Founders Club
411 University St, Seattle
(206) 621-1700
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The noise was louder than expected, but there were two men at bar next to us speaking louder than necessary. With the music, bartender chatter and the loud talkers made it an uncomfortable experience. It may have been better at a table, but there were very few of them and unavailable. Considerable expense: two drinks (one NA) and small appetizer was $100 before tip. Expensive even by Seattle standards.
Bartender was amazing. We were welcomed. They gave us the best possible treatment. Loved the drinks and ambiance. 10/10
THE Perfect spot in downtown for a lovely cocktail and delicious bites! Classy, cozy, quiet enough to have a conversation. Well Done!
This is a cool space and the service was good. The decor is nice and it being behind a bookcase is a fun touch. I was disappointed with the variety of cocktails for a “speakeasy” though the spirit and wine lists had several options. We did not try the food so I can't speak to that. We each had one cocktail and they were good. We went elsewhere for food and further drinks. It was a style over substance bar for me. Great for photos, I don't think it's worth the cost and not an experience worth repeating.
Clover Club was a delicious, refreshing cocktail; highly recommend! We ordered sliders and the flatbread, and the sliders were our favourite.
The experience was fun from the get-go, with the "sneaky" opening of the bookcase to let us in. Inside, the ambience definitely had a "speakeasy" feel to it, with velour, low lighting, and mirrored ceiling. We were offered seats at the bar, which was not yet occupied, so we chose to be right in the middle, to be able to watch the action. The bartender was amiable and amenable to chatting when she wasn't too busy. She also did not disappoint when it came to putting on a show (perhaps she steered me to a clarified cocktail for starters so that she could show off her long pour skills?). I ended up trying three different cocktails, and they all had different flavor profiles, but were all very enjoyable. I had a favorite (Soft Blume), but I would have all of them again, they were crafted so well. Of course I needed food to go with cocktail sampling, and the foraged mushroom flatbread was perfect for that. It was a little challenging to eat, as the button mushrooms wanted to roll off, but I still managed to enjoy MOST of it. ;-) The hummus base is lovely, and the pickled shallots add brightness to the overall earthiness. We can hardly wait to bring friends to enjoy the whole experience!
Founders Club is truly a speakeasy - the kind that would easily hit the mark in any elite city across the globe. We're lucky to have it in Seattle. Part of its charm naturally comes from its 'hiddenness', but inside it is simultaneously relaxing and yet energizing. It is simply perfect for smaller groups, and yet a well focused solo traveler could also comfortably enjoy the experience. The cocktail menu is one you won't find anywhere else - truly original ideas and spirits from around the globe to match. The small - but noticeable - touches on each cocktail make each drink not only look perfect - but also taste marvelously well. This is the kind of place where you'll discover a flavor combination that you've never had before - trust me! The service is super-classy, befit of the larger hotel property. Calling Hideki a bartender is like calling Jiro Ono a subway sushi vendor. Hideki's craft and creativity were on full display when we were there. He was able to listen to people's flavor profiles, then create unique beverages on the spot - with some well placed dramatic style - as well as an expert's speed. How often do you go out for drinks and say: "I've never tasted anything like this before!" That's what you'll get at Founders Club. And that's why we'll be back!
We always make a point to go to the Fairmont hotel during the holiday season!! We love all the decorations and beautiful Christmas trees. The lobby bar is one of our favorite places to order a drink, but at this time of year it's very difficult to order a beverage or even find a seat.  It was during one of these visits we learned about the Founders club. One of the staff pointed out that the Founders club is nearby behind a hidden door and takes reservations. We went online and reserved seats for two. When we arrived, we were greeted by Alison. She was very pleasant and professional. It was such a great feeling to be seated immediately behind the secret door. This place has a great ambience, however, on this evening, we found it to be very loud. The staff explained, there was a major event at the hotel, making the Founders club very popular.  the setting is really well done with comfy chairs, dim lighting, and a fantastic selection of whiskey. I ordered the Old Granddad 16 year and my wife ordered a seasonal cocktail “Golden Grove” that was wonderfully crafted.  We found the pricing to be on the high side, but understood it was more about having a guaranteed seat and good service. Not something we would do very often, but we do look forward to visiting again. 
Great ambience, sat at the bar and the bartender was excellent. Drinks with every penny, it was my husband's bday and they gave him a small plate of macaroons on the house and a cute card and my husband said they were delicious. We did not eat any meals there. Will be back for another special occasion. We live local!
When I came here last month, I'm confident to say this is by far the WORST speakeasy I have ever been to. Bartenders are snobby, don't bother paying attention to guests dining solo, and overall bring the atmosphere of the place an easy 1 star. Even though I missed the timeframe to order apps from the kitchen, the bartenders sure didn't have an issue offering complimentary desserts to couples that came in after me. This was such a disappointing experience, and I will be telling everybody to just go to the hotel's Olympic Bar instead. An absolute joke.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
Great location and fun atmosphere. Would go back for a special occasion. Drinks and food were very good, however over priced in my opinion. Had a $34 dollar cocktail that was just as good as the $16 drink I had the night before in another fun, yet less fancy bar. You will enjoy Founders Club, just be ready to pay a premium for the location.
Awesome and special experience at The Founders Club. By reservation only Speakeasy tucked behind a bookcase entrance, unique and creative cocktails, and excellent personal service. Thank you!
Great cocktails! I have been coming to the Founders club for years, last night I noticed some patrons leaving the "secret" door open upon their exit. It's a Speakeasy spot and cool, fun vibe, atmosphete, and why we have been coming for years. Hopefully last night was an exception and they don't lose the cool vibe of the actual Speakeasy experience.
Unfortunately our group was not a fan of this exclusive speakeasy. We were two couples out for drinks and small plates in a classy bar. The waitstaff was not dressed to impress, lacked polish and not attentive enough. We had one round of drinks and left (we had planned for multiple rounds). Great space, great concept, bad delivery.
My friends keeps telling me about this spot 🩷 she said we will love the vibes ! The drinks were 200For 2 ppl
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