Down off of Roosevelt and 50th in the U- District stands a classic college bar called Dante’s, that has been in business since the late 60’s providing college students and young adults alike with a variety of nightlife activities. The amenities here are endless, and surely provide insurmountable fun for all, offering multiple styles of bars all into one. I like to call Dante’s “the one stop shop”. Whether you like to stand around with your bro’s and shoot pool or sit down with some close friends and sip away on the daily special, there is something for everyone, always.
It was a Friday night when I was introduced to Dante’s, due to my uncle’s persistence that I go out to the bars with him in Seattle. Little did I know that a local underground rap group called Gran Rapids was going to lay down some beats and rap. The show didn’t start till later in the night so we went downstairs to the back where a cave-like lounge offers comfortable seating and pool tables. So, we bought a pitcher and shot some pool with his girlfriend and her friends.
After the pitcher, I went upstairs to buy myself a pint of IPA , while I was standing in line I saw one of my best friends hanging out upstairs at a table with friends. I snatched up my beer and surprised my friend Riley with my arrival, exchanging the hugs then received an introduction to his friends from home. I sat up there and enjoyed the laid back environment of the upper level area, peering down occasionally to make sure my uncle hadn’t left. On my way back down to my Uncle and his friends, I ran into a well known ex-teacher to the Seattle area; Mary Kay Letourneau. Interesting, very interesting, so I got a picture with her by myself as well with Riley and his friends. You just never know who you will run into at Dante’s.
As I slipped through the crowded dance floor over to the pool tables, the band was prepping for their show. When I reached my Uncle’s table, I was given a shot of tequila. As I squeamishly slurped it down, I was startled by my good friend of mine, Kyle. We ate some wings and sipped on our beer while listening to Gran Rapids put on a great show! The night was coming to an end so I said my goodbyes to my friends and off we went back to Kent.
Dante’s really covers the whole arena of nightlife in Seattle all in one visit, and no cover charge! I ran into two of my best friends, had a great time with my Uncle and his friends, while spending less money than I had anticipated. I would definitely recommend this bar to anyone who is looking for a younger crowd, music and interested in a variety of settings all in one visit.