The Roanoke Inn is a wonderful gathering place for Mercer Island residents and guests. The food is great, the prices reasonable, the comradery inviting and welcoming, and, in general, a great place to hang out. Keep in mind that Washington law prohibits children from being present in establishments service alcohol, so do not bring children with you when you visit. We have been regulars there for years and would not change anything. read more

A pub like spot tucked inside a neighborhood on the north side of the island. There's a parking lot in the back which is super convenient. The outdoor seating is charming, sunny, and open, but inside is super dark. My group and I sat in the one single sunny corner inside which was nice though. For food, I got the Mac n cheese which is supposed to come with brisket, but they had run out.. so I subbed it with chicken and broccoli. Mac overall was pretty good, sauce was a bit salty, and the chicken was dry. Overall, not super impressed? There's quite the variety of options, and they do their fried foods well (yummy calamari and chicken strips). But the vibes inside don't hit on a bright sunny day, and items are a bit pricey. Service was fine as well. read more

Roanoke Inn - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

There's a few reasons to take the trip to Mercer Island for Roanoke Inn; and they have beer, cocktails, food, atmosphere and lounging outdoors. Let me review all of these and give my judgement as my last review I think was in 2011 when I would say was the hay day of Roanoke Inn. Lets start with the atmosphere which hasn't changed a bit over the decades and I love it as-is and please don't do the Crackle Barrel modernization and ruin it; leave as-is. The cocktails seem to not have changed and this is the perfect place to sit at the bar and drink a shot of Jack and drink at Rainer beer. Don't expect fine wine or expensive bourbon; just that dive bar cocktail. The food seems to have not changed and they still have the carne asada dinner that hasn't changed, french dip, burgers and the only thing I miss is a great traditional club sandwich and I really need a hamburger steak and baked potato drizzled with au jus. I am disappointed with the beer selection as it went mostly PNW craft beers and they no longer have Budweiser, Miller or Coors long necks or are they on draft. I settled for a Modelo; not Negro Modelo. The craft beer phase is not cool anymore and they need to revert back to when American lagers ruled. Overall, this is great venue to meet friends and Iounge in Mercer Island and just chill out with friends and have a few drinks. The selection has changed, but I'm not hating on Roanoke Inn, just being nostalgic for things I can't get easily anymore. read more

Roanoke Inn - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

4.5 it is so cute in here! Reminds me of old pubs in NY/PA colonial era. The only downside is that it's on Mercer island, so if you're not local, it's not a place you can frequent. Prices are reasonable and food was good. read more

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Food was fine large pieces of cod cold beer. It was really expensive $38 dollars with tip for lunch. It was really packed loud with the usual loud obnoxious Mercer island stereotypical people. Really annoying. read more

Definite old school vibes going on here but good bar offerings and food. We had the hot wings aka Wings of Fire, which were alright. For mains we got the turkey club sandwich with a nicely grilled sourdough bread and subbed for tater tots; the Greek Lamb Gyros pita bread filled with lamb, Tzatziki sauce, feta cheese, lettuce and onions; and the steak salad which was good but a bit drenched with the vinaigrette dressing (which we asked for on the side). Overall a nice setting that puts you back 40, 50 or more years and the service was fine! read more

Roanoke Inn - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

Stopped in for a busy lunchtime meeting, and the place definitely had a good buzz--plenty of conversations, lively energy, and a comfortable tavern vibe. The service was on the slower side, but the staff was friendly and engaging once they made it over to us. Beer options were a bit limited, but the E9 Pilsner was a solid choice and hit the spot. For food, I went with the carne asada tacos. They were just okay--about 3 stars. Not a lot of meat, heavy on the onions, and the overall flavor was pretty bland. One of my colleagues had the gyros and said they were good, and another had a salad, though I'm not sure what the verdict was on that one. Overall, a decent spot with a great atmosphere, good service attitude, and room to improve on the food side. 3.5 stars. read more

This is one of those reviews that's more about the ambience and history than it is about the food and drink. First of all it's so cool that it's in a quiet part of Mercer island. It's easy to ride there on your bike and there's plenty of parking in the back. The veranda is nice as is the patio area. It gets crowded there on weekends so plan ahead. Food wise is ok. The burger is decent. And of course the beer is cold! read more

Dorothy Reeck's love and care.The absolute love that was shown was unreal. The food was exceptional just beyond the norm.

The service is decent - better if you're a regular and not so great if you're not a regular. The place is cool and the beer is cold, which is a plus. Parking can be a challenge. Prices have increased quite a bit, which feels even more than regular inflation, but not too crazy. The reason for the 1 star review is that I keep getting charged more than what the menu lists. So they either need to update their menu to include the 15% additional money you'll pay in addition to what's listed, or just stop adding additional charges to your check. This has happened to me two out of the last three times I've visited. The waitress did offer to make it right with another drink item, which I accepte So, I'm done with Roanoke Inn since this happened a bit too often. read more

I had The Wings of Fire and Jalapeño Poppers today, they were just meh. It feels like there has been a change for the worse in the kitchen. Too bad, the food use to be more satisfying for the price. read more

A watering hole long faded from its prior glory days (previous ownership) for islanders. The food is on the expensive side. Pub stalwarts are greasy and sloppily presented. If you stay on the right side of waiters you might receive average service. If not, lower your expectations and be prepared for an earful. They don't take kindly to constructive criticism. read more

The RI food selections quality has continued to falter. A friend joined me yesterday to give lunch another try after a disappointing visit months ago. My lunch special of a chipotle chicken sandwich was mediocre at best and the accompanying green salad looked and tasted like yesterday's. There was no blue cheese flavor in the thin salad dressing. My friend asked for no onions on the nondescript beef patty melt he ordered and turned it back to the server when it arrived with onions. $50 for these servings alone was excessive cost to pay for the poor quality back kitchen production delivered. A shout out is in order however for the consistent and excellent rotating selections of lagers, ales, ciders offered at RI. Kudos to the staff responsible for the long running best beverage beer slate. Please pay more attention to selection of ingredients and preparation of your advertised "comfort food" menu items. read more

Love it. Service is slow but get used to it. It's divey and the food is good. Ambiance is great. Great setting on the north end of Mercer. Highly recommend. read more

I was driving from the Eastside to Seattle today, and realized I had an unexpected hour to kill. So I stopped in at the Roanoke for a beer. It could not have been a better experience. A very nice bartender took great care of me. I also had a nice chat with a couple at the bar, who were grabbing dinner at the end of a road trip. And then, out of the blue, the manager sent me home with a very thoughtful (and generous) gift. I haven't been in this place for 20 years or so, but today I was treated like I was a regular. I will be back soon! read more

This place is a classic! Been here for a very long time and nothing about it has changed. It's a place tucked away in Mercer Island that all the locals know about. Always a place to go and say hi to everybody grab a drink grab a snack or just hang out. I ordered the French dip, and a baked potato. And as you can see in my pictures, they both were delicious. The nachos were really good as well although I didn't get a bite because my friend ate every single bit of it. It's also a really great place to watch sports events and or just to grab a drink if you don't wanna go far from the house. The servers are nice, they are also locals and have been around. And once you walk in, you feel like you're in someone's living room. Can't go wrong here. read more

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Great service. Loved the old style environment. My other had the french dip and couldn't stop saying how good it was. Well constructed and delicious. The specials today included fish tacos and fish and chips. I ordered the fish tacos. Unfortunately that was a mistake. I think they tiok the skinny fish fillets breaded and fried for the fish and chips and cut it up and placed it on a flour tortilla and called it a fish taco. It even came with tartar sauce. It was really crispy which was nice. But I tasted no fish. The couple pieces of cabbage and a tiny bit of mild salsa does not a good fish taco make. I'll go back. But will order something else. read more

Roanoke Inn - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

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Love Roanoke. Staff is friendly and on top of things even when it's incredibly busy. Ollie is kind, funny and always makes sure we're taken care of. That man can HUSTLE behind the bar. As a former bartender who knew how to hustle behind the bar, Ollie puts my skills to shame. You can tell that the staff enjoy working there - huge sign of a good business. Food is typical bar comfort food. I've yet to have something I didn't like. Please ignore the reviews from grumpy 50 year olds who used Roanoke to host their HS reunion. A business doesn't ban things without a valid reason. If you're going to show up with a large group, you can't expect Michelin star service. It costs nothing to be kind and patience is a virtue. Clearly, members of the group were being abusive and disrespectful to the staff. read more

We have been to the Roanoke Inn many times, but just had a disappointing visit. My French Dip sandwich was probably the worst I have ever eaten. A single slab of gristly, tough beef that was impossible to eat as a sandwich. I disassembled the sandwich and cut the meat into small pieces and even then it wasn't great. When I mentioned it to the server she looked a little bewildered and offered no comment. I hope this wasn't an indication that the Roanoke is on the downslope because we've always enjoyed going there in the past. read more

If you're looking for a place that checks every box--killer atmosphere, top-notch drinks, friendly faces, and food you'll actually crave--you've found it. The beer garden here is pure magic. Whether you're soaking up a sunny afternoon or catching the twinkle lights at night, it's the kind of space that makes you linger for "just one more." The staff? Absolute legends. They remember names, pour with skill, and make you feel like a regular by your second visit. They're quick with a joke, a story, or a recommendation you didn't know you needed. You'll meet some quirky locals--the kind of people who turn a night out into a memory. Conversations flow easily here, and before you know it, you're part of the crew. The food is far better than "bar food" has any right to be. Whether you're grabbing a snack or diving into a full meal, everything is made with care and flavor that matches the drinks. And the atmosphere ties it all together--warm, welcoming, and just the right balance of lively and laid-back. This isn't just a bar--it's a community with great taste in beer, better taste in people, and a knack for making you want to come back again and again. read more

Wow what a fun place to grab a drink and great food on the island. The aesthetic of the place gives "your neighborhood bar" but don't be fooled as they crank out some of the best cocktails. Palani is so friendly and knowledgeable about craft cocktails. The whole staff is awesome, highly recommended trying the wings! read more

Roanoke Inn - Wings of Fire with sauce on the side. - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

!! Last weekend we had our and in Island tradition, we gathered at the Roanoke Friday night. I emailed Ollie (The supposed new owner. We found out he is not) about a month before and gave him the heads up that we would be there. We arrived and he made it very clear that . Made it difficult for us to get drinks, food, etc. Many of us were there for hours and were . He required that we had . That meant one person had to put the credit card down for + . I understand that is a lot of people to have different tabs, but we never had a problem our previous 3 reunions. According to Ollie, he has so he shouldn't have been surprised especially since of MIHS's reunions have started their reunion weekend at the Roanoke on Friday nights for decades! One of our classmates went to the bar to get a drink at 8:30 and he in her face that she needed to leave. He scared her and she left. We later saw a sign in the front (we came in through the patio entrance) that said MIHS Reunion come back Monday or Wednesday. If that was what he wanted, why didn't he and let me know we were there? We never were out of control. We are 58 year olds for goodness sakes. At 9:30 he called last call and at 10 pm he was ushering us out. They didn't close until midnight. It is crazy that you have 60ish MIHS graduates who and he wanted us ! I guess what Ollie said is true about the new owners (with very deep pockets and ties to this community). "They are not concerned about making money, just want it to remain open and to make sure that he keeps tater tots on the menu." Those were Ollie's words to 4 classmates that went back to have a drink and get a burger at 11pm when they went to get their cars. Guess last call was for us only. Who knows if what he said is true. Regardless if that is true, I doubt the new owners would have been ok with last Friday night. Our tradition will not change. I will just be giving the a heads up as to when we are coming 5 years from now. read more

Roanoke Inn - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

I've been coming to Roanoke for over 20 years and it's never been worse. Wait staff is incredibly inconsistent, and their insistence on the team approach to tables mean you often have to flag down whoever you can to get another drink, order food, etc. Buddy and i spent 3 hours last night for wings and dinner over a few beers. Positive part of their approach is they forget to charge for everything. The surprising thing is they have more than enough wait staff for the number of customers, and yet they are always rushing around with their hair on fire and leaving people un-served. As an island institution they can get away with it. But for this long-time customer the dreadful service combined with the always overpriced mediocre food means i've had my last visit there. read more

A house converted into a restaurant with a great outdoor seating, a cool dive bar feel, staff is great , their food menu is amazing and always changing! The interior decorations are amazing to really old vintage stuff! read more

I came in here twice within the same week... that is how good their food is. The wine was excellent too. As for the prices? Less than $25 for a full chicken fajita dinner. This restaurant is located in the most expensive area of Seattle and they could get away with charging 25%-30% more if they wanted to (but so glad you don't). What I have a problem with is the service on 12/13. There may have been new help and so it was very slow from ordering to paying the tab. The new young waitress (or waitresses) were trying hard to be courteous, but their boss (manager or owner, don't know which) came over to the tables and started saying how his staff were a bunch of "fucking idiots", so he was left with tending both the bar and also the tables. He said the same thing to me again as I was cashing out. Let me give you some advice, sir: Don't cuss like that at your customers, and don't talk about your staff that way. It reflects poorly on you, and it may just be that YOU are the problem. Please be respectful of your staff, and make sure you train them adequately. I can handle slow service when it's someone new who may be green, but nevertheless is trying her best to give me good service. I will certainly come here again, and next time I hope to give you 5 stars. read more

Had a great visit to this over 21 eatery. We had nachos and poppers. AND of course a couple of beverages. Pleasantly surprised and appreciative of the manager's desire for my husband and I to have a pleasant experience. Lived the 80s music and the ability to watch some sports. read more

Roanoke Inn - Cosmopolitan - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

We were taking my mom and her childhood friend and her husband out for lunch and wanted to do something special. What better place for the Husky Alums celebrating their 80 year friendship, than dining at the establishment where they used to hang out. We arrived at 11:00, right when they opened and had the first pick of the outdoor seating area. Great cabanas where t.v. Were mounted in each separate dining area where the guys could watch the Mariners game. Our waiter, Dimitri was very attentive and kept great track of our orders, and drink refills. The food was all very good, reminiscent of diner food. The French dip was the favorite, followed by the Reuben. Onion rings were also very good. read more

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Sitting outside, so comfortable and really private. Helpful service with a smile and genuine happy to help and explain. I had the ribeye steak and vegetables, very good. Another customer with me had the Ruben Sandwich, he said best on the island. Highly recommend, quiet, comforting, adult only, I will be back. read more

We recently decided to try this place after visiting Luther Burbank Park on the Island, and it was super close by. I had read that it's somewhat of a tradition for natives to come here to celebrate their 21st birthday, and I was intrigued. The restaurant is pretty small but super cozy. We loved the chill vibe and friendly servers. I can imagine during winter it's even more cozy since it has a cottage feel. If you have a big(ish) group (4+) and the weather is nice, I'd recommend you sit by their bay view window towards the back of the restaurant to the left of the bar as they had somewhat of a view compared to the other seating. Others mentioned this, but the music was really good. If you're looking for a casual and cozy vibe, this is definitely the place. We only tried the chili, but we will be back to try some of their other dishes and grab more drinks. read more

Roanoke Inn - House Chili - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

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My wife and I stopped by and we were thoroughly impressed with every aspect. This establishment offers an extensive menu of delicious food, making it a fantastic place to stop. The consistent bustling activity speaks to the undeniable appeal of this place. The service is always excellent which is why we keep coming back. read more

Roanoke Inn - Margarita - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

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Let's be clear, you're not going here for great food. You're going for a place to grab a drink, or be with friends. I typically go after a tennis match and everything else in the area is closed. Tables and seating is usually in short supply at this time and it's usually loud and full of people right when you walk in. Had to sit outside in the outside area which had plastic screening and heaters, but it was still a bit cold. You will get great service and have a good time. Food is pricey for what you get but it'll hit the spot. read more

Been coming here for 30 yrs. The food is solid (Wings Of Fire are the best buffalo wings west of Buffalo). Solid wine list, friendly service. Great "pub" atmosphere. This is a neighborhood joint. Be neighborly! read more

Tucked away in a quiet sleepy neighborhood of Mercer Island. Thursday is our favorite day cause their special is birria tacos, I like to pair it with a vesper martini. Another favorite is the chicken strip and fries. If you just want a cool bar, friendly staff and good old bar food this is the place to go on Mercer Island. read more

Love this local gem! Mercer Island has a prime location between Seattle and bellevue. However, unless you live there, there aren't many reasons to stop anywhere on Mercer Island. Roanoake definitely is one though. This timeless bar and pub has a family run feel to it. Is one of the longest running pubs in king county, and just feels like you're in on a secret when you stop by. The inside is fun and timeless. The porch is classic. The outdoor gazebos and seating out back is a lot of fun on a summer night ! Staff is friendly and prices are reasonable. Great place to go for a summer evening after work read more

Roanoke Inn - Inside - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

This is a great place! Ollie is the best. Treats his customers well! If you are on Mercer island, definitely check it out.

For generations this was the island's warm, local neighborhood institution. Unfortunately, the current staff seems intent on inverting that brand. They're increasingly less professional and more intent on expressing their political views (ie. turning the tv from the Mariners to news to yell slurs). If only they had as much concern for your order as cynically projecting their inadequacy and politics on customers. It's sad, uncomfortable and borderline hostile. An embarrassment to the friendly community it once was. If you're looking for a place that seems to hate itself and its customers, this may be your spot. If you're looking for a pleasant experience, fortunately now there are better neighborhood options. read more

Husband and I stopped in for a bite to eat on a Sunday evening. There was plenty of seating, it was cozy and warm inside, and the music was great. The Roanoke has a very nice atmosphere. Ollie made wonderful drinks and was very attentive to us despite being busy at the bar. This was our first time visiting the Roanoke, and I already can't wait to go back! The food was good, but the prices were a bit high, which was the only drawback for me. read more

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Menu has been updated 2025, has some great choices. Has a cozy local neighborhood bar feel.

Kimberly gave us great service when we were in a couple of weeks ago! We will definitely ask for her next time. Thanks Kimberly!

It's THE place to be on Mercer Island. Ya know, where all the Islanders/locals go. Roanoke Inn is definitely an institution. It still creeps me out when I go to the haunted women's restroom, but I'm down to have a beer or two here when meeting with friends on Mercer Island. They've done really well in adapting to the everchanging COVID-19 guidelines, as the outdoor space is nicely spaced out and tables are separate from one another. In fact, in the backyard space, each table has their own TV, which is pretty damn cool. Inside, you'll find the old school tavern that it is today. Plus, you'll get warped back in time, as this used to be a brothel. I still love that they have the floral wallpaper, which tells you how long this Mercer Island gem been around. I like that they have local taps here. But if you want something else, I highly recommend the spicy margarita. It's definitely a lot of jalapeno, seeds and all, so bring it on. The food is meh. It's very standard, with classic bar grub. Service can also be slow at times. But if you're not in a hurry and just want a place to chill with the pals over drinks on Mercer Island then this is your jam. read more

Roanoke Inn - Spicy Margarita - Pubs Near Me - Mercer Island, Washington

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