Big Mario's Northlake Tavern

I moved to the burbs years ago but the pizza and beer are as good as ever. Sell by the slice or whole pies, salads. Friendly staff great bartender. Chill vibe 80s 90s music for lunch crowd. Good wifi. If I didn't have to rush back to Fred Hutch I would stay here all day. A+

Order a Sicilian style pizza and was given this abomination, how do you look at the pizza and decide to serve and charge what is clearly not a Sicilian pizza? Sicilian pizza and I’ve had it before at Mario’s is a fluffy delicious pizza. What I got was a doughy, thick and unrisen pizza.

In the words of the staff member working during my visit, "this restaurant has exactly zero Michelin stars," but I give it 5 stars for exactly that reason, and for providing a much needed service of offering grubbing pizza, good drinks and beer, clean, comfortable tables, and a killer vibe. I happened to be having a working lunch so I camped out a while. On the music system, loud enough to enjoy but not overwhelm the space, jam after jam after jam as if lovingly curated...who knew Willy Nelson did a sort of reggae album? Great servers with attentive and fun interactions. Did I mention the pizza was damn-good!

**TL;DR:** Big Mario's Pizza (Northlake Tavern) serves some of the best pizza with super crispy crust and excellent toppings, though our phone ordering experience was marred by a mix-up that led to an unexpectedly high bill. Give them a chance for their fantastic pizza, but beware of possible ordering mishaps. **Full Review:** Big Mario's Pizza, also known as Northlake Tavern, offers a pizza experience that truly stands out. The moment our order arrived, it was clear we were in for something special—the pizza was steaming hot, with a wonderfully crispy crust that remained crisp even after a half-hour drive home. This level of quality and attention to detail in pizza-making is rare and truly commendable. We opted for their meat lover/supreme equivalent, which boasted an excellent assortment of proteins that satisfied our craving for a hearty and flavorful pizza. Each bite was a delight, with the flavors of the toppings complementing the crispy crust perfectly. However, our experience with ordering over the phone left much to be desired. The employee we spoke to seemed less than agreeable and courteous, which was disappointing. More troubling was the unexpected bill—we were charged nearly $80 for our pizza, an amount far higher than expected. Whether this was due to a misunderstanding, a glitch in the system, or a one-off occurrence, it was unsettling. Despite this hiccup, I hesitate to let it overshadow the exceptional quality of the pizza itself. Sometimes mishaps occur, and everyone has an off day. I hope others have a smoother ordering experience and can fully enjoy the fantastic pizza that Big Mario's Pizza offers. Big Mario's Pizza (Northlake Tavern) deserves recognition for its outstanding pizza quality and crispy crust that withstands the test of time. While our ordering mishap was unfortunate, I encourage pizza lovers to give them a try, perhaps dining in to avoid any potential ordering issues. When they're on point, their pizza is truly some of the best you'll find. --- You can find me on Insta: @imdanielyoon

A great option for Pizza, Salads, drinks and atmosphere on the Northlake waterfront. Casual dining with food ordered up front, drinks at the bar, and open seating in the comfortable booths and tables. Kids welcome until 9pm.

GREAT OLD SCHOOL FEELING PIZZA PLACE . FRIENDLY SERVICE AND BARTENDER . ALWAYS LOVE THERE PIZZA IN ALL THEIR SEATTLE LOCATIONS . COOL BOOTH AND BAR SEATTLE . LOOK FOR THEIR ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

Great place for some pie but they don't have the t-shirts that they have on the wall and I don't know why they do such a thing. Very disappointed. I'm from out of town and a friend wanted one of the shirts that they said they did not have in stock and I'm like when will they and they're like we don't know.

Was sad that the old Northlake Pizza is gone, but the new place maintains some of the old vibe. The combo pizza is very different from the original, but was still great. Service was great, as was the beer selection.If you are an old timer, the upstairs room with the old artwork is a required pilgrimage. Awesome happy hour prices on drafts. Will be back!

So happy to have Big Mario's here! First, I have to say I am surprised to see people saying they missed the pizza from Northlake Tavern... those old frozen pie crusts made me so sad! I was thrilled to see big Mario's taking over here with some real and fresh dough and true NY style pizzas. As a born and raised New Yorker, true NY pizza is hard to find out here! They do a great job, with a nice thin crispy crust and appropriate amount of toppings. You can't go wrong with a classic pepperoni, but they do have a lot to choose from and it's all good. This place is also so much more fun than Northlake! There is trivia, drag, dancing... nothing like the old sleepy location. If you don't want to sit down for a slice, you can always grab one from their to-go window for a quick dinner. The only thing that could make them better is if they made some NY style wings to go with these NY style slices

this location has inconsistent hours. also, the pizza guy told me that he would give me a slice on the house but the bartender wouldnt honor it. the pizza is alright when cooked correctly, but ive been served burned pizza here more than once. likely wont be back, and will likely go to Supreme pizza on the Ave instead.

10/13/23 - I will say this is one of the more bizarre food experiences I've had but I'll still give it 3 stars for the overall review. I called and ordered the Logger Silician (https://www.instagram.com/p/CyEbzBRMGk3/) as a part of The Stranger's pizza week. I was told it would be about a 45 minute which was no issue. I showed up about 1 hour later, paid for my pie and left. I noticed that when I got back to the car, the pizza was completely wrong. I went back in and they confirmed that I was given a regular (new york style) Macho Man. The employees stated that they had two orders for Max - mine and one via doordash (where the person ordered the macho man) and accidentally mixed them up. They also said they were out of the dough for sicilian style and forgot to tell me on the phone. I was told I could keep the macho man free and that they'd remake me a Logger (new york style) - free of charge. After waiting 15 minutes, I was asked to give back the macho man pie, since apparently the doordash driver was coming back to pick it up. Kind of odd to ask for it back I thought, but I did return it and the employee gave me a free pepperoni pizza instead. After another 10-15 minutes I had my Logger. I went home and tried both pizzas - the Logger was very good and the pepperoni was dry - not sure if it was because it had been sitting out above their oven for awhile, but I still appreciate the gesture from them. Overall I'd probably pass on eating here again but we'll see. I think the communication and order accuracy needs to improve first. Cool location though.

Big Mario's is off to a strong start since they just opened. We ordered two 14" pizzas, and trust me, they're generous in size. Between the Coppa Cabana and Midnight Rambler pizzas, the Rambler stood out with its gorgonzola flavor. The caesar salad was good, especially with the ample dressing. They've got dine-in, take-out, and even a bar. Our server was friendly, though he seemed a bit swamped. Parking's available, and while it can get loud, the vibe is fun.

Went in at 4:45 and waited 15 minutes for a wait person to drop a sign on our table stating "order at counter after 5PM"; pretty weak, they were far from crowded, just utterly unenthused. The place looks basically the same as before, less the Horsey artwork. Pizzas are thin and floppy. I rolled slices into hot-pocket burritos. I can't think of any other pizza where this would work. It's pizza shaped food. They have beer. Plenty of seating.

i took my nephew to Big Mario's to see how the Northlake Tav replacement was doing as reviews have been mixed. We had been to the Tav 2 days before it closed (8 hour wait.) We had the Harlem Classic Sicillian-style square pizza. We both thought it was excellent! I strongly recommend it. I also suggest you go as early as possible. We arrived about 5:30, parked right in front and there were just a couple people already there. I thought the music was great (60s and 70s) and it wasn't too loud as some of the complaints I read. It did get louder later but nowhere near as loud as the Northlake Tav was. The guy behind the bar described as a gray-bearded guy was also criticized in reviews was nice to us. His name is Nathan. Go enjoy a pizza!

Delicious pizza, reasonably priced pitchers, and good music. We had a fantastic time. ++Kid-friendly before 9 PM. Our toddler had a blast.

Disappointed sums it up. Should have been expected after the high mark that The Northlake Tavern set. The pies are nothing like they used to be (not surprised) and the Horsey cartoons and most UW sports decor are seemingly gone. Pizza was ok but nothing special. The service was good. Bartender gladly helped us swap out the empty napkin and parmesan containers when asked. Much like many classic Seattle joints, this one has been "cleansed" of its charm and what it was known for. Don't need to go back.

Pepperoni pizza was super yummy!!! It was humongous and the staff was friendly. Sad to learn they are closing this location down very soon :(

I started coming to Northlake Tavern in 1988, we stopped in after a Mariner afternoon game. Staff was friendly and very efficient. We had half pepperoni & half Macho Man. Thin & flimsy hard to handle without toppings sliding off asked & received silverware which made it easier to eat. My 2nd slice I got a mouth full of flour that just kind of ruined it for me. Sadly after 36 years of great pizza & fun destination we won't be back.

Was looking for something quick and easy for dinner that was close by. Was greeted by welcoming staff and ordered right on the spot. They weren't busy so my pizza was ready for pick up in 10mins.

It was very sad to see Northlake go. I was very happy to hear Bog Mario's was keeping the name & even happier to see they kept a few of the Northlake Classics. I ordered the Northlake Combo. It now come Sicilian style or by the slice...GIMME THE WHOLE PIE! Pros-The crust & cheese are delicious! Cons-though the toppings are good quality there just needs to be more of it! Also, needs more sauce. I was surprised by the sparse toppings. Northlake is known for piling those topping high! A pile of mushrooms & olives over sausage & spicy thick cut pepperoni. Please keep dialing it in. If you need to charge more (+$3-7) to make it happen do it. We will pay. Side note: I love that they have slices & that the lobby is updated & that they kept some of the old Northlake charm. Rooting for you!

Big Mario's has spray painted advertising ON the Burke Gilman bicycle trail in 5 - 6 locations just to the north of their Northlake restaurant. The BGT is a city park, and it's not OK to spray paint on it. Come on...you're better than that.

Brooke the server was engaging friendly and and a joy to be around. I hope management reads these reviews and commend her for a job well done. I will return

Hi there! My husband and I brought our two kids and one of their friends to Big Mario's last night (7/5//24) and were very excited about our evening together. Once we got seated, we were informed to order at the bar. Right after we ordered around 5:30, we were informed by the kind bartenders that a manager had accepted an order for 30 pizzas to be picked up at 6:30, and didn't alert anybody working that night, additionally it looked as if there was only one person in the kitchen making pizzas! There was also about 10 other tables that were seated that had the same issues as us. We wanted over 90 minutes for our two pizzas. Graciously, Joey and Brooke took care of everyone in the restaurant, comped many of the other guests pizzas (and including ours) due to the inconvenience. Later into their shift they learned that their manager, Don, had left the shift early to go to a festival at The Gorge. Now, I am not sure what manager reads these reviews, but if it's not Don, I do hope they receive a talking to or some discipline, because to have your restaurant be left in pieces as such, it is truly, unprofessional. Never the matter, we will be back again to eat pizza and see the shining stars behind the bar! Thanks to Brooke for being such an accommodating bartender, and to Joey for complimenting our transgender's daughter outfit--it really made her (and our) night!

Pizza's great and usually have a great atmosphere, but tonight was off with the Grey bearded bartender/ employee as I ordered a couple pizzas off the specials board, and he kept getting more confused and more hostile as if he didn't understand what I was talking about, which is clearly stated on the board on the wall and overcharge us. Luckily, the manager I believe (amazingly in shorts and crop top) listened, acknowledged, and made sure we got the correct bill.

First time in 30 years I walked into this establishment and not a soul was inside. I guess I shouldn't even compare it to Northlake Tavern Pizza. Although I spent $37 for the "Northlake Combo", it wasn't a third of what you used to get for $45. Add in the $7.50 tap Manny's Pale Ales, and the $11 salad greens thrown in a bowl with some olives and feta cheese that was called a "Greek" salad for the complete disappointment. Never mind that I got a contact high from Jamil and the gal that were supposed to be working there that were out in front of Voula's smoking pot when I parked so much that I was overwhelmed when I got out of my car 50 feet away from them. Then Jamil proceeded to be loud and obnoxious in his state of inebriation talking about how he was going to give his coworkers a knuckle sandwich when they finally got to work 15 minutes late for their shift. (I did let them know privately what he was saying about them in front of the whole restaurant.) I have to say my wife was uncomfortable when presented with the "All Gender" restroom sign and she had to use the bathroom next to 3 urinals. No wonder the place was empty.

Good pizza! Did trivia there, and had some awesome large pizzas! Lots of the flavors sounded great

Very local atmosphere and extremely relaxed environment. I had the Queens Special pizza. It was awesome and came out really quick. The staff was very friendly and courteous I heard them graciously helping another customer with an issue. They offer a small variety of local craft beers which is also expected but nice!

The pizza is good good! I have been on the hunt for good pizza in Seattle, its been very disappointing. Until here my favorite has been supreme pizza. Their speciality pizzas are really good too, i've had the tomato basil and pesto potato. On top of that they have amazing weekly specials, check their insta gram. The first time i went was for a bday, the upstairs area is super cool! Had. Bunch of people coming and going , was the perfect vibe. On top of it all the first time I went I immediately broke two glasses before I even filled them with beer haha The bartender was super cool.

Pizza was good but the service is what inspired the low star review. Walked in over an hour before closing and ordered a few salads and a pizza. Pizza did not come out for almost 45 minutes (leaving us little time to eat) and our server was extremely rude. Disappointing experience :(

Came in for a couple slices and had a terrible experience with the young lady server and a grey-bearded server. Both had petty attitudes towards not leaving a sufficient tip. When the grey-bearded server handed us our slices, they said "Happy New Year" in a sarcastic tone. Thanks for making us feel welcomed

Yeah, not what it used to be. The guy helping us was cool but we had to scrounge to find menus for ourselves. The pizza was bad -- super thin crust that was burnt on the bottom. Toppings were the thinnest slices of pineapple and ham you'll ever see. Way overpriced $31 dollar pizza and a tiny $12 pre-maid mini-mart Caesar salad. Now we know.

The pizza was not what it used to be. Please bring back the old zah. Staff is friendly and accommodating. I just miss the spicy pepperoni and piles of macerated olives and mushrooms. Make a NY slice. Go ahead. But also have Northlake Tavern Pizza.

Love the food, atmosphere, and most of the staff. But Nathan has got to go (Nathan is the grey bearded guy from the other reviews that you see here). He was so aggressive and unfriendly, especially towards my boyfriend. As I was closing out he told me to smile and not look so serious. I told him that was a rude thing to say because he didn't know me. He got passive aggressive and told me to cheer up. I was having a really great night watching RPDR, and he ruined the vibe.

Hella good pizza! Always a fun time when I go there. Glad that they have fresh ingredients and make their own pizza dough! This place is for sure one of my new favorite hangouts! Bring friends cuz the pizzas are HuGE! Also my favorite thing is that they have house made cocktails ON DRAFT! How cool is that?! Much love Mario's gang. See you all soon!

Horrible service. Ordered online and they accepted the order and then they canceled the order 15 min later with no explanation. When I called they said they were really busy so they canceled my order that they had accepted. Never going here again. Very unprofessional. Avoid

Great Pizza, as someone who has never been to New York, this pizza was one of the best New York-style pizzas I have had. The employees were very nice and provided great service. I really enjoyed the atmosphere, Big Mario's has absorbed the previous establishment pretty successfully as the vibe is that the spot has been around for years.

Came for Monday night football, food and drink tonight. Rude female working the bar. The music is overbearing and the restaurant is freezing. Couldn't hear the game. The pizza was not good, ordered the Maui. Couldn't taste anything but bread. We are so sad, last owner was amazing and was the best pizza we ever had. We will not be back.

Horrible staff. Love going to the cap hill location, decided to stop by here with some friends to try it out. We ordered 3 beers and a slice each and sat down, after about 20 minutes we had all finished our beer and hadn't gotten our slices yet so I asked a bearded guy behind the bar if he knew where our slices were. He immediately got angry and snapped "I don't know I'm not your bartender" then after we explained how long we've been waiting and how 3 other people that came after us already got their pizza he said "ok I'll check" then immediately came back with our slices muttering "oh we got a tip and these got lost in the back" or something nonsensical like that and plopped the paper plates down. completely ruined our opinion of big Mario's. Not sure what the dude with the white beard's name was but he clearly hates his job there..

Tried to order a 1/2 greek salad for lunch. Server said that was not an option, Asked if I could substitute Feta for Jalapeno's, Server said that was not an option, would need a side for that. What? Went to watch the Seahawk game on their TV, no volume, rather listened to loud rock music. A bit disappointed. There were five of us, the only five in the bottom building. We were all disappointed.

Anytime in the Seattle area we made a point to go to the NorthLake Tavern for pizza. First time there in the 70s. Would make it there twice a year. We were disappointed NorthLake was changing hands but understood why it was sold, due to the owners health issues. We waited patiently for it to reopen. Sadly very disappointed when we visited last night. The service was mediocre and the pizzas weren't the New York style we've had for many years, they are Just another pizza. We also had a favorite server who had been there over 25 years. She is no longer there, Big Mario's changed completely. With the disappointment of service and pizza this is no longer a place we will bother to visit when we are in Seattle.

Horrible customer service, incredibly rude and condescending staff. I called to inquire about one of the menu items yesterday and the person who I spoke to was borderline hostile on the phone. If you can't even treat people decently when they ask a simple question, why would I ever patronize your establishment? The Northlake might have been run down, but at least the people who worked there weren't total jerks...