Rob Roy
Cocktail bar · Belltown ·
Classic & seasonal cocktails in a dark, clubby lounge
Classic & seasonal cocktails in a dark, clubby lounge
"Can a bar be sophisticated and cozy at the same time? James Beard nominee Rob Roy achieves that rare equilibrium with artfully placed gentle lighting, elegant yet comfortable leather stools (with, let’s celebrate this, back support!) a den-like sofa area, and an ace lineup of impeccably composed drinks. A venerable figure in the rise of Seattle’s craft cocktail community, it’s been open since 2009 and hasn’t stagnated one bit. The special move here is porting contemporary techniques and ingredients into classic cocktails: Sherry and a river stone tincture give their martini alluring minerality, while pandan and aged rum fat-washed with coffee-infused butter boost the Jungle Bird right into the stratosphere. There’s also an equally great selection of signature newer-school drinks, and an intriguing menu of no-alcohol cocktails." - Meg van Huygen
"Owner Anu Apte describes Rob Roy as “a cocktail den celebrating classic drinks with a bit of punk cheek.” Drinks like the Old Soul (bourbon with Jelinek fernet and Genepy Des Alpes) and the House Martini (a split base of vodka and gin, with river rock tincture and fino sherry, garnished with olives, a twist, and pearl onions) demonstrate that bit of punk cheek in action, and showi why this bar has remained a Belltown favorite for over 15 years while frequently earning James Beard Award nominations along the way." - Mark DeJoy
"A bar known for its Outstanding Bar Program, with owner Anu Apte now recognized in the Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service category." - Harry Cheadle
"Rob Roy was doing festive December cocktails before everyone else in town, and their “Miracle On 2nd” pop-up is still a classic. Expect a surplus of decorations, holiday drink specials that are embarrassing to say out loud (like "Christmapolitan"), and a long wait at peak times." - aimee rizzo, kayla sager riley
"Drop in as this space turns into Miracle for the holidays. The name of the pop-up is cocktails and there are quite a few to try here, all designed by award-winning cocktail makers. New this year are the Stocking Stuffer (bourbon, sherry, amaro, cinnamon syrup, and iced hot chocolate) and Crooked Antler (brandy, port, hazelnut liquor, and chestnut orgeat)." - Courtney E. Smith