Ten years ago, Colin and Donna Pickering were driving through the Morgan Junction, just eight blocks from their home, when they spotted a "For Lease" sign. That moment of curiosity—asking each other, "should we?"—led to the birth of Whisky West, a neighborhood fixture that is now celebrating a decade of community, resilience, and fine spirits.

A Journey of Resilience

The path to ten years hasn't always been smooth. Like many local businesses, the bar faced immense challenges during the pandemic, requiring the owners to invest from their own retirement and home equities to survive. Beyond the global health crisis, Whisky West weathered four break-ins, including a frightening incident where a brick was thrown through the window during dinner service, and a devastating theft just before Christmas one year.

In that robbery, thieves made off with the entire safe, which contained all the employee holiday cards and cash bonuses. However, the hardship revealed the strength of the West Seattle community. A GoFundMe organized by neighbor Patrick Robinson ensured the staff still received their bonuses. Reflecting on the journey, Colin and Donna share, "Colin and I must give so much gratitude to our patrons and neighbors for all the support we have received!".

From "Ankle Biters" to Family Favorites

Originally hesitant to allow children—what Colin jokingly called "ankle biters"—the owners eventually embraced a family-friendly model that has transformed the business. Manager Nichole noted the shift's success, telling the owners, "I have had regulars coming in once or twice a week. Now I get to meet their families!".

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10th Anniversary Celebration: June 13th & 14th

To celebrate this milestone, Whisky West is hosting a two-day event featuring a special $10 Anniversary Menu:

• $10 Burgers: Every burger on the menu—including the Whisky Burger, the Bacon & Bleu, and the Jalapeño Burger—is just $10.
• $10 Drinks:
  • Old Fashioneds or Manhattans (featuring Rittenhouse Rye & Evan Williams).
  • Henry McKenna 10yr.
  • House Barrel Aged Cab.
  • House Barrel Aged Elijah Craig infused with fresh vanilla bean.
• $10 Pitchers: 32 oz. pitchers of all Bale Breaker featuring four taps.
• $10 Special Anniversary Cocktails:
  • 10 Years Out to Pasture: Bourbon, fresh lemon, and house-made blackberry-honey syrup.
  • Decade Highball: Vanilla & Bourbon aged Elijah Craig topped with soda and a lime wedge.
  • Ward 10: Rittenhouse Rye, fresh lemon, OJ, and cherry juice.
  • Golden Anniversary: Evan Williams Bourbon, apple cider, and ginger beer.
• Anniversary Food Special: A family mixed plate of BBQ pork and chicken sliders served with Donna’s potato salad and fresh vegetables.

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Regular Menu Highlights

While the burgers are a major draw, the regular menu offers a wide variety of comfort food and fresh options:

• Appetizers & Salads: Favorites include Fried Chicken Wings, Bacon & Mac Cheese, and the Steak & Bleu Salad with marinated flank steak and balsamic reduction.
• Rice Bowls: Hearty options like the Teriyaki Chicken Bowl and the Southwest Steak Bowl with black beans, corn, and pico de gallo.
• Sandwiches & More: The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and Turkey Bacon Club are staples, alongside unique offerings like Fish & Chips and Street Tacos.
• Desserts: For those with a sweet tooth, the menu features a Deep Fried Twinkie and Chocolate Chip Cookie With Root Beer Float.

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Visit Whisky West

Whether you're there for the anniversary or to catch World Cup matches (which are screened all day for fans), the Pickerings look forward to seeing you.

• Address: 6451 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98136
• Phone: (206) 556-2134
• Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM daily
• Happy Hour: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM