This latest list of Seattle-area restaurant closures comes with some interesting twists. A number of places can fairly be called closed/not closed, with new chapters already begun. Then a few spots are calling their own closures “indefinite” or “temporary.
” And, of course, there are some actual final farewells . First ..
. More Emmett Watson’s Oyster Bar in Pike Place Market: Fans of all things old-school in Seattle can consider this a bullet dodged: After 45 years, the city’s first-ever oyster bar closed April 14 — but new ownership has come to the rescue, reopening on May Day. Started by the storied local journalist of the place’s name with partner Sam Bryant in 1979, this low-key spot tucked away in Pike Place Market was run by Bryant’s family until the sale; reached by phone, they said they were happy about this turn of events.
The proprietor now , Brian Trask, formerly of the nearby Can Can , says he plans only respectful, incremental changes, including the addition of a hard liquor license. So a little bit of Seattle history will carry on, with oysters and martinis. Shikorina in the Central District: The house with the purple door on Union near 23rd that was formerly home to this bakery now sits vacant, but the good news is that Hana Yohannes has relocated her sweet — and organic and sustainable — spot to Capitol Hill.
Now known as Shikorina Bakeshop & Cafe, it’s in the space on Pike near Broadway that briefly housed Ben & Esther’s vegan deli. T.