Highlights
- Sports
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » Bookstore – Seattle
Bookstore - Seattle
Photo from Bookstore
Bookstore at a glance
Seattle West Edge
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 29 of the guests
#691 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#74 Bar & Pub out of 78 in Seattle
Good
6.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
356
Reviews
63.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Bookstore ambiance
- Exceptional cocktails
- Quality food
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent service
- High prices
- Bitter drinks
The bar & pub Bookstore in Seattle’s vibrant West Edge neighborhood offers you a truly unique experience. You’ll discover a cozy yet trendy atmosphere where you can unwind and enjoy a fantastic evening.
Known for its great wine list, this spot is perfect for those looking to savor quality sips. At Bookstore Bar & Café, you can also enjoy a great beer selection and sports.
Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a casual date, you’ll find the perfect setting here.
Overview: Introducting Bookstore
Bookstore offers a distinctive setting, creating an inviting atmosphere that many guests appreciate for its unique charm. While the overall experience has its bright spots, particularly with the well-crafted cocktails and a generally praised bookstore atmosphere, some aspects of the visit have proven inconsistent.
The staff often receives commendation for their attentiveness, though this isn’t universally reported.
Good
6.5
out of 10
356
Reviews
63.2%
Satisfaction
103
negative
28
neutral
225
positive
Bookstore holds an overall score of 6.5, placing it squarely in the average category, indicating a generally acceptable experience. Customer satisfaction stands at 63.2%, suggesting a mixed reception where positive experiences are balanced by areas needing attention.
This assessment is drawn from 356 customer observations, including 225 positive and 103 negative remarks. Delving into specifics, the Ambience (7.6) is a clear strength, frequently highlighted for its unique appeal, and Food (6.9) also performs well, often described as well-executed.
However, Service (5.3) and Value (4.4) show considerable room for improvement, with some reports of inattentive staff and concerns regarding pricing.
What people like
- Unique bookstore ambiance
- Exceptional cocktails
- Well-executed food
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service
- High prices
- Salty/bitter drinks
Bookstore presents an intriguing concept, particularly for those seeking a distinctive setting and quality drinks. If you prioritize a unique atmosphere and well-crafted beverages, it could be a worthwhile visit, offering a pleasant backdrop for a meal or a quiet read.
However, be prepared for potential variability in service and consider the pricing structure. With a recommendation score of 6.7, it’s a place that appeals to many, but might not satisfy all expectations, especially if consistent, prompt service and clear value are your top priorities.
Similar Restaurants in Seattle
- Bar & Pub
9.2
out of 10
out of 10
230
98.3%
- $$
- Wallingford
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Bar & Pub
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
141
95.7%
- $$
- Central Business District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Bar & Pub
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
106
96.2%
- $$
- Washington Park
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Bar & Pub
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
157
98.1%
- $$
- Van Asselt
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Bar & Pub
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
164
98.2%
- $$
- Fremont
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Bar & Pub
9
out of 10
out of 10
183
95.6%
- $$
- Ballard
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Bookstore
Food (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink scene, its a bit of a mixed plate, but generally well-received. With a score of 6.9, the culinary offerings are considered good, though customer satisfaction sits at a 69.1% – a mixed result. Many guests, accounting for 114 positive remarks out of 165 total, frequently highlight the great food, delicious drinks, and wide variety available, often crafted beautifully.
On the flip side, 38 pieces of feedback point to some areas for improvement. Concerns include an uninspired menu with small portions, and occasional issues like salty food or undercooked items. Some diners also found certain menu items unavailable, ' which can be disappointing.
Food
165
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
38
negative
13
neutral
114
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great food
- Delicious drinks
- Wide variety
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Uninspired menu
- Items unavailable
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was marked by superb service and really nice food. While it was a bit on the expensive side, the overall quality of the food and the excellent service made it a worthwhile visit.
- drinksOur experience at this bar, which became our daily visit spot during our stay at the Alexis Royal Sonesta, was excellent. We enjoyed the great happy hour and great drinks. On our last night, we decided to try their food and were pleased with the great well-seasoned French fries and good wings.
- cocktailssome of the best cocktails around
- breakfastbreakfast is well executed and beautifully plated
- carrot cakeLoved that carrot cake. one of the most flavorful carrot cake
- drinkdrink are all the reasons I enjoy your place!
- food optionsLocated inside the hotel, it’s a little far down from the Pike Market location as it’s situated near Symphony Station. The cozy interiors and decent selections for quick whiskey needs and food options contributed to the atmosphere. While the space was a little crowded, I was looking for an outlet, and it wasn’t easy to find one.
- BlantonsBlantons is available
- Caesar salad with salmonMy Caesar salad with salmon was good.
- Cesar saladSalad had plenty of Parmesan. Every bite had some which was great.
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. The service was truly 5-star, but unfortunately, the food was overly salty and slow to arrive. While the service team was exceptional, the culinary aspect of the meal did not meet expectations.
- burgerWhile the hotel itself was great and the drinks were excellent, the food was unfortunately terrible. I was served a watery, raw potato clam chowder and a sad burger 😔.
- chicken fettuccineoverpriced chicken fettuccine ($24) was so small
- drinksTerrible drinks
- menuMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. The menu felt uninspired, and the portions were disappointingly small. Even the drink menu was very basic.
- steakHad the steak but wouldn't order it again because it lacked flavor.
- Aperol spritzboth were EXTREMELY bitter
- Non Alcoholic beerI didn't spend a lot of time here, but the inside was really nice. They had a mocktail menu, but unfortunately, there was no Non Alcoholic beer available.
- Old Fashionedmade the worst old fashioned I have ever had
- Rye'd and Prejudiceboth were EXTREMELY bitter
If youre seeking a spot with generally good food and a fantastic selection of drinks, this place is worth checking out. Just be mindful that some dishes might have smaller portions or occasionally miss the mark. Its a solid choice for libations and some tasty bites, but manage your expectations for every single food item.
Service (5.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 73% of the guests
Based on 94 customer remarks, the service here often shines! Many patrons rave about the friendly staff and attentive bartenders, with 42 positive comments highlighting their helpfulness and great personalities. Youll often find prompt service and knowledgeable team members, especially at the bar, contributing to an overall pleasant experience.
The service score sits at an average 5.3. However, the experience isnt always consistent, with 48 negative remarks indicating some significant issues. Customers frequently mention slow service and having to flag down staff, sometimes feeling ignored or experiencing staff disappearing.
There are also concerns about rude or unhappy staff, leading to a mixed bag of experiences. Customer satisfaction is at a mixed 44.7%.
Service
94
Reviews
44%
Satisfaction
48
negative
4
neutral
42
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Knowledgeable bartenders
- Prompt service
What people don't like
- Slow, inattentive service
- Rude, unhappy staff
- Staff disappearing
Often praised
- serviceThe bartender/waiter was very attentive and friendly, providing great service. Overall, the food was decent, and the service was great, with a not-bad atmosphere. While I probably won't go out of my way to return, the food hits the spot if you're hungry and nearby.
- staffThe staff is helpful, friendly, and timely
- bartenderThe bartender was very helpful, great personality
- serverThe service is exceptional- they are super knowledgeable on wine pairings and menu, they are quick (so you don't miss the next ferry), the food is so delicious, and the atmosphere is great. I love sitting at the bar and chatting with the server- these guys are awesome. Just go already!
- StewartStewart was excellent!
- aesthetic and staffThe aesthetic and staff live up to the billing
- bar staffThe bar staff were friendly and informative
- bartender / waiterThe bartender / waiter was very attentive and friendly
- bartender and evening wait staffBartender and evening wait staff were friendly and attentive
- diligent serviceDiligent service really elevates the experience
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at the restaurant was marked by terrible service. The bartender completely ignored many people waiting and was only actively serving a few.
- bartenderMy experience at the restaurant was marked by terrible service. The bartender completely ignored many people waiting and was only actively serving a few.
- waitermade eye contact with one of the waiters twice before they finally came
- orderMy order was wrong the first time
- serverMy husband and I visited this place for the first time. After ordering drinks, our server seemingly just disappeared. He served our drinks and left us outside for about 20 minutes without checking if we wanted to order an appetizer.
- staffstaff was clearly unhappy
- appetizer menuhad to flag someone down again and ask for a menu
- bartendersHit or miss on the bartenders being able to improvise
- bartending staffcant say the same for the bartending staff
- billThe burger was fine – not amazing, but tasty and cooked to a perfect medium as requested. The service felt a bit disjointed throughout the meal; I had to flag down our server for the bill even though only one other table was seated. I was also surprised they didn't offer dessert or acknowledge the birthday celebration.
If you catch them on a good day, youll likely enjoy friendly, attentive service. However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies, as slow or inattentive staff can sometimes mar the experience. Its a bit of a gamble, so manage your expectations.
Ambience (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 65% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits all the right notes! With a 7.6 score and a strong 82.3% customer satisfaction, its clear most folks find the atmosphere quite good. Many of the 65 positive comments rave about the music and lighting being just right, creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with a unique bookstore atmosphere that guests adore.
However, out of 79 total comments, a handful of 6 negative opinions point to a few minor snags. Some guests encountered broken chairs or an unclear entrance upon arrival. A few felt the vibe' was dampened by unexpected closures or a feeling of being rushed, which can certainly impact the overall dining experience.
Ambience
79
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
6
negative
8
neutral
65
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy, relaxed vibe
- Unique bookstore theme
- Great music & lighting
What people don't like
- Broken seating
- Unclear entrance
- Dampened vibe
Often praised
- atmosphereatmosphere: top notch. quiet, calming music, books everywhere, dark ceilings
- vibeThe vibe and drinks were really good
- ambianceBookstore's ambiance is great.
- barBeautiful bar that looks like a bookstore too
- decorthe decor is unique as it is in the style of a bookstore.
- musicgood music for conversation or reading
- placea fantastic place to read, people watch
- ambienceThe ambience is fun too
- bar bookstoreIt’s a beautiful bar bookstore in a hotel.
- bookstore atmosphereCute bookstore atmosphere, a great place to enjoy my book and have dinner
Frequently criticized
- chairsWe were very excited to try this spot. The server was sweet and quick, but the food was awful and there were TWO chairs broken, one for my party and one for another party. I wouldn't recommend the salmon, as there were bones in it.
- cozy side roomcozy side room full of bookshelves was closed
- dining experiencethat did dampen the vibe of my dining experience. Felt a bit rushed because of that.
- entranceI noticed recent ratings didn't mention this issue, so take that as you will. Upon arrival, there was no obvious entrance from the street. Once inside, we made eye contact with a waiter twice before being told to sit anywhere, which was unclear if it was a 'sit where you want' or 'host seats you' situation.
- photosplease change your photos
- vibeThe food was amazing, and the service was great. I had read articles stating this is a restaurant that welcomes reading while having food and drinks, but I did not feel that vibe at all.
If you're looking for a place with a genuinely good vibe, especially if you appreciate a cozy, relaxed, or bookstore-themed setting, this spot is definitely worth checking out. While there are a few minor quirks like occasional broken seating or entrance confusion, the overall atmosphere is a strong draw for most visitors.
Value (4.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 19% of the guests
When it comes to value, opinions are quite split, leaning towards caution. While the overall score is an average 4.4, and customer satisfaction sits at a rather poor 22.2%, some guests found bright spots. Out of 18 opinions, 4 positive remarks highlighted reasonably priced drafts and a great happy hour, praising the overall pricing and range of options.
However, the 11 negative observations paint a different picture. Many felt the restaurant was on the expensive side, with prices described as steep and pricey. Several unexpected surcharges for things like SMWO, tables, and even eggs, along with concerns about gratuity, left a sour taste for many.
Value
18
Reviews
22%
Satisfaction
11
negative
3
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonably priced drafts
- Great happy hour
What people don't like
- High overall prices
- Unexpected surcharges
- Overpriced menu items
Often praised
- draftsTheir drafts are reasonably priced
- happy hourMy experience at the restaurant was excellent. I enjoyed the excellent menu and the happy hour. The bar is a great place to watch sports.
- pricingThe combination of pricing, range of options, and flavor are all A+
- reasonably pricedTheir drafts are reasonably priced
Frequently criticized
- priceA bit pricey
- pricespay stadium prices
- SMWO surchargethe SMWO surcharge? Just pay your staff a survival wage
- chicken fettuccineoverpriced chicken fettuccine ($24)
- egg surchargea 2% egg surcharge when ordering eggs
- expensive sideA bit on the expensive side
- gratuityConsidering gratuity is included for large groups, expected better service.
- steakfor $27???
- table surchargecharge a 5% table surcharge
If value is a priority, proceed with caution. While reasonably priced drafts and happy hour are highlights, many find overall prices steep due to unexpected surcharges. It's worth it for specific deals, but be prepared for a potentially pricey experience.
How are the prices at Bookstore?
You’re looking at roughly 26 per person – reported by 29 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For a Bar & Pub, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most guests spend in the 11 – 30 $ range, showing prices cluster nicely around this average. There are a few higher-end options too, for those looking to splurge a bit.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 29 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Bar & Pub. It offers a solid mid-range experience without breaking the bank, making it a good option for a casual outing.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Bookstore
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
5
Great Hotel, Terrible Food
My experience at this hotel was a mixed bag. While the hotel itself was great and the drinks were excellent, the food was unfortunately terrible. I was served a watery, raw potato clam chowder and a sad burger 😔.
- hotel8
- drinks8
- food1
- potato clam chowder2
- burger2
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
6
Decent Food, Great Service, Mixed Experience
I finally tried this hotel restaurant after seeing it for years, intrigued by its bookstore setting. The food was decent, and the selection was good. I ordered a Cesar salad and the royal smash burger.
The salad had a generous amount of Parmesan, which was great. However, the timing of the food delivery was off; my burger arrived just as I was starting my salad, which made me feel a bit rushed and dampened the dining vibe. The burger itself was flavorful and tasty, though the bottom became soggy quickly, possibly due to being medium-rare.
The royal fries were tasty and perfectly crispy. The bartender/waiter was very attentive and friendly, providing great service. Overall, the food was decent, and the service was great, with a not-bad atmosphere.
While I probably won't go out of my way to return, the food hits the spot if you're hungry and nearby.
- food6
- selection7
- Cesar salad8
- burger4
- dining experience4
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
6
Good Vibe, Disappointing Food
My experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While the vibe and drinks were really good, the food was not what the menu described. It's important to note that it's not a bookstore, but rather a bar with a book-ish theme.
- vibe8
- drinks8
- bookstore theme6
- food1
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
2
Wish I could visit!
I would love to try this place out, but the only hours I'm able to swing by are when they are closed mid-day. Such a shame, I'd love to give them business.
- hours2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
8
Upbeat Bar with Friendly Service
We stopped in here for a quick drink on a Sunday in August after an underground tour. We chose this place from the map based on our location and direction. We sat at the bar, and the bartender was with us quickly.
While we couldn’t see the dining area, the bar wasn't crowded. The drinks were great, and the bartender was friendly and attentive. The atmosphere was upbeat and lively, partly due to a bridal party dressed as David Bowie, whose outfits were fantastic!
We didn’t eat, so we can’t comment on the food, but the menu looked good. Drink prices were comparable to other similar places. We walked from our hotel, so we’re unsure about parking, but there is some street parking.
- bartender9
- drinks8
- atmosphere8
What Bookstore offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Dancing
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Seating
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Onsite services
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Bookstore?
At Bookstore, you’ll find a delightful blend of casual, cozy, trendy, and even romantic atmospheres. It’s an upscale bar & pub where you can relax, enjoy happy hour drinks, and savor delicious food. The setting is perfect for various occasions, from a relaxed evening to a more intimate gathering.
Does Bookstore offer accessibility options and what are its service features?
Yes, Bookstore is fully accessible with wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms, ensuring comfort for all guests. You can choose from outdoor seating, dine-in, or takeout options. They also accept reservations, making it easy to plan your visit.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Bookstore?
Bookstore has an overall score of **6.5** out of 10, indicating an average dining experience. Customer satisfaction is at **63.2%**, suggesting a mixed but generally acceptable reception from guests.
What are the standout features at Bookstore?
Customers frequently praise the unique **Ambience** (7.6), often described as a beautiful bar bookstore, and the quality of the **Food** (6.9), including well-executed dishes and some of the best cocktails around.
Are there any common criticisms about Bookstore?
Some guests have noted issues with **Service** (5.3), describing it as inconsistent or inattentive, and concerns regarding **Value** (4.4), with mentions of high prices and specific food items being overly salty or drinks being bitter.