There are times when you want to drink socially with friends, and there are times when you want one hand on the brew and the other on the pinball plunger, memories circa ‘85 rushing back. Whatever place you’re in, we’ve got the digs for you. From lively games to live music, battle-axes to battle ship, here are a few go-to bars with a little extra on the menu.
Flatstick Pub || Kirkland, WA
For the golf lover in the group, this bar-mini golf hybrid is on par, and it doesn’t just offer any ol’ brew. As you sip on exclusively local Washington beers and ciders such as those from Scuttlebutt, Pike Brewing, Tieton Ciderworks and Kirkland’s very own Chainline Brewing, the satisfying atmosphere accompanying craft beer won’t be lost amid the competitive green. Maintain your athletic physique with a fresh-baked pot pie from local pie shop 314 Pie or order in nearby pizza and sandwiches for delivery.
Ground Kontrol || Portland
Summon your inner geek at the “West Coast’s premier classic arcade,” where you’ll be transported back to the days of classic gaming and pinball machine perusing. With 60 of the former and 27 of the latter, you best believe you’ll find one that catches your eye: Pac-Man, Dragon’s Lair, Tetris and Star Trek madness await among many others. Hit up the full-service bar after a few rounds of gaming and replenish your energy with a pint and a plethora of nacho platters.
Mississippi Studios || Portland
If music is your thing, you’ll want to hit up this musician-run venue in Portland’s historic Mississippi District housing a range of local, national and international bands, DJs and comedians. A more recent add-on to the venue is Bar Bar cocktail and burger lounge, home to one of the town’s best burgers and an extensive wine and scotch menu. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, share The Table for One—three liters of Beaujolais—with your fellow wine lovers.
Rhein Haus || Seattle
Previously Von Trapp’s, this Capitol Hill bar is known for its full-length bocce courts, biergarten and tantalizing menu of German eats including brats, wendel and schnitzel. You can nosh on the latter at long wooden tables in the bustling bier hall with a pint of your favorite lager in hand. Although bocce ball is technically Italian, a similar version less known in America is played all over Germany. Of course it’s your duty to assist in keeping the tradition alive.
Storm Crow Tavern || Vancouver, BC
Located in Vancouver’s Commercial Drive neighborhood, the “Planet Hollywood for geeks” is a gamer’s fantasy with a vast array of game boards and an endless memorabilia collection including battle-axes, crossbows and light sabers. Patrons can view science fiction, fantasy and horror films on the big screen from behind a massive Elvish Veggie Burger Supreme, bowl of Swamp Thing Bayou Chili or other appropriately themed cuisine. To wash it down, try your hand at the 20-sided Dice with Destiny whose number will seal your fate for a shot made with anything from Butter Ripple Schnapps to Jameson to Grenadine.
