Murray Stenson, Seattle’s beloved and renowned bartender, has passed away at the age of 74. He was a fixture at the Zig Zag Café, located behind Pike Place Market, and was celebrated for his exceptional mixology skills and warm hospitality.

Who was Murray Stenson?

Murray Stenson’s impact extended beyond his bar counter, as he was a mentor and an inspiration to numerous bartenders throughout his career. He dedicated a total of 11 years to the iconic Zig Zag Cafe, from 2000 to 2011. In 2010, he received the prestigious title of “Best Bartender in America.”

Tragically, Murray Stenson’s family confirmed his passing on the morning of Friday, September 22, in his Uptown apartment. While the family did not disclose specific details regarding his illness or the cause of death, they mentioned that he had been grappling with several health complications in recent months.

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Upon learning of Murray’s passing, many of his devoted fans took to Twitter to express their grief and pay their respects.

Murray achieved national fame in 2010 when he was recognized as the “Best Bartender in America” by his peers at the Tales of the Cocktail festival. His reputation was such that customers would eagerly line up outside Zig Zag Café, anticipating a memorable experience half an hour before the doors opened.

Beyond his mixology prowess, Murray was celebrated for his genuine connection with his customers. He possessed an extraordinary ability to recall not only the names of his patrons but also details about their lives, including the names of their children and their high school graduation years.

Cocktail historian Robert Hess recounted a memorable encounter with Murray, where the bartender not only remembered his preferred drink but also the seat he had occupied during his initial visit. Murray’s warmth and attention to detail left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of being served by him.

Murray Stenson also played a pivotal role in popularizing a classic cocktail known as “The Last Word,” a pre-Prohibition-era gin concoction with origins dating back to the Detroit Athletic Club in the 1900s. Murray introduced this green libation to his menu in 2004 after discovering it in the book “Bottoms Up,” and it quickly became a beloved favorite among patrons.

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The news of Murray Stenson’s passing prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from those who had the privilege of enjoying his cocktails and company. His memory will live on in the hearts of the many lives he touched with his craft and warmth.