Shingletown Saloon in Ballard has announced permanent closure after more than a decade of service. The country-themed bar at NW Market Street will shut down on April 25, 2026. The restaurant team cited lease challenges and financial strain as the reason.
Shingletown Saloon Says Goodbye
Known for its one-of-a-kind bar experience, Seattle’s Shingletown Saloon offers lively country music and a small-town feel. Inspired by the Ballard area’s past as a lumber and milling hub, Dan Murphy opened the gastropub in 2015.
The space, with its rustic, honky-tonk atmosphere, serves cocktails, beers, and an extensive wine selection. The bar’s food menu includes fries, chicken tender nuggets, and more.
Through an Instagram post, the team shared, “We regret to inform you that our little country Honky Tonk will be coming to an end on April 25 and will be our last party.”
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The team thanked the community for its support over the past years. “You all embraced our little country bar and made it the most happening place around. We treasure all the friendships and memories that we all made, especially those that found love at our bar,” added the team.
The Ballard spot features friendly bartenders and affordable drinks. It also hosts regular events like karaoke, live country music, DJs, and line dancing.
Rising Rent and Costs Force Saloon to Close
In the post, the team behind the restaurant explained that the constant financial pressure and lease issues led to the decision.
“With our new lease term, adding even more rent on top of an unstable Seattle economy and cost to do business,” highlighted the team. “New late-night/hospitality trends: It is no longer wise and financially sustainable for us to continue, as this last year has been difficult for us.”
To celebrate its final two weeks, the bar has decided to launch “old school prices featuring $5 well drafts and house cocktail specials every night.”
Several loyal fans of the bar poured emotional tributes on social media. One of them wrote a heartfelt note and said, “This bar is everything to me. This bar is what turned me from a boy into a man. The music, the energy—every night was a transcendent experience. This is devastating news. I will miss you, Shingletown.”
With the closure of Shingletown Saloon, the Seattle community is losing a local favorite gathering place. The bar will be remembered for its energetic country-themed vibe and amazing drinks.
