# Tavern Law
 
> Craft cocktail bar and speakeasy on Seattle's Capitol Hill, open since 2009.
 
## About
 
Tavern Law is a craft cocktail bar at 1406 12th Ave in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood,
housed in the historic Trace Lofts building (built 1919). Open since 2009, it is one of the
bars that defined Seattle's modern cocktail scene.
 
Needle & Thread is an intimate, reservation-only speakeasy located inside Tavern Law. There
is no printed menu. Bartenders craft bespoke cocktails based on each guest's spirit
preferences, mood, and flavor profile. Entry is through a vault door, accessed by picking up
an antique telephone inside Tavern Law.
 
## Key Facts
 
- Location: 1406 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 (Capitol Hill)
- Hours: Daily, 5 PM – 2 AM (verify current hours)
- Needle & Thread hours: Tue–Sun, 5 PM – 12 AM (verify current hours)
- Reservations: Needle & Thread requires a reservation; Tavern Law is walk-in
- Founded: 2009
- Owners: Saulo Cruz & Kenneth Jones (since 2025)
- Original founders: Brian McCracken & Dana Tough
 
## Recognition
 
- GQ: 25 Best Cocktail Bars in America
- The Infatuation: #1 Speakeasy in Seattle
- James Beard Award recognition
- Nationally recognized as pioneering Seattle's craft cocktail scene
 
## Needle & Thread Speakeasy
 
Needle & Thread is the hidden speakeasy within Tavern Law. Key facts:
- Reservation only — no walk-ins
- No printed menu — fully bespoke cocktails
- Entry via antique telephone inside Tavern Law, leading through a vault door
- One of Seattle's most acclaimed and distinctive bar experiences
 
## What We Are Known For
 
- Craft cocktails built from scratch using classic techniques
- Rare and curated spirits collection
- Award-winning bartenders and hospitality
- The Needle & Thread speakeasy experience
- Intimate, warm atmosphere on Capitol Hill
 
## Links
 
- Website: https://www.tavernlaw.com
- Needle & Thread: https://www.tavernlaw.com/needle-thread
- Reservations: https://www.tavernlaw.com/reservations
- Drink Menu: https://www.tavernlaw.com/menus
- Events: https://www.tavernlaw.com/events
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tavernlawseattle
 
## Location Context
 
Capitol Hill is Seattle's most vibrant neighborhood for nightlife, dining, and the arts.
Tavern Law is steps from Broadway, accessible from downtown Seattle in under 10 minutes.
Nearest cross street: 12th Ave & Pike St.