If you haven't spent an evening at Tommy's, many University of Washington students wouldn't consider you a true Husky. Once a quirky restaurant called the Lock, Stock and Bagel, this watering hole has recently become the coed bar of choice. And although each patron has his or her own reason for visiting, the underlying utility of Tommy's can be summed up in two words: booze and booty. Seasoned party animals and underclassmen alike flock here to form a madcap microcosm of a frat party.

The Scene: A glance inside Tommy's open-air entryway at the crowds within is all it takes to lure students inside. At times, the bar is almost completely dominated by the Greek crowd and the place is at a shoulder-to-shoulder standstill. It doesn't take much to make this hookup hunting ground piping hot, which is all the better for those who like to hit the dance floor. DJs often play from the booth that overlooks the recently remodeled nightclub.

Girls at the Bar: The girls at Tommy's definitely arrive looking their best. It helps the guy/girl ratio that the bar is only two blocks from the sororities. Halter-tops and skirts can be spotted even in the frigid winter months. As patron Jeff Lawrence puts it, "It's another fantastic frat party on the Ave."

Dress Code: "We want everyone to feel as comfortable as possible," says general manager Jeff Andrew. Tommy's stresses a casual look, and for a while, many girls were showing up in those wonderful tight sweatpants with sorority letters adorning the butt. However, as a rule of thumb, if the ladies are showing up looking good, only a foolish man wouldn't.

When to Go: Thursday is by far the busiest night at Tommy's, but the bar has live entertainment on the weekends and DJs during the week, so there's rarely a slow evening.

At the Bar: Can you say "$1 High Life pitchers?" Tommy's offers beer at bulk prices until 10 p.m. on Thursday nights. It's $2 or $3 the rest of the night, depending on how late you're drinking. Otherwise, the bar offers the standard array of cheap drinks and strong shots, including $2 tequila shots on Mondays.

Where it's at: 4552 University Way N.E., Seattle, Washington 98105

Hours: 4 p.m.-2 a.m. every day

Phone: (206) 634-3144 »

Text by Gabe Gavilanes
Photos by Larry Busch

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