Bartenders Josh Trass (left) and Joe Allen (right) flank owner Bob Lunke at Outwest, the new LBGTQ bar in West Seattle located at 5401 California Ave. s.w.
Outwest, West Seattle's only LGBTQ bar will open tomorrow, Aug. 11 at 4:00 pm even though aspects of the bar are not quite complete. As the West Seattle Herald previously reported, Outwest hopes to become as oasis of sorts for the gay and lesbian community in West Seattle.
Joe Allen and Josh Trass will be the bartenders on duty in addition to owner Bob Lunke for most hours.
Outwest will be open six days a week , Tuesday through Sunday from 4pm to 12 am. It is located at the corner of California Ave. s.w. and s.w Brandon at 5401 Calfornia Ave. s.w.
The opening marks the end of a two year process for owners Bob Lunke and Chad Gabelein who confess to being, "tired but elated that we're finally going to be open."
The final inspection approval came through about 3pm on Aug. 10 and word went out on the bar's Facebook page to let people know. Gabelein said, "We immediately had at least 20 people congratulating us. That's just how it is, and it's very gratifying." Lunke said, "I'm delighted. This has been a couple of years in the process and it almost didn't happen several times along the road. Now we need to get into a pace. We need to figure out our clients. We need to meet those needs and get going. We're both very anxious to get open."
Yet to be completed are the music system, and flat screen TV installation. A Grand Opening will be held but that announcement will be made later.