If you’ve wandered down Poulsbo’s historic Front Street recently, you may have noticed that something new — and delightfully different — has appeared. In the heart of this coastal community, The Sip, a self-serve taproom and wine lounge, is rewriting what it means to go out in the West Sound.
Opened in May 2025 by local entrepreneurs Brooke and J Huffman, The Sip is part self-serve taproom, part tasting room, part neighborhood kitchen — and entirely about connection, curiosity and community. It’s a space where you can explore the region’s best wines, ciders and craft beers, one ounce at a time, while enjoying a family-friendly, Nantucket-meets-Pacific Northwest coastal vibe.
A Fresh Pouring Concept
What makes The Sip so innovative is its self-serve, pay-by-the-ounce tap system. Guests simply tap in with a card, choose from 36 rotating beverage options and pour exactly as much — or as little — as they’d like. It’s perfect for tasting flights, experimenting with new flavors or simply enjoying a single glass. Beverage service includes both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options to ensure inclusive enjoyment for all guests.
Among those 36 taps are 11 dedicated to Washington wines, alongside craft beers, ciders, seltzers, kombucha, cold brew coffee and even wine cocktails. Everything is locally sourced and thoughtfully curated to highlight the rich bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
Steps from the Marina
One of The Sip’s greatest charms is how beautifully accessible it is by land and water. It’s located just steps from the port of Poulsbo Marina, so visitors can easily arrive by car, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Boaters can moor in the marina and stroll directly up to Front Street for lunch, dinner or an evening tasting flight.
The Sip has quickly become a favorite destination for paddle groups and visiting boaters, who love being able to tie up, stretch their legs and enjoy great bites and a glass of Washington wine or beverage of their choice before heading back to the bay.
Thoughtful Food and Pairings
Beyond the taps, The Sip’s tavern-style menu rounds out the experience. The Huffmans are passionate about clean sourcing: no high-fructose corn syrup and dyes and only real, honest ingredients. Expect items like gourmet nachos, paninis, charcuterie boards, chips and dips, dessert and kids’ boards that keep everyone happy.
Nantucket Meets Little Norway
Step inside The Sip and you’ll see how it beautifully blends Poulsbo’s historic “Little Norway” charm with the breezy, coastal elegance of Nantucket. The Huffmans have created a space that feels like a coastal getaway in the heart of Kitsap County: light, bright and effortlessly inviting. Soft neutrals, natural textures and a relaxed yet refined style make it perfect for every season.
Experience The Sip
- Pour your own adventure: Explore freely, without committing to a full pour.
- Family-friendly: A rare taproom that truly welcomes all ages, with nonalcoholic taps like root beer and cold brew.
- Local flavor: Rotating selections highlight Washington’s breweries, cideries and vineyards.
- Games and gatherings: Shuffleboard, pinball and communal seating keep the atmosphere lively and inclusive.
- Accessible year-round: Park, paddle or moor — The Sip is always in season.
Spotlight on the Horizon
This fall, Cascade PBS filmed a special segment on The Sip and Poulsbo’s revitalized waterfront. The feature will air in late October through December, highlighting the town’s unique blend of local entrepreneurship, scenic charm and hospitality.
Love Kitsap’s Take
We thoroughly enjoyed our recent visit to The Sip on the Poulsbo waterfront. This beautiful new concept in the former Slippery Pig location is unique in that you pour your own drink and pay by the ounce, making it easy and fun to sample a variety of beers, ciders and kombucha. Simply tap your card on the interactive beverage handles and sip away. Visit The Sip on your next Poulsbo adventure — you’ll love it.
