#2403 #1209 - E. Smith Mercantile, Seattle - 1/22/2014

Update: This lovely bar closed June 30, 2018.

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The web site says:

"E. Smith Back Bar is an extension of the artful life we promote with our mercantile goods. Inspired by the history of using alcohol as a vessel for the medicinal qualities of plants, we create seasonal herbal, fruit and floral infusions in combination with classic cocktail recipes. Not only are they a great cure for sobriety, but they taste damn fine."

E.Smith Mercantile, Seattle, WA

I think that pretty much nails it. The little 15-seat bar in the back of the funky 19th century style general store is probably my favorite bar in the mid to south downtown area. A few years ago that would not have been saying much in this area, but it remains my favorite despite some considerable competition now. In addition to the charmingly dark decor and the very nice cocktails, I especially like the sort of (small) crowd the bar attracts. Owner Jessie Poole named it after her Southern Idaho gold miner grandfather, has her mother do interior design, make the perfumes, and make the bitters and infusions for the bar, had her father do the build out, and has her sister run the kitchen. I like every bit of the results.

E.Smith Mercantile, Seattle, WA

208 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 - (206) 641-7250

Est. Sep 19, 2013 (bar; shop opened 4/4/2013)
Previous bars in this location: None known
Web site: esmithmercantile.com - facebook
Articles ranked: eater - seattlemet - thrillist - seattlemag - yelp - zomato