Tim's Tavern's story could've been just another sad song in a city that’s seen more venue closures than sell-out shows since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns in 2020. But in true Seattle fashion, Tim’s refused to “turn out the lights” when they left. Although the original Greenwood location shuttered, the beloved music institution has re-emerged and is ready to rock in the former Drunky’s Two Shoe BBQ location in White Center.
Originally established in 2012, Tim's Tavern was purchased by musicians Mason Reed and Matthew “Matto” O'Toole at the end of 2016. Under new ownership by people who understood better than most the realities of chasing your music dreams, the venue quickly became a hub for local musicians and music fans alike. Known for its intimate atmosphere and unwavering support for our region's music scene, Tim’s hosted live music every night, showcasing everything from rock and folk to jazz and experimental. With its music-first ethos, unpretentious vibe, affordable drinks, and ability to eat your fill of tacos every Tuesday without breaking the bank, it is no surprise Tim’s Tavern is cemented in the foundation of our region’s music scene.
However, Tim's Tavern faced the same challenges many music venues, restaurants, and bars did when the pandemic hit. And, when it hit, man did it hit hard, forcing many venues to close their doors, and Tim’s was no exception. After launching a GoFundMe paired with a telethon-style live stream that helped them keep the doors open for another year, Tim’s was forced to close the Greenwood location in 2021. But Tim’s wasn’t about to go out like that.
Now nestled in White Center, a neighborhood just as scrappy and resilient as the tavern itself, Tim’s Tavern is back. The new location has all the divey goodness of the original but is more than three times the size and boasts not one but two stages. It also offers a more robust food menu, a huge covered outdoor patio, and still offers cheap tacos and tequila every Tuesday night.
“Closing the Greenwood location was incredibly difficult because the neighborhood’s support from day one meant so much to us. After a year of searching for a neighborhood with a similar spirit, we found our new home in White Center. The raw energy and cultural passion in this community are exactly what we were looking for, and we’re excited to be part of its journey. I believe White Center will soon be recognized as the next epicenter of a thriving grassroots music and arts scene,” said Mason Reed, co-owner of Tim’s Tavern, Beth’s Cafe, and founding board member of the new White Center Business Alliance.
Tim's Tavern hosting two stages of entertainment during White Center Pride 2024. Photos courtesy of Tim's Tavern.
In addition to its live music calendar, Tim’s Tavern has expanded to include participating in the White Center Art Walk every third Thursday, hosting weekly trivia and the neighborhood’s only weekly open mic night. They also organized a free outdoor stage during White Center Pride and were integral to founding the newly established White Center Business Alliance. Tim’s, to no one's surprise, has become White Center’s newest community hub.
If history is any indication, Tim’s Tavern will keep doing what it does best— supporting independent and emerging artists, bringing people together, and keeping music live. From taking a chance on unknown acts to their ongoing support of SMASH, Tim’s Tavern continues to be an integral part of the local music scene, a true testament to the enduring power of music.
Check out their upcoming calendar of events and learn more about Tim's Tavern at timslivemusic.com