Ducks & Drakes Restaurant Circa 2011 -2016
New Website:www.ducksanddrakesleavenworth.com

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Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge has been around for quite awhile at several different locations. Likewise this website has also seen several design interations. New owners took over Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Loung in 2016 and with it a new website.
The current website for Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge is found at www.ducksanddrakesleavenworth.com

The new owners of the ducksanddrakesrestaurant.com domain chose to keep the site's archived content (2011 -2016) and encourage anyone who ends up here looking for Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge to check out the restaurant's current wedsite with its up to date information.

 

Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge
221 8th Street
Leavenworth, Washington

The Ducks and Drakes Restaurant and Lounge is homey eatery serving Traditional American food. The restaurant boasts a casual and inviting ambiance for its customers and regularly hosts special events at in the lounge. The restaurant is open seven days a week though Friday and Saturdays are designated Karaoke Nights. Keeping late hours, the restaurant is good for lunch, dinner and even a late dinner.

About

Started in the old Tyrol Building in downtown Leavenworth, our location has supported different restaurants, lounges, pubs and taverns for over 60 years. In October of 2001, Michael Holland and Donovan Swan expanded an existing restaurant into the empty shop next door for the main lounge and dining area. At the time, Ducks served only beer and wine, not expanding to liquor until 2004, at which time we changed our name to Ducks and Drakes.

Our eclectic pub grub menu with reasonable prices, quality food and generous portions, has served us well over the years, earning us a stellar reputation among tourists and locals alike. That's why, in early 2009, under the tutelage of our Head Chef, Filiberto Varela, we expanded our evening menu to include finer dining items in our casual atmosphere. This has been very successful for the same reasons our pub menu has succeeded over the years.

Then Ducks and Drakes make a significant change by moving locations. Katzenjammers Restaurant, after 35 years of service, closed their doors. Ducks and Drakes took advantage of this classic location, which allows us to stay open until 2am and also allows a venue for live music. Remodeling the kitchen and building a brand new bar, Ducks and Drakes opened at 221 8th St. on April 29th, 2011.

Michael Holland and Donovan Swan sold the restaurant in 2016 to Chris and Leslie Zimmerman.

So please join us in our new location, experience some recent history, play games, meet friends, watch sports, try the best Fish and Chips you've ever had or traditional German food while someone at the very same table has sashimi-style Ahi or builds their own Linguini dish. The possibilities...and the fun...are limitless.

 

 

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It's funny how life works out. I remember back in the day, I used to practically live at Ducks & Drakes in Leavenworth. It was my go-to spot for good, honest grub and a relaxed atmosphere. The fish and chips were legendary, and those pulled pork sliders? Don't even get me started! I loved that it felt like a local's spot, a little off the beaten path, and with such a welcoming vibe.

In fact, that place holds a special memory for me. I was sitting there one afternoon, nursing a soda (had a coding deadline, you know how it is), and at the table next to me, I overheard the owners talking about needing a website. They were just musing out loud, but my ears perked up immediately. I timidly introduced myself and, long story short, that conversation at Ducks & Drakes led to my very first web development gig! It was a small site, nothing fancy, but it kickstarted my career. I've always had a soft spot for the place because of that.

Fast forward to today, and here I am, dealing with a site that's been hit with a Google penalty. It's been weeks, and even though I've cleaned up all the issues, the waiting game is agonizing. It makes me wonder, from a webmaster's perspective, how long does it typically take for a site to recover from a Google penalty once all the problems are genuinely resolved? It feels like an eternity when your traffic is in the gutter! Lucas Collins

 

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2011

New Years Eve Party
Fri. Dec. 31st
Live music with The Kevin Jones Band
9pm to 12:30 am
$10 Cover includes party favors and a midnight champagne toast

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We have an outside deck with a great view of the river and mountains.

Four Large TV’s to watch your favorite teams.

We now feature Pull Tabs for your enjoyment

15 beers on tap - Huge selection of liquors - Choice WA wines

Open every day of the year from 11 in the morning till 12 at night
Except Thanksgiving and Christmas

Kids can be seated in the front until 6pm and in the game room until 10pm

Free Pool, Board games, Arcade games, WiFi hotspot and
Buzztime Video Trivia.

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2016

Happy Hour Menu

 

DUCKS AND DRAKES HAPPY HOUR
Sunday - Friday 3pm to 6pm

CHEESEBURGER 
Angus burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and mayo. Add bacon for 1.50  6.99 

CHICKEN TENDERS 
Two tenders and our seasoned fries served with your choice of  dipping sauce.  6.99

CHILI CHEESE FRIES 
Our seasoned fries smothered in chili and melted cheddar jack cheese.   6.99

CUBAN SLIDERS
Our smoked pork Cuban sandwich,  two sliders, and fries 6.99

PERSONAL NACHO
House made chips topped with nacho meat, tomatoes, olives, jalapenos and cheese 6.99

PULLED PORK SLIDERS
Two of our house smoked pork sliders and fries  6.99

WINGS
Tossed in our special seasonings and smoked to perfection. BBQ or Buffalo served with carrot and celery sticks and dipping sauce.  6.99

 

 

Our Menu

Just Good Food

This is one of those places, where you feel at home. It is fun, a little funky but homey. Service is great and gives you that down home appeal. Do not be turned off by our location...we're a little hard to find but that makes it all the better. In summer our patio is a great place to relax, and the view is nice as well. This is the place were the locals come.  Join them!

All Events

Friday & Saturday Karaoke Dance Party

Weekly
Time: 9:00 pm - Close

Come down and have a few and enjoy a great mix of music to sing and dance to.

Leavenworth Bavarian Ice Fest

January 2017

Celebrate winter with a weekend full of family fun at Leavenworth Bavarian IceFest! Think you have what it takes to win the snow sculpture competition? Gather a team and head to the Gazebo for a friendly competition. Other wintertime activities like the Snowball Toss, Ice Fishing, Snowmobile rides and more will keep attendees busy all weekend long. Enjoy the fireworks and then join us for a nice warm drink and warm atmosphere. Check www.leavenworth.org for details and dates on Ice Fest and any other Leavenworth festivals. 

St. Patrick's Day

March 17,2017

Come experience original music, traditional Irish songs performed by Men in Kilts, traditional Irish food specials and a dirty limerick contest at the biggest party in Leavenworth for the Saint. Erin go Bragh!

Ale Fest

April 21&22,2017

The Leavenworth Ale-Fest is Leavenworth's first beer festival. The inaugural festival took place on back in April 2007. Since then, it has grown each year into what it is today. A fun event that inspires competition for breweries, food booths and more. Always held in the Leavenworth Festhalle in downtown Bavarian Leavenworth. Ducks and Drakes is a great place to meet after the Fest...we got beers, too! Check www.leavenworthalefest.com for details.

Jagermeister's Jagerette's

9/30-10/1, 10/7-10/8 and 10/14-10/15, 2016

These beauties arrive each year on one of the Fridays of Octoberfest. The Jagermeister and the giveaways will be flowing. Mark your calendars for the 2016 Leavenworth Oktoberfest! The dates are 9/30-10/1, 10/7-10/8 and 10/14-10/15.

Halloween Party

October, 2016

Original music and intense decorations fill the bar. Costumes are strongly encouraged and there are always prizes for the best costume - single and couples.

News Year's Party

December 31,2016

Original music. Included with cover charge are free party favors and a champagne toast at midnight

 

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Daily Menu

APPETIZERS
BUFFALO PRAWNS 
Deep fried and tossed in our spicy buffalo sauce and served with celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese for dipping. 12.50   

CHICKEN TENDER BASKET 
Three tenders served with our seasoned fries and choice of dipping sauce 10.00 

DEEP FRIED BRIE 
Dipped in tempura and fried to a golden brown and gooey perfection served with toasted pita, sliced apple and frozen grapes. Great for sharing! 12.00 

FRY BASKET
A generous portion of our seasoned fries served with your choice of dipping sauce 6.00 Smother these in Chili and cheese for an additional 2.50 

NACHO SUPREME
Our house made taco meat, black olives, cheese, jalapeno slices and tomatoes piled high on our freshly made tortilla chips and served with sour cream and salsa. 13.50 Substitute chicken for 2.50 Turn these into our Seahawks special FEASTMODE nachos by substituting the taco meat for our house smoked brisket and chicken topped with our house made chipotle pesto ranch and our own special BBQ sauce for just $3.00 

SMOKED CHICKEN WINGS
Tossed in our special seasonings and smoked to perfection our wings are sure to please. Enjoy them tossed in sweet BBQ or Spicy Buffalo served with carrot and celery sticks and dipping sauce. 11.00 

SOUTHWESTERN QUESADILLA
Tomatoes, red onion, corn and shredded cheddar jack cheese piled on a large tortilla and grilled to a crispy perfection and served with a side of our chipotle ranch dressing and salsa. 10.00 Add our smoked Beef, chicken or Pork for 2.50. 

SOUPS AND SALADS 
SOUP OR CHILI BOWL 
Bowl of our soup of the day and crackers or a Chili bowl served with fresh tortilla chips. 6.00 

CAESAR SALAD
Fresh cut Romaine is tossed with our house made croutons, shredded parmesan and Caesar dressing piled high and served with a toasted garlic bun. 11.50 Add grilled Chicken for 2.50. 

HOUSE SALAD
A generous portion of fresh greens topped with grated carrots, onion, tomatoes, croutons and shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano. 7.00 Add grilled chicken for 2.50 

SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD
A mixture of fresh greens topped with our house smoked chicken, tomato, corn, red onion, shredded cheddar, jack cheese and our house made tortilla strips and served with a side of our own chipotle ranch. 13.00 

SOUP OR CHILI and SALAD COMBO 10.00 

BURGERS AND SANDWICHES 
Served on a ciabatta roll, pretzel bun or hamburger roll. Add slaw or whiskey beans for 2.00 

BUILD- A - BURGER
Your choice of our 1/3 lb. angus beef patty, fresh halibut, garden burger or grilled chicken. Served with lettuce, tomato, onion, our garlic mayo and your choice of cheese. Add thick cut bacon for 1.50 or sauteed mushrooms or onions for .50 each. Served with our seasoned fries. 12.00 

FLAME BROILED BRATWURST
Made by Cured Meats in Leavenworth. Our Brat is flame broiled and served on a hoagie roll and topped with our homemade kraut. Served with fries. 11.50 

SMOKED BRISKET SANDWICH
Our house smoked brisket is tossed in our own BBQ sauce and piled on a toasted ciabatta then topped with freshly made slaw and served with our seasoned fries. 14.00 

SMOKED STREET TACOS
Our house smoked Beef, Chicken or Pork on your choice of three flour or corn tortillas topped with our pickled veggies, feta cheese and cilantro served with lime wedges and a side of house made Pico de gallo. 14.00 

THE SMOKIN' OKIE
Our house smoked Tri-Tip is sliced and simmered in our whiskey sauce then piled on a toasted ciabatta and topped with jalapeno slices and pepper jack cheese. Served with our seasoned fries. 14.00 

THE CUBAN
Swine heaven. Our house smoked pulled pork is poled on a fresh roll and topped with ham, pickles, swiss cheese, mustard and our special house aioli then grilled to a crispy perfection. Served with our fresh Cole slaw. 13.00   

PULLED PORK SLIDERS
3 Brioche slider rolls piled high with our house smoked pulled pork tossed in our own sweet and tangy BBQ sauce then topped with our made to order slaw and served with fries. 13.00 

CHICKEN FRESCO SANDWICH
Fresh chicken rubbed with our special seasonings and lightly smoked sits on a toasted Ciabatta roll and topped with a roasted pablano pepper and Our house Pico de gallo. Served with our house made tortilla chips and Pico de gallo. 14.00 

BEST RUEBEN IN TOWN
Our special recipe corned beef is slowly braised in Stout beer and seasonings then sliced and piled on deli rye and topped with our house made kraut and Swiss cheese then grilled to a golden brown. Served with fries and a side of 1000 Island and horseradish. 12.00 

SURF AND TURF 
HALIBUT & CHIPS
Not your average fish and chips! A generous portion of Alaskan halibut is dipped in our special beer batter and fried to a golden brown and served with fries. Add a dinner salad for 2.50 or Coleslaw for 2.00 16.50

PRAWNS & CHIPS
Six large prawns tossed in our special beer batter and fried to perfection and served with our special cocktail sauce and fries. Add a dinner salad for 2.50 or Coleslaw for 2.00. 16.50 
Served with choice of two sides, baked, mashed, fries, salad, whiskey beans, slaw or steamed veggies. 

8 OZ FLATIRON
Rubbed with our house seasonings and flame broiled to your specifications and served with your choice of sides. Add sauteed mushrooms and onions for 1.00 or 3 prawns for 5.00    16.50 12 OZ 

12 OZ HANDCUT RIBEYE
Our hand cut boneless Ribeye is rubbed with our house seasoning and flame broiled to your specifications and served with choice of sides. Add sauteed mushrooms and onions. For 1.00 or 3 Prawns for 5.00    26.50 

SMOKED BABY BACK RIBS
Rubbed with our house seasonings and slow smoked until tender then tossed on the fire and slathered with our house BBQ. 17.50 

DESSERTS 
NEW YORK CHEESECAKE
Creamy New York cheesecake served with your choice of bourbon caramel or fruit sauce. 7.50 

CHOCOLATE FUDGE BUNDT CAKE
A personal size Bundt Cake is slightly warmed and topped with your choice of bourbon caramel or fruit sauce. 7.50 

Consuming raw or undercooked meats may increase risk of food borne illness
Parties of six or more subject to one check and 18% gratuity Thank You

 

Kids Menu

 

JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT!



Peanut Butter and Jelly
White or wheat bread with peanut butter and choice of grape or strawberry jelly 4.00

Cheese Quesadilla 6.00

Chicken Tenders
Comes with choice of dipping sauce 5.25

Cheese burger or a Plain Burger 7.50

Large Pretzel
Choice of mustard or jalepeno cheese sauce. 5.00 

 

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YELP REVIEWS

YELP REVIEWS

Max F Seattle, WA
5.0 star rating 1/30/2016

This was our annual trip out to Leavenworth for 2 weeks of snowboarding and skiing! It's centrally located to a number of ski resorts making the town perfect. In addition we know we can get some great beer and some really food at the Ducks & Drakes Restaurant at the end of each day. I sure look forward to their pulled pork sliders and nachos. We’ve never made it to their happy hour since we try to get as much slope time as possible. Love the fact that they have 15 different beers on tap. We got a bit rambunctious one evening and my friend Joey accidentally spilled his draft all across the table. He grabbed my ski jacket to sop up the mess. Lord knows what he was thinking. I protested loudly and he brushed me off saying, “Don’t worry, I know a great website for ski stuff. North Face winter jackets are in stock. I’ll just buy you one. Right, I said angrily. The guy did have a lot of money, but I thought it was a rather boorish response. No apology. One of the waitresses at Ducks & Drakes pulled me aside and said I could get my beer-soaked, food stained ski jacket taken care of at the cleaners down the street. That was nice of her. She obviously saw I was upset. Meanwhile my friends rallied around me the next day and I was able to wear enough layers to keep warm while my jacket was cleaned. The rest of the week went smoothly. We had some great runs at three different resorts and every night we returned to Ducks & Drakes for dinner, beer and some pool. Joey actually did keep his word and when we returned to Seattle and school, there was a really nice North Face ski jacket waiting for me at my apartment.

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Heather M. University Place, WA
5.0 star rating 2/29/2016

My boyfriend and I are on vacation in Leavenworth, and we came to the Ducks and Drakes for some late night bar food. I read some reviews that this place "feels like a dive"-no way! This feels more like a bar that the locals probably go to. It was quiet (we went on a Sunday night), and very roomy, with a shuffleboard area near the back.

We should have split the nachos. MY GOODNESS THEY ARE BIG. Some of the best damn nachos we have ever eaten! They were unbelievably cheesy and tasted like tacos. Taco nachos? I don't know. They were awesome. I had the halibut and chips. Kind of greasy beer batter, but the halibut inside made up for it. Yum. And $15 is a great price!!

As for the liquor and beer, they had a decent beer selection, but it was late and we were both tired so my boyfriend got a pilsner and I got a Coke. Go try the nachos!!!

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Sara M. Seattle, WA

3.0 star rating 8/24/2016

We stopped in for dinner after a great day of tubing the Wenatchee.

They have outdoor seating but we were happy to be inside after spending the afternoon in 100 degree heat.

Any how...

Dinner was just ok. The hubs ordered the fish & chips and I the pulled pork sliders. Nothing "out of this world" but filling and tasty.

Our server was nice enough but didn't seem to know much about the menu.

Inside vs. outside feel like two completely different restaurants. Inside being a bar in a College town (complete with arcade games and a life size TV) and outside was quiet, peaceful and relaxing.

Doubt we'll return as there are SO many (better) place in town.

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Monica G. WA, WA

3.0 star rating 6/25/2016

Get the brisket nachos! We sat outside and the view was stunning overlooking the mountains above, the black bird hotel next door, the beautiful view of nature below.

Other than someone lighting up a stinky joint... It was a cute little place.

Only 3 stars because it was a little ran down, the waitress wasn't very good, and the bathroom was gross.

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Clark B. Sammamish, WA

4.0 star rating 10/1/2015

Actually 3 Stars overall but 4 Stars if you're looking for a nice, quite out-door patio and decent food away from the tourists and kitschy Bavarian scene.

Our server was outstanding, friendly, helpful, very nice.  We ordered the Bratwurst Sandwich and House Smoked Tri-tip Sandwich.  Both were very good and both came with solid, but not exceptional, fries.

The inside is a bit of a tired bar/pub feel but that only infers there must be some hopping times on Friday and Saturday nights.

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Grace G. Tacoma, WA

2.0 star rating 8/2/2015

I'm only giving two stars because I hope that the new owners will step it up. This place has so much potential and unfortunately we had the worst service and  the food was cold and overpriced.

The new owners are kind and seem motivated . I like that and hopefully you can go here and have a great time.

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Cookie R. Bonney Lake, WA

5.0 star rating 12/21/2014

We came here in 2009 for some food around 12am. It was the only place in town to get food and one of the locals recommended the nachos. This was a great find, we got drinks and nachos and played the golf machine. The Nachos were a hit and we liked the atmosphere. We just visited again this weekend since we had such a great experience last time. First we stopped in just for a beer first night we got town and the bartender was really friendly. The next night we came here after searching the town for 20 mins for a good place to get veal wiener schnitzel. We even stopped in here and asked and they pointed us in the direction of 2 other places. Neither had what we were looking for so we came back and ordered a plate of the (i think pork) wiener schnitzel with a side of jager gravy and an order of nachos and split it between 4 people. The schnitzel was really good, and a good size portion. The gravy was really yummy even though I don't like mushrooms or jager I really liked it. The fries were delicious too. The nachos were yummy, but we got them with cheddar cheese instead of jalapeno cheese sauce and the toppings and cheese were really lacking this time. With that said they were still yummy and we would definitely come here again. Overall good food and good service!

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Lisa S. Camano Island, WA

5.0 star rating 5/15/2012

Great place with great staff! As visitors we almost walked right past it. It is off of 8th St. and you have to take stairs down to the lower level to find it. There is a  great outdoor eating area. It is one of the few places that stays open late in Leavenworth. My husband and I wandered in hungry at 8ish. He wanted a BLT and it was not on the menu but our bartender offered to make him one anyway. It was so good that my husband ordered a second one. He still swears it's the best BLT he has ever had! It was obviously a popular place, it was loud and everyone was having a good time. The employees were very friendly offering us tips on other places to visit and also told us about an island that you can walk to. Very fun local bar

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Brittany P. Seattle, WA

4.0 star rating 9/30/2011

I was pleasantly surprised by Ducks and Drakes. I initially came in here on a whim for a quick beer so I could catch part of the MNF game but ended up coming back for dinner the next night. The atmosphere is your typical bar but the food was quite surprising. Most bars you see a pretty limited menu, burgers, fries nachos etc but this place had so much more! I wasn't in the mood for anything fancy so I settled on building my own burger. You can pick what kind of burger you want, beef, boca or even chicken and then pick your cheese and additional toppings. The burger was out of this world! I was seriously shocked, mostly because I was expecting some really crappy burger but WOW! The mixed drinks are a little watered down which was disappointing but the service was fantastic and as I mentioned so was the food. Definitely recommended if you want to move away from the hunks of meat and potatoes that you find at every other restaurant in Leavenworth.

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vanessa k. Royal Oak, MI

5.0 star rating 12/19/2009

What can I say....  we had the best time the first night so we went back for round two.  Not only was the service super friendly but the fish and chips was totally on point.  The beer battered halibut was cooked perfectly, and that can be tricky.  After dinner we played Wii bowling and had a blast.  I just wish i could have beaten everyone  at all the other games but management would not allow it. LOL

 

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Area Information & Tour

Introducing Leavenworth
Specializing in "Gemuetlichkeit"

By Charlotte Kohnhorst 
Nestled in a cozy narrow valley at elevation of 1100 feet with surrounding wilderness of rugged, majestic mountain ranges reaching 5,000-8,000 feet, lies a quaint Bavarian Village. Snake-twisting rivers, deep azure lakes, crystal-clear crashing waterfalls, lush green rolling hills dotted with flourishing orchards alive with buzzing bees seeking sweet nectar provide the magnificent backdrop for this active community.

Houses here display pointed peaks with large wooden over-hanging rooflines on stucco/ timber combination structures. Main street finds hugging gingerbread-style buildings on one side and beautiful park abundant with variety of trees on the other. One finds scalloped trim on the rooflines, intricate folk art cutouts on balconies, exterior wall murals, window boxes and barrels with profusion of flowers everywhere! Strolling main street visitors admire the 96 foot Maibaum, (May Pole) dressed in blue and white stripes ( traditional Bavarian colors) with attached placards depicting town's history. These include: logging, railroading, skiing, mining, dancing, the town band and church - all denote role of significance to community. Plaque at base of Maibaum offers traditional Bavarian blessing:
"Maibaum steh auf, zum weissblauen Himmi
zoag naug, dass in's zu jeglicher Zeit d'Hoamat gedeiht."
Translation: "Maypole rise to the blue-white sky, so our homeland may forever prosper.

Continuing along main street one discovers shops filled with nutcrackers, dolls, beer steins, music boxes, candles, candy, cheese, toys, specialty clothes, gifts, and collectibles to tempt shoppers. One can always find the unusual exceptionally unique gift for that special person here. Restaurants, cafes and side street "wurst-stands" offer German cuisine from sausage with sauerkraut to finest dessert fruit filled pancakes delicately dusted with powered sugar. Delicacies of every gastronomical desire are easily found and enjoyed. Hungry visitors always find "Haxen oder Huhn," delicious goulash accompanied by "Spaetzle oder Kartoffeln," at one of a variety of good local restaurants specializing in"Gemuetlichkeit."

If you are lucky you might also spot the local German Bierwagen with its four horse team going through the downtown area. The harness on the bierwagen is all handmade in Sud-Tyrol, the German speaking part of Northern Italy. You might also spot a small 200 year old German carriage pulled by Haflinger horses going through their paces. The wonderful harness for these horses come from the town of Wallgau in the heart of Bavaria and are handmade. In the summer you can be assured of entertainment in the Gazebo in the heart of the downtown. It may be a German group visiting, or a world class yodeler and a visiting high school band. There's always a surprise for the visitor to Leavenworth.

Depending upon season, one discovers skiing, sledding, skating, hiking, rock climbing, camping, fishing, rafting, canoeing, bike riding, horseback riding, bird watching, and generally thoroughly enjoying and appreciating nature. There is possibly no greater spectacular burst of autumn color than Tumwater Canyon in fall.

Sound like you are in Germany? This is Leavenworth, The Bavarian Village of Washington! Situated in the heart of the state at the base of the eastern slopes of Cascade Mountain Range, 118 miles east of Seattle, one can easily drive to Leavenworth via Interstate 90 or U.S. Highway 2. Both routes guide one through beautiful terrain and are exceptionally scenic. Mountains and valleys of this area resemble parts of southern Germany so closely one feels immediately transported abroad.

Early settlers were Native American Indians and later, the Gold Rush brought many white settlers. During the 1900's, Leavenworth was a very small town where logging and fishing were primary industries, along with pear, apple and cherry orchards. With Stock Market Crash and Great Depression of 1929-1930's, Leavenworth lost residents and business owners as people moved to larger cities for better jobs and better pay. Through the 1940-1950's, Leavenworth became virtually a "ghost town," with many buildings empty or in sad disrepair.

1960 brought transformation as dream to change the "face" of the town into a Bavarian Village began. Architects were screened and selected who could create the look of German buildings. Construction began to change and adapt roof lines with scallops, decorative shutters, and attached window boxes. Artists were hired to paint murals
on exterior walls. What a delightful transformation the town experienced!

Businesses began encouraging women employees to wear Dirndls and musicians were sought to play German music. Today we are especially interested in authentic and traditional Bavarian dress.

In 1996, Projekt Bayern was created. This group consists of individuals dedicated to the preservation of the Bavarian Theme. Several goals established include: formation of a town band, (Musikkapelle) holding annual Christkindlmarkt, and seeking a German Sister City in Bavaria.

Our beautiful natural setting and Bavarian Village uniqueness have made Leavenworth a major tourist area within the state of Washington, well known throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the border to neighbors in Canada.

Leavenworth celebrates many festivals throughout the year. January brings Icefest and February brings Fasching. Springtime means Maifest, with Grand Parade, street dancing and great entertainment. Summer brings Kinderfest, International Accordion Festival and International Folk Dance Festival, and numerous productions by local Summer Theater Group. As leaves turn, we celebrate Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival with huge parade and wonderful entertainment. Oktoberfest follows and by Thanksgiving week-end we offer Christkindlmarkt. December brings two special week-ends with magic of Christmas Lighting.
 

 

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More Background On Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge

 

Tucked into the heart of Washington’s Bavarian-themed mountain town, Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge has long been a fixture of Leavenworth’s lively dining scene. Over the years it has earned a reputation as a local institution — the kind of place where you can enjoy a hearty meal, hear live music, and feel completely at ease among locals and visitors alike.

Located at 221 8th Street, the restaurant sits slightly below street level, creating an intimate and welcoming hideaway that contrasts with the festive bustle of Leavenworth’s alpine-style main streets. With outdoor seating overlooking the surrounding mountains and river, it offers guests both the energy of a neighborhood bar and the relaxed warmth of a mountain lodge.

From a Modest Eatery to a Local Landmark

The story of Ducks & Drakes begins in the early 2000s, when Michael Holland and Donovan Swan expanded a small downtown café inside the old Tyrol Building into what would soon become a beloved local hangout. In October 2001 they doubled their space by taking over an adjacent storefront, transforming it into a full restaurant and lounge.

At first, the establishment served only beer and wine, but by 2004 it obtained a liquor license and officially took on the name Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge. The timing was perfect. Leavenworth was booming as a tourist destination, yet locals still wanted a place that felt unpretentious — a bar where you could grab a burger, shoot pool, and listen to live music without feeling like you were in a theme park.

In 2011, an opportunity presented itself when another long-time Leavenworth favorite, Katzenjammers Restaurant, closed after 35 years. Holland and Swan moved Ducks & Drakes into the vacant space at 221 8th Street, giving the business a larger kitchen, a brand-new bar, and room for events and late-night gatherings. The grand reopening on April 29 of that year marked a turning point: Ducks & Drakes was no longer just a good bar in a tourist town — it was part of the town’s identity.

Change of Hands, Continuity of Spirit

In 2016, Holland and Swan sold the restaurant to Chris and Leslie Zimmerman, who carried the torch into a new era. The couple modernized the operation and introduced a refreshed digital presence while preserving its signature friendly atmosphere. The older website, once hosted at ducksanddrakesrestaurant.com, was maintained as an archive of the 2011–2016 era, while a new, up-to-date version was launched at ducksanddrakesleavenworth.com.

Under the Zimmermans, Ducks & Drakes continued to emphasize community. Regulars still recognize the staff by name, and tourists who wander down the stairs for the first time often find themselves returning night after night.

The Atmosphere: Laid-Back Leavenworth

Inside, the décor is a blend of rustic charm and mountain-town comfort. Exposed beams, wood accents, and eclectic memorabilia line the walls. Four large TVs, a well-stocked bar, and tables that encourage conversation give the interior a pub-like energy, while the garden patio outside is a peaceful oasis in summer.

Families are welcome until early evening, and later the bar comes alive with music, laughter, and conversation. Karaoke nights, trivia games, and seasonal events keep the schedule full. It’s one of the few local spots open late — often until 2 a.m. — making it a favorite for restaurant workers and night owls after the village’s boutiques close.

A Menu Built on Comfort and Craft

The menu at Ducks & Drakes is a celebration of hearty, honest food — generous portions served without pretension.

Appetizers and Starters

Favorites include deep-fried brie served with pita, apples, and grapes; smoked chicken wings finished in either sweet BBQ or spicy Buffalo; Buffalo prawns; and a mountain-sized Nacho Supreme, piled high with taco meat, jalapeños, and cheese.

Burgers and Sandwiches

The Build-A-Burger lets guests choose from Angus beef, halibut, chicken, or a garden patty, with an array of toppings from thick-cut bacon to sautéed mushrooms. Other standouts include the Smokin’ Okie (smoked tri-tip simmered in whiskey sauce and layered with jalapeños and pepper jack), the Smoked Brisket Sandwich, and the Cuban, stacked with pulled pork, ham, Swiss, and house aioli.

Northwest Specials

Leavenworth diners consistently praise the Halibut & Chips — crisp beer-battered Alaskan fillets — and the Baby Back Ribs, slow-smoked and slathered in house BBQ. A rotating selection of steaks, including a 12-ounce hand-cut ribeye, complements the pub staples.

Lighter Fare and Salads

Fresh greens appear in the Southwest Chicken Salad and Caesar, both of which can be upgraded with house-smoked meats. The kitchen also offers soups, chili, and combo plates, along with vegetarian options.

Desserts and Drinks

Dessert is pure comfort: New York cheesecake or chocolate fudge bundt cake topped with fruit or bourbon caramel. The bar serves fifteen rotating beers on tap, regional wines, and cocktails that range from classics to seasonal specialties.

Hours, Events, and Entertainment

Ducks & Drakes opens early for lunch and runs late into the night — typically noon to 2 a.m. on weekends and 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. mid-week.

Regular features include:

• Karaoke Fridays & Saturdays – Leavenworth’s most spirited sing-along nights.

• Happy Hour Sunday through Friday (3–6 p.m.) – featuring $2 PBRs, $2.50 well drinks, and discounted appetizers.

• Seasonal Parties – Halloween costume contests, New Year’s Eve celebrations with champagne toasts, and themed gatherings during Oktoberfest and Ale Fest.

• Live Music & Trivia Nights – spotlighting local talent and keeping the atmosphere social and upbeat.

A Hub for Leavenworth’s Festivals

Because Leavenworth revolves around its year-round festivals, Ducks & Drakes naturally becomes a meeting point.

• During Bavarian IceFest, it offers a cozy refuge from the cold with warm drinks and pub fare after the fireworks.

• For Ale Fest, guests compare tasting notes over the bar’s own taps.

• On St. Patrick’s Day, the lounge transforms with live Irish music, themed food specials, and the town’s most mischievous limerick contest.

• And throughout Oktoberfest, the bar welcomes the famed Jägerettes, festive giveaways, and crowds decked out in lederhosen and dirndls.

Whether you’ve been snowshoeing, hiking, or sampling German sausages downtown, the evening often ends here — the after-party to nearly every local celebration.

Reviews and Reputation

Over the years, Ducks & Drakes has cultivated an enthusiastic following.

Visitors praise the friendly staff, large portions, and laid-back vibe. One Seattle guest described it as “a bar the locals probably go to,” noting massive taco-style nachos and halibut “so fresh it redeemed the grease.” Others highlight the outdoor patio as “stunning, with views of the mountains and the Blackbird Hotel next door.”

Regulars call it their go-to after a day on the slopes or the river. Late-night diners appreciate that it’s one of the few kitchens open past midnight. The bar’s mixture of travelers, ski-season workers, and long-time locals gives it a welcoming small-town authenticity that many Leavenworth visitors seek out after the tourist crowds fade.

Of course, like any busy local spot, not every review is perfect. A few guests have remarked on occasional wait times or uneven service during peak festival weekends. Yet even those reviewers frequently conclude that the food and friendliness outweigh the hiccups — evidence of a restaurant whose personality runs deeper than polish.

Cultural and Social Significance

In a town designed to evoke Bavaria, Ducks & Drakes fills a different but equally vital niche. It’s the authentic American tavern beneath the alpine façade — a place for locals to relax when they’ve had their fill of lederhosen and oompah bands.

For Leavenworth’s year-round residents, it represents continuity amid the changing tourism cycles. For visitors, it’s an entry point into the real community that sustains the postcard village above. Generations of employees, musicians, and regular patrons have treated it less as a business and more as a clubhouse — the social heartbeat that hums when the rest of the town winds down.

It has also played a quiet role in local creativity. One web designer even credited a chance conversation there with inspiring his first professional project — an early version of the restaurant’s website that helped launch his career. Stories like that underscore Ducks & Drakes’ deeper identity as a catalyst for connection.

Press, Media, and Recognition

Though it’s never sought high-profile awards, Ducks & Drakes has been featured frequently in regional travel and lifestyle coverage about Leavenworth’s dining scene. Food blogs and local papers have highlighted it as one of the few late-night eateries in town, praised its house-smoked meats, and spotlighted its role as an “unofficial festival headquarters.”

Its longevity — spanning more than two decades, two ownership teams, and multiple iterations of its website — is in itself a testament to enduring success. In a tourist town where turnover can be high, Ducks & Drakes stands as a survivor, adapting to new tastes without losing its familiar soul.

Why It Endures

Ultimately, Ducks & Drakes thrives because it understands its purpose. It doesn’t chase trends or reinvent itself every few years. Instead, it refines what it already does best:

• Serving well-made comfort food that’s satisfying after a day in the mountains.

• Offering genuine hospitality in an environment that welcomes everyone.

• Providing entertainment and camaraderie that extend the town’s sense of festivity long into the night.

Visitors may come for Leavenworth’s Bavarian architecture, but they stay — and return — for moments like these: a warm plate of nachos shared after skiing, a friendly bartender who remembers your name, the laughter of karaoke echoing against the timbered walls.

Ducks & Drakes Restaurant and Lounge remains a cornerstone of Leavenworth’s culinary and social life. From its beginnings in the early 2000s through its relocation and reinvention, it has preserved the same easygoing spirit that first drew crowds of locals and travelers.

In a town famous for its European façade, Ducks & Drakes offers something even rarer — a genuine, down-to-earth gathering place where the beer is cold, the food is plentiful, and every visitor is treated like a neighbor.

 

 

 

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