When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
The Traveling Goat
Why The Traveling Goat is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Traveling Goat is a charming and intimate bar located in Seattle's vibrant Queen Anne neighborhood, conveniently near the Climate Pledge Arena. Operated by the wife-and-husband team Tina and Steve Nicoles, the establishment offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends. Patrons can enjoy innovative Asian fusion tacos crafted by chef Tina, featuring unique flavors inspired by Thai and Korean cuisine. The menu includes highlights such as larb tacos, fried wontons, and gochujang wings that pair exceptionally well with the bar's carefully curated cocktail list. Steve greets guests with genuine hospitality, expertly preparing complicated cocktails and engaging visitors in friendly conversations about Seattle, Kraken games, or tips for home mixology. The bar also embraces a dog-friendly policy, allowing patrons to bring their furry companions along for the experience. Regular events, such as Monday evening drag bingo hosted by Louvel, add to the lively and inclusive atmosphere of The Traveling Goat, making it a hub for community and entertainment in Queen Anne. Whether you're looking to unwind with a flavorful drink, sample creative bar snacks, or connect with friends in a relaxed setting, The Traveling Goat offers a memorable experience grounded in great food, excellent drinks, and heartfelt hospitality.
Here's what people think of The Traveling Goat
As of recent, The Traveling Goat holds a 4.7-star rating based on 256 reviews.
Reviews of The Traveling Goat consistently highlight the bar’s inviting ambiance and the standout quality of its Asian fusion snacks. Customers praise the flavorful and creative menu items such as fried wontons, larb tacos, and wings glazed with gochujang, noting these unique offerings differentiate the bar from typical cocktail lounges. The craft cocktails receive commendations for their complexity and balance, with many guests appreciating the bartender Steve’s skill and personable service. Reviewers often mention the welcoming, relaxed vibe of the venue and the owners’ genuine warmth, which enhances the overall experience. Positive feedback also emphasizes the dog-friendly environment, supporting patrons who wish to bring their pets.Currently, The Traveling Goat holds a strong rating of 4.7 stars based on 256 reviews, affirming its popularity and quality. Some less favorable reviews occasionally point out the bar’s small size, which can lead to a cramped feeling during busy nights, and limited seating that may result in waits. A few patrons have mentioned that the menu’s Asian fusion style might not appeal to those seeking traditional bar fare, but these critiques are relatively rare. Overall, the negative mentions are minor compared to the general satisfaction expressed.As a conclusion, The Traveling Goat is widely regarded as a standout cocktail bar in Seattle known for its unique food and drink pairings, friendly service, and neighborhood charm. It successfully appeals to both cocktail enthusiasts and fans of Asian-inspired bar snacks, creating a distinctive and enjoyable destination for socializing and indulgence.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ryan Garcia
A decent spot near Memorial Stadium and the Space Needle, we came here for dinner and drinks. The cocktails were superb, and we were lucky enough to come on the last night of a guest kitchen (Tiger's Eye) which served great Asian dishes. Service was a bit slow, only due to the fact that there was one person working the entire place. As LGBTQ+ as it comes, everyone should feel welcome here.
Will Hurley
The chicken wings were flavorful, but $14 for 5 wings was a little pricey. They were meaty at least. The service was horrible though. The bartender, a tall, dark haired, lanky man with glasses, was too busy flirting with two girls at the bar to check in on us and see if we needed refills on our drinks. We were there at least an hour and the bartender never checked on us after bringing the food.
Rebecca Cooper
Delicious gochujang wings with an excellent crunch, the Tom kha gai was delicious, and the drinks excellently made. The vibe was unexpected - more of a sports bar vibe than I expected but still very enjoyable! Having a great time being goofy as heck with my friend by dancing to and singing the music at him
John Roman
Stopped in before a show tonight and a woman leaving was raving about the wings so obviously I had to try them. Incredible. She said they were the best she’s ever had and I find it hard to disagree. Easily best I’ve had in Seattle. James, the bartender, was attentive and great to talk to. Will certainly be back to try more of the menu the next time I’m in from the Eastside.
Heather A Adams
This is a fun Queen Anne Gastropub type of vibe. We went here before going to a show at Climate Pledge Arena. Things are on the price your side, but well-made. The cocktails are very good and the food was good. The services solid, but quite slow. We waited a while for each round and The Food seem to take quite some time.
How to reach The Traveling Goat
None
Website: None
Why The Traveling Goat may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Traveling Goat with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Traveling Goat promises a lively, memorable experience infused with great vibes and delicious food that seamlessly blends together for an ideal social outing. This vibrant establishment boasts a 4.7 rating from over 250 reviews, reflecting consistent customer satisfaction and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for groups. Whether you’re craving an exceptional selection of craft cocktails or diverse Asian-inspired bar snacks, The Traveling Goat delivers on both fronts, making it a go-to spot for anyone wanting to unwind together. The relaxed yet hip ambiance encourages conversation and mingling, fostering a sense of communal enjoyment. Guests often compliment the attentive and friendly staff, who enhance the overall experience with impeccable service tailored for groups. The venue’s unique interior design, including quirky touches like the decor of their bathrooms, adds an unexpected charm that sparks conversation and adds to the fun. Whether you’re looking for a casual setting to catch up or a lively spot to celebrate, The Traveling Goat offers a versatile and stimulating backdrop for your next meetup with friends or family.
What activities and experiences does The Traveling Goat offer for groups?
The Traveling Goat is more than just a bar or restaurant—it’s a multi-faceted venue offering diverse activities that cater to groups looking for both entertainment and quality dining. Central to its appeal is the expertly crafted cocktail program featuring complex and innovative drinks that satisfy even the most discerning palates. The bar’s specialty lies in cocktails infused with Asian flavors, matching perfectly with their inspired menu of Korean and Thai-influenced snacks. Signature dishes include gochujang wings, fried wontons, larb tacos, and truffle fries, each providing bold flavors and shareable portions that invite communal enjoyment among friends. Additionally, the relaxed “chill” vibe of the space encourages extended hangouts, where groups can comfortably linger over drinks and food. For those looking to combine dining with a unique activity, The Traveling Goat hosts themed nights such as drag bingo on Mondays, which adds an entertaining and interactive element to your evening. Overall, the diverse offerings create a dynamic environment where groups can socialize, enjoy new tastes, and share laughs.
Why is The Traveling Goat perfect for a group meetup?
There are multiple reasons why The Traveling Goat excels as a meetup location for groups. First, its atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and lively, making it conducive to both intimate conversations and upbeat gatherings. The spacious layout allows groups to gather comfortably without feeling cramped, and the friendly bartenders and staff are adept at catering to the needs of larger parties. The menu design, with a variety of small plates and snack-style dishes, is ideal for sharing, allowing groups to sample a range of flavors without committing to large entrees. The drink offerings are plentiful and crafted with care, ensuring each person can find something unique that suits their taste. Being situated near popular venues like Climate Pledge Arena also makes it a convenient pre- or post-event hangout spot. Reviews from patrons consistently highlight the combination of excellent food, great drinks, pleasant ambiance, and top-tier service as reasons they choose The Traveling Goat for group occasions, whether casual meetups or special celebrations.
How does the food and drink at The Traveling Goat enhance the group experience?
The Traveling Goat’s culinary offerings are a standout feature that significantly enhances the group experience. The Asian-inspired bar snacks provide flavorful, sharable dishes that are perfect for encouraging interaction among friends. Favorites like the rich fried mozzarella, savory pot stickers, intensely flavored soup, and the truffle fries offer a wide range of tastes that appeal to diverse preferences within a group. The emphasis on bold and unique flavors encourages trying multiple dishes, sparking lively discussions about tastes and favorites. The cocktail menu, known for its complexity and creativity, complements the food excellently. Drinks are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients, often highlighting innovative combinations and local spirits, ensuring that every round is an opportunity to discover something new. This culinary and beverage synergy fosters a vibrant atmosphere where everyone can contribute to the shared experience, turning a simple meetup into a full sensory occasion.
What makes the ambiance and service at The Traveling Goat stand out for visitors?
The ambiance at The Traveling Goat meshes urban cool with approachable warmth, crafting a space that invites everyone to feel at home while relishing in its distinctiveness. The decor, featuring quirky and eclectic design choices, stimulates conversation and curiosity, making the environment memorable beyond just the food and drink. Patrons frequently comment on the relaxed yet hip vibe, which suits a wide range of visitors—from casual college friends to professional groups looking for an after-work spot. Service quality is a highlight mentioned repeatedly in reviews; the staff are known for being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, helping guests navigate food and drink choices with enthusiasm and expertise. The bartenders’ energy and recommendations add to the fun and personalization of the experience. Whether you’re a local or visiting Seattle, this combination of excellent service and inviting atmosphere makes The Traveling Goat a consistently reliable venue for groups to connect and enjoy themselves.
How convenient and accessible is The Traveling Goat for group gatherings?
Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, The Traveling Goat is easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Its proximity to major landmarks like Climate Pledge Arena makes it a popular spot for people attending events nearby, perfect for pre-show meetups or after-parties. The venue offers ample hours on weekends, staying open till midnight, giving groups flexibility in planning their gathering times. Whether arriving by car, public transit, or rideshare, visitors find the location convenient. Additionally, the welcoming environment and adaptable space can accommodate different group sizes, making it suitable for both small friend circles and larger family get-togethers. Those celebrating special occasions or simply catching up appreciate that the venue harmonizes accessibility with a distinctive ambiance, ensuring the meetup feels thoughtfully curated without undue hassle.
What do customers say about their experience at The Traveling Goat?
Customer feedback overwhelmingly highlights The Traveling Goat as a favorite neighborhood spot prized for its great food, cocktails, and vibe. Reviews often mention the “chill” and “fun” atmosphere, backed by the warmth of friendly staff and locals who make visitors feel welcome. Many patrons praise the wings, cocktails, and the unique blend of Asian-inspired snacks as exceptional, and some even say they would return to Seattle just to revisit the place. Words like “delicious,” “fun,” “great service,” and “fantastic pub food” appear repeatedly, reinforcing the reliability and quality of the experience. The combination of tasty offerings, creative drinks, and a hip yet relaxed environment ensures that once visitors rally at The Traveling Goat, they keep coming back, recommending it enthusiastically to friends and family as a top Seattle spot for summer evenings or casual nights out.
How does The Traveling Goat compare to other group meetup spots in Seattle?
In the competitive Seattle bar and restaurant scene, The Traveling Goat distinguishes itself with its niche in Asian-inspired bar snacks and creative cocktails delivered in an inviting yet unpretentious setting. Unlike straightforward pub venues or busy clubs, it offers a unique fusion of sophisticated flavors and a community-oriented vibe. Many places focus solely on food or drink; The Traveling Goat combines both with equal attention to detail, enhanced by themed nights and eclectic design that elevate the meetup experience beyond just eating and drinking. This balance makes it a favored choice for groups that seek a fun, taste-driven, and visually interesting environment without the noise and distractions common at bigger venues. Its consistent high ratings and repeat customers cement its reputation as a prime destination for social gatherings among locals and visitors alike.
What can groups expect from special events and themed nights at The Traveling Goat?
The Traveling Goat occasionally hosts special events that add layers of entertainment to the dining and drinking experience. One well-known example is drag bingo on Mondays, offering an engaging social activity that blends performance art with a casual game, making it particularly attractive to groups looking for something beyond the usual bar scene. These themed nights foster a sense of community by bringing diverse audiences together in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Participating in these events can turn a standard meetup into a memorable night with laughter, unpredictable fun, and shared stories. The staff often embrace these occasions with enthusiasm, enhancing the lively spirit while maintaining excellent service. Groups can access these events to add variety to their visits and deepen their connection with The Traveling Goat’s vibrant culture.
Why is The Traveling Goat a smart choice for family meetups as well?
While known for its bar scene, The Traveling Goat’s friendly atmosphere, shareable food, and welcoming staff make it suitable for family gatherings as well. Parents and teens alike can enjoy the diverse menu options, with many flavorful yet approachable dishes. The venue’s clean, relaxed setting helps families feel comfortable dining together without the pressure of formal restaurants. The availability of non-alcoholic beverages and flavorful snacks ensures that all age groups have satisfying choices. Moreover, the staff’s attentive service and accommodating nature allow families to ask for special seating arrangements or dietary preferences, ensuring everyone’s needs are met. This versatility in atmosphere and menu means families can celebrate milestones, casual get-togethers, or reunions in a fun, inclusive environment without compromising on quality or enjoyment.