Seemor
McMenamins The WoodshopC+Worth Trying
18607 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011
· Pub, American restaurant, Bar & grill
· 4.4/5 Google (1290 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Fun McMenamins pub with games, house beers, and solid bar staples, but expect service slowdowns at peak times and uneven execution.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
McMenamins The Woodshop delivers a distinctive campus experience with exceptional setting appeal and reliable house beers, but inconsistent food quality and notable service delays during busy periods limit its standing. Food quality ranges from satisfying (Cajun tots, burgers) to disappointing (cold or overcooked plates), while wait times frequently exceed 45 minutes. Best suited for casual hangouts and beer-focused visits rather than reliable dining when timing matters.
Restaurant Summary
Inside the Anderson School campus, The Woodshop feels warm and bustling with quirky McMenamins art, pool tables, and house beers poured steps from the brewhouse. Expect friendly vibes, but some guests report long waits at peak times. One diner summed it up: "Great place to hang out, just not when you are starving." The cooking centers on comforting pub staples—burgers, fish and chips, wings, and the cult-favorite Cajun tots—paired with a broad beer and cider lineup. When the kitchen hits, it is satisfying bar food; when stretched, plates can arrive dry or lukewarm. This suits casual meetups, campus exploring, and beer-first evenings more than precision dining. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly standbys like corn dogs, fries, pizza, and grilled cheese. Games and outdoor spaces help with restless energy. There is no dedicated kids menu cited, but the current lineup covers most young palates; just avoid peak rushes if timing matters.
At a Glance
- Unique historic campus with multiple bars and games
- House beers and Cajun tots earn consistent praise
- Prolonged waits for orders and food at busy times
- Execution varies (cold or overcooked plates reported)
- Manage expectations on speed during events or peak evenings
What Sets It Apart
- historic_school_campus_setting
- in-house_beer_program
- games_and_arcade_vibe
What People Love
- House-brewed beers poured fresh
- Cajun tots with addictive seasoning
- Quirky art and cozy wood interiors
- Pool, pinball, and shuffleboard for lingering
Points of Concern
- Service can be slow to acknowledge tables during peaks; ordering or food can exceed 45–90 minutes
- Inconsistent execution: occasional cold, overcooked, or missing-sauce items
- Value feels thin on some sides (small onion ring portions for price)
- Review patterns show signs of peak-time strain; plan visits to avoid bottlenecks
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$32-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: House or Caesar salad plus grilled cheese for a simple combo
- Lighter option: House salad and shared wings
- Fish and chips portion suits sharing with tots on the side
Perfect For
- Casual beer-and-games night with friends
- Family visits to the Anderson School campus
- Pre- or post-movie bites on-site
- Laid-back group hangouts where timing is flexible
Location Insights
Area: Adaptive reuse school campus with multiple bars, hotel, pool; draws families, groups, and beer fans.
Safety: Well-trafficked campus feel; generally safe with good lighting and steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Part of Anderson School complex: bars, patios, games, hotel, movie theater; near Bothell Main St and Burke-Gilman.
Downtown BothellDowntown Bothell is a vibrant area with a mix of historic charm and modern development. The dining scene includes casual eateries, cafes, and some upscale restaurants, catering to a community-oriented crowd. The area is pedestrian-friendly with a focus on local businesses and community events.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–00:00
Tuesday11:00–00:00
Wednesday11:00–00:00
Thursday11:00–00:00
Friday11:00–01:00
Saturday11:00–01:00
Sunday11:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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