The Seamonster is my favorite bar in Seattle. They have live music at some point just about every night. The jam sessions seem to draw some very talented and often well-known musicians. Depending on who is playing, it seems to be a different bar just about every time I go there. The walls are covered in bizarre nautical murals. The bar is in a long, narrow unit, and somehow manages to have more nooks and hideaways and bizarre little corners than anywhere else I have been. It is like a tiny 21+ Hogwarts. The beer selection is about what you would expect to find in Seattle (not huge, but great beers). Every mixed drink I have ordered at the Seamonster has been just exactly what I wanted (In my opinion, consistency is kind of the holy grail of bartending). I like this joint. read more

This place is a Wallingford gem. It's a tad loud but it's a Jazz lounge...that's what we want right? The bartenders are all great, food is served late and is good, and the atmosphere of the place is so much better than a lot of bars in the area. Can be good for groups if you're willing to wait for a long table. When live music is playing the place can really fill up. read more

This is a great place for single people in their late twenties and early thirties to mingle. I arrived around 9:30 p.m., and the lounge wasn't serving food anymore. Nothing on the website had indicated when the food service would stop, so we left to get food at Pam's Kitchen down the street and then came back for the live music. The venue was small and intimate and filled to the brim with a surprisingly polite crowd. If you arrive after the live show starts, you're likely to be standing out in the cold for a while, as the cover charges are processed at a glacial pace with one employee and one register taking people one at a time. I will go again, but perhaps earlier so I can get some of that delicious food they proportedly serve. read more

DO NOT COME HERE if you are not into mind-melting awesome music that's as exhilarating as its creation is spontaneous. But if you are into that sort, you have discovered heaven. Through some warping in space-time we have at this moment a scene that includes the greatest musicians in this town (and maybe anywhere), creating some of the finest live music ever, improvised, fresh and always grooving. And if they are not on stage, they are likely milling about with equally hip folks in the crowd. On most nights there's no cover. With two bars and the nicest staff, you are in for an incredible time. I especially recommend this when you have your music loving friends visit from out of town and you want to show them what Seattle is capable of, and also score serious cred points with your pals. read more

Ray: After dropping off a stunning piece of Josh's artwork at a private Capital Hill art walk, Josh and I kicked around where we would eat dinner. We were thinking ramen or possibly Thai, but decided instead on the Sea Monster Lounge on 45th street in Wallingford (our haunting ground). The Sea Monster Lounge has been open for 11 years and is primarily known for live music seven days a week. They hold open mics that attract a bevy of eclectic and talented musicians. Josh had been there on a few occasions for the music, but had never eaten there. Last night we were not looking for live music, we were there to test the kitchen. We arrived just after 5:00 and they had just opened. The inside was surprisingly small with interesting murals on the walls of a giant squid and a mermaid. Being the only customers in the place, we sat at the bar and were greeted by David the bartender who is a six year veteran of the Sea Monster and a musician in his own right. David got our drinks queued right up and presented us the (rather disappointing) menus. I was hoping for, perhaps more substantial entrees, but the offerings were pretty much burgers, although there were salads and appetizers as well. I ordered the Monster Burger (it seemed appropriate). It didn't take long to prepare. David brought us our surprisingly well plated burgers with fries. Since I always eat with my eyes first, I was pleasantly surprised. It looked fantastic, and smelled great. I started to think we were in for a treat. The burger was one of the best I have purchased for quite a while. A perfectly toasted bun dressed the ample patty and the house ketchup captured my imagination. As we ate, the bartender David did what good bartenders do. Not just serve drinks and move on, but he became part of our evening and part of our conversation. I quite enjoyed his input and his company. This is where I learned that we were there WAY before they get busy. With live music starting at 10:30PM, they don't get real busy until after midnight. We were the proverbial "breakfast crowd". We found out that the Sea Monster is expanding into the space next door. That would be great for them and provide a much roomier establishment for their regular music-heads. I hope they also expand their menu selections and give that cook of theirs a chance to put them on the culinary map. I think they have the talent to pull that off. Even though the Sea Monster Lounge is a music joint more than a food joint, I award them four stars for such a great burger as well as a bright future and potential. I am sure I will come back some day and see how the new place is coming along. Josh: This place has a bit of a "dive-bar" feel, but the light was low and the music was easy jazz, very comfortable place to dine. My first visit of this place was back in June during open mic night. I honestly thought it was a bit divey, they boasted live music 7 days a week, never a cover. The way it's set up I imagined a bunch of late-30-somethings (I'm a late-30-something) crammed onto what might have been the dance floor while bad pulsing house music thumped and everyone sweat and tried to hook up with one another. In my imaginings the floor would be swollen with a lot of popped collar polo shirts, flat-brimmed baseball caps and cleavage. But when I actually breezed in for some live music, it was extremely tasty jazz, good drinks and an overall relaxing atmosphere. My girlfriend and I return regularly to see a band called Sound Dialogue every first Saturday. I've also performed for open-mic night once, and plan to again very soon. The place is a real asset to the neighborhood. As far as our visit Thursday night goes, we got there right as it opened and were the only people in there (besides the bar tenter) for the duration of our stay. We were informed they normally have a late night crowd, which is understandable, the music doesn't start till 10. We sat at the bar, I had a BBQ bacon hamburger with fries and the house-made ketchup which was a nice slightly-spice touch. The food was unexpectedly delicious, and after 2 gin and tonics the bill came to $12. Did I mention the fantastic happy hour deals? Thanks, Sea Monster. Friendly conversation by the bar tender, great food, wonderful atmosphere, no complaints from me. I'm going 4 out of 5 stars. read more

Other than the men's bathroom being ridiculously awkward, and it being too loud to have a conversation, this place is the best gem in Wallingford, and perhaps all of Seattle. The cover is a little high and always seems to go up, but if you get in before cover starts for a meal, that'll save some $. Beer selection is decent (Mack N Jacks and Manny's, of course). The atmosphere is unlike any other: you'll see college goers to people easily in their late 70s having a blast together. Friday Night Funk Night with F2D is the way to go; this place is the one to choose to impress your visitors from out of town. But don't try going there to start a conversation or meeting a new friend, you'll barely get a word off from the sheer loudness. Enjoy the funk! read more

I'm shocked that people even take a slight shot at this joint. Free music every night--not just music but some of the best new and rotating musicians in the entire Puget Sound area. McTuff every Tuesday night is such a bonus. Great little food items, very average beer selection, but the bartenders know how to throw your drink together. My only gripe is the beer selection--it's really just average at best. But space likely dictates how much they can put on tap to an extent. But I highly recommend this place. Come down, have a few drinks, some banana cream pie, and listen to some of the funkiest acts in the city. You can't possibly have a bad time here. read more

Love the music here. Last tune I was there the stage was awkward and tiny though. The octopus on the wall is fun. Drinks are good. Could use a little Moe selection. It does get loud and you have to walk by all the music through a small hallway to reach the bathroom. They do good with what the have. read more

Where the Jazz Funk Groovement scene LIVES in Seattle, every night!

Qué un gusto raro en Wallingford! I hear dive bar with live music, and am hoping that the food is edible... Edible shmedible, this place was the bomb diggity! Authentic treats, por ejemplo yuca, platanos, y ropa viejo (spanish for "old clothes"--but this dish was more like english for "heaven on my spoon"). The mojito was classic, no mixer crap or fake sweeting, just some good ole fashioned muddling and rum, just the way I like it. Service was good, and the owner (I think) was there to make sure we liked our food (we did). I wish we would have stayed longer para la musica, but I'm sure I'll be back. read more

i have a bunch of friends that love this place, but i just can't stand it. i went there for an open mike night one day. the place was crowded, and full of hippys that quiote frankly reeked. the place is so small that you couldn't get away from the smell. the bar staff was nice, but it didn't make up for the smell to me read more

It's much bigger after the remodel, but has no airflow. It's like a sauna on a busy night.

We were unsure on where to go on New years Eve. Its very unassuming on the outside. I feel like its a best kept secret. Cheap cover charge. They have a nice little beer list. Seating is tucked away if you want to sit and enjoy the music. Two Dance Floors. Two bars and the beers are reasonably priced as well. Im definitely a fan and it was a great spot to ring in the new year. read more

If it's Friday night and your not at the sea monster lounge your missing out. They have the best live music in Seattle and always have a decent crowd in attendance. They just remodeled the place so there's a lot more room to move around which was a downfall a few months ago. On top of that they have cheap drinks that don't break the bank which is nice when your checking your account the next day. read more

Maybe it was the time of day we were here or something else but this place was super lame. We literally were the only ones there so of course our experience was somewhat boring. The bartender was nice enough and of course the service was quick, but I doubt we'll be back to this bar. read more

i've been here a few times, most recently with a good friend who was in from DC... there most always seems to be live music- good live music. there was a funky jazz group rockin the place... the drinks are awesome and served quickly by friendly staff. seems like everyone here knows each other on a first name basis, and although i'm not included in that crowd, it does make for a nice and comfortable environment. sea monster is walking distance from my work so i'm sure that i'll continue going here. i recomend it for nice night time hang out in wallingford- whats not to like? read more

Dope live music spot. Was here on a random Saturday night, and the two bands we saw were both awesome. Drink prices are fair, and the food prices seemed decent as well. There's a small cover charge, but totally worth for a good place to chill, have a drink, and enjoy live music. read more

I haven't been here in a long time, but Andrew used to be one of my FAVORITE bartenders. I don't think they do this anymore, but there used to be a free burlesque show every Tuesday night. It was small and low-key, but it was a great, cheap night out! read more

My mom brought me here one night to see one of her favorite bands. Not typically my scene, but I am always open, and had a good time! Very intimate place to watch a show, but don't try and talk to the person you are with...ITS LOUD! The bartender makes a stiff martini and everything is well priced. I'd go back... read more

I've gone to Seamonster a few times now. I love it. It's a hip, casual place to catch a few drinks and some good local music.

Excellent atmosphere, awesome service and lovely prices; three of my favorite things all in one! The crowd here is quasi-intellectual with a sprinkling of authentic alternative crowd (mid 20s) - This has to be my favorite jazz bar in the city, and not just because Cthulhu owns it :) I come here quite often, so say hi if you see me! read more

Interesting place. I was going to see a friend's band- not what I expected for a venue...bar/ cuban food / venue?? Huh? What? Well, somehow it works. I sat at the bar and listened quite content- while slurping down a couple of beers. Julio, manning the bar, was pleasant and cordial. The sound was actually pretty decent and I wish I could have tried the food- it looked and smelled really good. I thought about asking the guy next to me for a bite, but he was pretty hammered and might have obliged. If my friends play here again, I'll make sure to order up some grub and try a mojito. I wouldn't go out of my way to come over to Wallingford to hang here though. read more

Ok, music is great, 1/31/2017. Bartender was an ass. Sorry, have been here many times. But tonight, your staff disappointed me.

The Vibe is Kind, the Food is Delicious & the Music will Blow your Mind! This is one of my FaV spots to meet up with friends & Boogie Down. Thursday nights with Marmalade never dissapoint & Weekend Brunch with music is a definite WiN! Do yourself a favor a check out this gem in Wallingford ~ Love my SeaMo Fam! read more

The Cuban food was delicious and not too expensive. For 2 entrees and an appetizer the total was around $35. The environment was divey and a little grungy, but the employees were nice and friendly. The service wasn't too bad. There was only one cook in the kitchen so food was a little slow to come out, but it was hot and tasty! It was an interesting little hole in the wall restaurant/bar but the food was great! read more

Quaint, strong drinks, nice spot for local music.

I love this place! I feel like I'm at the home of a good friend when I'm there.Andrew and team have done an amazing job creating an atmosphere that is super cozy, relaxed and friendly. Great music - favorite night to visit is Friday to see Funky 2 Death (awesome!). I met my husband there - doesn't get much better than that! read more

Really cool maritime/ocean theme. Got the Mexican burger and spicy margaritas and chips and guac, all super good. Really good crowd as well.

The best part is the live music. Great soft guitar was playing the whole time. Biscuits and gravy were great. Solid Bloody Mary. Overall, great brunch restaurant. read more

YAY they reopened with previous owner. He has a very even-toned people liking personality! Now for me to turn into a night owl and stop by again. read more

Drinks, atmosphere, great jazz....sound like a 5 star rating to me

Newly remodeled and expanded, the Seamonster is the go to place for live music in Seattle. Various genres, but local and touring Jazz and Funk are the mainstays. Great drinks and a full complement of brews. Service is genial and attentive. Food is excellent for an establishment of its size, everything is made fresh on the premises, catering towards New Orleans style. Ownership is decidedly local and hands on. Regular clientele is very friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended! Friday house band is the incomparable Funky 2 Death (F2D)! read more

Love the open mic night! Always impressed by the array of cray cray and talent that show up here on Monday nights. Nothing special about the drinks; it's really the music that keeps me coming back for more. read more

The Seamonster Lounge is a great little place located along 45th Street's main commercial thoroughfare in Wallingford. I've popped into this small lounge on several occasions to discover some really great jazz bands playing. The Seamonster Lounge looks pretty narrow when you first enter, but there are some great little nooks and crannies of rooms off to the right when you walk past the bar. Inexpensive prices and a dimly lit, eclectic atmosphere make Seamonster Lounge a great place to chill out with some friends while enjoying the vibes of good music. read more

The house band that plays every friday is the cherry on top of the ice cream! This place is small, but a great place to relax. The owner and bartenders are super nice, and did I mention the friday night band? No cover! Check this place out, it's definitely worth the trip read more

There is only one word to describe our experience getting Cuban food at the Seamonster: HORRENDOUS. We had to wait nearly 40 minutes for take-out sandwiches that SUCKED. A total waste of an hour and $16. read more

Fun place to go with friends for a drink. Very small considering the crowds they have when there are live bands though. If you don't mind a huge wall to wall crowd this is the place to go! Good music by the house band. Jazzy and fun! read more

This venue is amazing. The music with a measly $5 cover and good band, the jerk burger with its new flavors, my token IPA on tap--everything about this place is what a musician like me would love. I guess that's why people in the know invited me here when I first visited Seattle and why I keep coming back since I have moved here. Don't miss out, spend your hard-earned cash here and you won't be disappointed. read more

This place is hands down my favorite community spot in Seattle. They've provided a stellar environment for local musical talent and music enthusiasts to congregate for years. Recently they renovated and expanded their location to more than double the space they used to have. They've ramped up their food and added a patio and I'm frankly pretty excited to see how it develops. I usually come for the music and respectable tap selection, but lately have been trying their food. For dinner I had their pork bowl which was very filling and reasonably priced. Today I stopped by for their jazz brunch and it was a fantastic way to start my Saturday. Chill live tunes paired well with the omelette I ordered. Nice presentation and fresh ingredients. If you have never been before, I recommend coming in the evening to get a sense of what's all going on. But I stop in any time I'm in the area- the staff and the patrons are all super friendly and here is a real sense of community. I am really enjoying watching it become a cultural pillar of Wallingford! read more

Three words... Music, music, music. This little club gets some of the best musicians in the area coming to play for the friendly crowd. Definitely worth checking out. read more