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Fun for Adults in Downtown Issaquah
Part 2: Nightlife
By Krysten Carrera
For a quaint little village at the edge of the mountains, Issaquah’s nightlife options are surprisingly good. From cover bands, to karaoke, to trivia, and more, it’s clear that we like to enjoy ourselves.
Last month, we looked at the Happy Hours our community offers. Now, let’s continue the Fun for Adults in Downtown Issaquah series by taking a deep dive into our myriad after-dark possibilities.
I should start with Vino Bella. Live music is a huge part of Downtown Issaquah’s nightlife offerings, and in that area, this mainstay delivers. It’s hard to walk down Front Street on Friday or Saturday without bopping your head to that night’s band. I recommend the espresso martini as you listen inside.
“I’ve had the privilege of owning and managing Vino Bella for nearly 17 years,” said Claude Blumenzweig. “All I really want is to show people a great time! Along with live music, we offer a full bar, food, and comedy nights the third Wednesday of every month. It’s a place where people meet people.”
On Fridays, if the dance floor at Vino is too packed, you could check out the weekly live music at Rollin’ Log Tavern. But my personal favorite nights at “The Log” are Wednesdays and Saturdays for the stellar karaoke. Michelle Cubing is the extremely talented host who kicks off the party with a song of her own before opening the queue to anyone who wants to try their luck.
“I love the crowd at the Rollin' Log; people come out to have a good time, and they're so responsive and engaged,” she said. “We do have some really talented singers who get up on the stage, but the most important thing to me is that everyone has a good time. Even if someone isn't a great singer, when they have fun, we all have fun.”
An enjoyable night out here is not limited to residents. Downtown Issaquah remains a sought-after destination for people living all over the Eastside, who pursue everything from plays and musicals at the well-regarded Village Theatre, to relaxing hangouts at one of our divier spots.
“My husband and I love spending time at the H&H Saloon,” said Ian Clanton-Thuon, who lives in Bellevue. “It’s just a chill, laid-back place where you can pick your favorite songs on the jukebox and catch up with friends. Plus, it’s open until 2am on weekends.”
Other great places to unwind after the sun’s gone down include Capri Cellars, Big Picture lounge and theater, and the Issaquah Eagles Club (which requires a membership). Stan’s Bar-B-Q has trivia on Wednesday evenings and monthly comedy acts, and Sunset Alehouse does a monthly craft beer Brewer’s Night. Fifty5 Sunset Coffee and Spirits offers live music every Thursday, plus “Drink ’n’ Draw” events the first Monday and Wednesday of the month. And don’t miss the periodic Downtown Issaquah Association-sponsored Wine Walk where you can taste wine at Downtown businesses.
Finally, if all these nighttime pursuits are making you hungry, you can find late-night food options at Krawbar, the aforementioned Rollin' Log, and the recently opened Maharaja Cuisine of India. The latter is open until an impressive 11pm on weekdays and 12am – yes, that’s MIDNIGHT – on Fridays and Saturdays.
Have fun!
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