This month, we're spotlighting the Central Saloon, the oldest saloon in Seattle. Established in 1892, the Central was born out of fire -- the Great Fire of 1889. Three years after settlers began to rebuild the city, the Central was opened by Mr. Thomas Watson and was originally known as “The Watson Bros. Famous Restaurant.” Nine years later, Mr. Watson sold the business to Mr. Jamison and Mr. McFarland who aptly named it, “The Seattle Bar.”
Not long after, a gold rush hit the Yukon and the Central was filled with the new faces of miners, loggers, and other rugged adventurers. In 1919, as the seaport and commerce began to expand, the Central became “The Central Café.” This name held until the '70s. Under new ownership in '80s, the iconic venue became the birthplace of grunge with legendary bands like Soundgarden, Nirvana, Mudhoney, and Alice in Chains having played here.
Standing the test of time, the Central is a great place to visit for music fanatics and casual listeners alike. Stop by for lunch, grab a drink (or two), pick up some merch, and experience the thrill of live music at the Central Saloon.
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