Capitol Hill

Hipster doesn’t describe the diverse demographic of this scene-stealing sector. The Hill hosts the most musicians (aspiring or acknowledged) and music enthusiasts per capita with the coffeehouses, watering holes, and rock venues that serve as their lairs.

EXPLORE ANOTHER NEIGHBORHOOD:

Redwood

514 E Howell St 206-329-1952

Owned by Mat Brooke of the local group Grand Archives, Redwood could be Cap Hill’s best-kept secret if it weren’t such a great bar. Nestle in a booth among the rustic interior and watch the fascinating folks trickle in.

Osteria la Spiga

1429 12th Ave 206-323-8881

Never thought you’d turn down pasta. But with so many delicious options, you may find yourself passing over your favorite plate at this sophisticated city osteria dedicated to Emilia-Romagna foods.

Photo: Courtesy of Osteria La Spiga

Smith

332 15th Ave E 206-709-1900

Like a Gothic gentleman’s club — old oil paintings and taxidermy line the walls — this pub would give you the heebie-jeebies if it weren’t so damn lively. Stewed lamb shoulder and grilled sardines might make it your haunt.

Photo: Courtesy of Smith

Neumos

925 E Pike St 206-709-9467

Capitol Hill’s hipster epicenter, Neumos caters to all types of music lovers and cocktail imbibers. It’s a great, somewhat intimate venue to hear a beloved band, so long as you don’t mind getting beer sloshed on your shoes.

Photo: Courtesy of Neumos

Chop Suey

1325 E Madison St 206-324-8005

Get an earful of miscellaneous musical genres — including hip-hop, electronic, rock, rap, or world — at this eclectic, Asian-inspired venue that’s both a neighborhood and artist favorite.