Magoo’s Annex is an Interesting Tacoma Dive Bar

Deep in Tacoma’s historic North End, Magoo’s Annex is where time seems to have slowed down just enough for the beer to stay colder and the conversations to run longer. Magoo’s Annex is the quintessential neighborhood dive bar; a “5-star” sanctuary that has been a staple of the community since 1943.

If you’re looking for a “modern-day Cheers” with a heavy dose of Tacoma soul, here is why you need to find the penguin on the roof.

Magoo’s Annex is a Historic Landmark with a “Chill” Reputation

Magoo’s Annex is more than just a dive bar; it’s a piece of Tacoma history. Built in 1917 and operating as a pub for over 80 years, the building is a recognized historical landmark.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Icey, the penguin statue perched above the door. According to the regulars, Icey isn’t just a mascot; he’s an advertisement for the bar’s “chill” atmosphere. Inside, the decor is a glorious, cluttered tribute to the years: vintage beer tap handles cover the ceiling, and the walls are lined with eclectic memorabilia that makes the space feel like a warm, wood-paneled hug.

The Legendary “Quarter Beer” Tradition

Magoo’s Annex is famous for having some of the best deals in Pierce County, but one tradition stands above the rest:

• The First Beer of the Day: The very first person to walk through the doors when they open pays just $0.25 for their first beer. It’s a local legend that encourages early birds to be the first on a stool.
• Happy Hour (3 PM – 6 PM Daily): Featuring unbeatable prices on “Tall Boys” and local drafts.
• Wednesday Wells: A mid-week favorite where well drinks are discounted all day long.

Taco Tuesdays & Irish Comfort

While Magoo’s Annex identifies as Tacoma’s oldest Irish pub, its food menu is a global mix of comfort.

• Taco Tuesday: Widely considered a “best-kept secret” in the North End, their Tuesday taco specials are high-quality, low-priced, and usually draw a crowd of University of Puget Sound students and neighborhood regulars.
• Pub Classics: On a rainy Tacoma afternoon, nothing beats their traditional comfort fare. From hearty sandwiches and nachos to their “secret recipe” snacks, the kitchen focuses on simple food done right.
• The Astro Pop: If you aren’t in a beer mood, ask for this signature house shot, a raspberry vodka and lemon concoction that tastes exactly like the nostalgic popsicle.

Games, Jukeboxes, and “Old Souls”

Magoo’s Annex isn’t the kind of dive bar where people stare at their phones. The entertainment is analog and competitive:

• Classic Bar Games: You’ll find steel-tip darts, a busy pool table, and foosball tucked into various corners of the pub.
• The Famous Jukebox: For decades, Magoo’s Annex was known for having one of the best CD jukeboxes in the state (heavy on punk and alternative legends like The Jam and The Ramones). While they’ve modernized with a digital juke, the musical soul of the place remains firmly rooted in rock and roll.
• The Fireplace: In the center of the bar sits a fireplace that is almost always roaring during the winter months, guarded by “old souls” carved into the back of the bar.

Know Before You Go

The Vibe: Unpretentious and warm. Even if it’s your first time, the staff (and the regulars) will likely make you feel like you’ve been coming there for years.

Location: 2710 N 21st St, Tacoma, WA 98406.

The Crowd: A perfect “Tacoma mix” of long-time North End residents, college students, and shipyard workers.