As the second largest city in the state of Washington, Spokane has much to offer. The city has a blossoming downtown area full of bars and pubs: check out our guide to the top 10 best bars in the destination that is the gateway to both the Canadian Rockies and the Columbia Valley Wine Region.
O’Doherty’s
O’Doherty’s is an Irish pub located in the heart of downtown Spokane. They serve authentic Irish fare with classic offerings such as fish & chips and shepherds pie. The pub is plastered with dollar bills all over the walls and in order to get one on there, the patron must stand on top a table and sing a song in front of an audience. It’s not until then that the dollar bill will join the others in the hall of fame!
Saranac Public House is a one-of-a-kind up-scale pub housed in one of the greenest buildings in Washington state. Located in the old historic Saranac Hotel, the building boasts large solar panels on its roof and has a commitment to adding a progressive philosophy to otherwise traditional pubs. The food offered here is 100% organic and the menu is replete with vegan choices. Saranac also has a charming patio and a cozy and pleasant atmosphere throughout.
No-Li Brewhouse
Each and every one of the ales at No-Li Brewhouse is inspired by local names and they have an irresistible menu besides. Try the No-Li burger or the red lentil burger and pair it with one of the popular Osso Buco craft beers. No-Li Brewhouse has a patio offering prime river-front seating, where patrons can enjoy the scenic backdrop provided by the Spokane River.
Zola
Zola transports its customers into another dimension. One of the seating areas has booths that have been converted from old carnival rides, while another has swinging side tables and what looks like a boat gone adrift in between one of the rooms. Zola also has a balcony area on the second floor, along with tilt-a-whirl style seats and more fantastical additions. Enhance the experience here by ordering some delicious appetizers such as the pork sliders, the rosemary fries and the mac and cheese.
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Peacock Lounge
Bar, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Pub Grub, American
Located inside the elegant Davenport Hotel, this up-scale bar is manned by very skilled bartenders concocting some of the best handmade cocktails in town. The atmosphere has a classic feel to it and is enhanced by the gorgeous 5,000 piece stained-glass ceiling above. Peacock Lounge is reminiscent of the Jazz Age with its slick decor and is the place to see and be seen while catching a show in the entertainment district of the city.
Post Street Ale House
Pub, Restaurant, American
Post Street Ale House is located in the historic district of the city and offers local craft brews as well as rare imports. The microbrew range includes an array of options that go from lagers and IPAs to ciders. Order the beer paddle for a sample of the beers they have on tap or the local Moose Drool beer for a real regional taste. Post Street Ale House also offers typical comfort food in a cozy Midwestern setting.
Nectar Tasting Room
The Nectar Tasting Room is all about tasting wines in a clean and elegant atmosphere. The award-winning wines come from the Walla Walla Valley. The atmosphere is elevated by the brick building with arched doorways and hardwood floors, as well as the modern but unpretentious feel that abounds. Their wines are also available for sale and rival those to be found one state down in the famous Napa Valley of California.
The Bartlett
Bar, Pub Grub, Beer, Cocktails, Wine, American
The Bartlett is home to great live music and a festive ambiance. Founded by two local musicians, this bar looks for the best of Spokane’s talent as well as national touring acts. The Bartlett is a full time cafe during the day but becomes a vibrant bar come nighttime. They host open mic nights and welcome customers of all drinking ages. The venue is small in size but enjoys an intimate, open layout, which makes patrons feel like they are all part of the show.
Irv’s
Bar, Beer, Wine, Cocktails, Pub Grub, American
Irv’s is Spokane’s only gay bar and touts a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that welcomes both residents and visitors alike. Irv’s counts two bars, a dancing room, a game room, pool tables and exclusive lounge seating. There are regular Happy Hours and a multitude of exciting events such as karaoke nights and drag shows.
The Unforgiven Lounge
With its fluorescent colors, all-black painted walls and chrome decor, The Unforgiven Lounge looks like it could belong in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip. There are chandeliers hanging over a grand piano and a splash of silver waves painted unevenly across the room. This modern lounge boasts a wine bar and offers traditional American and European fare too. Enjoy one of the excellent martinis on the outdoor seating patio area or inside, where sleek leather couches beckon during the colder months.
