Sip Into Summer with Seasonal Cocktails at Ray’s Cafe

Tag: Ray’s Cafe

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Sip Into Summer with Seasonal Cocktails at Ray’s Cafe

Summer is the perfect season to relax over lunch with a refreshing cocktail and fresh Northwest seafood. At Ray’s Cafe, you’ll find handcrafted seasonal drinks, delicious cuisine, and one of the best waterfront settings in the city. If you’re searching for a Seattle restaurant that combines incredible views with casual dining, Ray’s is the perfect place to unwind.

Our summer cocktail menu features two light, refreshing low-ABV favorites that are ideal for sunny afternoons.

Our Cafe Mint Moxie Spritz blends local Moxie Mule Bianco vermouth with house-made mint tea simple syrup, fresh lemon, and a splash of soda over ice. Crisp, herbaceous, and refreshing, it’s a wonderful match for oysters, crab, or any of our fresh seafood specialties.

For those who love a classic, the Aperol Spritz delivers bright citrus flavor with Aperol, sparkling wine, and a splash of soda. Light, bubbly, and easy to sip, it’s the perfect companion to a leisurely lunch overlooking Puget Sound.

Low-ABV cocktails have become a favorite for daytime dining because they offer balanced flavor and a lighter way to enjoy a handcrafted drink. Whether you’re gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply taking a break from your day, these cocktails pair beautifully with Ray’s Cafe’s seasonal lunch menu and fresh Pacific Northwest seafood.

Of course, the drinks are only part of the experience. Ray’s Cafe has long been known as a premier waterfront restaurant, where every table offers spectacular views of Shilshole Bay and the Olympic Mountains. From the first sip to the last bite, guests enjoy an unforgettable combination of fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you’re a Seattle local or visiting the city, Ray’s Cafe is the perfect Seattle restaurant for casual lunches, afternoon cocktails, and memorable meals by the water. Join us this summer for refreshing cocktails, fresh seafood, and the relaxed casual dining experience that has made Ray’s a waterfront favorite for generations.

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Ray’s In The News

Ray’s Boathouse guests dining in Seattle WA

Check out these great articles featuring Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe, Seattle’s best seafood restaurant!

From casual lunches and dinners at Ray’s 2nd floor Cafe, to date nights and friend dinners over sharable plates in our 1st floor Boathouse — Ray’s has it all! Reserve in our Boathouse here, Cafe is walk-ins. See you soon!

Best Waterfront Views in Washington – Fast Food Club

Best Seafood Spots in Seattle – Tasting Table

Best Restaurant Views in Seattle – Chowhound

Where To Eat in Seattle with Amazing Views – Yahoo

Best Seafood in Seattle – Yelp

FareStart Guest Chef Night – The Seattle Times

13 Classic Seattle Restaurants That Define Seattle – Eater Seattle 

Graduation Dinner Guide – Seattle Met
The Best Restaurants for Weddings in Seattle – Eater Seattle

Mother’s Day Dining – Seattle Magazine

Eating Well in Seattle – Woman Around Town

Washington’s Best Waterfront Restaurant – Newstalk870

Washington’s Best Waterfront Restaurant – KEYW

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Celebrate Father’s Day at Ray’s Boathouse & Cafe

Ray’s Boathouse Seattle WA sunset view dining

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Dad this year? Join us at Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe on Sunday, June 21 for a memorable Father’s Day meal at one of Seattle’s most iconic waterfront destinations.

Whether Dad is craving a perfectly cooked steak, our signature Dungeness crab cakes, fresh wild seafood, pasta, or another Ray’s favorite, we’ve got something special waiting for him. With sweeping Puget Sound and Olympic Mountain views, Ray’s is the kind of Seattle restaurant that makes the simplest meals special.

For a more elevated Father’s Day dinner, reserve a table in our 1st floor Boathouse and enjoy a classic Ray’s dining experience with fresh Northwest flavors and unforgettable views. Prefer a more relaxed outing? Our 2nd floor Cafe offers the same beautiful setting in a more casual dining atmosphere, with walk-ins welcome throughout the day.

And of course, no Father’s Day celebration is complete without a great drink in hand. Raise a glass to Dad with our featured Father’s Day specials in the Cafe:

  • Buffalo Trace “Ray’s Private Selection No. 1”
  • Old Forester 100 Proof “Ray’s Private Selection No. 4”
  • Dad’s Perfect Manhattan – Buffalo Trace “Ray’s Private Selection No. 1” Bourbon, Carpano Classico sweet vermouth, Dolin dry vermouth, orange and Angostura bitters, served up

Whether Dad loves a great bourbon, a handcrafted Manhattan, or simply soaking in the view with family, Ray’s is the perfect water view restaurant for celebrating together.

Treat Dad to a Father’s Day to remember with delicious food, special sips, and one of the best waterfront views in Seattle. Make your Boathouse reservation today, or stop by the Cafe and toast to Dad with us!

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Lunch Has a Fresh New Look at Ray’s Cafe

Man eating a salmon teriyaki salmon bowl at Ray's Cafe in Seattle.

Patio season has arrived in Seattle, and there’s no better place to soak it all in than Ray’s Cafe on the Ballard waterfront. Just in time for sunnier days and waterfront lunches, we’re excited to introduce a refreshed lunch program that brings new energy—and plenty of flavor—to your midday plans.

Our 2nd floor Cafe now features a dedicated lunch menu, separate from dinner, giving guests even more variety and reasons to visit throughout the day. Whether you’re stepping away from work, catching up with friends, or simply craving a delicious casual meal with a view, lunch at Ray’s Cafe is designed to feel both easygoing and special.

Available daily from 11:30am to 3:30pm, the new lunch menu highlights a mix of vibrant, seasonal dishes and satisfying classics. Dive into the Teriyaki Bowl with your choice of chicken or salmon, served with jasmine rice, broccolini, and a savory-sweet glaze. For something plant-forward, the Cauliflower & Quinoa Bowl layers bold textures and flavors with lemon-tahini dressing and herbs.

Craving comfort? The Chicken & Chips delivers crispy, hand-breaded chicken strips with golden fries, while the Pan-seared Ling Cod offers a refined take with green garlic purée, wild rice, and toasted hazelnuts. Our Housemade Falafel brings bright Mediterranean flavors to the table, and the tacos—featuring either local catch or king oyster mushrooms—are perfect for a lighter, shareable bite. View our full Cafe lunch menu at rays.com/cafe/cafe-menu

Pair it all with fresh air, waterfront views, and good company, and you’ve got the ultimate Seattle lunch experience. Join us at Ray’s Cafe and discover your new favorite midday escape.

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Seattle Cocktail Week April 19-26 at Ray’s!

Hand holding a cocktail overlooking the water views at Ray's

Seattle Cocktail Week is back from April 19–26, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe! As a top Seattle restaurant with iconic Puget Sound views, Ray’s delivers an experience that blends expertly crafted cocktails, fresh seafood, and an unforgettable waterfront restaurant setting.

A shoutout to Ray’s hardworking bartending team, who craft, shake, stir, and pour your favorite sips year-round. Their creativity and precision are behind every memorable cocktail you enjoy.

At Ray’s Café, where casual dining meets a relaxed, beachy vibe, the cocktail lineup is bright and inviting:

  • Lucy in the Sky – Tito’s vodka, pamplemousse liqueur, raspberry, lemon, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing, slightly tart sip that’s perfect on the rocks.
  • Sunset Boulevard – Michter’s US★1 Kentucky Straight Rye with cardamom-infused Campari and Madagascar vanilla–infused Carpano Antica sweet vermouth.  A rich and aromatic cocktail. Available at both the Cafe and Boathouse.

Downstairs at Ray’s Boathouse, the mood is elevated and welcoming, with panoramic water views that define this beloved waterfront restaurant. The Sunset Boulevard shines as a perfect companion to golden hour.

  • Unintended Consequences – a bold blend of Don Julio Reposado tequila, Koch Elemental mezcal, Lustau PX sherry, and mole bitters. The result is smoky, complex, and deeply satisfying.
  • Garden Party (NA cocktail) – available at both the Cafe and Boathouse, it adds a fresh, herbaceous NA option with a kick of heat, that pairs beautifully with Ray’s signature seafood.

Whether you’re stopping in for casual dining or celebrating a special night out, Ray’s Boathouse and Café are essential stops during Seattle Cocktail Week for anyone who loves great drinks, incredible seafood, and waterfront views.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day at Ray’s May 10!

Ray's red neon sign at Sunset over Shilshole Bay

Celebrate your Mother and the Mother figures in your life on Sunday, May 10, 2026 at Seattle’s best waterfront restaurant!

Our first floor Boathouse will serve some of our best-selling appetizers, salads and entrées along with Mother’s Day inspired a la carte breakfast and brunch specials. And our upstairs Cafe will offer a grand holiday brunch buffet.

RESERVATIONS
We can accommodate parties of 8 people or fewer, including high chairs.

RESERVE 1ST FLOOR BOATHOUSE

RESERVE 2ND FLOOR CAFE

BOATHOUSE A LA CARTE (1st floor)

Boathouse Brunch
10am (first seating) to 3pm (last seating)
Enjoy our best-selling appetizers, salads and Boathouse entrées along with holiday inspired breakfast/brunch specials.

Boathouse Brunch a la Carte Menu

  • Avocado Toast – toasted Seawolf Sourdough, smashed avocado, 6 ½ minute eggs, pickled red onion, cherry tomatoes, everything bagel seasoning
  • Vegetarian Quiche – asparagus, mushrooms, spinach, gruyere, fried breakfast potatoes, mixed green salads
  • Steak & Eggs – Coulotte Steak, two eggs, fried breakfast potatoes, chimichurri
  • 8 oz house ground beef burger – brioche bun, American cheese, shredded lettuce, special sauce, fried breakfast potatoes
  • Two Eggs – choice of bacon or Uli’s breakfast sausage, fried breakfast potatoes, toasted Seawolf sourdough
  • Challah French Toast – Uli’s Breakfast sausage, spiced Vermont maple syrup, Chantilly cream, fresh berries, fried breakfast potatoes
  • Hangtown Fry – fried oysters, scrambled eggs with Pancetta, chives, hollandaise, toasted sourdough
  • Chicken Schnitzel Salad – pounded and breaded chicken breast, avocado mousse, gem lettuce, green goddess, pickled red onions, radish, toasted sesame seeds

Boathouse Dinner
3pm (first seating) to 9pm (last seating)
Enjoy our full Boathouse dinner menu featuring shareable and small plates with sustainable, local seafood like Wild Alaskan King Salmon, NW Sablefish, handmade pasta, vegetarian dishes and more!

Full children’s menu available all day in the Boathouse.

CAFE BRUNCH BUFFET (2nd floor)
Enjoy our upstairs Cafe grand holiday brunch buffet from 9am (first seating) to 2pm (last seating for buffet) for $110 per adult and $50 per child ages 5 to 11 (pricing includes juice and sodas but excludes tax and gratuity).

Buffet Menu
Complete range of appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts, plus Ray’s traditional carving and shellfish action stations, as well as breakfast and brunch items. Buffet items will be available until 3:30pm when the buffet closes.

Cafe brunch reservations are accepted from 9am to 2pm on Mother’s Day (reserve in our Cafe Lounge from 9am-2pm only if whole party is ages 21+). No reservations needed for the Cafe bar top, ages 21 and over only.

Cafe Dinner: At 2pm we will begin serving the entire a la carte Café menu. Cafe dinner is walk-ins only.

Please note: we will not be offering Happy Hour in the Boathouse or Cafe on Mother’s Day.

We can’t wait to share this special day with you and yours at your favorite Seattle restaurant!

Kindly review our Mother’s Day guidelines for a seamless experience!
*Reservations for parties of 8 or fewer, including highchairs.
*All of our availability is posted on RESY. If the time and party size you are seeking is not listed, it is not available. This includes Cafe Lounge high top seating for ages 21+.
*All reservations are for inside tables only.
*We cannot accommodate window seating requests.
*Walk-ins are only accepted for our bar top seating in the Cafe and Boathouse bars (both ages 21 and over). Our Cafe Lounge high top seating accepts reservations but is also ages 21 and over.
*Sorry, no promotional discounts available. Loyalty cards accepted and encouraged!

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What To Do in Ballard When You’re Getting Married

Wedding Reception at Seattle's Best Waterfront Event Venue at Ray's Boathouse in Seattle

Weddings at Ray’s Boathouse in Ballard are a stunning site. Few Seattle neighborhoods rival the charm, views, and romance found here. Nestled along the shores of Puget Sound, this seaside enclave offers the perfect blend of Pacific Northwest beauty and laid-back sophistication.

So before you tie the knot at Seattle’s best waterfront wedding venue, Ray’s Northwest Room, we’ve put together some fun ways to spend a dreamy day in Ballard before (or after) you say “I do”.

Start with sweeping views at Sunset Hill
Perched high above the water, Sunset Hill Park is one of Ballard’s most romantic hidden gems. With panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, it’s an ideal spot for a quiet moment together—or even a first look or engagement photos.

Stroll the shoreline at Golden Gardens Park
A short drive from Ray’s, Golden Gardens Park offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest beach experience. Think driftwood-lined shores, grassy picnic areas, and unobstructed water views. It’s a favorite for couples looking to soak in some natural beauty—whether you’re walking barefoot in the sand, enjoying a casual picnic, or snapping candid photos with the Sound as your backdrop. For guests in town for your Seattle waterfront wedding, this is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of the city.

Savor a waterfront lunch at Ray’s Cafe
No Ballard itinerary is complete without a stop at Ray’s Cafe. Perfect for a relaxed midday break, our casual dining spot pairs fresh Northwest seafood with unbeatable waterfront views. Enjoy clam chowder, salads, fish and chips, sip a glass of wine, and watch boats drift across Puget Sound—it’s an effortlessly romantic experience that reflects the spirit of a Seattle wedding by the water. It’s also a delicious preview of the culinary excellence you can expect from one of the best waterfront wedding venues in Seattle.

Explore Ballard’s charm together
Beyond its iconic viewpoints, Ballard invites couples to slow down and explore. Wander along Ballard Avenue’s boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and tasting rooms, or visit the historic Ballard Locks to watch boats pass between the Sound and Lake Union. Every corner of the neighborhood offers something memorable—perfect for creating meaningful moments in the lead-up to your big day.

From scenic overlooks to beachfront strolls and unforgettable dining, Ballard sets the stage for romance at every turn—and offers everything you need to complement a celebration at the best waterfront wedding venue in Seattle.

Looking for a Seattle wedding venue? Contact Ray’s events team today to tour and book a date! [email protected] or 206-789-6309.

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Celebrate Washington Wine Month at Ray’s!

Washington Wine Bottles at Ray's Boathouse and Cafe

March is Washington Wine Month and Ray’s has partnered with one of our favorite wineries, Long Shadows Vintners, to offer a special lineup of wines by the glass.

Try them all in our 1st floor Boathouse and 2nd floor Cafe this month. Our Wine Director Darrell has some excellent pairing ideas to make ordering easy and so delicious. Cheers!

Poets Leap Riesling
Columbia Valley, WA 2024
Cafe Pairings: Thai Mussels and Sablefish Sake Kasu
Boathouse Pairing: Korean Chili & Sesame Crusted Albacore Tuna
Complex off-dry Riesling with white blossoms, bright citrus and minerality

Cymbal Sauvignon Blanc
Columbia Valley, WA 2023
Cafe Pairings: Seared Oregon Albacore Cobb Salad and Dungeness Crab Cakes
Boathouse Pairings: Pan Seared Diver Scallops with Pork Belly and Grilled King Salmon
Japanese pear, kumquat and green papaya with freshly cut grass and clove. Intense yet beautifully balanced

Pedestal Merlot
Columbia Valley, WA 2020
Cafe Pairing: Grilled Ribeye
Boathouse Pairings: Grilled Ribeye and Filet Mignon
Aromas and flavors of ripe plums, chocolate, spicy oak, and graphite define the aromatics. This Merlot is concentrated, has ripe, chalky tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish

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Easter at Ray’s Boathouse & Cafe April 5, 2026!

Guests dining at Ray’s Boathouse seafood restaurant and bar on the Seattle waterfront

Gather the family at Ray’s for a delicious Easter brunch or dinner at Seattle’s best waterfront seafood restaurant on Sunday, April 5, 2026!

Easter reservations are strongly encouraged for our 2nd floor Cafe grand holiday buffet and our 1st floor Boathouse holiday menus. We can accommodate parties of 10 people or fewer, including high chairs.

RESERVE RAY’S 2ND FLOOR CAFE HERE.

RESERVE RAY’S 1ST FLOOR BOATHOUSE HERE.

CAFE EASTER BUFFET (2nd floor)
Enjoy our Cafe grand holiday buffet from 9am (first seating) to 8pm (last seating). $110 per person including coffee, juice and sodas (excluding tax and gratuity). $50 for children 5 to 11 years of age.

Cafe Menu
Complete range of appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts, plus Ray’s traditional carving and shellfish action stations featuring Northwest seafood. Breakfast items will be served on the buffet until 3pm then we will transition to a dinner buffet until 9pm.

The Cafe Bar will be open from 9am (first seating) to 8pm (last seating) and is seated on a first come basis. Cafe Bar is 21 and over only.

BOATHOUSE EASTER BRUNCH & DINNER (1st floor)
Boathouse Brunch
10:30am (first seating) to 3pm (last seating)
Enjoy our best-selling a la carte Boathouse appetizers, salads and entrées along with holiday inspired breakfast and brunch specials.

Boathouse Easter Brunch a la Carte Menu
• Berry Parfait, vanilla bean whipped yogurt, mixed berries, house made granola, honey
• Avocado Toast, toasted Seawolf Sourdough, smashed avocado, 6 ½ minute eggs, pickled red onion, cherry tomatoes, everything bagel seasoning
• Vegetarian Quiche, asparagus, mushrooms, spinach, gruyere, fried breakfast potatoes, mixed green salads
• Steak and Eggs, Coulotte Steak, two eggs, fried breakfast potatoes, chimichurri
• 8 oz house ground beef burger, brioche bun, American cheese, shredded lettuce, special sauce, fried breakfast potatoes
• Two Eggs, choice of bacon or Uli’s breakfast sausage, fried breakfast potatoes, toasted Seawolf sourdough
• Challah French Toast, Uli’s Breakfast sausage, spiced Vermont maple syrup, Chantilly cream, fresh berries, fried breakfast potatoes
• Hangtown Fry, fried oysters, scrambled eggs with Pancetta, chives, hollandaise, toasted sourdough
• Chicken Schnitzel Salad, pounded and breaded chicken breast, avocado mousse, gem lettuce, green goddess, pickled red onions, radish, toasted sesame seeds

Boathouse Dinner
3pm (first seating) to 8pm (last seating)
Enjoy our full a la carte dinner menu alongside an $85 Easter inspired 3-course dinner menu of appetizer, entrée and dessert (beverages, tax and gratuity not included). Full children’s menu available all day.

Boathouse Easter 3-Course Dinner
choose one item from each course

Appetizers
• Cucumber and Avocado Gazpacho, mint, English peas, pickled red onions, yogurt GF
• Strawberry and Arugula Salad, goat cheese, honey balsamic vinaigrette, toasted almonds GF
• Sumac Crusted Albacore Tuna, tzatziki sauce, pickled fennel, radish, cucumber GF

Entrees
• Double R Ranch Spice Rubbed Prime Rib of Beef, garlic whipped potatoes, seared broccolini, demi-glace GF
• Fresh PNW Halibut, carrot-ginger puree, fried Yukon potatoes, seared asparagus, miso beurre blanc
• Roasted Cauliflower Steak, chili garlic labneh, hot pepper relish, pomegranate syrup GF

Desserts
• Carrot-Coconut Cake, candied pecans, cream cheese frosting, butterscotch sauce
• Chocolate Budino, miso caramel, chocolate sable cookie
• Olympic Mountain Ice Cream/Sorbet

Kindly review our Easter guidelines for a seamless experience!
*Reservations for parties of up to 10, including highchairs.
*All of our availability is posted on RESY. If the time and party size you are seeking is not listed, it is not available. This includes Cafe Lounge high top seating.
*All reservations are for inside tables only.
*We cannot accommodate window seating requests.
*Walk-ins are only accepted for our bar top seating in the Cafe and Boathouse bars (both ages 21 and over). Our Cafe Lounge high top seating accepts reservations but is also ages 21 and over.
*Sorry, no promotional discounts available. Loyalty cards accepted and encouraged!

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Best Happy Hour in Seattle at Ray’s Cafe

Ray's 2nd floor Cafe Happy Hour

If you’re searching for a standout Seattle restaurant with stunning views, excellent seafood, and relaxed casual dining, Ray’s Cafe happy hour should be at the top of your list. Located right on Puget Sound, Ray’s Cafe is a classic water view restaurant that delivers both atmosphere and flavor.

Ray’s 2nd floor Cafe offers a popular happy hour that draws locals and visitors alike, thanks to its unbeatable combination of fresh seafood, drink specials, and panoramic waterfront views. As a true waterfront restaurant, the Cafe overlooks the Olympic Mountains and water, making it one of the best places in Seattle to unwind after work or kick off an evening out.

The happy hour menu offers Ray’s seafood favorites. Guests can enjoy items  like:

Manila Clams
Penn Cove Mussels
Clam chowder
Ceasar Salad
Tuna Poke
Crispy Calamari

All offered at special happy hour pricing. These dishes highlight the Pacific Northwest’s local ingredients while staying approachable and perfect for sharing. Pair your food with a happy hour cocktail, local beer, or Washington wine, and you’ve got an ideal casual dining experience.

What makes Ray’s Cafe stand out among other Seattle restaurants is its ability to feel both elevated and laid-back. Whether you’re meeting friends, hosting out-of-town guests, or simply craving seafood with a view, this waterfront restaurant delivers consistently.

For anyone looking to experience a quintessential Seattle happy hour, Ray’s Cafe offers the perfect mix of seafood, scenery, and relaxed charm. It’s proof that some of the best casual dining in Seattle happens right on the water.

Host Your Next Seattle Business Event at Ray’s Boathouse

When it comes to Seattle business event venues, Ray’s Boathouse offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines modern amenities with a breathtaking waterfront location. Whether you’re planning an executive meeting, corporate retreat, or networking reception, Ray’s Northwest Room delivers the perfect setting for productivity, collaboration, and inspiration. Why Ray’s Northwest Room is Perfect for Business Events …

Continue reading “Host Your Next Seattle Business Event at Ray’s Boathouse”

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6049 Seaview Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107-2690

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BOOK A TABLE  AT RAY’S BOATHOUSE

Ray’s Boathouse elevates local, sustainable seafood with global flavors and Northwest inspiration nightly.

BOOK A TABLE  AT RAY’S CAFE

Classic seafood dishes with seasonal preparations in our upstairs Café overlooking Puget Sound.

MAKE A RESERVATION

Simply choose either Ray’s Boathouse or Ray’s Cafe in the first drop down, then find your table.

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