Nicole's Bar

If you are looking for a place with a truly soulful atmosphere in the heart of the Washington state capital, Nicole's Bar is exactly the place to visit. Located in the historic center of Olympia, this bar has become a symbol of hospitality and resilience in the USA. It is not just a drinking establishment, but a cozy space where traditional American pub vibes harmoniously combine with modern comfort.

The establishment is owned by Nicole Andres, an experienced bartender who has created a "local spot" atmosphere for every guest. The space is thought out to the smallest detail: from the massive horseshoe-shaped bar to the soft sofas and fireplace. Nicole's Bar is famous for its LGBTQ+ friendly status and is a shining example of a successful inclusive business in Olympia.

The bar's interior reflects the history of the Olympia Downtown Historic District. The building was designed by the renowned architect Joseph Wohleb. Today, you can not only grab a glass of craft beer here but also have a hearty dinner while enjoying the hospitality and the city's calm pace.

For those planning a visit, we've gathered the establishment's current contact information. We recommend checking their official resources in advance to stay informed about special offers and evening events.

Nicole's Bar offers guests a complete gastronomic journey. Be sure to try their famous meat sliders or the signature Kalua pork, served with rice and Hawaiian macaroni salad. If you're hungry, order the Sloppy Joe with bacon and cheese — it’s a real favorite among the regulars. The menu is complemented by refreshing cocktails and an extensive selection of draft beers.

Beyond the food, the venue attracts visitors with its relaxed leisure program. Here, you can have a friendly darts tournament or curl up in a chair by the fireplace. The bar's stage regularly hosts musicians performing rock, country, and folk, creating a unique soundtrack for the evening. The establishment is also known for its charitable work, supporting the 4 the Love Foundation, which gives the place special significance for Olympia residents.

Finding Nicole's Bar in Olympia is easy — it is located at 109 Legion Way SW, just a few steps from Sylvester Park. If you are walking through the historic center, look for the Budd Inlet waterfront or Capitol Lake, both of which are just a few minutes' walk from the bar.

For those who prefer to drive, street parking is available nearby, although it may take a little time to find a spot during peak hours. You can also use taxis or city buses that run through the capital's central districts. The convenient location makes the bar an ideal starting or ending point for a walking route through the city's iconic landmarks.

The history of Nicole's Bar began at a rather challenging time — in March 2020. Despite the global lockdown, owner Nicole Andres managed to keep the business going, which later caught the attention of producers from the popular show "America’s Best Restaurants." The episode dedicated to the establishment's resilience and its unique recipes was a major event for the local community.

The premises itself has an interesting architectural history. The building on Legion Way was designed by architect Joseph Wohleb in the 1950s and 60s and has hosted a bakery, a tailor shop, and a café at various times. Because Nicole combined several former spaces under one roof, the bar received seven separate electricity bills for a long time — a funny reminder of its expansion.

Located in the Olympia Downtown Historic District, the bar is part of an area listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This highlights the significance of the venue not just as a spot for relaxation, but as an important element of the urban landscape, connecting modern Olympia with its rich past.

When planning a visit to Nicole's Bar, you should allow for 1.5–3 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a full lunch or dinner, try a couple of signature cocktails, and listen to local musicians perform.

If you've dropped in as part of a walk through downtown Olympia, an hour might suffice, but the atmosphere invites a longer stay. The evening program with live music and chatting with locals can easily keep you there until closing.

The establishment is open daily, offering different service formats depending on the day of the week. On weekdays, Nicole's Bar opens at 11:00 AM (on Mondays — from 4:00 PM), and on weekends, it invites guests for breakfast starting at 9:00 AM.

The bar usually closes at 11:00 PM or midnight, and on Friday and Saturday, it stays open until 1:00 AM. However, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website before visiting, as hours may change due to holidays or special events.

Downtown Olympia is a place with a high concentration of cultural and historical sites. A walk from Nicole's Bar will allow you to reach majestic government buildings and cozy theaters in minutes, which will greatly enrich your travel experience.

It’s best to plan your exploration of the area on foot, as most interesting locations are in the immediate vicinity. You can see not only historical architecture but also the natural beauty of Puget Sound.