Brewery Profile

Big Time Brewery

Seattle has seen many waves of craft beer come and go, and a stop here puts visitors inside one of the city’s long-running reference points. Open since 1988, Big Time Brewery is described as Seattle’s oldest continuously operating brewpub, which gives it a different feel from newer taprooms built around a single trend or format. Near the University District, it serves as a neighborhood stop as much as a beer destination, with the draw centered on house-brewed pints and a sense of continuity. Travelers walking in should expect a brewpub tied closely to local brewing history rather than a polished showcase built for quick photos.

Visitors to Seattle and the wider Pacific Northwest often look for places that connect beer to the everyday life of the city: casual rooms, local regulars, and taps that reflect established brewing traditions. Big Time fits that kind of itinerary because its identity is rooted in classic styles and decades of service, not in novelty alone. For someone exploring Seattle beer, it can work as a counterpoint to newer breweries across the region. It is also a useful stop for travelers who want to understand how the city’s craft beer culture developed before the current taproom boom, especially in a part of town shaped by students, residents, and long-running small businesses.

For planning, treat this as a brewpub visit and check current hours before going, since operating details can change. The taproom is the place to confirm the day’s pours, seasonal options, and any practical details not listed in advance. Specific amenities such as food service, tour availability, outdoor seating, reservations, or family and pet policies are not confirmed here, so visitors with firm needs should verify directly before making the trip. Its University District area setting may be convenient for those already exploring that part of Seattle, and it can also be folded into a broader city beer route focused on older neighborhood institutions.

A true Seattle institution since 1988, Big Time Brewery holds the distinction of being the city's oldest continuously operating brewpub. Nestled near the University District, this family-owned pioneer has spent decades perfecting classic styles and serving up quality pints in a space steeped in brewing history. It's the quintessential neighborhood spot where tradition meets exceptional craft.

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4133 University Way NE, Seattle, Washington, 98105-6213

Phone: 2065454509

Website: https://www.bigtimebrewery.com/

Popular Beers

A quick look at notable pours currently tied to Big Time Brewery.

Beer Styles at Big Time Brewery

Big Time Brewery brews across a range of styles. The current lineup includes Fresh Hop IPA, Pilsner, Imperial Margarita Gose, Hazy IPA, Northwest IPA, Pale Ale, IPA, Porter, Amber Ale, Rye ESB, Cider, and Seltzer. Specific pours rotate over time — check the taproom board on the day of your visit for what is currently available on tap.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming public events currently attached to this brewery.

  • Chess Night

    Jul 27, 2026

    Join us for Chess Night every Tuesday from 6pm to 11pm.

  • Big Time Trivia Night

    Jul 28, 2026

    Big Time Brewery presents the return of their all-ages trivia nights with a new host. Join the fun to win cash prizes while enjoying craft beer and food in the brewery's back room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Big Time Brewery located?
Big Time Brewery is located at 4133 University Way NE, Seattle, Washington, 98105-6213. Use the map and directions on this page to plan your visit.
What are Big Time Brewery's hours?
Taproom hours are not posted to Beer.Social. Call 2065454509 to confirm before visiting.
How can I learn more about Big Time Brewery?
Visit https://www.bigtimebrewery.com/ for the brewery's own information about beers, events, and operations. Beer.Social aggregates public data and visitor-facing details to help with planning a stop.