The Shanty Tavern is widely regarded as one of Seattle’s last remaining roadhouses. Now, after decades, the spot will be hosting its final show on December 19, 2025. The closure follows the retirement of owner Giovanni (John) Spaccarotelli at the age of 94.
Seattle Icon The Shanty Tavern Bids Farewell
Vanishing Seattle noted in a social media post that the tavern’s roots trace back to the Prohibition era, when operators waited just outside city limits to serve visitors drinks and dancing.
The Shanty Tavern was built by Doris McLeod on 22nd Ave NE in 1932. The business originally operated as The Mack before being renamed Mack’s Shanty. The name was inspired by McLeod’s son, Bill McLeod.
“It moved twice before settling at its current site in 1948. John became owner in 1961, and he and his family have stewarded the Shanty ever since, for over six decades,” the post read.
Historical accounts note that the business moved twice before relocating to Lake City Way in 1948. Spaccarotelli eventually purchased the property in 1961 and has been serving the space with his family for more than 60 years.
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John Spaccarotelli’s Enduring Legacy
According to the post, Spaccarotelli is not just a bar owner, but a true Seattle original. He is believed to be the oldest bartender in the city, and possibly also in the state.
He was a Korean War vet who loved music and had spent years serving drinks, feeling the room, and occasionally playing music and dancing. “…if he’s really feelin’ the music, he’ll come out from behind the bar and sing with the band or hit the dance floor with a customer (he’s a talented ballroom dancer),” the post said.
Music has been a constant in his life as he still enjoys playing the piano whenever he gets the chance. John’s impact stretches far beyond the tavern. He’s the oldest active player in the Puget Sound Senior Softball Association and a celebrated pitcher for the Seattle Sloops. He has played in organized leagues for over 50 years.
Over the decades, The Shanty also supported a long roster of local sports teams, sponsoring women’s, men’s, and co-ed pool and softball teams, a reflection of the community spirit John cultivated. The tavern’s atmosphere has also entertained celebrity guests like David Aquette and hydroplane racer Chip Hanauer, to musicians and folks of all ages.
In recent years, The Shanty has opened only on Friday nights for live music. As it prepares to close, the neighborhood prepares to say goodbye to a long-standing fixture of Seattle’s cultural landscape.
