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Seattle, Washington / History

Jules Maes Saloon

Claiming the title of Seattle's oldest bar, this historic Georgetown landmark occupies a Seattle Historic Site building known as The Brick Store.

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Jules Maes Saloon
Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0

What is Jules Maes Saloon known for?

It is described by its own site, the Georgetown neighborhood directory, and other accounts as the oldest bar in Seattle. It is located in a Seattle Historic Site known as "The Brick Store."

What kind of food and drinks do they serve?

The saloon serves comfort food with a bistro flair, offering lunch, dinner, desserts, and a late-night menu. Their drink menu emphasizes freshly squeezed options, such as mimosas and screwdrivers.

What are the hours for breakfast and happy hour?

Happy hour is held daily from 3–6 pm. Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays until 1 pm.

Does the venue host any events?

Yes, the saloon hosts regular events including live music, trivia, comedy night, and open mic night.

Where is it located?

Jules Maes Saloon is located at 5919 Airport Way South, Seattle, WA 98108, at the corner of Nebraska in the Georgetown neighborhood.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Jules Maes Saloon is widely recognized as the oldest bar in Seattle, having opened its doors in 1888 in the city's Georgetown neighborhood. The establishment occupies the iconic Brick Store building at 5919 Airport Way, situated at the corner of Nebraska, which is officially listed as a Seattle Historic Site. The saloon is named after Jules Maes, a man known as "The Mayor of Georgetown" for his dedication to community service, hard work, and caring for others. The venue has seen various owners over the century; for instance, John and Vanessa LeMaster owned the bar from 2005 until it closed during the coronavirus pandemic. It was subsequently reopened in January 2021 by Raché Hemmelgarn, whose own personal connection to the venue is highlighted by the fact that her first date with her husband took place here. Beyond its historical significance, the saloon serves as a community hub for the neighborhood. It offers comfort food with a bistro flair, featuring a menu that includes lunch, dinner, desserts, and a late-night menu. Their drink menu emphasizes freshly squeezed beverages, such as mimosas and screwdrivers. The venue also hosts regular events like live music, open mic night, comedy night, and trivia, ensuring that music has returned to Georgetown. Interestingly, the building's history is layered with local color. While it now serves as a welcoming bistro and bar, the back room of the Brick Store was once used as a bookie joint, adding a gritty edge to its long-standing presence in the neighborhood.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during daily happy hour from 3 to 6 pm for the best value on drinks.
  • If you are visiting on a weekend, try the breakfast menu available on Saturdays and Sundays until 1 pm.
  • Check their event schedule for live music, comedy night, or trivia to experience the the venue's community atmosphere.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Georgetown, Jules Maes Saloon anchors the corner of Airport Way and Nebraska, serving as a historic anchor for the neighborhood's industrial-chic vibe.

Sources

Evidence and links