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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in University District

Cool spots

A place that has a genuine edge without trying too hard to be noticed.

Based on 616 Opinions
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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 with mid-century decor and intimate lighting creates a cool sexy vibe. Music and lighting balance perfectly to support a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Creative cocktails and inviting seating attract a crowd looking for a stylish, comfortable night out.

Authentic Thai food stands out with generous portions that go beyond tiny appetizers. The menu offers delicious dishes that pair well with the inviting and cozy atmosphere.

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
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with weed-themed decor and a full bar creates a lively atmosphere with loud music and bright lights. The space feels like a home away from home and suits both solo visits and groups. Unique features include a cotton mouth cure drink corner and themed merchandise like frisbees and stickers.

Food features phenomenal taste and great quality. Staff remain friendly and attentive to food needs.

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."

"I thought the food was great and very delicious."

"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.

03
Bulldog News image 1

Magazine walls and natural light create a library-like setting with a throwback vibe. The atmosphere feels warm and cozy, suited for reading, studying, or casual coffee breaks. Limited seating fills quickly during peak hours, drawing a friendly, college-age crowd.

Great selection of coffee drinks pairs with delicious pastries and ice cream. Food and beverages come in a varied menu with good quality, even when served cold.

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."

"You can grab a coffee and read a magazine here."

"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
Leon Coffee House - U District image 1

Coffee shop blends Latin music, modern Mexican decor, and artistic design with hanging umbrellas and a crystal chandelier. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, attracting college students and those seeking a calm spot to study or meet. Upstairs offers a dedicated computer camping area with plenty of seating and Wi-Fi for extended stays.

Food features a large selection of waffle items and dishes made with care. The menu reflects a local vibe with Latin music and food, creating a fun and memorable dining experience.

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 sandwiches and other food look really 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.

05
Earl's on the Ave image 1

Bar with three pool tables and sports on all TVs offers a loud, crowded atmosphere filled mostly with college-age crowd. Busy on weekends and game days, it has a classic college sports bar vibe with reasonable drink prices and casual hangout energy.

Food comes from a separate business inside the bar but arrives right at the table. The dishes are consistently excellent and often described as high quality and fantastic.

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.

06
Thai Tom image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, tight space with bar seating right by flaming woks creates an intense, smoky atmosphere. The vibe is authentic and original, with an entertaining view of chefs cooking food on the spot. It feels cramped and hot, not suited for large groups or quiet dinners.

Food here stands out for its authentic and flavorful Thai dishes cooked fresh on the spot. The menu offers delicious, mind-blowing flavors at great prices, making the wait worthwhile.

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."

"The basil chicken food is super flavorful and yummy."

"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.

07
The Mountaineering Club image 1

Bar offers 360-degree city views with a heated patio and occasional live DJs. Atmosphere ranges from loud college crowds to a more relaxed vibe depending on time. Valet parking is available, and reservations are recommended due to busy periods.

Food features a mountaineering-themed menu with items like the Mountain Bacon Sandwich made from thick smoked bacon. The menu is refreshingly unpretentious and pairs well with a thoughtfully curated selection of drinks.

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 food here is amazing, with incredible views of the city."

"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.

08
Boba Up image 1

Self-serve boba tea lounge offers customizable drinks with a wide variety of toppings and teas. Dark, cozy space features anime decor and plenty of board games for a fun, chill hangout. Layout encourages socializing while mixing and matching unique boba creations.

Food and drinks taste consistently great with good snack options. Prices stay decent and the menu offers solid choices.

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

"The food and drinks here tasted great, especially the boba."

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.

09
Graduate by Hilton Seattle image 1

Hotel features an old building with a collegiate, dorm-like vibe and thin walls that let in noise from neighbors and the street. Lobby offers a relaxing atmosphere with places to sit and work, while the rooftop bar provides stunning city views and craft cocktails in a fun, funky setting.

Rooftop spots serve amazing food paired with great cocktails. Both offer stunning views that complement the dining experience.

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 food and craft cocktails here are amazing."

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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