By Katy Merckel
You’ll know The Westy isn’t your average sports bar the moment you hear one of their best-selling menu items is seared broccoli. Since opening in Roosevelt in 2018 (their second location, following their original spot in West Seattle in 2014) The Westy has built a reputation for having the TVs and tap list to pack a crowd on game day, but with a menu, cocktail list, and welcoming atmosphere that make it worth a visit any day of the week.
Co-owners JP Vidican and Paul Ritums, longtime Seattle bar veterans, chose Roosevelt for its proximity to both UW and light rail, attracting pre-game crowds headed to the stadiums. Being family-friendly was a deliberate choice, not an afterthought: with Roosevelt High School nearby and families throughout the neighborhood, they wanted a place that could serve every age, not just the game-day crowd.
Paul says this welcoming spirit is no accident, and has worked to build a team that makes every guest feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. A key member of that team is Chef Chris Hartfield, who came to The Westy after more than 20 years in Seattle kitchens, including serving as executive chef at Paragon in Queen Anne. Keeping a fresh, creative menu has been a priority, with seasonal updates alongside longtime favorites, including the house-favorite seared broccoli and large, juicy wings flash-fried to order, with a rotation of mouthwatering sauces from Thai basil to their smoky-hot house classic. Behind the bar, Paul’s own roots in Seattle’s craft cocktail and distilling scene show up in drinks that are both creative and quick to make on a hectic Sunday alongside a full tap list and non-alcoholic options.
This fall, The Westy is refreshing its menu, launching weekend brunch (breakfast poutine!) starting at 9am, and settling into its new role as the official Seattle home of OLSC, the Liverpool supporters club – meaning doors will open as early as 6am for some matches. Whether you’re here for a Roosevelt High fundraiser (which they frequently host and support), the next big game, a stellar happy hour, or a quiet corner and a classic cocktail, The Westy proves a sports bar can serve the whole neighborhood.
The Westy Roosevelt is located at 1215 NE 65th Street, open Monday 2–10 PM, Tuesday–Friday 2 PM–12 AM, and weekends starting at 9 AM. Visit thewestyseattle.com for the full menu (including happy hour specials) and event schedule. For further inquiries, call (206) 402-5518.
Each month, the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association’s Business of the Month recognizes a neighborhood business for their great service and community involvement. To learn more, please email contact@rooseveltseattle.org.