SEATTLE — Over the years Evening has visited many bars where music is a big part of the entertainment. This time around, we want to highlight the ones that have a connection with the grunge scene from the 90s.
First stop is El Corazón, formerly known as “Off Ramp Cafe.” A live music venue that was the heart of the grunge explosion in the ’90s that changed Seattle and music forever.
On the night of Oct. 22, 1990, a band known as Mookie Blaylock took the stage for the first time, they would later change their name to Pearl Jam. Many iconic bands from the grunge era played in this stage as well, like: Soundgarden, Alice in Chains and Mudhoney.
Our second stop is Linda’s tavern, a bar and restaurant in Capitol Hill that opened in 1994 and is often referred to as the “grunge cheers.” Nirvana's front man, Kurt Cobain frequented this tavern, and it was also the last place he was seen in public before his death.
Our next spot is the original Crocodile Cafe on second Ave. As the grunge scene exploded, “The Croc” became the leading venue for local bands.
One legendary night was when Nirvana opened for Mudhoney in 1992, under the fake name Pen Cap Chew. Today The Crocodile moved to a new spot, just a few blocks from the original location. The new space is bigger and better, so the music will keep playing.
One final stop for this 5 Star Dive Bar grunge edition:
The Central saloon, the birthplace of grunge. In the '80s the Central saw new ownership, one that had a strong desire to bring live music to the venue. In 1988 it was where Nirvana played their first Seattle show and is also known as the place where the owners of Sub Pop Records saw them live for the first time.
Melvins, Soundgarden and Alice in Chains, are just a few of the many bands that play here in the '90s.
“The stage is a discovery platform,” said Central Saloon owner Eric Manegold. “The walls speak of all the conversations and all the fun people had over the years.”
Today many upcoming bands are still rocking the Central Saloon stage.
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