Nodding Donkey — Restaurant in Ellensburg

Such a relief to find this hidden, dog-friendly oasis on a long trip on a hot day in the high desert! We had trouble finding a restaurant in Ellensburg that would allow our two furry girls. This place let both our dogs and our teen sit on the patio (minors can't go into the bar inside but can sit on the patio and use the indoor bathroom on the restaurant side). The back side of the restaurant and bar have a big, lovely deck and grassy, willow-shaded yard and even a trickle of a creek... picnic tables in the grass, too. Had a few nice beers on tap and classic diner burger/sandwich/fry/tot fare. They even had fry sauce! Service was really friendly. Will stop here again, even when the dogs...

Website stated open until 11pm. After work I stopped in at 9pm for Taco Tuesday and a couple of drinks. Was told by blonde lady behind bar before I sat down that kitchen's closed and her till has been counted so she can't even make me a quick drink. Funny thing was she still had patrons drinking comfortably at the bar. If she had closed, why was the open sign still on and entrance unlocked? I've never been denied service so rudely. 1⭐ for outside decor. Really looks like a friendly establishment from outside though. If you've never been here before, make sure you and friends arrive...

Went here for a girl's night last night. So much fun! Attentive bartenders who actually remember what you ordered the last round and are also really friendly. There is a nice clean, and quaint bar with rockin' AC.. Then a huge outdoor area outback with grass, trees, and tables (we even got to admire some wildlife, including a cute Cottontail baby rabbit). It makes it easy to stay there for hours. Food from Red Horse diner is great ( they can do gluten-free sandwiches) and will deliver to the bar! Would definitely go here...