Ultimate Drinkers Guide to Renton
Much could be said about Renton. It’s not quite the eastside, it’s nothing like Seattle; and it doesn’t have much in common with Kent and further south. It seems to be the forgotten city in the Seattle area. But I am here to tell you that there is a wonderful beer drinking scene that is emerging in this underrated city and I am here to help you.
To make things easier, I’ve created 4 categories of drinking. We have Craft Beer, Dive Bars, Specialty Bars, and Date Night. I do this cause everyone has a different idea how they want to drink, people who frequent dive bars and want a cheap Coors want nothing to do with a craft beer bar… and that’s just life.
First we start with.
Craft Beer Bars
Brewmasters Taproom – The jewel of craft beer in Renton. The beer drinking community is becoming quite smitten with this bar as it features 24 rotating taps, a wide variety of bottles and cans, and a fun atmosphere. Owner Marley has built a family of friends among her regulars. Highly recommended if you are a craft beer lover.
Four Generals Brewing – The only brewery in Renton, and known to put out some outstanding lagers and lighter beers. The Brewing Network recently did a piece on this brewery – as they continue to get more love in the brewery community. Located in the old city hall, ask nicely and you might be able to visit the old jail cell. A good stop.
Local 907 – Craft beer bar and restaurant, this establishment offers traditional bar food plus a good size craft beer list. A good place to stop before a night of drinking to get a good burger and a few beers. They also have darts, pool and buck hunter for those who like to be entertained.
The Brick Pub and Grill – The unsung hero of the highlands, the Brick boasts a great menu with a solid selection of craft beer. This is a great spot for those who are looking for something off the beaten path of downtown Renton.
Hop Garden – (Formally Dog and Pony Alehouse) Famously known for being on Restaurant: Impossible, the DnP is a local hangout Boeing employees. Boasting a wide variety of local craft beers and a menu that features my favorite fish and chips in Renton, a good spot in the North Renton neighborhood.
Whistle Stop – Advertised as a “Your neighborhood family pub”, the Whistle Stop has a great food menu and a quality craft beer selection. They always have a cask beer on tap to keep things interesting. Whistle Stop often has brewers nights also for those looking to try to breweries from around the northwest.
Trenchers – Originally the site of World of Beer, Trenchers as undergone a lot of change in the past years. While they have pulled back on the craft beer and have focused more on their food menu, you can still find quality beer and slightly higher than average prices.
Next we have the beautiful dive bars that dot Renton. And we have plenty of them here.
Dive Bars
Pickled Onion – A classic British dive bar located in the Renton Highlands. Situated next to the DMV, this dive bar is a perfect place to grab a quick pint while waiting for your drivers licence. You can also grab a decent meal that includes some traditional British menu items, this dive bar is a great spot.
Doofers – Ask any former Hazen or Liberty student who still lives in the area what the best dive bar is and you’ll probably hear the word Doofers leave their mouth. Once a grimy dimly lit dive bar, they now have a very good TV selection and plenty of cheap beer to go around. Located as far east as something can in Renton a very cool place to some pub grub and Coors lite.
Dino’s Pub – Its hard to image that this place is technically Renton because it is surrounding by the city of Newcastle. This dive bar is right off 405 near the V-Mac, so for those who want to check out the Seahawks training facility and then have a giant burger with a cheap beer, this is a must stop.
Burnett’s – Best wings in Renton. Regardless where you are, drive to Downtown Renton and get these wings. I highly recommend the Crispy Butter wings or the Fish sauce.
Uncle Mo’s Snappy Inn – In my mind the best Karaoke bar in Renton. Just a short walk away from Burnett’s, Uncle Mo’s has free popcorn, cheap drinks and good bar food. Plus it’s called Uncle Mo’s Snappy Inn. Best bar name ever.
Hanger 205 – Some of the best bar food I’ve had in Renton. And they’re open for breakfast so if you’re craving some breakfast food and a cheap beer, look no further. Right next to the Renton Airport. Occasionally you can find some really solid beers here too.
Other Great Dive Bars:
Williams Ave Pub
Cheers
Tap Out Bar and Grill
Katie J’s
The Spot
R Bar
Apogee
The Classic