About Black & Tan Hall
Black & Tan Hall is a community-owned performance venue, restaurant and bar in Seattle’s Hillman City neighborhood. It draws inspiration from Seattle’s historic multiracial “Black & Tan” jazz clubs of the 1920s–30s (southseattleemerald.org ). Today the Hall operates as a worker-owned cooperative focused on local BIPOC and LGBTQ artists (intentionalist.com ). Its mission is to sustain a thriving, equitable local arts economy by centering community and culture (intentionalist.com ). Signature features include a full kitchen and bar (with South- and Caribbean-influenced soul food), a professional stage with concert-grade sound and lighting, and a casual-yet-classy lounge atmosphere. The venue seats about 75 when fully seated, with a total capacity of roughly 150 people (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Black & Tan Hall matters to the local scene as a new cultural hub that reconnects South Seattle to its jazz-era roots while serving as a modern social and creative gathering space.
Events and Programming
Black & Tan Hall hosts a wide variety of events. The calendar includes live music (jazz, blues, soul, hip hop, folk, Latin, spoken word, etc.) as well as dance, comedy, and community arts programming (hillmancity.org ) (southseattleemerald.org ). Locally-rooted performers and groups often headline, emphasizing the co-op’s focus on Seattle’s own artists. Out of the venue (and sometimes on its small stage) you’ll also find workshops, open-mics, dance lessons, poetry slams, vendor markets, fundraisers, and even family-friendly classes. For example, during summer months B&TH has offered free “Block Party” events behind the hall featuring live DJs, local chefs and dancers in an open-air festival setting (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Annual community events (like their Hall-i-Day holiday market) and themed series (jazz nights, karaoke, or regional music showcases) are common. Notable past performers include respected Seattle jazz and roots artists. Ticketed shows generally run weekly or several times per month, and prices are modest – many local concerts range roughly $10–$30. Recurring events and collaborations (often announced on the venue’s website or social media) celebrate neighborhood heritage and culture. Overall, expect a blend of music concerts, dance parties, spoken word evenings, art and history events, and occasional family activities – all focused on inclusivity and local talent.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events are sold online through Black & Tan Hall’s official channels. The venue uses an authorized ticketing service (e.g. Humanitix) and links from its website or event listings to guide buyers. Popular shows often sell out, so planning ahead is recommended. Generally, tickets go on sale weeks or months in advance once a performance is announced. Guest lists and presales (for co-op members or partners) may apply to certain events. If a show isn’t sold out, tickets may sometimes be available at the door on the night of the event, but this is not guaranteed. Pricing varies by event, but most local gigs are in the mid-$10 to $25 range (plus any fees). Public ticket outlets or platforms (not third-party scalpers) are the reliable source. The venue has a small box office window at the door during events, but it’s safest to purchase tickets online ahead of time. There are no membership fees required to buy tickets – events are open to all, and you simply need to secure your spot online or early.
Seating and Layout
Black & Tan Hall’s main floor is largely one open room. At the front is a raised stage about 12.5′ deep and 20.5′ wide (including wings) (www.blackandtanhall.com ). In front of the stage is a 20′×30′ dance floor. The rest of the hall is filled with flexible seating: a mix of wood-topped tables, padded chairs and built-in booths. In total there are seven four-top tables, eight two-top tables, and 14 padded booths (six along the bar area and eight near the stage) (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Additional seating comes from about 80 padded chairs (wood-backed and foldable). This configuration allows for either concert-style shows or seated dining. For typical live music shows, many people stand or dance on the floor near the stage, while tables and booths seat those who want to watch from a sit-down vantage. Best seat depends on preference: front-and-center near the stage offers the clearest view and punchiest sound, but those tables fill quickly. Booths or side tables still get good sightlines, especially since the room is fairly shallow. Because the PA is powerful and mid-floor, sound is generally clear throughout; some audiophiles prefer a seat mid-room to let the full audio mix settle. Note that tall floor-mounted speaker cabinets are angled at the stage, so sitting directly in front of them (very close to the stage edges) might be loud. The booths wrapping the stage section provide a slightly elevated view if the floor is crowded. In summary: there are no “bad” seats in this intimate hall, but arriving early can land you near the front. All seating is general admission unless an event specifically reserves tables – typically every seat/table is on a first-come basis.
Getting There and Parking
Black & Tan Hall is located at 5608 Rainier Ave S in the Hillman City area of south Seattle (www.blackandtanhall.com ). The entrance is mid-block between S Orcas and S Findlay streets (www.blackandtanhall.com ). If driving, Rainier Ave S is the main storefront street. Street parking is plentiful along Rainier and side blocks, and is generally unmetered; visitors should watch for posted residential parking rules or time limits. In practice, there is ample curb parking right outside the venue (www.blackandtanhall.com ), though popular events can fill the blocks. Rideshare or taxi can easily stop right in front on Rainier Ave; this is often recommended for late-night shows to avoid parking stress. For transit, Seattle Metro Route 7 runs on Rainier Ave and stops directly at the Hall (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Routes 9 and 106 also run along nearby Rainier Ave S, providing frequent service to downtown or southward toward Renton. The nearest Link light-rail station is Columbia City Station (roughly 1.5 miles north), with bus connections (e.g. the 7) to the hall. On foot, the venue is a few blocks from the Rainier Beach neighborhood center to the south and a couple blocks west of Martin Luther King Jr Way. In summary: arriving a bit early is wise (most Seattle venues advise 30+ minutes before showtime) so you can park or grab a bus or rideshare without rushing, especially on event nights.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, you’ll find a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Seating areas include low booths with tables along the sides and back, while a long bar sits on one side. The overall vibe is casual yet refined – an intentionally “sleek-yet-comfy” lounge space. The Hall’s decor incorporates murals and historical art nodding to Seattle’s jazz heritage. Lighting and acoustics are tuned for performance: expect a mix of colored stage lights, a hazer for atmospheric effect, and a top-notch sound system (www.blackandtanhall.com ) (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Arrive with your tickets (printed or on your phone) ready to scan at the door. ID is checked at the bar: guests 21+ may purchase alcoholic drinks. Black & Tan’s full bar serves craft cocktails, local beers, ciders and wines, including many POC- and Black-owned labels (www.blackandtanhall.com ). The kitchen (run by Chef Tay) offers soul-food-inspired fare with bold flavors and seasonal ingredients (www.blackandtanhall.com ). You can order food and non-alcoholic drinks at any time during events, up until the kitchen closes about 45 minutes before closing time (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Note that outside food/drink (other than personal water) is not allowed (www.blackandtanhall.com ); all meals and beverages should be purchased on-site. Restrooms (two ADA-accessible ones) are located near the front, off Rainier Ave (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Coat check is limited (if offered, it’s usually a small rack near the entrance). The Hall has free Wi-Fi for patrons (for ordering or browsing), and the cellphone signal is generally good. Merchandise tables (for the venue or touring artists) usually appear near the back by the entrance. For connectivity, the mixing console (Behringer X-32) also doubles as a house control, and there is a power conditioner for guest equipment. Professional audiovisual equipment is already built-in: a 40-input digital mixer feeds the mains and monitors, so sound tech is on-site. In short, expect a relaxed but vibrant club atmosphere, friendly professional staff, and all performance amenities provided – just come ready to enjoy show and dinner without bringing anything from outside.
Nearby Amenities
Hillman City is primarily residential, but there are a few local spots steps away. Directly around the block on Rainier Ave you’ll find casual dining options such as a soul-food BBQ restaurant and a few takeout places offering seafood or sandwiches. For sit-down pre-show dinners, many visitors cross MLK Way to Columbia City (a 2-3 minute drive) which has a wide variety of cafés, coffee shops, pubs and ethnic restaurants. The newly opened Twilight Rainier cocktail bar (a sister to the Central District’s Twilight Exit) is just a block west for after-show drinks. If you need groceries or late snacks, a Food Mart and liquor store are a few blocks south. As for lodging, there aren’t hotels in Hillman City itself – but several are nearby. The Columbia City neighborhood (1 mile north) has a popular boutique hotel and lodges, and downtown Seattle is a 15-minute drive away. For late-night rides home, Uber/taxis are plentiful in the area. Some guests also park in Columbia City light rail station parking (2 blocks north on Rainier), especially if attending an early show. In short, while Black & Tan Hall is somewhat off the main tourist areas, basic amenities (restaurants, bars, a few shops) are close, and taxi/Uber or buses make it easy to connect to bigger hubs (Columbia City, Beacon Hill or the stadium district) if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
Black & Tan Hall’s uniqueness comes from its mission and history. It is one of Seattle’s first ambitious community-owned cooperative venues, dedicated to equity and cultural empowerment (intentionalist.com ). By design, it links today’s neighborhood to Seattle’s Black jazz heritage: the name itself evokes the integrated nightlife scene of the 1930s (southseattleemerald.org ). In practice, the hall lives up to this legacy by creating a truly inclusive space. All races and backgrounds are welcome to sit side-by-side – just as Black & Tan clubs once did during Jim Crow (southseattleemerald.org ). The founders (and dozens of community partners) deliberately set low buy-in levels so that working-class South Seattle residents could invest and have a say. The result is a venue “by us and for us,” where profits (and programming choices) stay local (intentionalist.com ). Architecturally, the space retains retro touches (dark wood, murals) but was fully retrofitted with modern AV and a cozy bar. Culturally, it hosts Seattle Green Book tours, historical lectures and locally-curated art, all reflecting a mission beyond just entertainment. Artists love performing here because the crowd energy is intimate and appreciative, and the tech specs are professional. Audiences rave about the warm atmosphere, community vibe, and the way food, music and history come together. Whether it’s launching a jazz heritage series, supporting a new band, or simply being a safe gathering place in Rainier Valley – Black & Tan Hall stands out as a meaningful project that channels Seattle’s past into a vibrant community future.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility : The venue is wheelchair-accessible. The main floor has no steps (roll in at street level) and there are two ADA restrooms near the entrance (www.blackandtanhall.com ). If you need special seating, staff can often reserve a wheelchair spot – just ask.
What to Bring : Bring your ID if you plan to drink alcohol. Phone tickets or printed tickets should be ready when you arrive. Dress is casual – Seattle vibe, so jeans or smart casual is fine. The floor can be loud at concerts, so earplugs are an option if you are sensitive, especially near the stage. A light sweater or jacket might be handy, as packed crowds can warm up the room.
Food and Drink : The kitchen serves full meals (soul-food style) and closes about 45 minutes before the hall closes (www.blackandtanhall.com ), so order early if dining before the show ends. Bar hours match the venue hours (closing at 11PM Thursday–Saturday (www.blackandtanhall.com )). Outside food or drinks aren’t allowed (this includes alcoholic beverages) (www.blackandtanhall.com ), so plan to buy from the hall’s cafe/bar.
Arrival Time : Arrive early. Doors typically open 30–45 minutes before showtime. This lets you pick a good seat (especially on busy nights), order food/drinks without rush, and avoid last-minute parking/traffic. For busy concerts, seating/standing spots near the stage fill up fast. If you have dinner reservations at B&TH’s cafe, note that dining may be interrupted by venue setup, so check if you should book around performance times.
Rules & Common Mistakes : Big bags are discouraged (security may check bags). Photography without flash is usually okay, but video recordings may be limited – if in doubt, ask the staff. Check the event page for any age restrictions: most shows are all-ages (with extra oversight), but drink service is strictly 21+ (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Tip: support the venue by tipping bartenders and staff. Finally, respect the space – it’s a community hub – so be courteous, keep noise (shouting or constant phone rings) down during performances, and dispose of trash properly. By being mindful, you help keep Black & Tan Hall a welcoming place for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets and what are typical ticket prices? Tickets are sold online through Black & Tan Hall’s official channels (linked from their website or social media). Shows here are intimate, so ticket quantities may be limited. Popular concerts often sell out in advance. Prices vary, but most local performances range roughly $10–$25 before fees (special events can be higher). Keep an eye on the official event listings for sale start dates. Buying early is best.
Can I buy tickets at the door or is there a box office? Black & Tan Hall does not have a large traditional box office. For most events, ticket sales are handled online. If an event isn’t sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door starting about 30 minutes before showtime. However, there’s no guarantee there will be tickets left, so attending ticketless is a risk. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance online to secure your spot.
What is the address of Black & Tan Hall? The venue is located at 5608 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98118 . This is in the Hillman City area of South Seattle. The main entrance is mid-block on Rainier Ave S between South Orcas and South Findlay streets (www.blackandtanhall.com ). You can enter directly from Rainier Avenue; look for the Black & Tan Hall signage. This location is about midway between Columbia City Station (light rail) and the Rainier Beach shops.
Is there parking available, and is it free? Yes – there is street parking available along Rainier Ave and the nearby side streets. In practice, you can usually find free curb parking near the venue (www.blackandtanhall.com ). There are no official paid lots at the Hall, so most visitors park on the street. Just be mindful of any posted restrictions or time limits on signs (some blocks have 2-hour limits). On busy event nights, parking can fill up, so arriving a bit early helps. Alternatively, using a rideshare (drop-off in front) or transit may save time.
Which public buses serve the venue? Seattle Metro Bus Route 7 runs along Rainier Avenue S and stops right by Black & Tan Hall (www.blackandtanhall.com ). In addition, Metro routes 9 and 106 also run nearby on Rainier Ave S, connecting to Columbia City, downtown, or Renton. Check the Metro schedules for those lines. The Columbia City Link Station (on MLK/Beacon Ave) is about 1.5 miles north; you can transfer via the 7 or 9 to reach the hall. Buses typically run until late evening, though service may taper late at night.
Where should a rideshare or taxi drop off near Black & Tan Hall? The easiest drop-off point is right in front of the venue on Rainier Avenue. There’s a curbside area along Rainier Ave S where you can catch an Uber or taxi. Since Rainier Ave is two lanes, have the driver pull aside safely and let you out by the sidewalk. This is convenient for late-night departures as well. Note that you must still obey any no-parking zones or signage, so your driver may have to circle briefly to avoid blocking traffic. On busy nights with alley events, the drop-off at the front entrance is recommended.
What seating arrangements does Black & Tan Hall offer? The hall has flexible seating for about 75 people indoors. There are padded wood-top tables and chairs, plus upholstered booths along the sides. Specifically, there are seven 4-person tables, eight 2-person tables, and around 80 movable chairs (www.blackandtanhall.com ). In addition, 14 built-in high booths (with stools) run along the bar and stage areas. For bigger shows, seating can be reconfigured (some chairs removed for dancing). In normal dining setups, every seat and booth is available for reservations or walk-ups. If you have a preference (table vs. booth) you can request it, but most concert-goers stand or sit where they like once inside.
Are events general admission or are seats reserved? Most events at Black & Tan Hall are general admission. This means there are no assigned seats. On arrival, patrons may choose any available table, booth, or standing spot. For shows with dining, servers will assist you but do not reserve tables in advance (except sometimes for private parties). For concert-style events, admission is typically standing-room on the floor with seating along the back and sides. There is no separate “VIP” section; everyone shares the same space. To get the best viewing spot, arriving early is the key.
Where are the best spots in the venue to watch a show? Since the hall is relatively small (150 capacity), almost any location has a good line-of-sight to the stage. Front-center near the stage is loudest and most immersive, which is ideal if you’re there to dance or be close to performers. Folding chairs or standing spots just a few feet back are also great for direct viewing. If you prefer a seated vantage, a front table or booth near center provides a stable view but still feels intimate. Avoid sitting too far back by the entrance (those tables are furthest from the stage). Keep in mind the speakers are placed at stage level, so sitting too close to them (on either wing) might be very loud on one side. Mid-row or side seats balance sound well. Ultimately, if you want to dance, claim a floor space; if you want to socialize, pick a nearby table or booth.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into the venue? No – Black & Tan Hall does not allow outside food or alcohol. Guests may buy food and drink from the on-site kitchen and bar throughout an event, but you cannot carry in any outside items (other than personal water bottles). Bringing your own beer, wine, or snacks is not permitted. This policy keeps the space clean and supports the venue’s community vendors. If you have special dietary needs (like bringing a birthday cake or allergy-safe meal), contact the venue in advance for exceptions. Otherwise please plan to use the menu and bar services provided on-site.
What are the age restrictions at Black & Tan Hall? Black & Tan Hall hosts both all-ages and 21+ events. Many performances (especially in the daytime or early evening) are family-friendly, and children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. If a show is designated “all-ages,” families can attend together. Alcohol is available for 21+ patrons only, and ID will be checked at the bar. For events that run late or focus on adult themes, there is often a 21+ age limit on the ticket. All-ages shows may have extra security to ensure a safe environment for minors (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Always check the event listing – it will clearly state any age requirement.
Is Black & Tan Hall wheelchair accessible? Yes – Black & Tan Hall is wheelchair accessible. The entrance is at street level off Rainier Avenue, so no stairs are required to enter the main area. Inside, the space is flat with wide aisles between tables. Importantly, the hall has two ADA-compliant restrooms located just inside the front door (www.blackandtanhall.com ). If you need assistance (such as a ramp at the small stage lip), the staff is happy to help. Guests requiring wheelchair seating are advised to arrive early or inform the venue in advance so they can set aside an appropriate table or floor space.
Does Black & Tan Hall serve food and drinks, and what kind? Absolutely – the Hall has a full kitchen and bar. Under Chef Tay, the menu features “soulful, elevated” dishes with Southern and Caribbean influences (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Star items often include fresh seafood dishes, braised meats, and house-made sides. The bar offers a curated selection of craft cocktails, local beers, ciders and wines – with an emphasis on beverages from Black- and POC-owned producers (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Food and non-alcoholic drinks are available whenever the kitchen is open (throughout shows), and the bar stays open until closing time. Note: the kitchen closes about 45 minutes before the Hall closes (www.blackandtanhall.com ), so plan your meal accordingly.
When is Black & Tan Hall open for dining and shows? As of recent schedules, the hall is open for dinner and events on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (www.blackandtanhall.com ). The kitchen and bar begin service at 5:00 PM those nights. On Sundays, the hall is typically only open for scheduled afternoon or evening programs (so check the event calendar for Sunday shows). Mondays through Wednesdays are usually dark (no regular service). Always confirm current hours on the venue’s website or social media before your visit, as they can change for special events or holidays.
Can I rent Black & Tan Hall for a private event? Yes – the hall can be rented for private events like meetings, birthday parties, weddings or corporate gatherings. The space can accommodate up to about 150 guests (around 75 seated) (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Rental includes access to the stage, dining area and AV equipment. Because it’s a community co-op, the policies tend to be flexible and supportive of diverse events (from quinceañeras to funerals). Contact the venue’s rentals coordinator for rates and availability – they can tailor set-up to your needs. Note that pricing is event-specific and usually involves a deposit and insurance. For any sizable gathering, early booking is advised to lock in the date and coordinate food/beverage service.
What does “Black & Tan” in the name signify? The term “Black and Tan” originally referred to early 20th-century nightclubs that were intentionally racially integrated. In an era of segregation, Black & Tan clubs welcomed people of all races together for music and dance (southseattleemerald.org ). Seattle’s own historic Black & Tan Club (located at 12th and Jackson) was famous from 1932–1966, hosting jazz legends. By adopting the name, Black & Tan Hall pays homage to that legacy of inclusion. It signals that this venue is meant to be open and welcoming to everyone, carrying forward the spirit of Seattle’s rich jazz-age heritage.
What kind of sound and lighting systems does the venue have? Black & Tan Hall is equipped with professional-grade AV gear. Its main PA consists of four EAW LA-325 full-range speaker enclosures, supplemented by large LA-118 subwoofers for deep bass (www.blackandtanhall.com ). There are also multiple floor monitors (EAW LA-212) and a dedicated drum monitor. The hall uses a 40-input Behringer X32 digital mixer to run sound (www.blackandtanhall.com ). Lighting includes 18 full-color KL Par cans, several LED pars for broad washes, and four Elation FUZE moving-spot lights for dynamic effects (www.blackandtanhall.com ). A professional haze machine (Radiance Hazer) and a follow-spot light are on site, all controlled via an Obsidian NX1 lighting console (www.blackandtanhall.com ). In short, touring bands and shows will find full concert-capability rig in place, so sound and visuals can be high quality straight away.
