Swamp Cow Kava Lounge
Swamp Cow Kava Lounge bills itself as the one and only late night alcohol free lounge in Seattle. Tucked into Denny Way just two blocks from Climate Pledge Arena and the Space Needle it offers a laid back place to hang out and connect without the booze. For musicians and performers it is one of the city's most welcoming sober stages with a popular Thursday open mic and a room built for live performance.
The Story Behind the Swamp
Swamp Cow was founded by locals with roots in Florida's thriving sober nightlife scene where kava bars are a way of life. They wanted to bring that same experience to the Pacific Northwest and create a true third space for health conscious and community minded people. Their tongue in cheek motto sums up the attitude well. Alcohol is so 2019. Reviewers often call it Seattle's first real kava bar and praise the owners and staff for making every guest feel welcome.
The Vibe
The lounge is swanky and ambient with comfortable seating and a relaxed casual feel. There are books and games on hand along with free WiFi so it works as well for a quiet evening as it does for a night out. The space has a stage and a professional audio and video system which makes it a real performance room rather than a corner of a cafe. Swamp Cow welcomes everyone from all walks of life. It is all ages with purchases limited to guests 18 and over and leashed dogs are welcome too. You can even bring your own food.
What They Serve
Kava is the star of the menu. The drink is made from the root of a Pacific Island plant and it has been enjoyed for centuries as a social and relaxing beverage. Swamp Cow also serves other adaptogenic drinks such as blue lotus and kanna along with familiar favorites like kombucha and non-alcoholic beer and coffee. The shelves carry a curated collection of premium brands and everyday picks for every taste.
Thursday Open Mic
Every Thursday from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM the lounge hosts Open Mic at The Swamp. Sign-ups start at 6:30 PM and the list fills up fast so come early. Sets run about 10 minutes or two songs. The night is a showcase for performers of every skill level and newcomers are especially welcome. Singers and songwriters and instrumentalists and spoken word artists all share the stage. Local musician Kerry Courtney has hosted the open mic. The open mic is 18 and over.
Why Musicians Like It
An alcohol free room changes the energy of an open mic. The crowd is there to listen and support and the sound system is better than most. It is a great fit for sober and sober curious performers and for anyone who wants to play for an attentive audience in a relaxed setting. The location near Seattle Center also makes it easy to reach from all over the city.
More Events
Wednesday is Trivia Night from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM hosted by 206 Trivia. Come alone or with a group and no experience is needed. Friday brings Last Bula from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM which is a relaxed hang where regulars play games like Super Smash Bros or read or catch up with friends. The lounge also hosts live music and performances and has welcomed dance groups and art collectives and EP release parties.
Private Events
Swamp Cow is available to rent for private events during off hours. It makes a unique spot for a sober party or a showcase or a creative gathering.
Good to Know
Swamp Cow Kava Lounge is located at 159 Denny Way Suite 105 in Seattle WA 98109 near Seattle Center and Olympic Sculpture Park. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM and it is closed Monday and Tuesday. Call (206) 845-3758 or email Hello@SwampCowKavaLounge.com or visit swampcowkavalounge.com for the latest events. Schedules can change so confirm with the venue or host before heading out.
