In 2009 musician and composer Wayne Horvitz approached longtime Seattle bar, restaurant and venue owners Tia Matthies and Steve Freeborn about partnering on a new project in Seattle. After two years of planning and development the Royal Room opened in historic Columbia City in December 2011.

With permanent backline, recording and video, a grand piano and a generous stage, the venue has been designed to serve the musicians and artists who will be performing. The restaurant and bar has a comfortable neighborhood feel that welcomes patrons of all ages and varied tastes.

The music featured at the Royal Room covers a wide range of styles, with an emphasis on creative programming and development. This allows artists to work on projects in a collaborative community space. To that end, the club has been designed to accommodate in house recordings, off hour rehearsals and residencies of four to twelve weeks.