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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to University District

Cool Spots

You want to spend your time in places that have a distinct sense of style.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated April 2026
01
Alley Cat Lounge image 1
Alley Cat Lounge image 2
Alley Cat Lounge image 3
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Cozy modern speakeasy offers intimate lighting and creative cocktails for a stylish night out. Mid-century decor and a sexy vibe create a cool, laid-back atmosphere near the light rail. Music and seating invite a lively yet relaxed crowd.

Atmosphere feels sexy and cool with a fresh vibe near the light rail station. The lounge keeps a laid-back yet stylish energy throughout.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be amazing and creative."

"The Thai food here is amazing and authentic."

"I found the lounge to have a cool, sexy vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during peak hours.

02
Shiga's Import Shop image 1

Shop features a thoughtfully curated selection of Japanese kitchenware and ceramics. Enjoy a rotating tea sample and explore a wall of cute pens. Unique imports and local artist merchandise add to the cool vibe.

A cool selection of traditional and modern Japanese goods stands out here. The shop offers unique imports including Japanese tea.

People are saying

"You can try a rotating tea sample or get starter packs."

"I found cool imports and beautiful ceramics here."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a curated selection of Japanese kitchenware and ceramics.

2

Expect to find a wide range of traditional and modern Japanese goods.

3

The incense department features a variety of unique scents.

03
Bulldog News image 1

Magazine walls and natural light create a library-like setting with a friendly vibe. Warm, cozy atmosphere suits reading and coffee breaks. Limited seating fills fast, attracting a college-age crowd.

A very friendly vibe sets the tone here. The magazine collection stands out, all available for sale.

People are saying

"This cafe has the best selection of print magazines."

"It's a great work-friendly spot for studying or getting work done."

"It's cool here with live music and open mic nights."

Good to know

1

Free jazz performances occur on select Fridays.

2

Live music and open mic nights are hosted regularly.

3

There is minimal seating available, especially during peak hours.

04
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with weed-themed decor and a full bar offers a lively vibe with loud music and bright lights. Cool, chill atmosphere filled with art makes it a great spot to hang out. Unique features like a cotton mouth cure drink corner add to the fun.

Atmosphere feels cool and chill with lots of art and a great vibe to hang out.

People are saying

"I thought this sandwich was the best I've ever had."

"The bar staff here is incredibly friendly and helpful."

"These toasted subs are amazing and have been great for 20 years."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during lunch hours due to high demand from walk-ins and online orders.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby street parking.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with sandwiches averaging around $13.

05
Blue Moon Tavern image 1
Live music bar

Classic dive bar shines with historic charm and a laid-back vibe. Live music fills the space with outstanding sound quality. Crowd and style bring a cool atmosphere that feels like a well-loved spot.

Historic venue with a really cool vibe and a cool crowd creates a unique atmosphere. Style stands out as very cool throughout the space.

People are saying

"This place has so much history, it felt like a museum."

"I found the vibe and crowd here to be really cool."

"I found the live music here to be great and the venue awesome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features cheap Rainier beer, perfect for budget-friendly drinks.

2

The Wednesday night open mic showcases local talent and has a lively atmosphere.

3

Monday nights feature free Grateful Dead music performed by the Andy Coe Band.

06
Leon Coffee House - U District image 1

Coffee shop blends Latin music and modern Mexican decor with a crystal chandelier creating a cool vibe. Relaxed, cozy atmosphere attracts students for study or meetups. Upstairs offers a dedicated computer area with Wi-Fi and ample seating for long stays.

Cool Mexican-themed decor creates a fun vibe with many photogenic corners. Coffee and tea come with artful touches, like cat designs on top, adding to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The coffee's latte art is so adorable and impressive."

"The roast beef sandwich was really filling and tasted good."

"The decor here is so unique and photogenic."

Good to know

1

The kitchen at Leon Coffee House closes at 2.

2

They stop selling their waffles at 2:30, so arrive early.

3

The shop limits seating time to 90 minutes.

07
Boba Up image 1

Self-serve boba tea with customizable drinks makes this lounge cool and unique. Dark, cozy space filled with anime decor creates a chill vibe. Plenty of board games encourage socializing and fun hangouts.

Self-serve bubble tea stands out as a cool concept here. The anime decor and board games add to the overall cool vibe.

People are saying

"I loved making my own tea with all the flavors."

"It's a unique experience to create your own boba drink."

"It's cool that you can serve yourself and add all the toppings you want."

Good to know

1

Boba Up is a self-serve boba tea lounge with customizable drink options.

2

Parking is free after 8 pm, making it easy to visit in the evening.

3

Sample cups are available to help you choose your favorite flavor.

08
The Mountaineering Club image 1

Bar boasts 360-degree city views and a heated patio for comfort. Eclectic vibe shines through mountaineering decor, creating a cool hangout spot. Valet parking and live DJs add to the lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

The atmosphere feels cool and eclectic with a strong mountaineering theme. Decorations around the room add to the unique vibe for hanging out and drinks.

People are saying

"You can enjoy the amazing city views from the rooftop."

"The cocktails here offer stunning views of downtown Seattle."

"The views of the city from the terrace are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 4-6 pm with three drinks for $10.

2

A 20% cover charge is compulsory at the venue.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating with views.

09
Earl's on the Ave image 1

Bar buzzes with college crowd and loud energy. Three pool tables and sports on all TVs keep it lively. Offers reasonable drinks and a classic sports bar vibe perfect for fun hangouts.

Crowded local bar with a sports bar vibe offers a fun hangout spot. The atmosphere feels cool and lively.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the bacon cheese fries."

"It's a classic college spot for watching live sports."

"It's a cool place to hang out, like a local crowded bar."

Good to know

1

You need quarters to play pool.

2

They accept food orders until shortly before closing.

3

Food is sold through a separate business inside the bar.

10
Thai Tom image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with flaming woks creates a smoky, intense vibe. Chefs cook food right in front of you, adding an entertaining view. Menus made of wooden blocks and lively music make it feel authentic and original.

Menus made of wooden blocks stand out. Chefs cook food right in front of you. The music adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was packed with flavor."

"They have plenty of great vegetarian options."

"The food here is spectacular, with brilliant flavors."

Good to know

1

Thai Tom only accepts cash payments.

2

They will not seat your party until everyone has arrived.

3

Expect difficulty finding parking near Thai Tom.

11
Graduate by Hilton Seattle image 1

Old building with a collegiate vibe offers a relaxing lobby and a rooftop bar with stunning city views. Rooms feature funky art deco decor and thin walls let in noise. Rooftop bar serves craft cocktails in a trendy, fun setting.

Unique, funky decor and a cool art deco vibe define the rooms and lobby. The rooftop bar adds a trendy atmosphere to the overall cool feel.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar has amazing city views."

"The decor is so cool, funky, and retro."

"The valet parking here is really convenient."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $50, which is higher than expected.

2

The hotel has only one operational elevator, which can lead to delays.

3

Rooms lack fridges and microwaves, which may be inconvenient for guests.

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University District, Seattle

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