When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Targy's Tavern
Why Targy's Tavern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nestled in the heart of Seattle's Upper Queen Anne neighborhood, Targy's Tavern stands as a cherished local institution since its establishment in 1937. Named after a beloved Seattle longshoreman nicknamed 'Targy,' the tavern boasts a rich history intertwined with the community's heritage. What makes Targy's a great place to meet friends is its authentic ambiance, featuring the original U-shaped bar that has welcomed patrons for over eight decades. The tavern offers a welcoming, open floor plan conducive to socializing, complemented by classic bar activities such as pool, darts, Bingo on Tuesdays, and Trivia nights on Wednesdays. Alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of craft beers and bar bites, guests appreciate the casual openness—bringing their own food is also allowed, promoting a relaxed, communal vibe. The historic building itself, constructed in 1902 from Queen Anne hill timber, adds a unique architectural charm, and the ownership by Joel and Margo Stedman, who are committed to preserving this legacy, ensures the tavern remains vibrant and true to its roots. It opens daily from 4 PM to 2 AM with generous happy hour specials every evening, making it an accessible gathering spot at nearly any time of day. Altogether, Targy's Tavern offers a harmonious blend of historic character, friendly service, and engaging entertainment that makes it an ideal neighborhood bar for meeting up with friends.
Here's what people think of Targy's Tavern
As of recent, Targy's Tavern holds a 4.6-star rating based on 255 reviews.
Customer reviews of Targy's Tavern overwhelmingly reflect a positive experience, highlighting a strong community vibe and the tavern's nostalgic yet lively atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly bartenders who contribute to an inviting environment where newcomers and regulars alike feel at home. The well-maintained historic space, with its original bar and familiar activities such as pool and trivia nights, receives frequent commendations for fostering social connections. Positive feedback often refers to the diverse selection of craft beers and the accommodating policy of allowing outside food, enhancing the casual and flexible ambiance. Event nights like Bingo and Trivia are particularly noted for their quality and the sense of camaraderie they generate. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional crowding during popular events, resulting in limited seating and wait times. A few patrons have also mentioned that the bar bites menu is limited in variety compared to other venues. Nonetheless, these criticisms tend to be minor and are often outweighed by the overall warmth and character of the tavern. In summary, Targy's Tavern enjoys a strong reputation as a beloved community watering hole that balances rich history with contemporary entertainment, making it a favored destination despite some typical urban bar challenges.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eli Blaker
I really hate to have to write a review like this; about a bar I've been coming to probably around once a quarter for the past couple years, and have recently started coming to more often, to the tune of once a month as a little home away from home from my usual local dive bar in a nearby neighborhood, but felt obliged to say something about the experience I had the evening of May 15, 2025. I walked in around 11:30 PM with my buddy that I met during freshman year orientation in college back in Vermont in 2016. We've remained friends over the years and they recently moved to Seattle from Connecticut a few months ago. We had been to Targy's a few times since they moved out here, and had even been served by this particular bartender one of those nights. Never had any issues before. But not this night. The bartender spent around 30-40 seconds looking at my ID which is a WA state license I got around a year or two ago and then gave me the okay. The bartender took my buddy's CT ID (which might I add was issued less than a year ago) spent 30-40 seconds looking at that one as well, and then took it over to their book of ID images for comparison and discussed the ID with some locals at the bar. The bartender comes back and says "Unfortunately I can't serve you tonight" and in my view got slightly frustrated with me after I inquired about what we could do to prevent the situation from happening in the future; they really just wanted us out of the bar and to be done talking to us. Now listen, I get it, if working at a bar is your livelihood, and you serve someone underage, then working at a bar likely becomes a past livelihood. That being said, I clearly look around 25 (I'm currently 27) and likely slightly older with a little evening shadow. My buddy has a horizontal Real ID, good enough to get them on a domestic flight in this country. My buddy definitely looks closer to 21, but they're only a year younger than I. This situation raises a lot of questions for me: 1. Why did you serve my buddy and I a couple months ago? What changed since then? Does he look younger now? Maybe you just forgot our faces since you see a fair amount of customers on a daily basis. 2. Why would I, who clearly is around 25 based off looks be hanging out with someone underage that isn't my actual brother? Why would I take them to a dive bar in this neighborhood? Like if I wanted to drink with underage kids, I'd just go to Flowers (good riddance). There are plenty of other bars in this city where underage kids go to drink, and I've been around the area long enough to know where they are (and to avoid them for the garbage fires that they are). All this to say, if you're going to check your book for comparisons, maybe don't consult the locals that are probably two or three drinks deep at that point in the evening to ask what they think of a strangers ID. You're the bartender, you make the call. If you're going to check your book, maybe it should be one that's up to date. There's no way that my buddy's ID that they got 7 months ago should be an issue for a bar that's on top of this. And finally, if you really think that this is a bar that someone underage would try and get into on a regular basis, get a scanner. My friend with a horizontal Real ID should not have an issue with a nationally standard ID (additionally, out of the ten or so other bars in the area that we've been to before we've never had this issue). I'm frustrated that what was supposed to be an evening nightcap of one drink and game of pool with one of my closest friends to an otherwise good day had to end on such a sour note.
Chase Dittrich
If I wrote this review a few months ago it would have been 5 stars - I love the environment at Targy's and I've been going there for a while. Sober is a great bartender and April does a good job hosting trivia. Love the pool tables and the fact they let you bring in food (Melania's nearby is our go-to). But their new bartender Lucas is the reason for the low review. We had a really bad experience with him and we basically aren't going back - there was some kind of miscommunication when we were closing out (we'd only had a drink each) and he got very defensive/passive aggressive. We tried to talk with him and he simply refused to communicate like an adult. When we tried to understand what he was angry about he escalated to yelling at us all to get out. We even stepped away and our most patient friend tried to go have a heart to heart with him to figure out what's going on, but he just acted like a complete jerk. No idea what happened, but it's made it really uncomfortable in the few times we've been back since. Won't be going back, sadly. Otherwise, a very nice spot tucked away in Queen Anne.
Oxinflames
Had a crap experience here. I'd had a targys shirt and they always put up birthday names on their signs so i thought what better time to check this spot than on my birthday wearing the targys shirt. So i come in, order a pint, and received possibly the most disgusting pint I've ever had served to me in seattle so far. It smelled bad, tasted rank, the glass was positively ancient, chipped and so marked i couldn't tell where the chips began and the spotty streaks ended. It must have come from the prohibition era, along with the last time those taps were cleaned. I did not want another pint nor any food since i was sick to my stomach so i paid for my pint and left. The vibes are cool, pool tables, etc but the drink was undrinkable.
Garrett N.
Super chill vibes in this legit and classic Queen Anne bar. Pool tables, dart boards, shuffle board, jukebox, 4 big TVs for sports, and even Pac-Man arcade table available to play! Bingo on Tuesday nights and trivia on Wednesday nights. Lots of locals and friendly bartenders too! 🍺🍺🍺
Ash Soanes
Targy's is a gem. Neighborhood dive bar with plenty of character and plenty of characters. They've got great service, plenty of craft beers on tap, and every liquor bottle known to man. For entertainment there's also a couple of pool tables, dart boards and a jukebox. Everything you need right in your neighborhood.
How to reach Targy's Tavern
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Why Targy's Tavern may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, Targy's Tavern in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood stands out as an ideal choice. This dive bar has cultivated a reputation for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making every visitor feel like part of a close-knit community. With a rating of 4.6 from over 255 reviews, it is clear that many guests appreciate the vibe that Targy's offers. The tavern fosters a relaxed, unpretentious environment where you can unwind and enjoy genuine social interactions. Bartenders such as Sober contribute immensely to this welcoming atmosphere, often turning first-time patrons into regulars and strangers into friends. The affordability of drinks combined with engaging social activities like Bingo nights and pool tables ensures that everyone in your group, regardless of their interest, finds something fun to do. Whether you want to celebrate an occasion, catch up on life, or simply enjoy a casual night out, Targy's Tavern provides the cozy, lively setting that makes gathering memorable and enjoyable.
What activities and amenities does Targy's Tavern offer for groups?
Targy's Tavern is designed with socialization and group gatherings in mind, offering a collection of activities that encourage interaction and fun. One of the main attractions in the tavern is the pool tables—perfect for groups who want to engage in friendly competition while enjoying their drinks. The tavern’s happy hour specials make it an affordable place to sample a variety of beverages, enhancing the experience without putting a strain on your wallet. For those who enjoy watching sports or catching up on news, several loud TVs are strategically placed around the bar, providing a lively audiovisual background without overpowering conversation. Free Wi-Fi is also available, which can be handy for coordinating meetups or just staying connected. While the food menu is limited and focused mostly on convenient frozen or microwavable options, this emphasizes that the priority is on creating a vibrant bar scene centered on drinks, social games, and camaraderie rather than elaborate meals. The combination of these amenities ensures that Targy's is more than just a place to drink—it’s a hub for memorable group experiences.
Why is Targy's Tavern perfect for an enjoyable meetup?
The atmosphere at Targy's Tavern is what truly makes it perfect for meetups. It strikes a unique balance between lively energy and a welcoming, down-to-earth feel. Unlike trendy or pretentious spots, Targy's prides itself on being authentically local, creating a space where neighbors and visitors alike can relax. Attendees often describe it as a "friendly neighborhood bar" where “most people know your name,” underscoring the personal connections forged here. Additionally, the staff—especially bartenders Mike, Patrick, and Laura—are known for their exceptional service and ability to foster a sense of belonging in what can often be an anonymous city setting. The tavern also hosts special weekly events like Bingo on Tuesdays, which are a great way for groups to enjoy something different while bonding over a shared game, perfect for laughs and light-hearted competition. Outdoor seating, available when weather permits, adds another dimension for social enjoyment. This space is perfect whether you are planning a casual hangout, birthday celebration, or just a Friday night wind-down with friends.
What makes the ambiance of Targy's Tavern unique?
Targy's Tavern holds onto the classic dive bar charm while offering a classy and casual ambiance that invites relaxation and fun. The decor is both nostalgic and comforting, evoking the feeling of a true local hangout where ‘barflies’ and casual drinkers alike would feel at home. Unlike more modern, sterile bars, Targy's embraces a certain warmth and familiarity that encourages patrons to stay longer. The lighting is on the darker side—enough to feel intimate but still lively—making it ideal for conversations without feeling too quiet or isolated. The space is filled with energy from the lively crowd, yet it feels like a comfortable escape within Seattle’s bustling Queen Anne neighborhood. This authentic atmosphere is affirmatively praised in many reviews and is a major reason why patrons return repeatedly. If you want a place that feels rooted in community with “good vibes and late-night hours,” Targy's delivers that experience consistently.
How does Targy's Tavern accommodate larger groups and ensure a good time?
Despite its relatively casual dive bar roots, Targy's Tavern handles groups and crowds with care and efficiency. Although it is not a large venue by design, the staff works tirelessly to accommodate as many patrons as possible without sacrificing service quality. During busier nights, one server still manages to maintain an excellent flow of drinks and interaction, demonstrating a dedication to hospitality that can be rare in similar establishments. The layout includes communal tables and seating arrangements that encourage mingling, making it easy for friends to cluster together and for new connections to be made. Group-friendly games like pool and Bingo encourage interaction among guests, breaking down barriers between strangers and fostering a sense of inclusivity. The bartenders are known for their attentiveness and ability to remember regulars’ preferences, speeding up service and enhancing everyone’s experience. If your meetup involves celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying each other's company in an easy-going setting, Targy's Tavern is equipped to make your group feel at home and entertained throughout the night.
What should visitors know about food and drink options at Targy's Tavern?
While Targy's Tavern is best known for its drinks and social atmosphere, prospective visitors should have realistic expectations about the food offerings. The menu is somewhat limited and primarily consists of microwaved frozen items rather than freshly prepared meals. Some patrons express minor concerns about food preparation practices, but these do not seem to detract significantly from the overall positive experience focused on drinks and community. The real strength lies in Targy's selection of reasonably priced beverages and happy hour specials that keep the spirits high. The bartenders are skilled and personable, often making recommendations and creating a welcoming vibe that transcends the simplicity of the food menu. Guests often appreciate that the bar focuses on being a great place to drink and socialize rather than competing with full-service restaurants. For groups looking to bring their own food or order from nearby eateries, the bartenders are happy to provide local recommendations to fill that gap, ensuring your needs are met beyond the bar’s offerings.
How does the location of Targy's Tavern enhance the meetup experience?
Targy's Tavern benefits greatly from its prime placement in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, a vibrant part of the city that buzzes with local charm. The area is easily accessible and lies within walking distance of various neighborhoods, making it a convenient meeting point for groups coming from different parts of the city. Its location gives it that neighborhood feel—something locals appreciate as “much-needed” for escaping the more generic city spots. Being part of a historic bar tradition in Seattle, it represents an authentic local experience many visitors seek. The tavern’s proximity to public transport and nearby eateries adds to its appeal for groups who might want to spend an entire evening exploring the area before or after their visit. The urban setting is lively yet approachable, contributing to a meetup that feels spontaneous and fun without overwhelming patrons with the hustle of downtown nightlife. This location perfectly complements Targy’s Tavern’s mission to be a relaxed, neighborly gathering spot for people of all kinds and interests.
Why do people keep coming back to Targy's Tavern?
There is a strong sense among patrons that Targy's Tavern is more than just a bar; it is a community hub where friendships grow and good times are almost guaranteed. This loyalty springs from the staff’s genuine friendliness, the inclusive environment, and the down-to-earth character the tavern has maintained over the years. The consistently positive reviews describe the bartenders as “humbly perfect” and the atmosphere as a space where guests "come as strangers and leave as friends." This kind of social magic is hard to manufacture but easy to recognize in the warmth and buzz of Targy’s. Long-term locals and newcomers alike appreciate the absence of pretense and the steady availability of engaging activities like pool and weekly Bingo nights. This combination of good vibes, personable service, and affordable prices keeps people returning again and again, making Targy's Tavern a quintessential Seattle bar experience for group meetups.
If you want a memorable night out where warm hospitality meets lively social engagements, Targy's Tavern on Queen Anne Hill is a top choice for your next gathering of friends or family. Its perfect mix of ambiance, activities, and community spirit creates a welcoming environment for anyone looking to enjoy good company and good times.