, groups can add their name to the waitlist via Yelp starting at 5 PM, which streamlines the arrival process and reduces wait time. Taking advantage of their happy hour between 5 and 7 PM on open days is a smart move to enjoy rotating tropical drinks and snacks while mingling comfortably. Since the establishment enforces an 18% gratuity shared among staff, groups can focus on enjoying their time without worrying about tipping logistics. Bringing pets is welcomed as long as they remain leashed and well-behaved, so animal lovers in the group should consider this when planning. Above all, being respectful to staff and other guests by sharing the “Aloha” spirit ensures a positive atmosphere for everyone, making your meetup smooth, fun, and memorable.
What kind of events or celebrations can be hosted at Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet? While the venue does not take reservations, it is open to hosting private events, which can be arranged by contacting them via email. This makes it a potential spot for more intimate gatherings such as birthday parties, small reunions, or cultural celebrations where the focus is on close-knit connection and shared experience. The vibrant atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and inclusive, soulful vibe make it particularly well suited for events celebrating diversity, friendship, or milestones that benefit from a warm, supportive environment. Since the venue embraces a family spirit and cultural heritage, it’s a natural choice for gatherings where storytelling, music, and meaningful engagement are desired components. For groups looking to turn their meetup into a memorable event with a distinctive flair, Little Tin’s blend of tradition, creativity, and community spirit provides a highly attractive and flexible option.
How does Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet reflect its community values and contribute to a positive social experience? The business strongly emphasizes inclusivity and respect, welcoming people of all backgrounds and identities. As a women-owned, Hawaiian-owned, and queer-owned establishment, it exemplifies representation and empowerment in the local hospitality scene. Its commitment to sharing family and cultural traditions through food and drink fosters a sense of continuity and connection. The cheerful encouragement to “share the Aloha” and the cooperative spirit regarding house policies and city mandates underline a culture of kindness and mutual respect. By inviting guests to celebrate together in a casual, joyful environment, Little Tin contributes to an uplifting community experience that honors personal stories and relationships. This social warmth enhances every meetup, making every gathering here about more than just dining — it is a celebration of connection, identity, and shared humanity.