Why The Tav is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

The Tav is an inviting and popular spot located in Ellensburg, Washington, making it an excellent venue for friends to gather for a casual meal or drinks. This establishment boasts a cozy indoor setting with comfortable booths, complemented by a charming outdoor patio area at the back. The outdoor seating provides a relaxed atmosphere, especially on sunny days, where patrons can enjoy their meals and socialize in the fresh air. The Tav is particularly well-known for its selection of brews, offering a variety of quality beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and beer enthusiasts alike. The menu features classic bar food with a focus on hefty, flavorful burgers—favorites among regulars include options like the Texan Mother, Super Mother, and Foul Mother (a chicken variant). Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, which adds to the venue’s appeal as a great place to unwind and enjoy hearty eats with friends. The rustic interior design creates a welcoming and comfortable ambiance, including some unique touches like a secret getaway area, enhancing the overall experience. The combination of excellent service, quality food, and a friendly environment at The Tav makes it a standout local destination for socializing and casual dining.

Here's what people think of The Tav

As of recent, The Tav holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1057 reviews.

Reviews of The Tav generally reflect a positive experience with a strong community vibe. Many patrons praise the quality and value of the burgers, highlighting them as some of the best in Ellensburg, with generous portions that satisfy appetites. The outdoor patio receives positive mentions for creating a pleasant setting to relax and enjoy a meal during good weather. The staff is often described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. Patrons appreciate the variety of brews available, which complement the hearty menu well. On the other hand, some reviews note that the food is basic bar fare, which might not appeal to those seeking more upscale dining. There are occasional remarks about the ambiance being rustic and casual, indicating that The Tav is more of a laid-back dive bar than a fine dining establishment, which may not suit every taste. However, overall, negative feedback is minimal, focusing mainly on preferences rather than service or quality issues. In conclusion, The Tav's reviews portray it as a beloved local haunt renowned for good food, reasonable prices, and a comfortable environment that makes it an ideal spot to meet with friends and enjoy a relaxed meal.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Social Time823

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Our group (4) came in on a Saturday for lunch. I had been here before, once, and was just as impressed both times. This place is set up to be mostly suited for groups of 4 or less, although you could push tables together if needed. It is split into two sides, with the bar side with booths on the left and the pool table (1) side on the right, with both sides having dining tables. We spent $20-$30 each because it was a weekend and we each had 2 drinks - one could spend $15-$20 per person if you came for lunch during the week. This is a casual dive bar, maybe a step above, with an extensive food menu and really tasty food (both times). They also have quite a large offering of food and drink specials. It doesn't look like much from the outside but the inside is clean, the staff is friendly, the beers are COLD, and the food DELICIOUS. I had a custom burger with tater tots, the burger was huge and delicious. I thought the side was a dressing for the tots but it was the mayo I ordered for my burger fyi. My Husband ordered the 3 Sweet Heat Sliders with onion rings which he downed in minutes. Our friends shared the Carnitas + Green Chili Nachos - after a while of both eating from the same plate it hardly looked like they had made a dent, because they do give you a fair amount of food, they do not cheat one on this. Needless to say they took half the plate home. Our server Summer was super friendly and was quick to get our beers (they serve very cold beers, including delicious and locally-made Church Music IPA) and I also enjoyed a large and tasty Michelada. We had a wonderful lunch and I highly recommend the Tav.

Alicia J

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We called ahead and reserved a table (I recommend doing this), our server was new and very nice and attentive. I ordered the chicken fajita bowl, large portions, filling and full of flavor. We also ordered the BYOB burger, it was a standard burger and fry set up. Burger was handmade and bigger than the bun, seasoned well and the cheese was melted. Overall, better than a bar burger and better than a standard restaurant burger. Would definitely order it again. Also ordered the chicken tacos, the corn tortillas were spot on, the chicken was seasoned and juicy, would order this again and again! I would definitely recommend coming here for their food. The seating is pretty cozy in one area of the bar and a bit special near the pool table. They also offer daily food and drinks specials.

mike stewart

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division civilrights.justice.gov Thank you for submitting a report to the Civil Rights Division. Report successfully submitted Your record number is: 652753-LTG The Tav Address 22034 N 19th Ave Phoenix, On August 16, 2025, at approximately 11:21 a.m., my spouse and I, accompanied by another couple and our service dog, entered The Tav located at 22034 N 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85027. We were seated in a booth. Several minutes later, a woman who identified herself as the owner approached our table in an aggressive manner and stated, “I was told you have a dog.” I responded, “Yes, I have a service dog.” She then asked, “Where is it?” I informed her that the dog was under the table. She replied, “Service dogs don’t sit under tables.” As she turned to leave, I asked, “Are you asking us to leave?” She responded, “Yes.” I then clarified, “Are you asking us to leave because I have a service dog?” She again stated, “Yes,” and walked away. I attempted to provide her with a business card explaining the applicable federal civil rights law regarding service animals, but she refused to face me. I then gave the card to the bartender, who stated she would place it in the office. I informed her, “It is against federal law to violate our civil rights because we have a ser vice dog.” She replied, “Okay.” Believing the issue resolved, I returned to the table. After waiting approximately 10 minutes without being provided menus, I approached the bartender to re quest them. At that time, the owner reappeared and stated to her staff, “Ignore them.” When I asked what the problem was, she replied, “I called the police.” We prepared to leave. As we exited, I asked the owner, “Did you really call the police?” and began recording video. The owner then engaged in a verbal tirade, stating, “You’re assholes, and I don’t want you as cus tomers.” She further attempted to involve other patrons by loudly asking, “Does anyone want them here?” We left the restaurant and waited outside. I contacted the Phoenix Police Department non-emergency line to inquire whether a call had been placed. The dispatcher confirmed a call had been made and a notice sent out, but no officer had yet been dispatched. When I asked if I should wait, I was told that was my decision. I re quested to leave a call-back number so that the responding officer could contact me upon arrival, but was in formed that was not permitted. I also inquired about a log number for either the phone call or the dispatch and was told none was available. I was advised that I could request information through the Public Records Department if an officer ultimately responded and filed a report. At approximately 11:57 a.m., we departed the premises and proceeded to another restaurant

Adrian R. Palmer

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

It's a local bar atmosphere. Clean. The food was outstanding. Eddie was conversationsl and attentive. Definitely will go again.

Anil Singh

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Awesome local dive bar. Staff was super friendly, cool beer and delicious food. Can’t really ask for more than that. Would definately recommend the onion rings and Cajun dry rub wings

How to reach The Tav

Why rally at this place with your friends?

Gathering friends or family at The Tav is an inviting choice for anyone looking to combine great food, welcoming atmosphere, and lively social vibes in one go. The Tav enjoys a solid 4.4 rating from over 1,000 reviews, signaling consistent satisfaction and a positive reputation among locals and visitors alike. The cozy interior with inviting booths encourages intimate group conversations, while the outdoor seating area in good weather provides a relaxed setting bathed in sunshine, perfect for casual hangouts. Whether you’re craving a delicious burger or a refreshing brew, The Tav’s menu satisfies many tastes without breaking the bank, making it ideal for groups with varied preferences and budgets. Moreover, the staff earns praise for being outstanding and friendly, enhancing the overall experience with attentive service and warm hospitality. This combination of great food, solid drink options, a comfortable setting, and excellent service makes The Tav a natural rally point for social meetups, where memorable moments with friends and family are guaranteed.

What kind of food and drink options can groups enjoy at The Tav?

The Tav is well known for its solid bar food menu, centering prominently on burgers that are both generous in size and rich in flavor. Popular choices include the Texan Mother and Super Mother burgers, with options catering to chicken lovers as well. These burgers have become favorites partly because of their remarkable taste, generous portions, and affordability, which suits groups looking for hearty meals without excessive cost. Aside from burgers, the menu offers a variety of basic bar foods, including platters and sides like crisp fries, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The Tav also boasts a good selection of brews on tap, providing a satisfying range of local and regional beers to complement your meal and elevate the social atmosphere. Their drink options cater well to groups who appreciate quality beverages paired with their food. Refreshing non-alcoholic options, such as iced tea, are available as well, accommodating different tastes and keeping everyone happy during the meetup.

What activities make The Tav a perfect spot for group meetups?

Besides great food and drinks, The Tav offers an environment that fosters enjoyable interactions and lively activities. On Fridays, for example, the bar features karaoke nights that become a hit for groups looking for entertainment beyond eating and drinking. Karaoke events at The Tav encourage participation and create a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere where everyone can contribute, cheer each other on, and share laughs. These nights are perfect for breaking the ice or energizing an established group, making your meetup feel special and memorable. Additionally, the outdoor patio area serves as a spacious, open setting during pleasant weather, providing a lovely backdrop for conversations and socializing in the fresh air. The rustic interior, with its cozy booths and a "secret getaway" in the back, invites groups to settle in comfortably for longer visits. This flexible layout—combining indoor comfort and outdoor charm—ensures that parties of varied sizes can find a spot that suits their preferences and fosters good times together.

How does the atmosphere and service enhance the meetup experience at The Tav?

Atmosphere plays a crucial role in creating an enjoyable social outing, and The Tav excels at delivering a warm, inviting vibe that guests appreciate. Reviews commonly highlight the fantastic atmosphere, describing it as clean, well-lit, and lively without being overwhelming. This balance is essential for groups wanting a place where they can talk easily, laugh, and relax without distractions but still feel the buzz of an active bar scene. The rustic décor adds character, and the outdoor option elevates the experience when weather permits. Equally important is the exceptional staff service at The Tav; they are recognized for being friendly, attentive, and efficient, which helps groups feel well cared for from the moment they arrive until they leave. Reasonable pricing further adds to the comfort, as no one wants to worry about mounting bills during a laid-back get-together. Overall, The Tav’s atmosphere and service synchronize perfectly to keep moods positive and the meeting enjoyable, ensuring guests leave with fond memories.

Is The Tav accessible and convenient for meeting up with friends or families?

The Tav’s location and operating hours make it an accessible and convenient destination for group meetups. It is a favored stop for travelers heading back to major cities like Seattle, suggesting good highway or road connectivity. This makes it a practical choice whether you’re local or visiting from out of town. The Tav’s hours are generous, opening daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, which covers an ideal window for lunch, dinner, or evening drinks with friends or family on weekdays and weekends alike. This flexibility allows groups to plan their outings without worrying about tight closing times. Furthermore, the option to reserve a table means you can ensure your group has a guaranteed spot, avoiding waits and enabling better coordination in advance. They also offer online ordering if some attendees prefer takeaway or want to enjoy The Tav’s offerings at home. Together, these factors underscore The Tav’s suitability as a social hub where convenience meets quality for group gatherings.

How do customer reviews reflect the overall experience of hosting a gathering at The Tav?

Customer reviews for The Tav strongly support its reputation as a great place for meetups with friends and family. Many reviewers highlight the "fantastic" atmosphere and “outstanding” staff service, praising the staff’s friendliness and attentiveness which enhance group comfort and satisfaction. The food receives consistent commendations, especially the burgers, which many describe as "delicious," "generous," and "great value," making it a crowd-pleaser. The selection of beers on tap and the availability of an outdoor seating area in pleasant weather are equally appreciated features that add variety and flexibility to the experience. Some reviews mention karaoke nights as particularly fun and a perfect way to add energy and entertainment to a night out, reinforcing the social appeal of the venue. The overall 4.4 rating from more than a thousand reviews is a testament to The Tav’s ability to meet and exceed the expectations of diners seeking a reliable and enjoyable place to gather. Negative comments are minimal and typically minor, focused on personal tastes rather than broad issues, indicating a generally satisfying experience across the board.

What makes The Tav stand out compared to other local gathering spots?

What sets The Tav apart is its combination of quality food, affordable prices, and a balance between casual comfort and lively atmosphere. Unlike places that are either too formal or overly noisy, The Tav hits a sweet spot where groups can enjoy themselves freely without feeling out of place. Its rustic design and cozy booths make for a welcoming environment that appeals to both small and larger groups looking for intimacy or casual interaction. The variety in their menu, focusing strongly on burgers but with options for different tastes, paired with a carefully selected drink menu, caters to many preferences and ensures nobody feels left out. The availability of activities like karaoke adds an element of unique entertainment that many other bars or restaurants in the area don't regularly offer. For these reasons, The Tav stands as a particularly good choice in the region for hosting gatherings that want a relaxed yet engaging vibe, good food, and attentive service.

What tips should you consider when planning a meetup at The Tav?

To make the most of a group gathering at The Tav, consider making reservations ahead of time, especially if your meetup is during popular hours or special events like karaoke nights. Booking ensures your entire group has a designated space and helps avoid long waits. Take advantage of the outdoor patio when the weather is nice, as it provides an enjoyable backdrop to dine and socialize outdoors. Embrace the menu’s highlights like the Super Mother burger or the chicken alternative, the Foul Mother, to give everyone a taste of what The Tav is known for. Plan to come during peak social times to experience the full vibe, including potential karaoke participation if your group enjoys interactive entertainment. Lastly, be sure to communicate the affordable pricing to your friends or family to set realistic expectations for spending, making the gathering even more stress-free and fun. These tips will help ensure your meetup at The Tav is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable for all involved.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the The Tav

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g58456-d5847713-Reviews-The_Tav-Ellensburg_Washington.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g31310-d7379405-Reviews-The_Tav-Phoenix_Arizona.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g58456-d804471-Reviews-The_Tav-Ellensburg_Washington.html