4. Restaurants

Eastlake Zoo Tavern

2301 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA, 98102
  • (206) 329-3277
  • Store is closed

Eastlake Zoo Tavern Menu

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  • Michelle F.

    I adore this place. I love their 6 or 7 pool tables. I love their snookers table. I love that they have darts. I adore their pinball games (though I do wish they had more!). I even (grudgingly) love that they have "Buck Hunter." I'm THRILLED that they got a skiiball game in for a quarter a game, even if it doesn't keep score correctly (it makes for a game within the game as you try to keep track of your score. The more you drink, the more difficult this gets). I do wish they had liquor, but you can always go next door to Pazzo's if you want hard alcohol. They always have a couple reds and a couple whites for wines, and a pretty darn good selection of beer. The place is a fabulous Eastlake dive staple, complete with a long history of debauchery - and photographs everywhere to prove it! I love the Eastlake Zoo Tavern, with all my corrupted little heart.

    (4)

  • Courtney L.

    Ok... Why the heck is this place is still open is a mystery to me. It smells bad, is extremely dirty and the staff is rude. They DON'T take anything but cash which makes you wonder and they charged me $5 for a bottle of Stella. I will celebrate the day that they loose their liquor license and get torn down and replaced by a commercial/residential condo.

    (1)

  • Emily Y.

    I LOVE THE ZOO!!! i really do love this place. it's very unpretentious and down to earth. I love going here with a couple of friends to have some beers and shoot some pool. Monday nights = free pool!!! also mimosa mondays for $3, but unless you don't want beer, i would leave it alone... They only serve beer and wine by the way, but if you have to have some booze, there's another bar right down the way you can have a couple shots and come back to the game.... BTW, they also have one shuffleboard table, two dart boards, big buck hunter, and now a skee ball machine!

    (4)

  • Jacquie P.

    In the market for a new favorite dive bar? Do you enjoy playing pool, darts, skee ball, shuffleboard, Indiana Jones-themed pinball, and meeting some really fascinating (see also "supremely weird") characters? Consider the Zoo. Just make sure you get your shots first (it's pretty filthy in there) and don't forget to bring some cash - they don't accept plastic. If you don't take yourself too seriously, you'll be guaranteed a fun, laid back night here.

    (4)

  • Mr. M.

    A sordid bar that does not care for its patrons (new or old). A group of my friends and I had a great time in terms of what we got, but we were never serviced when I forgot my phone after last call...my gf was getting oggled by the old man bartender, my friends hated the 3-person service on a Sat night! All in all, take some pride in your practice, and don't listen to non-physicians. They just don't get it...

    (1)

  • Martin P.

    The zoo is a bit jekyll and hyde. During the week it's a low-key haunt for locals who like big pitchers and shuffleboard. Weekends its for college kids who feel weird about being in a fraternity/sorority and want to get out (but not too far out) of the U district. So, depending on what you want, you pick your day to visit! Also, the staff/ownership really are sweet. And they show the hockey, thank god.

    (4)

  • Cathy G.

    Well...... fun crowd varied people A cover?? Why?/ pool, overdrinking, wildness.. crowd somewhat controlled. Generaly good but VERY loud music. Astute bartenders - they are watchful and pay attention to their crowd. You have ot give them a lot of credit for that.

    (4)

  • Sophia M.

    Ok, ANOTHER update! Just wanted to say that I've upped them to a 5. They now have 4 pool tables, the longest shuffleboard in town, pin ball, ski ball (!!), darts AND regular video games all in the same awesome down to earth bar! Did I mention they have a giant pink (?) paper mache dragon with different colored eyes that blink? Um, can it get any cooler than that? I don't think so!

    (5)

  • Destiny S.

    I went to this place after seeing they advertised a Snooker table on their website. One of my friends was celebrating his birthday, and a large group us went there to celebrate. I should mention, half of us knew how to play Snooker, and I was looking forward to learning! I approached the female bartender to rent the table, and she said "Do you know how to play? You need to tell me the rules." ....Um, WHAT!?! I explained that half of us knew how to play, and I wanted to pay for everyone... She looked at me and just flat out refused to rent me the table. I understand it's the bars table, but I don't understand her rude behavior, after I'd been tipping her 25% all night on crappy wine. I tried to understand her refusal, but she got ruder, and ruder with me as the night went on. I had to return to my group and explain... What? The bartender just arbitrarily said no? There is NOTHING on their web site explain you need to be an expert to play on their table OR any signage around the table saying you first need to impress the bartender with your amazing Snooker skills. I own a small business myself, and I can't imaging placing an item in my case for sale, and then telling people "Sorry, but I don't think you know how to eat that." WTF? All of us were flat-out baffled. We were not rude, or tearing the place apart - like some of the other clientele... Maybe that was the problem. Needless to say we left, and as I walked passed the rude female bartender, she handed me a card telling me it had the owners info on it - when I looked at it, it said "F*ck YOU!". I handed it back to her while all the creepy regulars sat at the bar laughing at me and simply told her that wasn't necessary. Then she implied I had no husband that knew how to play... Just as he walked up to leave with me. I think she embarrassed herself. Her behavior was not becoming to her or me. Are any of us ever going back there? You couldn't pay us to walk in the Zoo door with animals like that for help. Do yourself a favor, go to a real Seattle bar.

    (1)

  • Justin C.

    Good atmosphere and plenty of games, but the old man behind the counter consistently forgets to take his Zoloft. Good luck with a debit card this place is cash only. The night I went the Dbag factor was high to quite high and there were plenty of affliction shirts and Kim Kardashian wannabees.

    (4)

  • Shannon W.

    The Zoo gets more stars if you're really in the mood for some stank. It's a good option if in Eastlake because there aren't many options in the first place. I wouldn't travel far to come to this place but I live in the neighborhood. I went here with a (bad) date a long time ago but that's what sticks out in my mind. However the good thing is that the Zoo contains a plentiful supply of random things to point at and make comments about. It helps fill awkward spots in the conversation when you really want to run away but want to be polite. Pitchers of beer help as well. And living a few blocks away so that you can stumble away in a flurry. Just make sure your date doesn't follow you home and start stalking you. Good beer, cash only, no hard A, shuffle board, cheap pool, darts, jukebox. Much bigger than it appears. Random tables and chairs that confuse you when intoxicated. Maybe I'm biased because my bad date tainted the Zoo forever for me, maybe not...

    (3)

  • G R.

    The Zoo is the largest dive bar I've ever seen. I walked in and immediately felt comfortable. I don't know what that says about me but whatever. It doesn't seem that big of a place from the street but its huge inside. Well, larger than most cramp dank dive bars. They have it all except the hard stuff. Shuffle board, pool tables, buck hunter, pinball, darts, beer, and some pretty cool people. Parking is a bit of a stretch, but it is seattle, so no surprise there. The staff was pretty cool, and most of them served in world war I, so much respect. Last call wasn't the typical get your ass out of here, it was get your ass out of here please. I like this bar, I'm surprised I never found my way in here before.

    (4)

  • Erika W.

    This place irritates me. Why? They don't serve booze. What kind of shitty neighborhood bar doesn't serve booze?? (And this IS a shitty neighborhood bar). I am not a beer drinker. The wine was absolutely horrendous, and I was already pretty drunk, so that's saying a lot. The kitsch decor is fine with me and in many instances I would actually appreciate it, but without a nice strong vodka soda, it's really just annoying. If I had to say something nice about this place, I guess I would say that there is some OK eye candy, if you're into 25 year old hipsters, which I admit I am on rare occasions.

    (2)

  • Ninja S.

    If you want a serious drink, don't bother. This dive only has beer and wine. Stick with the beer, the wine tastes like something from the prohibition era made under someones kitchen sink. Since I'm 200 years old, you can take this on my good authority, naturally. There is a nice view to be had of downtown in the back of the place, but it is countered with being stuffy and hot even when it is somewhat cold outside. This place has character in spades as it looks like something, if abandoned, some comicbook supervillain might have taken over to house their henchmen.

    (3)

  • Betsey S.

    The other day I met Lindsey S here to hide out from the rain, watch the M's game (we bailed on actually GOING to the stadium), and have some beer on a Tuesday night. The whole thing just really hit the spot. I could see Duck Dodge in full swing on the lake, and it made me even more glad I was inside with my pitcher and my friend. Cash only, no food, just chips and snacks, lots of pool tables, and I even spied decks of cards and other games behind the bar. Pitchers of domestics are just $8. My dad told me that he and my mom used to come here when they were dating and fresh out of college. I loved that! And I'm certain the decor hasn't changed at all since then.

    (5)

  • Sarah C.

    I've tried the Zoo several times and everytime I'm disappointed, even insulted, with the terrible service. I don't know if it's the look of the group I'm usually with or what, but we simply get treated terribly when we're there. The ambiance is sort of cool - lots of pool tables and other bar games, but they don't serve hard alcohol, only take cash, and are paranoid about damage to their pool tables. If you don't want drinks to get on your pool table, don't serve drinks.

    (2)

  • Jeff W.

    The Zoo is a great part of Eastlake and makes it what it is. But unless you're a local, or know what you're getting into, this is classic Seattle and might put you off. Being just a block and a half away, it's a great place to go to unwind with a cheap pitcher. I echo others love for the shuffleboard. For a good time (don't do this regularly): - find some acquaintances from Belltown - insert into environment - watch: it's like oil and water and they'll tell you how much they hate the place when they leave about 5 minutes later.

    (3)

  • Bo S.

    Honestly, I wasn't expecting much other than how it was described to me "a local dive with lots of games", and I got exactly what I was expecting. Lots of rich natural wood colors everywhere and more spacious than most pubs, they have an alright beer selection. Seem to be very focused on supporting the local University. There were tons of folks shooting darts and playing pool. I was surprised that they are a "cash only" bar, which I'm not used to, so I had to use their $2 fee ATM. It is definitely spacious enough that you could bring a group of 20 with no problem --- that's hard to find. My only complaint is that I was super excited to see they had shuffleboard, only to find it severely lacking in sand (and people had tried to make up for this by reusing the old sand mixed with wood, lint, you get the picture) and the pucks were busted up pretty badly. Time to invest in some new equipment. All in all, I would go back - if I was in the mood for a quiet dive bar with lots of games.

    (4)

  • Amanda R.

    Very interesting place...I felt comfortable there. They had a nice cold IPA on tap. Pitchers are relatively cheap and you can play pool and other games. They don't have food, except peanuts and you can throw the shells on the ground! The good thing is you can just go next door and get food and bring it into the bar to eat. If you're into seedy dive bars (which I am) then this place is for you. FYI, the bathroom stalls have no locks, however, they do have plenty of tp and they seem pretty clean.

    (3)

  • Sarah S.

    The new Zoo is a lot different than the old Zoo. The new young bartenders are 3904 times more friendly than the old ones, but that's part of the reason I used to love the Zoo- it took hours and hours of sitting at the bar for the old grumpy bartenders to warm up to you- and once they did, you felt like you had accomplished something other than finishing 2 pitchers of beer. However, I'm not saying ANYTHING bad about the new ones- they're young and hip and friendly and that's nice too. My Zoo Rule: Never bring the animals you meet at the Zoo home with you. I always make new friends when I go, which is great, but I would suggest keeping your new friendships within the Zoo-walls. I just learned that they have $3 Mimosa Mondays- a new feature now that the staff has completely turned over. Sounds good to me. Add that to a few games of shuffleboard or darts, and you're in for a pretty solid evening of semi-wholesome fun. Cash only (they have an ATM and change machine for quarters), a few new big TVs and more live music than they used to. I love that they serve bags of chips and pickles since they have to have food- so if you get hungry, go to Pazzos and get a pizza and a cocktail and then head back. Oh, also, I like that you could write on the walls with chalk- my name is hidden everywhere. It kind of makes me feel like the Zoo is mine. Lord knows I've spent enough time there.

    (5)

  • Adi C.

    Oh Dive. Oh Divey-dive. I am not a bar girl, I don't like beer, and I SUCK at pool. Why did I come here you ask? Because it is only about 30 steps from my work and I decided to check out the neighborhood since switching workspots from the U-District. I was with some friends who ordered a pitcher of 1554, which was actually pretty good (considering I don't like beer), but the tap was almost empty and it was only enough for three glasses. He only charged us a third of the price, but I saw him pour half the pitcher out because the head was too foamy. Now, I may not be a bartender nor a beer drinker, but I'm pretty sure there's an angle you're supposed to hold the pitcher at below the tap so that the head doesn't get too foamy. I think it may have had something do do with the empty tap, but who knows... It is definitely a "tavern" and I will most likely be back because, you know, it's right next to my work and my coworker/friend absolutely LOVES this place (I secretly think that is because it is only two blocks from her house and she can stumble home). Plus, she kicked my butt at pool.

    (3)

  • John E.

    As if this place needed more reviews... It is spacious and comfortable and off the beaten path, which really counts for a lot if you have a lot of friends and several cars. Pool tables galore, shuffleboard, couple of video games, and four pinball machines in okay repair (Simpsons PP, IJ, MM, South Park). There were a few shiny people, but mostly just folks.

    (4)

  • Laura G.

    Every time I've gone to this place (ok, just twice), someone has thrown a chair. Not in a "I'm really mad and I want to hurt someone" way. Just in a "this seems like the right time and place, and there's plenty of room to throw a chair safely" way. Going to the Zoo is a fun time. I love the shuffle board table.

    (4)

  • Linda J.

    There's nothing special about this place. I find it slightly disturbing that they have all of their cleaning products on the bottom shelf, behind the bar. In plain view. The only take cash (me thinks not) and their beer selection is... not much of a selection. It was kinda too warm in there for my liking. It's just not my kind of place.

    (1)

  • Margaux j.

    The Zoo Tavern is a good, honest-to-goodness old-fashion dive bar with an old-timey crabby bartender and everything. Well, everything except liquor...which is a good thing since I am trying to get a divorce from Jameson. Very reminiscent of the bars one would find in a small town in the midwest. Personally I prefer dusty places like this or the Quarter Lounge to shiny, uber-clean-place-to-be-seen, $10 a drink-don't ask the third reich looking bartender for an extra wedge of lime-places. When I just want to drink (a beer) and not care if my hair is looking funny, or that I'm in my slippers...this place is tops. Plus, literally if need be I can just roll my sorry self down the hill to my apartment. If only it had liquor, which is why I gave it only 4 stars. Granted, I might be divorcing Jameson...but its still nice to pay a visit now and then.

    (4)

  • patricia r.

    The Zoo is another one of the few handful of places that have been around forever that I liked to hang at before and after I turned 21 (rules were much less taken serious in the 80's then today). I have seen some damn good bands there, ran into many people I from my hood, got to go to great fundraisers there. Love to play darts and pool there and the staff is great. Used to be that people used to smoke the boo in the upstairs section back in the day. Many good times.

    (5)

  • Jon E.

    I haven't seen a snooker table ANYWHERE in the six years since I moved away from England. But then I moved to Eastlake, and came to this local dive bar of mine, and there it was -- in all its beauty -- a proper English snooker table. Instant cool points. Then there's two dart boards, which are in pretty decent shape. And Mac & Jacks on tap. All and all, it's a pretty good bar. I have a couple of complaints, though. First, it's basically empty most nights of the week. Second, the snooker table pricing is based on number of players multiplied by the time everyone plays, and that's just not fair. If you have four people playing, you're using the table just as much as if two people are using it. But this place is still great for playing bar games with friends. There's usually a pool table available, and if there's not, there's darts or shuffleboard. Totally laid back, not a pick-up place, just a place for fun.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    My favorite bar in Seattle. I like that I can walk 3 blocks and enjoy good cheap beer, play pool/darts/shuffleboard and stumble home. A little disappointed that it is becoming more popular and a little too fratty, and always upset when I have to pay a cover at the frickin zoo tavern - oh, well.

    (5)

  • RowerRob C.

    Dive bar. You probably won't find me here. Dart board. Pool tables. Shuffle board. Pinball machines. Local beer brews.

    (2)

  • Lindsey S.

    I'm calling this place out as a Fake Dive Bar! The people are far too pretty and way too dressed up for this to be a dive... I went here for the first time about a year ago, on a Tuesday night. It was great: empty, a tad sketchy, cheap bevs, pool tables involved, really fun Now that I'm living here in Eastlake, I wanted to ring in my new neighborhood with a trip to the Zoo and I was very confused. I was in my really sexy $6 sweatshirt I got on discount at Old Navy and my ratty jeans and flip flops, so I thought it would be perfect. Oh man, there were all sorts of metrosexuals with their hair gel and hoochie girls in heels, jewelry, make up, the works. It grossed me out. I was disappointed for sure. I'm going to go one night this week to see if this is a weekend thing or what?!?! Still a great place as far as the sketchy people who work there, cheap beer, cash only, pool tables (although it was way to crowded and pretty back there for me to feel like playing)

    (3)

  • Chris F.

    The wine is sold in "small" and "large" tumblers. Plenty of pool tables and the regulars gladly share them. The bathrooms aren't nasty. They've got a view. You're allowed to smoke 8 inches outside the front door. They've got the best poster and old photo collection around. You can kick a chair across the floor if you f-up and cause your team to lose at shuffleboard and not get kicked out. Five stars baby, five stars. PS. Don't go on Friday or Saturday night and expect to not see the people who go to dive bars on Friday and Saturday night to be cool.

    (5)

  • Matt L.

    Great fit for me. Beer. Music. Sticky floor. Sit down & relax. Diverse crowd - college kids that love drinking PBR and other guys that just drink PBR. Some guys in their 30's that drink PBR just because they want to pretend they're the guys who 'just drink PBR' but don't like it. Shuffleboard?

    (3)

  • Tim O.

    This place is all wrong: Interior from 1972, old pool tables, shuffleboard from the Titanic. What's not to love? I've spent a lot of time at the Zoo and wouldn't take back a minute. Great staff that know how to run a bar.

    (5)

  • Virginia L.

    This place is great, good energy, great space, and all the old photos are entertaining and give it a personality of its own. I think it would be a great place to gather a bigger group of people but still good to just sit at the bar and talk to the regulars. Try it!

    (4)

  • Harmony l.

    I have to say If you are looking for a dive Bar, this is as good as it gets! I love this place they have every thing I need here my fave Beer 1454 all the good bar games, a up stares view of the city & I love how it feels like you have steeped back in time!

    (5)

  • Taylor S.

    What has happened to all my dirty, old man bars. The zoo used to be a place where I could go and be the youngest person in the bar by 20 years. Now its packed with young, attractive people, its hard to find a seat on weekends, and the bouncer gives you a hand stamp. What the hell happened. Pfff, must be the smoking ban. Despite all the changes the Zoo is still a money bar and you should make a point of going. The bartenders are awesome. It has a solid beer collection, including Manny's and most importantly it has Big Buck Hunter. No dive bar is complete without Big Buck Hunter although they have a new version which is significantly easier than the older version. Damn kids, back in my day...etc, etc, etc.

    (4)

  • Jonelle T.

    This is the diviest of dives and I love it. Anyplace with shuffleboard, pool, and cheap beer has my vote!

    (4)

  • Mo B.

    I"m surprised that this place has gotten reviews above 2 stars. I get that this place is a dive bar, but it's a really really nasty dive bar. Instantly when I walked in I got a big wiff of urine. Thinking it was just some werid plumbing issues that was going on that night I decided to go back a few weeks later with a different group of friends and everyone wanted to leave because it still smelt like urine. Avoid.

    (1)

  • Dave W.

    I live on Eastlake Ave, and it takes me a solid four minutes to walk here. My first experience was coming here on a whim after hanging out in Belltown for a while. Before entering, we were greeted by a presumably drunk girl who asked "what, are you guys going to a modelling convention or something?" Needless to say I was flattered. I did not realize we were overdressed. Dark jeans and a jacket too much? Apparently. Since flannel is back in fashion, Eastlake Zoo is now one of the most fashionable places around. For this place Grunge is not a type of music but a way of life. But I really like this place. It is not overcrowded, the beer is reasonably priced, and there are lots of games to play. Kind of divey, but since leaving the Duchess in the U-District behind, I need a new dive anyway. There is a lot to be said about a tavern that does not try to be something that it is not. No facade, no pretentiousness, just a good time. And I dont have to pay for a taxi. If you have not been here, dont be fooled by the exterior. The place is enormous inside.

    (4)

  • Alison V.

    Yes it's kind of a dive. Yes they have pool tables. They also have a shuffleboard table, snooker, and darts. They don't take credit cards. The glasses are sometimes dirty. The bar staff is the same people that have been working there forever. They're feisty and let you know it. However, it's got great ambiance. People let you jump in on pool games and are almost always friendly. Sometimes it seems like the UW Greek system invades the place for a night, sometimes it's dead, and other times it's just another great place to hang out in Eastlake. Don't expect wonders from the place, but go and have a good time.

    (4)

  • Javi V.

    This is a HUGE hole in the wall bar. Is full of all possible games, and when I went there there was a drunk bartender sharing shots with my friends, a lesbian hitting on my girlfriend, open pool tables because the quarters machine was broken ... tons of weird and fun things

    (4)

  • Philip L.

    Went back to the Zoo a couple weeks ago for drinks, pool and darts, which is exactly why you go to the Zoo. Easy-going atmosphere, large open space that still feels cozy and lots of games to choose from. Pretty good combination.

    (3)

  • Adriana K.

    i went here on a really chill friday before halloween. maybe it was the pouring rain or that everyone was staying in the night before a big party night...but it was pretty quiet. it sucks that its cash only and only serves beer and wine (thus, as per seattle law, why "tavern" is in the name- if there's hard alcohol served, you can't have it in the name) but its cool that you have shuffleboard, skeeball, and pool - although lame people were dominating the shuffleboard and only would give it up if we played them for money. lame. but the barstaff were unpretentious and let me try several samples before i bought a pitcher, so i can't complain.

    (3)

  • Drew P.

    Just scroll through the reviews, and you'll pretty quickly get the right idea about this place. The lesson is this: if you're too uptight and too cool for school, go back to Belltown (and, yeah, I like Belltown too). Now if you're still reading this, this is classic dive material. Cheap beer, Cheaper pool, and the classic bar on the corner feel. Don't worry how you dress, cuz nobody else does. If you just want a fun crowd to hang with, this could be your place!

    (4)

  • Carmen S.

    Zoo what happened to you? I realize it's been awhile, but you've let yourself go. Your shuffleboard table was stripped but the bartender was happy to charge $3 an hour for it. We returned the beat up pucks after 1 minute of frowning at the laminate table with wood chips. We switched to pool but the black ball was missing so instead we used a white ball with black marker. We needed nourishment from your pickle jar but the bartender was too busy playing pinball to care. It's OK. I know you'll feel yourself again soon. I'll still come for the beer and the atomosphere occasionally. I'll probably try your cheap dog and chips. But I won't be stopping by on a regular basis until to you can perform your duties with competence.

    (3)

  • Amanda W.

    Yes, Pool and beer. Cash only, no liqour. Love this place.

    (5)

  • Ryan W.

    ping pong tables and awesome atmosphere .

    (5)

  • Lori B.

    I felt like I was trapped on a small hometown ghetto island walking into an old-timer's sailor/fisherman tavern. The bartender was old enough to be my grandpa and very quiet. Smelled like people always smoking in there. They had quite a few pool tables- almost like the kind you fold up and set on a table in your basement. The equipment was as old as the bartender. They did have one tourney table there, but it was covered. There was also a section up some stairs in the back for additional seating I think...but besides the couple of old guys at the bar, it was just our clan of about 8. Wasn't bad for free/50cent pool and cheap beer.

    (2)

  • Scott P.

    As far as divey local watering holes go, it doesn't get much better than this.

    (4)

  • Haon Y.

    Fun place to meet friends for a beer. My only complaints are that it's cash only and no hard alcohol. Awesome collection of games and a good atmosphere.

    (4)

  • jeremy w.

    You gotta love the Zoo, its a landmark. Its not a rowdy meat market and not a dirty dive bar, its a neighborhood tavern. Howard is back running the show, so let the good times roll. I prefer the bartenders to play the music. The Wi-Fi covers the whole place so if you have to catch up on work or work from home sneak up to the back area and get to work. Keep the Legacy going Zoo bar.

    (5)

  • Robert S.

    Imagine you're in a barn. Now imagine that the barn was abandoned 15 years ago. Now imagine that a couple of local yokels 'refinished the place' with all the odds and ends they could find around town and at the local junkyard. Now imagine there are 4 pool tables. Now imagine a bar where you can get ridiculously cheap (but still decent) beer. Now imagine that it's not very crowded and the music isn't very loud. Now imagine that barn is in the middle of eastlake. You've imagined the local Paradise that is zoo... and lucky for us, it's real. Go, bring friends, designate a driver, have an overly-fun, overly-cheap night. ***NO CARDS OF ANY TYPE ACCEPTED (if you forget, there's an atm there, so don't worry too much... the 1.75 fee will be made up for by the ridiculously cheap beer) I was going to give this four stars because I thought to myself "if I give it five stars I'll look like a backwater loser who is interested in his own sister" ... then I thought to myself "who am i kidding... Joanna is SO hot"

    (5)

  • Robyn H.

    Thank goodness the reputation of the Zoo has mellowed over the last few years. Once a regular hangout for sailors, construction workers and bikers, it could get a little rough at times and occasionally someone would make the police report in the papers. Nowadays the Eastlake neighborhood is a little gentler and the residents aren't as likely to have a rap sheet. If you like play pool or shuffleboard with a beer in hand then the Zoo fits the bill.

    (3)

  • Shannon H.

    This has been favorite of mine since the th '92 when I first went there - yes, it could be called a bit of a dive bar, and maybe it's just that... but a nice dive it is - truth be said, it's got good fun inside... with/without a beer. You will always get a game in at the tables and then there's snooker and darts too. It's a great sit down and enjoy a good game and a beer kind of place. Sit back, relax and smile... this place feels like an open door to anybody (21-101). Enjoy this friendly no pretense place. Drink up and dust up that cue..... 'SMACK' lets roll!

    (4)

  • M W.

    If you were raised in a bar in the middle of nowhere between 1968 and 1990, you'll feel right at home in this wonderful watering hole. Just remember, cash only.

    (4)

  • Alex P.

    Had a hilarious nightcap at The Zoo friday night after dinner at Serafina. Two pitchers of beer and some darts. The place does smell funny. And, the old guy behind the bar is hilariously old school. They were playing some great 80s tunes on the juke box. Anyway, a fun way to end the night.

    (3)

  • Dean R.

    I had a fantasy baseball draft at the Zoo last night, and it worked out pretty good. If you have a group of people, there is a loft in the back where you can more-or-less keep to yourselves if you'd like.

    (4)

  • mandy m.

    this place reminds me of my favorite dive bar in school, but bigger, and cleaner. i recommend the shuffleboard table. play pool while you wait your turn. i think its beer only, so belly up, order a pitcher and have a good time.

    (4)

  • Nancy L.

    Not too shabby. Well, looks wise it is but I'm not drinkin at places based on the looks of a place. They serve beer and wine only. No food but they'll let you bring in your own food. They even have the pizza menu from next door available. Pool tables, shuffleboard, mini arcade, peanuts on the ground and chill people, how could you not love this place?!

    (4)

  • Katherine B.

    Who doesn't love a good dive bar? It's part of being an urban dwelling, Blue State American. You must have a trendy dive bar that you slum it at. Well, folks I do, and it's not the Zoo. Maybe the Zoo will work for you, but for me it just doesn't cut it. For one thing, it's slightly too well lit to be the perfect dive bar. Secondly, it's slightly too empty. The perfect dive needs to be slightly crowded. Give the Zoo a try, it may be your perfect dive bar, it's just not mine.

    (2)

  • Joe C.

    Short of paying the absurdest rates at some of the more commercial locations like The Garage or Jillian's where else are you going to get a table on Thursday night? Eastlake Zoo is a good divey old school pool hall. Now I've heard there are sometimes a lot of young schmucks who make it down from the U-dist and ruin the general ambiance of this lovely little spot but I haven't seen too much trouble. Oh but wait did I say pool hall. My friends there's more to it than that. Apart from a number of tables they've also got two dart boards (the real kind not the digital's), a shuffle board and one of those fake gun first person shooter games, something about being a sniper or something. Not just that but shrouded in black plastic and mystery their lies a giant table. I've been told it's a snooker table. Now I myself have never seen anyone play snookers, not do I have nay idea how. All I can tell you is it sits there and most often gets used as a coaster or temporary bar stool. Always covered in the mysterious plastic vale. IF ANYONE KNOWS HOW TO PLAY SNOOKERS.... dammit' take me out to the Zoo and teach me. By the by Pools $0.75/game and teh tables are in descent condition

    (4)

  • Maria C.

    I like dive bars that aren't too scary, and this place fits the bill. In fact, I spent a lot of nights here way back, well, some time ago. Since I've always thought it's more fun to drink and play than just sit around and drink, this place also fits that bill. You actually have a chance to play pool here, unlike other places with fewer tables. This is great, casual, down to earth, unpretentious, dive bar fun.

    (4)

  • Tom E.

    I give this place 4 stars, not for the food or bar which seems a bit dingy, but for simply the fun, very uniqe environment. There's nothing like it. The front half of the place is a typical bar, but in the back is a whole different world. 8-10 pool tables, darts, a 8x10 foot SNOOKER table (complete with 10 foot cues), and my favorite: the mini shuffleboard table. There's even an upstairs "balcony" area where you can sit and see everything from. A great place for some beers and pool -- or mini-shuffleboard! This place actually gets a little packed in the late evening but there's generally plenty of seats.

    (4)

  • jenny w.

    This place always has an open door in the summer and warmer fall months when they are open. The atmoshere is perfect for a lazy sunday for a beer. Take a stroll down eastlake and pop in for some 75 cent pool. I love plaing shuffleboard!

    (5)

  • Katie O.

    I have to totally agree with everything Tom E. said. Great fun plus pin-ball!

    (4)

  • megan d.

    great little dive bar on eastlake. fill with cheap drinks, karoke and a pretty laid back crowd.

    (4)

  • Kaila B.

    i love dive bars, this one included. fun, weird, friendly!

    (5)

  • Terrene R.

    Fab dive bar that has the most awesome eclectic decor you kinda have to come in to check it out. My favorite piece is the GIGANTIC evil Dragon with foot tall horns and large red blinking eyes.......gotta love it!

    (5)

  • dinky d.

    What isn't to like about this place? They got pool tables, awesome music, dart boards, and the people that work there are probably the best part. Mojo tells it like it is...and in the summer time they set up the bubble machine. Doesn't get any better than this. Great place to have a beer or to just hang out.

    (5)

  • Romilly S.

    Relaxed vibe. Great beer selection. Wine was not good- not a wide selection, would advise wine drinkers to head elsewhere!

    (3)

  • Sarah T.

    On a Friday night, I had a third of my beer left and a server came out of nowhere and yanked it out my hand told me and my friends to leave. We were not drunk or being rowdy, nor had we already been asked to finish up. It was so appalling I thought he must be joking. Nope. Worse still, there were still folks sitting at the bar who weren't getting kicked out yet. I love a good dive bar, but you can do much better.

    (1)

  • Rodney W.

    I used to live in Eastlake for 9 years and two blocks from the Eastlake Zoo. It started a tradition where we hold our golf tournament team selection party there every year. As per tradition, we were all there on Friday night. It was great! Seems that they have done some upgrades and the staff has some new faces that seem eager to serve you a beer. The crowd was young, friendly, fun and upbeat! Looks like we will be back again next year. If you need a shot, go to Pazzos next store. If you need some food, go to Pazzos next store. Bring Cash. No credit cards accepted here. Want to hang out in a casual environment, play pool, ping pong, ski ball or darts all while drinking beer with some hip folks from all over the city.

    (4)

  • Nyle T.

    This place could be really fun. I was here pretty early in the night. Reasonably priced drinks. Many pool tables, ping pong, arcade games. I love the vibe of the building. Though it was SO HOT inside. They had fans going but I bet it was still 90 degrees. We had one beer and had to leave because it was just unbearable. But I will defiantly come back when it's not so hot out. Grab a group of friends and this place has the potential to be a great time.

    (4)

  • Jim T.

    Unique dive bar, with some great Seattle memorabilia everywhere you look. The snooker table may not look pristine, but it plays very well and is WAY more affordable than the others you'll find over on the east side. Jake the bartender was really cool, laid back and glad to help you out. I can't wait to go back. Cash only so just go prepared. Thanks for the good time!

    (4)

  • Vega S.

    Pros: - So many games! Shuffleboard, darts, pool, ping pong and some other random arcade games that are interesting after many beers. - The Zoo is far away enough from the U District that the broey 21 year old crowd is filtered out. So the customers are usually better behaved young professionals. Cons: - Cash only! There is an ATM inside the building but I hate those sketchy little things.

    (4)

  • Dan S.

    *Nice to have legit dives bars still, this place is def. not trying to be hipster but is by the very nature if you follow *Beer was slightly warm which is my largest pet peeve, all you sell is beer and wine so make damn sure it's ice cold right? *bartender was cordial, no tude really, I love the golden tee and snooker table, it's a legit hang out joint, no food but 14 carrot will bring food over at night

    (3)

  • Ian P.

    Highly recommend folks to avoid this place. It has all the trappings of a great bar: pool tables, ping pong tables, all sorts of fun stuff in the back. They've got cheap beer and great people. Well, except for the cranky old guy bartender who kicked me and my friends out for no good reason. Here's the scoop: we were playing ping pong after drinking a few beers, so we were a bit tipsy already, but we weren't being rowdy and we were incredibly respectful to everyone else around us. There were a ton of beer glasses two feet away from the ping pong table that I mentally kept in my head and was avoiding for the entire game of ping pong that we played, except for the last serve, where I accidentally swiped two beer glasses onto the floor. A friend of mine gets the bartender and asks where the broom and dustpan are, so we can clean it up for them (all the while apologizing for everything.) The old guy calls him an idiot and that if he were any smart, he'd avoid that in the first place, despite the fact that there was *zero* effort to clear out tables right next to the ping pong tables and despite the fact that we were incredibly apologetic and were offering to clean it up so the staff don't have to worry about it. I notice him yelling at my friend, to which I interject and say it was all my fault - he then calls me an idiot and that I should leave and never come back. First of all: you guys run a bar. People are drunk. It happens to the best of us. Second: you guys never cleared tables. Third: you're right, I'm never coming back. Thanks, assholes.

    (1)

  • Melissa R.

    Definitely a "dive bar"/ Tavern. If that's what you're looking for, then it's a great option. We went in because they have shuffleboard. It's a cash only bar, which is fine- just be prepared. My complaint was the rude staff and they charge for shuffleboard. I can see charging if you aren't drinking. However, we were drinking and $3/hr seems a little odd to me. I'll stick w Bravehorse.

    (2)

  • Sandie Y.

    Sort of hard to rate this place because it is great and not so great! On the Great side: Its a fun place to hit on the way home from work because the 70 and 66 both stop here. Beer is cheap and lots of pool tables, ping pong, shuffle board and others. Bar tenders are cool, friendly and eager to serve. This place has been around for a long long time and a wonderful dive bar. On the not so great side: Food is ordered from the neighboring restaurant. Which is ok, but very limited and it has to be brought over. Cash only. I NEVER carry cash and when I do, its is not enough! ( Wait! Maybe that is a good thing and should go on the other list!) But I am still going back for more!

    (3)

  • Maria G.

    Local dive bar and cash ONLY! I don't come to Eastlake area often. I have been to a few restaurants/lounges nearby. I know this place exists but never made it out here. I was here recently and was surprised how big the bar is! From outside, it looks fairly small. Once you go inside, it has pool tables and PLENTY of open space. Staff are nice to me. It is a local dive bar so few college students hang out here. It is nice to go to a bar where customers are not solely college students. Definitely a great spot for groups. Most drinks are under $10. Bring cash!

    (5)

  • Inez D.

    I always passed by and never went in until I did and LOVED IT. It is totally my kind of dive bar and the bartender was hella cool. The place is chill and cash only. If you are all about your fancy cocktails then obviously don't go to Zoo. My point was made: it's a chill bar with good beer.

    (5)

  • Stephanie M.

    CASH only establishment! Total dive bar that serves only beer (and wine, I believe). GREAT selection of beers on tap and bottled, with pitcher specials during Happy Hour (3-6pm Mon-Thurs). I'm a fan of $9 pitchers of Rolling Rock. Yay! Free pool is from 3-6 Mon-Fri as well! Great place for large groups who wanna play games and get drunk!

    (3)

  • Danimal B.

    A decent dive bar with plenty of activities... Really liked the cheap drinks, and games. However, cash only and a bit dingy...

    (3)

  • Tom T.

    Oh the Zoo. A dive you should take a chance on... I come to throw darts, maybe some of the other games from time to time (they have ping pong, pool, skeeball, pinball, etc.). Decent beer options on tap, your typical dive bar selections plus some local ipas. Cash only! The crowds get a little much on Friday and Saturday nights, but if you're into rubbing elbows with an eclectic group of patrons, check it out. Very chill on weeknights. Pro tip: pretzels are free

    (4)

  • Mick M.

    I would rate this place lower than one star but I can't! Shitty bartender, hot beer, and the place smells like a farm!

    (1)

  • Meg B.

    The bar tender was an absolute JERK. I was just standing there while my friend ordered her beer (mind you, it was our last stop of the evening..) probably looking out the door or something and he completely insulted my facial expression asking "what the hell is wrong with your friends face" Then we sat down, and my friend had to finish her beer fast because he essentially told us to leave after I questioned his insult.

    (1)

  • Susan W.

    CASH ONLY! Yes they have an ATM but they charge you $3 to get your cash. Hubby used to go here back in the day. (22 years ago) He remembered it being dark & a little sketchy. He was always apprehensive about taking me there thinking I would be put off by the place or clientele. We were both pleasantly surprised to find it quite light on the inside with a very amiable crowd. Mostly 20 somethings playing pool, ping pong & watching the baseball game on tv. We (4 of us) played shuffle board. The shuffle board table had cornmeal on it instead of the preferred wax granules. Pucks do not slide well at all on the cornmeal & it should be replaced with wax. Didn't see anyone eating anything there & we were hungry so we hit up Pazzos next door. Meh. :( Would go back if in the area but wouldn't go out of my way to go there.

    (3)

  • Cody R.

    I wish they had booze......

    (4)

  • Tim A.

    Don't bother. Standing waiting for a beer, a pitcher, yields snarky remarks from the old-ass bartender about how he's not going to serve you and you should try a different bartender - despite the fact that he just served, and is continuing to serve, others standing two feet away. No reason, no rationale. he's just being a cranky old man who's probably stayed up 6 hours past his bed time. It's cash only. Money out of the ATM to buy a pitcher comes with a fee. Since their resident asshole didn't want to serve me... I bought twice as much beer across the street and had a much better time NOT at the zoo. Don't waste your time.

    (1)

  • Dani S.

    My favorite dive bar! Skeeball tip you drop!!! Five stars if they had hard alcohol!!!

    (4)

  • Michael C.

    i already wrote the most knowledge i could possibly write. that knowledge was on a piece of paper though. and i already burned that knowledge piece of paper in a huge bonfire outside my house on a moonless night with my pet lion. just me and him, watching the reflection of the flames in each other's eyes. we were both angry at the burned knowledge (huge mistake on my part), but in that reflection we both realized that all of the aggression was uncalled for and that we probably just drank too much and ate too many adderol. and you shouldn't mix uppers with downers and light fires and stare into a lion's eyes. and with craziness like that, oddly enough, peace can come. and peace came all over that fire. and extinguished it. darkness settled around us. me and the lion couldn't even see each other. and all you can do in a situation like that is use your wits. that lion and you don't have anything in common except the air you breath and the fact that you both have wits. and that's enough. the darkness amplifies your other senses. and that lion breaths heavy. and the cold air makes his breath big and its dark out, so you can't see it, but you know its there because he doesn't know how to brush his teeth and its very musty breath and you can almost taste the plaque. your own breath smells like mint, but this lion does not like mint at all, so you both hate each other's breath. so you just want to make another fire so you can see what the heck is going on and be on the same page. but all the knowledge is burned. what you do? just light off some bottle rockets for a brief bit of visibility? that lion understands. he extends his giant paw and you thread the bottle rocket wick through his nails and light that thing off for a tracer of light. and that little break in the darkness is where you see a giant lion in front of you. you forgot: he is humongous. and its a shock. your wits now say RUN!!! so you just run. and end up at the zoo, and play some shuffle board to take your mind off of things. and everything is ok.

    (5)

  • Nina H.

    Like everyone wrote, the Zoo is pretty divey but it's a huge bar so it's actually pretty cool and there's a lot to do. Pool, shuffleboard, buy candy from those coin slot dispensers, etc. I actually love how there are peanut shells all over the floor and the random crowds that frequent the place. It is cash only so be prepared and they don't serve food either so if you're hungry, be ready to shell out more money for some great pizza two doors down.

    (4)

  • Opal D.

    I don't like dive bars so even though I work and used to live near the Zoo, I had never visited until yesterday. I have been missing out!! Pool (tables/cues aren't the best and it's hard to find chalk), shuffle board, skee ball, and pin ball machines - so much to do! The only things that would make this place 5 stars is if they had hard liquor and food and if they took credit cards. But no biggie, I will still be back and bringing my friends with to play and drink.

    (4)

  • Ryan D.

    This place is a great dive. Plenty of fun games from Pool to Buck Hunter. Cheap Beers and a laid back atmosphere, the only real draw back is that the bathrooms are digusting but if you can get over that its pretty great.

    (4)

  • Lauren F.

    One of the only bars in the Eastlake neighborhood, so there's really no competition. That being said, here are some things to know so you don't have a horrible experience, or at least to prepare you for the Zoo. 1. Cash Only 2. Lots of fun games, ping pong, pool, skeeball, darts, shuffle board, pinball. Some of it is in great condition, some of it is... not. We play skeeball with machine knows best rules. If you scored a 50 and it only registers a 10, machine knows best. No mercy. 3. Bar time is not actual time. If they call last call, you order a pitcher, then 5 min later they shoo you out saying "we're shutting it down, bar time, bar time" Well, that's bar time, so, apparently, GTFO. 4. Great for big groups and a rowdy good time, so it gets a little crazy and busy and douchey during weekend evening. Perhaps that's why they seem to have zero tolerance for attitude from the customers. Then again, they do assume everyone is going to be an asshole, which is not the case. On the other hand, I've also been during the day on some random weekend to watch football. Quick, friendly service. The bartender even invited us to the Super Bowl chili cook-off. He encouraged us to bring our own chili or vote for our favorite. Despite the mostly sub-par service, it's a dive. So deal with it! Which is what I assume the old man behind the bar would tell you.

    (3)

  • Katherine D.

    I was pretty disappointed in this establishment. The guys who was bartending was an older gent and a real rude one at that. We went and didn't realize they only serve beer and wine...okay I could deal with that. What I couldn't deal with is a bartender who wouldn't tell me the beer they have on tap. He sat there and said "im not reading off a list" ...um okay... Do you have a list I can read off of??? Nope. Then when we started listing our normal favorites that pretty much every bar has, all we got were "nope dont have that'. Eventually it got to the point where we didnt care what we got because we were so thirsty. Won't be going back any time soon

    (1)

  • Alex M.

    Bummer it was cash only, but had I done my research (or my friends remembered to tell me) that would have been no problem. I actually kind of like the idea, despite the fact I never carry cash, I feel like it adds a coolness factor - like we're too cool, we don't need to accept CC because all the cool kids know this is a cash only bar. But don't get me wrong, this isn't a pretentious hipster bar, packed elbow to elbow like I'm used to in Cap Hill. It was a refreshing, roomy bar with lots of games (darts & skeeball!!), some fun patrons, and a chill spot to spend a Saturday night.

    (4)

  • Riss J.

    Finally, finally, and I mean FINALLY I get a night with Shekinah that isn't at a crowded event where we barely have a chance to say two words to each other. We had so much time we covered pretty much every topic from make up to religion over the course of the night. A tip: on warm summer days as we've had lately, and especially with the thunderstorms/humidity/etc as of late, this bar gets TOASTY and MOIST. The layout pretty much prevents them from having came up with an air flow solution that saved it from the stuffiness, but we snagged a nice table/booth near the door, so we survived. Other Seattle bars, specifically the shiny new ones that are classifying themselves as dives, take note: THIS is a dive bar. In the way that dive bar is a way to say "long term neighborhood watering hole". Your eclectic ways need also be old and a little dusty... Service was OK. It can take a few minutes standing around at the bar to get your order placed, but nothing egregious and we weren't ignored. Thankfully, we arrived early before the door guy started checking ID's as i didn't realize mine wasn't with me until i noticed him there. He recognized me when I came out for a smoke and to go back in, so he didn't bother harassing me over it. (hooray) Tip two: I overheard another party complaining outside, because they 'marked' their turn on a pool table in the back but were not getting a turn. The bar's policy is "If they want to keep it all night, it's fine, we don't settle squabbles like that". Sooo, be warned if you want to play the game offerings, you might not get a turn if the original party has claimed it all night. Cash only, beer and wine only, decent tap selection, a real neighborhood hang-out atmosphere and a nice level of the good kind of "grime" that sets it apart from the shinier, fancier places around the area.

    (4)

  • Alana K.

    The Zoo has pretty much all ingredients for the making of a good night. Pinball, skeeball, ping pong, pool, shuffle board, darts (the real kind), Ms Pac-man, and beer. They are cash only (ATM on premises) and do not serve liquor.

    (4)

  • Faith Y.

    After 8 months of hearing about this classic Eastlake haunt (so says blogs and friends), I had yet to step foot into its suspect looking door. First of all, looks are extremely deceiving, who knew the sketchy looking dive bar front would open up into a giant room of games, tables and fun decor? They don't have a kitchen so they welcome outside food with open arms which makes my food sneaking habit legal for once. Movies? Sneak food in. Sports games? Sneak food in. Amusement Parks? Sneak food in. You get the idea. But be aware, it's a dive bar in function through and through. Cash only, Beer only and they mean it dagnabit. Pitchers are around $9-14 and a good way to fist pump back to back kickball victories (ahem, as a not so random example). Also, they're quirky! Whee! - They blow bubbles from a bubble maker onto the street on random afternoons. It's hilarious to see confused passerby bat at the colorful transparent bubbles in their way - They host an annual chili off where $5 gets you bowls of 7 breweries' best hot, beany, meaty chili concoctions ... unless they charge $5 each, not sure.

    (3)

  • Kate M.

    I'm a sucker for a dive bar. The music was totally awesome, thanks to Jake who works the door. I'm new in town and didn't know that you can't serve liquor unless you also serve food, so I learned that the hard way when I tried to order something hard. I met friendly people just sitting at the bar, and it looks like the kind of place where people are regulars and know each other. Any bar that plays Ween and At The Drive In back to back is good in my book. Yay for the Zoo!

    (3)

  • Sara C.

    it's a little local dive bar but it's a lot bigger on the inside than it looks. big spacious billiard area, it looks super run-down but i guess that's the "dive bar" look. what i dont like: - it's a beer and wine place only - cash only i despise cash only places. and you cant call yourself a tavern if you don't have a full bar.

    (2)

  • Matt R.

    NO STARS. Went there to play some shuffleboard and inquired with the hipster females who were playing at the time if we could get the next game. Was told by nasty hipster female to "BEAT IT BITCH". She then turned and resumed her game of shuffleboard. I was shocked- and my buddy who was with me looked like someone had just smacked his mother. Rather than create a scene- were were mostly sober & there with wife and girlfriend respectively- we walked away. We were heated and left Eastlake Zoo promptly. Any bar that invites that kind of clientele can shove it. This Zoo is truly full of animals. No thank you.

    (1)

  • Caitlin G.

    You can't beat The Zoo as far as neighborhood bars go! The Zoo has anything you could ever want- skee ball, shuffle board, cheap pitchers, an indoor patio, floor lamps for optimal lighting. The staff are always appropriately grumpy/ancient- I wouldn't be surprised to find out Father Time himself moonlights at the Zoo- and you always run in to old friends at the bar. Overall, a most excellent dive bar- perfect to have right down the street!

    (5)

  • Shekinah S.

    How have I never noticed the large dragon with glowing eyes in the corner? They put up a divider between the two dart boards and looks like they replaced the scoring chalkboard as well. A small but welcomed upgrade for the Zoo Tavern.

    (4)

  • David F.

    If you love dive bars that will find a way to entertain you, no matter how tough a critic you might be, this is it. It has pool, billiards (as in the weird snooker stuff), tv's, skee-ball, pinball, darts, and shuffleboard to start you off. If you're not into "help" from those tools, it's great people watching in and of itself (e.g. the drunk old bartender, who has repeatedly kicked me out only to let me back in 2 minutes later). There is no liquor or food, but they have menus for the pizza joint next door, and will even call it in for you, so that you can bring it back in. Don't expect anything fancy, but you can get inexpensive beer (ok, it's pitchers of Rolling Rock for under $10, but still) and be left to your own devices. It's a place everyone needs to experience at least once.

    (5)

  • Jessica B.

    A+ dive bar! ski ball!! shuffle board!! Billiards/pool!! darts!! beer!!! PBR pitchers are cheap, and they have nicer beer for the connoisseurs in your group. No food, but Pazzo's is right next door for a to-go order. Dont let the pervasive smell of urinal cake put you off, it's a fun place with colorful locals and friendly staff.

    (4)

  • Erin B.

    For years we have said "We need to go to the Zoo." But for some reason or another never made it in. Lady Luck finally smiled upon us & in we went. The place is mammoth! I had no idea it was that big. And decor, drinks, and games were more than satisfactory. Old school Mrs. Pacman, darts, shuffleboard, skeetball, pool, and Big Buck Hunter (ok- nothing too old about big buck but pretty cool). Only complaint- cash only. Boo!

    (4)

  • Christine Z.

    On the night of NYE, the Eastlake Zoo bumped 9LB Hammer off the #1 spot of the coveted "most awesome dive in Seattle" in our eyes! We've got some friends who live a block away from the Zoo, and we were spending the evening at their house to ring in the new year since they have a beautiful view of the Space Needle and Lake Union. Since we had a few hours to kill after dinner, a group of 10 or so of us decided to walk down to the Zoo before watching the fireworks at the Needle. The BF and I absolutely LOVE 9LB (and The Sloop Tavern), but the Zoo is the ISH! And, here's why: 1.) Buck Hunter - the BF and I love any bar with Buck Hunter! 2.) Skeeball - I love me some skeeball. It always brings me back to being 10 years old and kicking my sister's arse at skeeball at Circus Circus in Reno! Oh, memories! 3.) Ping Pong turned Beer Pong - we watched some peeps playing ping pong, and as soon as their game ended, the BF and I asked if they'd be down to play some beer pong (total drunk talk!) not knowing whether or not it was even kosher. The couple agreed, and we grabbed some plastic water cups and set up our game. One game soon turned into a tournament, which the BF and I DOMINATED! 4.) Pool, Shuffleboard, Darts - can you tell we like dives with games? 5.) The place is massive! There's a lot of open space, so even when there are a lot of people around, you won't feel like your personal space is being invaded. There are only a few things keeping me from giving the Zoo the full 5 stars. Their beer selection is sub-par, IMO! And, beware - this place is cash only!

    (4)

  • Sarah A.

    I love the Zoo. I live in Eastlake, so I'm a fan of the closeness, but more than that, I love the Zoo because its just so freakin awesome. First, it's huge, so I love the space. Second, the games. There is pool, ping pong, pinball, skee ball, dartboards and more. Third, the divey-ness is great and unique. This place just feels so local and chill. If that's what you are looking for, you'll love it. Note: Cash Only and no food and no liquor (only beer and wine).

    (4)

  • Brian D.

    Friendly neighborhood bar with a steady stream of regulars. Rolling Rock is $3 per pint, $8 a pitcher along with the rest of Micro-Brews and Imports which run $4.50 per pint or $13.50 a pitcher (basically the 4th beer is free). As the other reviewers have stated they only have a beer and wine license - i.e. no hard alcohol and only accept cash which can be a drag at times. Typical dive bar as well where people are definitely not dressing for Belltown like the other posters have mentioned. They have Buck Hunter Pro, both guns need to be fixed - they are in pretty bad shape which makes the game unenjoyable to play now, along with skeeball, darts, shuffleboard, and pool which always leads to a fun evening.

    (4)

  • Katy H.

    The zoo epitomizes a dive. If you're into beer and billiards, this is your best bet for a hang out spot. I've come here a few times with friends and we've always had a blast. The regulars are fun to chat up and you can kill some serious time looking at the unique decorations and wall hangings.

    (3)

  • Dub N.

    On multiple occasions they have proven to be racist here. Look around at how dirty everything is - DO YOU REALLY THINK THEY CLEAN THEIR DRAFT BEER TUBING? Cuz if you don't upkeep you draft system mold/mildew/bacteria grows on the tubing system. Go here if you are alone, dress like shit, and want a place to drink with limited beer choices. FULL BAR & NO VODKA, huh?! I didn't know divebar meant Budweiser only broken pool tables we don't clean or upkeep anything ever.

    (2)

  • Max W.

    Fun place! Great little divebar for beer and a game of pool.

    (4)

  • Brandon F.

    When needing a dive bar or cheap beer, this is the place. A classic. The photos on the wall say it all. Hope it never changes.

    (5)

  • Dale S.

    To start off I should say that I love dive bars and try to go to as many as possible the world over. More culture and a better feel for what the city really is and has to offer. The zoo has been around for what seems like forever and has it's ups and downs. It is not a great place to take a new date unless this person like cheap beer and pool, but it certainly has it's charm. It is a great place to go with some friends, have a few too many beers, play ping pong with the locals, and watch some sports. The zoo has a nice selection of local micro brews to go along with the cheap domestics. It is a classic dive bar with no windows and a dingy aura, but the most amazing thing about the whole place is the photos that adorn the walls. Take a moment to stroll around and take a look at the '70's photos of all the people who at one point stalked the Zoo (some still do if you look closely enough). I think the photos themselves are worth the visit as long as you are prepared to enter a true Seattle dive, which in my opinion is something the city does really well.

    (4)

  • Joel R.

    The Zoo is a fun dive with loads of not-quite-functional bar games. Take for example, the shuffleboard: it plays slow because it's made of laminate and is covered with sawdust (instead of glass beads). That's some sweet low-budget innovation right there. Now, the Zoo's got a bit of an edge and douchebags to spare, but the beer is cheap. In other words, a dive.

    (3)

  • Duck B.

    I love this bar. The owner, Howard, is a real character. Come here a few times and you'll start to feel like family!

    (5)

  • Danielle H.

    I love this place as a divey place to shoot some pool or play some shuffleboard. It is large, so great for big groups. Parking is not the easiest, but if you don't mind using your legs - it is no problem.

    (3)

  • Dannon F.

    Its a tavern so it doesn't serve hard-A. So we are talking wine and beer.... mainly beer. The ambiance is what makes this place pretty great. Its old ass bar top with that 50's-60's style plastic clear fill.... under it is an array of really creepy photos. Lots of old signs but not in the douchie TGI Friday's kind of way... more like an Emo-meets-Logger kind of way. The bartender was jamming out to early Metallica, he knew his beers, and he seemed like a nice down to earth guy. He's not out to prove how rogue he is or anything trite like that. Its real easy to find. Take Roanoke off I-5, take a left on East Lake, go down a couple blocks and park. The Tavern is on your right. I'd give them another star if they accepted debit or credit.... cash only here.

    (3)

  • Delilah R.

    I lost my virginity to the Zoo and a pitcher of Rainier! Yes, it was midnight of my 21st birthday and as I strolled down the hill towards the Zoo I got nervous. I knew, this was it! My first bar experience was steps away and I was gitty. What a relief! Thursday night, the spot was dim, relaxed and bartender was (to say the least) a bit grumpy! Instantly I got the "can I see id"? I was nervous. Though I had turned 21 two minutes ago, I was sure he was gonna tell me to get out and come back when I'm grown up....(coulda had to do with barely seeing over the bar). He smiled, chuckled aloud and then asked "what'r ya drinkin'?". I paused. I wasn't ready for that! "Uhmmmm"....mind switching to boggled mode and trying to cypher the drinks my rents' took in at home...."I'll have a Merlot"! "Good choice, it's on the house!" The bartender fetched a huge glass, poured what seemed like gallons of wine into it and then slid it down to my pining fingers. No doubt, wouldn't have traded my big 21 experience for anything. What's been said thus far about the Zoo is true. Great place to have some drinks during the week if you're looking for a really casual, tame time. The peeps can get a little too hip and cool for school on the weekends, prepare yourself. My judgment stems from the Zoo pre-2005. Post, I'd say it has taken on new barkeep to attract a younger crowd of the trendy persuasion. Great things like shuffle board, arcade games, good pool and cheap beer still exist here though. If you were fishing for a good bar, this would be a great catch.

    (5)

  • Tomasina D.

    Racist staff - seriously. I have no problem with cash only and no food other than quarter machines and take out pizza menus, but there is nothing that could make me go back to support this bar after seeing the way others were treated. There are many more great dives with quality people working in them to choose from. Don't go to this one.

    (1)

  • Lisa T.

    The zoo is your perfect dive bar. A little dark, a little dingy, but quite spacious, perfect for big groups. Plus, lots of games to play: pool, ping pong, darts, and most importantly - shuffleboard (the really really long table kind). People are generally pretty friendly here, leave the pretentious stuff at the door. Order up some pitchers of beer (CASH ONLY place though) and put some tables together - and just have a fun time. The decor here alone makes for great conversation (i.e. a huge dragon on the wall with eyes that change colors - awesome!)

    (4)

  • Ben J.

    The definition of a great dive bar. Great atmosphere, neighborhood feel, and good tap selection. A must visit Seattle classic. CASH ONLY though...

    (4)

  • Angie P.

    Like the old Toby Keith title: I love this bar! Haven't you heard it? Oh, well here, this will explain my feelings towards the Zoo: youtube.com/watch?v=sL7i… There are pool tables and other table games here. It is a great place to go and meet up with a bunch of friends at any time of the day. It has a dive bar feel to it, but actually I think it is a little more hip than that, and the Zoo knows it. I enjoy their beer selections and talking to the bartenders here. Some people say they are a bit salty, but I suppose I only have the upper hand since I'm good friends with someone who is accepted by them. Just be nice and they'll do the same! They sure as hell don't bite, but you can bet if you cop an attitude with one, you'll get what's coming to you. This is my most beloved bar in Seattle because of the playful nature to the bar and because it is like an episode of "Cheers" at any part of the day; everyone knows everyone and it feels good to have yourself greeted at the door! Oh! One more important thing: this is a CASH ONLY bar. You'll notice that when you see a big picture of Johnny Cash with the word "Only" printed underneath it. I'm a bit slow and I had to ask what that poster meant. *facepalm* My blonde shows once in a while. Don't judge a person until you have had a few drinks and start questioning the world around you.

    (4)

  • Duane L.

    This place is the dive bar. I could end my review there and that would sum it up, but I'll go in further detail with a few key things to know. First thing, cash only! Don't try to pay with a card there or Uncle Junior will look at you like you're crazy and bark at you. That's just the way it is. If that offends you, then don't come here. They do have a cash machine inside. Second thing, beer only. No shots, no mixed drinks, they have some single serve wine bottles I think, but unless you're a fan of Sutter Home, stay away. Third thing, it's dirty. They like it that way. It's a dive bar. There are lots of games to be played though. Pool, snooker, darts, skeeball, shuffleboard, etc. Dive bar heaven. We even played flip cup in the back one time. It was great. There's always loud music and a jukebox. There are only two tvs, so it's not the best place to catch a game. Look out for the dragon in the back.

    (4)

  • Marley B.

    Very fun neighborhood tavern- great place to meet up with friends. Large tables for group seating. Cash only (they have an ATM). They only have beer and wine though- so be warned. In our experience, it's been very GLBT friendly (even with the grown-up frat boy crowd). Awesome place to unwind, play shuffleboard, skee ball, pool or darts. PS- the best view in the place is in the last stall in the women's restroom- amazing view of downtown and the Space Needle.

    (4)

  • John K.

    Came here for a friend's birthday and had a blast! It's basically a dive bar up front-cheap pitchers of beer and whatnot. Very chill. The back room is what makes this place special-pool tables and shuffleboard! Apparently this place gets busy after 10pm or so. I was amazed, even on a Saturday night we had the shuffleboard to ourselves until around 10. No food available. Just go get something next door.

    (5)

  • Hunter R.

    As a neighborhood bar, this is a typical dive that exists as a mainstay to the community. Equipped with a number of pool tables and ample supply of frothy beverages, The Zoo is your basic experience of blandness. There are people who love going to the Zoo, but it's about friends, not about the bar being so great. In fact, it's dirty and questionably sanitary conditions are a bit of a turn off. If you're a non-smoker, you'll be assaulted by smoke from every angle of the entry point as people ignore the safe smoking distance with arrogance. Seriously, even if I'm not going to the Zoo, these people block the sidewalk while smoking, so I have started to avoid walking on that side of the block. There is barely anything for bar food and the bartenders aren't that interested in you unless you're one of the alcoholic regulars who seem to be in there ever hour of the day. Some of them look like they might actually die soon from years of hard drinking. The place is pretty filthy most of the time and even the signage is pretty home-made and lacking in charm. As I wrote this and thought of it more, I bumped them from 2 stars to 1. Also, don't plan on asking for anything that isn't a basic beer or rum and coke. They won't know how to make anything more complicated. Unfortunately, residents of the area have started suffering late night vandalism that most suspect are patrons from The Zoo.

    (1)

  • Lisa N.

    I'm kind of obsessed with the Zoo. Like others have said, it is totally a dive bar. Cash only (they even have a picture of Johnny Cash to emphasize this point), no food (save for free peanuts and the option of purchasing a tiny bag of chips), no liquor, but plenty of beer and some wine. Mimosa mondays are something I've yet to actually experience, but I get very excited at the idea of mimosa mondays anywhere so you shouldn't really take my word for that. There's free pool during happy hour -- yes, you heard me right! FREE! POOL! Happy hour! Also, shuffleboard, ping pong, pin ball machines, and that janky dive smell that you just can't seem to get rid of. Ahhh, glory.

    (4)

  • Stefanie H.

    I love dive bars. They are always the most fun and have the most character. This place is just that. The only downfall is that it's just beer & wine, and not a full bar. Otherwise, a fun place to be. The bartender was really nice and even let me try the beer he suggested before buying it. We played some shuffleboard (the table must be new because you practically have to throw the peices across the table), and had some fun. Not usually an area of Seattle I go to, but will go there again when I am!

    (4)

  • Kyoni R.

    Everytime we have a party at the Pirates Boat. We usually have a large group venture to the ZOO. Since its a short walk from the marina. They only serve beer here. You get your shots next door at Pazzos. We go in and always get couple pitchers from Uncle JR of the sopranos. I swear he could double for him in the series. He jokes with us too and tell us he's gonna have us whacked. Points a finger and shoots all us in the chest. A great way to start the night. The animals start circling for a pool table. They place their quarters down to play the next game. Winners always stay so we usually have the pool table for the rest of the night. It usually is a great crowd from 11 to 1. Great mix of women to men. Then the last of the crowd tends to close the bar by 2. Cheap beer, pool, and shuffle board at your finger tips. They also have a snooker table and pin ball machines. If your looking for a dive bar with a lot of personality. Head it over to East Lake and give the ZOO Tavern a try. You might become one of the animals who congregate to this watering hole.

    (4)

  • Laura L.

    The ulitmate dive bar - plenty of games and tables for everyone. Cash only - which is kind of new (or old) for a bar. They're so old, they're new. The staff is kind of rude, but what do you expect? Despite this, I have always had a great time here, and would love to go again soon.

    (4)

  • Shert J.

    The Eastlake Zoo Tavern is a Seattle institution. It goes way back, and it is one of the last remaining original dive bars left in our metropolitan area. It's a no food, no nonsense, no pretenses beer and pool hall. I first went there in the 80's (yes, I am old), trying to learn to shoot pool. Loved the laid back atmosphere. The Zoo is a TAVERN, which in Washington State means NO hard liquor, just beer and wine. Skip the wine here, it is horrid. This is really just a beer joint. And hey-- they were one of the only places selling PBR in the 80's and 90's in our area. The Zoo is big and cavernous. In the way back is the "Balcony" (upstairs area), which in the Old Days was the place to take "breaks" (i.e. some smoking and/or snorting involved). That's how the Zoo's many dart teams conquered their opponents-- treating them to a special upstairs session which weakened any coordination or competitive spirit they had. The tavern is owned as a cooperative-- all workers become part owners and earn a share in the co-op. Which used to make for more involved, caring bartenders... not sure about now. The Zoo is a great place for beer, people watching, being watched, playing pool, snooker, etc. And they actually have REAL English style darts (i.e. boar bristle boards, and not just the silly electronic plastic crappy ones)-- TWO boards yet. A great place to play. Bathrooms might skeeve out some... but basically they are clean and have toilet paper and don't smell too bad. Yes you can still smell decades of cigarette (and other substance) smoke, and some surfaces are sticky or not the cleanest. But that's part of the endearing atmosphere. My only downside to this place is the difficulty of parking.

    (4)

  • Jim D.

    It's a total dive, sometimes full of jackasses, a local pillar, and I love it. We go and play pool and drink... yeah, that's about it In the summer I like going at ~5pm on a friday and drinking a beer by the windows in back

    (4)

  • Sarah B.

    A fun fact - the Eastlake Zoo Tavern is one of the few original Seattle taverns left in Seattle. Many of them have been shut down to make way for new condo buildings and new development. What is a Tavern you might ask? A Tavern doesn't serve hard alcohol, strictly beer and wine. So be warned those who only drink cosmos or mojitos. :) A couple of the best things about The Zoo are the employees and the shuffleboard. The employees are your no nonsense slop-your-full-beer-on-the-counter crew. I love how they just do their job and add a bit of character to the place. Then the shuffle board is great. Grab some friends and get a friendly game going. They also have pool, pin ball and darts. A great, chill place to grab a beer!

    (4)

  • Joshua S.

    I had high hopes for the Zoo being pretty much the only bar close to where I live. Decent but not awesome selection of beer. I don't usually carry much cash on me so there cash only policy is a bit annoying and feel pretty outdated. If you are into pool, shuffle board or skee ball this place will do. From what I could tell everything was in working order. I wouldn't come here for darts. Their dart boards look to be 20 years old. The one on the right is blown out and the one on the left is getting there. Sure your darts stick in but all the colors and wires are messed up making it harder to aim. I mean the thing they threw on the wall is only a $20 board, you can get one of the best boards around for $60 on Amazon and it'll last a good long while. Oh and some chalk, is chalk really that expansive? It can't be more then pool que chalk which is what we were left with to score our cricket game before resorting to old receipts and a pen I magically had in my pocket. Like I said I'd like to like this place. Get a new dart board and take a credit card I'd be more interested in coming back.

    (2)

  • Stephanie T.

    This is our favorite neighborhood bar. Even if it weren't the only game in walking distance - no, let's make that even if it weren't in our neighborhood - I'd still probably call this one of the first bars in Seattle that I feel like I can call homey. (Hopefully this doesn't make me sound like an alcoholic) Seriously, though. You walk in and if you've been there enough they know you and don't have to check your ID, so at least it's a little less like visiting a bar. Their beers and wines are inexpensive enough that you mgiht as well be drinking at home, but you don't have to wash the dishes and you get all the benefits of draft beer without having to keep a keg on hand. You check out some darts or the shuffleboard pucks or start up a game of pool, and it's just like playing a game in your own house. The crowd is mixed, so whatever you're wearing or what you're doing you won't feel out of place. People tend to show up in groups but we've started several friendly games with people who happen to be around. Regardless of whether it's where you start off, where you end up, or where you spend the whole night, you can always count the Zoo!

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :3:00 pm - 2:00pm

Specialities

  • Accepts Credit Cards : No
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Ambience : Divey
    Noise Level : Average
    Music : Juke Box
    Good For Dancing : No
    Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
    Happy Hour : No
    Best Nights : Tue, Wed, Fri
    Coat Check : No
    Smoking : No
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Has TV : Yes

Eastlake Zoo Tavern

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