White Center's live music scene is hitting a high note with the extensive remodel of Tim's Tavern, located at 9655 16th Ave SW1. Owner Mason Reed is leading the charge, his enthusiasm palpable as he discusses the future of both live music and the White Center community.

The tavern's motto, "Together In Music," is now more embodied than ever, with the remodel bringing the stage inside for the first time. This pivotal change is accompanied by new lighting and an amped-up lineup of musical entertainment, promising an immersive experience for performers and audiences alike.

Tim's Tavern prides itself on its extensive booking of live bands, among the most in the greater Seattle area vying for bands with the likes of The Crocodile, Neumos, and The Sunset. 

With live music six nights a week, the venue hosts karaoke, open mic nights, and singer-songwriter showcases. Reed estimates they book between 12 and 15 bands a week, which adds up to between 800 and 1,000 bands a year, in addition to the open mic nights. While the venue hopes to attract larger touring acts, it remains dedicated to its roots as an incubator for local music. In fact included in the remodel is a well appointed green room for the bands, specifically to make performers more comfortable pre and post performance.

But Tim's Tavern offers more than just music. It also has a full kitchen and bar. The menu is omnivore and herbivore, and almost every regular menu item has a vegan version, from chips and queso to cheeseburgers. To ensure quality for all, there are separate fryers for vegan, gluten-free, and regular chicken. The menu also features popular items like wings and tacos. Taco and tequila specials happen every Tuesday. The Tavern also has a popular smash stack burger; the starter version is available for $7 on Thursdays and is normally $9. 

The bar has eight taps featuring local Northwest beers, a cider, and Guinness. The Airstream bar outside adds another four taps, offering two ciders and three other beers for a total of 11 beers plus Guinness. A rotating wine list is also available, with half-price bottles on Wednesdays. Reed emphasizes the importance of sourcing food locally whenever possible, supporting local farms and producers.

The atmosphere at Tim's Tavern is designed to be welcoming and inclusive. The patio is heated, covered, and dog-friendly. All ages are welcome until 10 p.m., making it a unique space for families to enjoy live music.

Reed hopes the space is an escape from modern life where people can forget their troubles and enjoy good music.

Tim's Tavern has a rich history. It began in Greenwood in 2012 before Mason Reed took over in 2016. The name "Tim" now stands for "Together In Music," reflecting the tavern's core values. The location was occupied by Drunky Two Shoes until Tim’s took over in 2023 after moving from their original location in Greenwood.

Mason Reed himself is no stranger to the stage. Before taking over Tim's Tavern, he spent nine years touring the country as a singer-songwriter, playing 250 shows a year and driving 550,000 miles. Although his touring days are behind him, Reed still gets on stage occasionally and hopes to write another record.

You can hear some of Mason's music here.

Reed believes White Center can and will see more dedication to arts and is deeply involved in the White Center Business Alliance helping with community events.

With its remodeled venue, dedication to live music, diverse menu, and welcoming atmosphere, Tim's Tavern is poised to be a cornerstone of White Center's entertainment scene.

Check out their music calendar online.