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Disappearing SeattleMany businesses beloved by patrons and neighbors have been swept away in recent years as development remakes the face of Seattle. What now-gone hangouts and neighborhood landmarks do you miss, and why? Posted at July 12, 2005 12:08 PMComments
1. Beeliner Diner in Wallingford They had a sign that said: eat it and beat it! That plus the wait staff yelled at kitchen help each order in diner "code." I asked one of the waiters why he worked there, and he replied: "It's therapy!" 2. The Western in Downtown A couple ran the diner, from someplace in the midwest. Felt like a trucker's diner, someplace out on the hightway... Posted by: Bob Lilly at July 12, 2005 01:12 PM Four places: Twin Teepees-I used to race in there, at a friend's advice, about 7pm after the regulars, generally seniors, had finished dinner, and would get the best prices on the last of the steaks and specials. When that was torn down I cried. The Dog House-What can I say everyone doesn't already know? With food service in Seattle lacking so much in my eyes in comparison to other places I'd been, it was so reassuring to have a seasoned middle-aged or senior waitress efficiently, quickly and amusingly curtly serve me. I could swear they'd all been there since the War Dept had prohibited service men from visiting there in the 1940s. The Emerald City Music Hall-One of my very best friends, my dear Aunt Hannah, came very close to chaining herself to the fence prior to its razing. Posted by: Justin Baird at July 12, 2005 01:14 PM Jake O'Shaunessy's I work at Seattle Center and Jake's had a wonderful bar where you could get great pub food and a drink after work.It was homey and kinda elegant at the same time. There's nothing in Lower Queen Anne that's made up for its disappearance. Posted by: Nancy jJulian at July 12, 2005 01:21 PM The Still Life Cafe in Fremont. I miss the benches, the open faced sandwiches, the coffee, and that funky fremont feeling. sigh. Posted by: Eliza Lagerquist at July 12, 2005 01:24 PM A few years ago, I moved into the "Tangletown" neighborhood partly because of the M&R grocery and the Honeybear bakery. Firs the M&R went, and then the Honeybear. I've moved out of the neighborhood, and haven't missed those new places one bit... but I feel very nostalgic about the days when I could walk over to the grocery, the bakery, and then around the lake. That was living. Oh, and I miss the Western Diner, too. As a former New Englander, it seemed like the only "real" diner I've encountered on this coast. Posted by: courtney at July 12, 2005 01:45 PM I'll second the Music Hall Theatre - but for the days when my mom usheretted there in the 50's, and when Katharine Hepburn played there in "Matter of Gravity", in its 70's live theatre incarnation. Throw in the Orpheum, and the demolished theatres on 5th Ave (the Blue Mouse and the Music Box) - as a kid, I loved all the neon from those marquees. Posted by: Brad at July 12, 2005 01:53 PM Not a diner, but a much missed business - The Glamorama in Fremont. I miss the photo booth, upside-down wedding cake, and of course Charlotte, who would always pop a special treat into my bag, like a hot-dog charm necklace or trick flower ring. Since the Glamorama left, Fremont has never been the same. Also not a diner, and only recently gone, the Cloud Room at the Camlin. I only recently missed it, as it was a favorite place to go out on balmy summer evenings. Posted by: Shannon at July 12, 2005 02:00 PM Charlie's at Shilshole. It was a smokey, smelly dive but we loved it. After a long day of sailing there was nothing like heading over to Charlies to grub on one of their juicy, delicious burgers and watch the sun set over the Olympics. We still haven't found a better burger in Seattle. Anthony's is supposed to be the new restaurant after Shilshole's big remodel. Somehow I doubt it will have quite the character -- or be visited by the same characters -- as our old hangout Charlie's which we miss dearly. Posted by: Sara at July 12, 2005 02:26 PM Twin Teepees is the one I miss too! Having lived and worked in Greenlake through college, the place was a constant for good grub and a couple of stiff drinks. Mostly, I miss driving by the silly-looking building every day. Posted by: Lauren at July 12, 2005 02:33 PM 1) The Still Life in Fremont - what replaced it is just Generic Trendy Yuppie Cafe #23 2) The Honey Bear - this STILL hurts - great food, great location, good music 3)Patti's Egg Nest on 45th 4) the name is sadly forgotten, but the diner on Fremont that turned into *yet another* Thai place just north of Dusty Strings and Costas Opa 5) recently noticed that both Stella's (in the U-district at Metro Cinema 6) and Paul's Place have closed. Sigh. Both good neighborhood places. And I too miss Glamorama - along with Ruby Montana's Posted by: Nick at July 12, 2005 02:40 PM The Orpheum(?)(where the Westin is now). That's where I saw my first Seattle Symphony concerts as a child. I still remember the chandeliers! The only place close to it now is the Fifth Avenue Theater. Posted by: Dawn at July 12, 2005 03:09 PM I miss the ...Post Intelligencer!. Yes even if it has the Seattle typical far left wacky point of view I will miss it anyway. It's front page, it's post what? name and great web site. Posted by: mike at July 12, 2005 03:47 PM The Alki Market: both before the remodel, and after the remodel. A human sized, friendly, neighborhood grocery. I wish now that the owners had just left it alone (doubtless they do too). Great greens, a real meat department. Old fashioned groceries easy to find. A great loss for West Seattle. Posted by: dan at July 12, 2005 04:19 PM I miss the Last Exit on Brooklyn. It was the best thing about my UW college experience and was a real, authentic coffeehouse. Posted by: Stephanie at July 12, 2005 04:29 PM 1. The Backstage in Ballard I have tons of great memories from all of the shows I've seen there over the years. Nothing in Seattle has replaced this great venue. 2. The Honey Bear bakery at Greenlake It used to be my home away from home. Posted by: lee at July 12, 2005 05:19 PM I miss the original Red Robin... The burgers were so much better then, not to mention the atmosphere! Also, the Century Tavern and Hasty Tasty. Posted by: David Fox at July 12, 2005 05:20 PM The Backstage in Ballard. Dingy alley entrance, small club, black walls, quality acts. Youssou N'Dour, Daniel Lanois, Robert Fripp, Kanda Bongo Man. I wince every time I pass the "health club" that replaced it. Ugh. Posted by: Bill at July 12, 2005 05:33 PM 2nd Ave Pizza. This was the best pizza in Seattle, but only those who bothered to venture there knew it. It's very sad that it's gone. The never-ending construction on the block obscured it for so long that it must have killed business. Posted by: Max at July 12, 2005 06:00 PM The Backstage! They consistently booked the music and on an unrelated note, I miss Spot Bagels, Posted by: Lauralee at July 12, 2005 06:43 PM There are so many things that I miss. 1. The original Vouge. It was dingy dark and had terrible bartenders but it was great. 2. Up the street from the Vouge, the Frontier Room, before it was turned into a B-que joint it was the best dive bar in downtown. 3. The Doghouse. 4. The Rock Candy - I saw too many incredible shows in that dank, musty, yet intimate space. 5. The Twin Tepee's 6. The Music Box 7. The Last Exit on Brooklyn. Posted by: DannyBoy at July 12, 2005 06:56 PM I miss Chubby and Tubby. What a great place for everything from garden hoses to shoes. We would go at least once per week. Posted by: John at July 12, 2005 09:10 PM I miss Dave's Bathhouse. It was a great place to go and hand out with guys. Didn't matter if they were married, straight or gay, you could always link up with someone. Soon the old Zodiac "Club Z" on Pike or Pine (can't remember) will be gone too, and there will be no bath houses to hang out with other men. What a shame! Posted by: Bill at July 12, 2005 09:16 PM Well, maybe it's not a business...but I miss Almost Live! Posted by: Rodney Rutherford at July 12, 2005 09:17 PM That Fremont place mentioned above was called "Barlee's." The Dog House. Absolutely, the Western, and allow me to throw Ruby Montana's in there for good measure. On Broadway, Andy's Diner and Ernie Steele's. The Velvet Elvis. U-Village Lanes, and the giant mural of Mount Rainer said to be rolled up in someone's enormous storage space. The weird little museum in the Dearborn Goodwill. The pre-remodel Olde Curiosity Shoppe, when the gimcracks and wizened oddities were sold in open bins. Trader Vic's. Posted by: mike at July 12, 2005 09:22 PM The 318 Tavern by the Fremont bridge. The best "drip down your arm" burgers and real french fries. And of course, who could forget Marsha? Posted by: Bob at July 12, 2005 09:22 PM oh, and the old original location of the Last Exit on Brooklyn in the U. Posted by: mike at July 12, 2005 09:23 PM 1. Jake O'Shaunessy's - Great place to go after a Sonics game at the Coliseum. No reservations policy made you belly up to the bar for 1 to 2 hours. Also, great alder-smoked salmon. 2. Last Exit on Brooklyn - Tasty tuna fish sandwiches at reasonable prices. 3. Original Red Robin - Reasonably priced place for a UW student to hang in the seventies. 4. The Doghouse - The first time that I went there the waitress, who looked like my grandma, told me that the bartender said that I needed a bourbon and water (how did he know?). She gave me the drink which was much more bourbon than water. A great place to get Sonic tickets. Posted by: Rick at July 12, 2005 09:25 PM Ditto on the Honey Bear Bakery. What a shame it is no more. Ditto again on the BeeLiner Diner. Some of the best grub ever. Biggest ditto on losing the Cloud Room. So sad... Add to the list:
Posted by: carter at July 12, 2005 09:30 PM Where is it all going?!?! I'd like to go there too! In no specific order, Sorry Charlie's, Charlie's at Shilshole (just found out it's gone reading this list), Village Lanes (the old time bowling guy), Kingdome, 211 Billiards, Frontier Room, Cloud Room (my friends partied with Spinal Tap there) Rockcandy, the Far Side, Fremont, the Backstage, and I can't remember if Ileen's and the Rendezvous are gone or still there, but if they are I miss them! Someone is very happy with all these quality venues in a parallel universe somewhere! Posted by: Willycakes at July 12, 2005 09:32 PM I miss Doc Freeman's, Lake Union, not an eatery but a true Seattle icon. It was a marine store bar non. Crusty employees, super busy, built over a wood dock. It embodied the flavor of NW boating geared towards sailors, power boaters and fishermen. Posted by: lee at July 12, 2005 09:35 PM The RKCNDY & the Sit N' Spin. Both spaces will always hold a special place in my heart. Posted by: Ves at July 12, 2005 09:37 PM Moe, The OK Hotel, RCKCNDY, Sit & Spin, The Colorbox, Rocket Pizza, Abruzzi's Pizza, Orpheum Records,AJ's Deli on Madison (they had great potato salad), Testa Rosa, Peaches Records, Dag's, Entros, Exotic Imports (Record store), The Backstage, and Under The Rail. I miss the Twin Tee-Pees as a place to drive by, but the food was just so-so. I also miss the Dog House. The food was OK, but I'll always remember hanging out with the Smithereens in 1990 at 2 a.m.talking about things to see in Europe. Posted by: Larry Davenport at July 12, 2005 09:40 PM It's still there, but I miss the name - Marbletop just had such a better name than Mix Ice Cream Bar. Oh, and Patty's Eggnest on 45th still seems to be there. Just about had a heart attack when I saw someone mention that one, but it's even listed on their website. Posted by: Heather at July 12, 2005 09:42 PM I miss Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour. Had great sundays of all sizes and a fun place as well. Posted by: John at July 12, 2005 09:45 PM The Doghouse. Best post-clubbing menu in town. Can't decide between the eggs and the burger? Get the burger with the fried egg! Posted by: kery at July 12, 2005 09:46 PM I miss JP Patches, The Squire Shop, and Arnold's (on the Ave) Posted by: JLD at July 12, 2005 09:50 PM I know it's not Seattle but I miss the "blue eye shadow girls" from Lynnwood. Have you been up there lately? It's the new Bellevue Square! Posted by: Youthful Baby Boomer at July 12, 2005 09:50 PM The Coliseum Theater at 5th and Pike - Yeah, the floors were dirty and people liked to yell at the screen during a movie, but it was still a great old theater. The UA 150 Theater on 6th Avenue - In 1977, the UA 150 was THE place to see a new film called "Star Wars," and see it I did---about 15 times! The theater had a 70mm screen for the "Star Wars" run and the seats were very comfortable. I still remember the classical music being played over the speakers in the theater before the movie would start. The King Theater on 6th Avenue (right across from the UA 150/70). It's now 'church' for some religious group, but back in the 70s I went there to see "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." More often than not, there wasn't much of a paying audience, so it's eventual closing was no surprise. The Food Circus at the Seattle Center House - Sure it's still open and you can get fast food there, but I miss some of the funky shops that were there in the 70s. There was one place in particular that I really miss. It was a museum of sorts located on the lower level, where you could go and see old amusement games from the 30, 40s and 50s along with all sorts of pop culture oddities (like a vibrating chair and fun house mirrors). I wish I could remember the name of that place! Posted by: Jon H at July 12, 2005 09:51 PM Believe it or not- The Kingdome! I grew up there because my daddy was a Seattle Police Officer so I was at all the Sounder games (one of the youngest season ticlket holders) plus at the Mariner games more often than not. I remember walking the almost empty staudium looking for dropped change while daddy was finishing up his duty before heading to the security office to go home. There was nothing like the feeling of shouting from the middle of the field to hear the echoes off the cement dome or flying paper airplanes from the 300 level. I cried when they imploded it. Posted by: lissybear at July 12, 2005 09:52 PM The Bubble-ator Posted by: Sentimental Fool at July 12, 2005 09:55 PM The Food Giant sign..I hate that Wallingford sign and I miss Fremont since it became a Yuppie hellhole Posted by: francis at July 12, 2005 09:55 PM I miss the Surrogate Hostess:( Posted by: Stacey at July 12, 2005 09:58 PM I miss the old bulge on the I-90 floating bridge. NOT!! Posted by: Sardonic at July 12, 2005 10:00 PM The 57 Chevy at Zestos in Ballard Posted by: Mike Simpson at July 12, 2005 10:04 PM The 57 Chevy at Zestos in Ballard Posted by: Mike Simpson at July 12, 2005 10:04 PM wow, where to begin... As a 4th gen seattleite I've got plenty that I remember of the Emmett Watson's "Lesser Seattle" Let's start with Dag's... the only burger joint with its own credit card! Greenlake Jake's, torn down to accomodate yet another slate/glass covered strip mall Old Belltown; The Vogue and the Frontier Room... cheap drink, cheap food, great scene. Back when the Seattle scene was new and fresh and we owned it exclusively. The Ditto, Maddogs, Gorilla Gardens, Squid Row... The Fiddler's Inn before it was remodeled and turned into a yuppie hellhole I-5 before 1983... I can remember my mom taking me from Northgate to Southcenter at 4pm on a weekday to go school shopping, heh. Beer at Seafair. 'nuff said. Fireworks at every grocery store... Coming soon; the Alaskan Way Viaduct, one of the best views in the city! Jeeze, where am I going with this you may ask? In the words of the Jack Nicholson, "This town needs and enema!" Posted by: Lono at July 12, 2005 10:07 PM Oh yeah, let me add the Astor Park... I wasn't of age when it was up, but I always wanted to got see The Allies, the Cowboys and especially The Heats there! Posted by: Lono at July 12, 2005 10:11 PM I miss the sounds and smells of the old "working waterfront" on Elliot Bay. It now is sterile,stainless steel and boring. Long gone are the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop with their old tyme candies and the quirky, small restaraunts to serve workers and tourists alike. Posted by: Mark at July 12, 2005 10:12 PM 1. Most of the above, and 2. The Turbulent Turtle at Shilshole...6-inch high burger meals, like the Cheddar Burger Posted by: Al Bundy at July 12, 2005 10:23 PM Miss? Reasonably priced housing and a lack of sniffy software millionaries. Posted by: Roger at July 12, 2005 10:23 PM I know this is really going to date me, but I really miss the Owl Cafe in Ballard. For a brief hazy period, many years ago, this place was just the coolest joint I ever walked into. It was every thing that I thought was cool about Ballard. You could be just a normal person and go in there just about any weekend and just rock your ass off. It's gone, and so are my 20s, and somedays I still miss them both. Posted by: Omar Croatus at July 12, 2005 10:25 PM For restaurants, I miss the one in the old Vance Hotel...Exceptional food, at affordable prices. For sights: I miss the Space Needle (Pre-100 foot restaurant); the old nighttime shows at the International Fountain; the Pacific Science Center in the late 60's and early 70's because the crowds were so small you could spend all day there, and still not see or do everything; and speaking of the science center, the old "Probability" Machine." I could watch it in fascination for hours; finally, I miss riding on, and seeing, the Princess Marguerite glide up and down Puget Sound, accompanied by fire boats as it left the dock. Posted by: Scott W at July 12, 2005 10:38 PM The Last Exit on Brooklyn (in it's original location on Brooklyn Ave) Ileen's on Broadway Ravenna PCC Shorey's books "Green" City Council people The Doghouse The old building where Mars cafe was on Western Camlin Cat's Eye Cafe in W. Seattle, before the right wingers took it over Georgetown tavern Parking meters that don't reqiure a second trip to the car Gay 90's Restaurant Operation Homestead Black Cat Cafe Aka Books Life before the phoney dot-com boom/bust Posted by: noose papier at July 12, 2005 10:39 PM Jules Maes Twin Teepees Andre's Pizza in Ballard Warshall's Posted by: Harold & Maude at July 12, 2005 10:39 PM good lord, what a crushing blow this list is. i'd long been disturbed by a seeming tendency to do away with my favorite places of character in favor of chain stores, condo towers, or just normal things. Posted by: cory at July 12, 2005 10:40 PM I miss Wally's Ice Cream shop on 45th in Wallingford. Posted by: Just Me at July 12, 2005 10:41 PM er. i meant thomas wolfe. sorry. is the five point still there or should i just cancel my hometown visit next week? Posted by: cory at July 12, 2005 10:44 PM Nothing but children over over there in Seattle... Kingens at Bellevue Way and NE 8th in Bellevue. The original Pizza Haven on Main Street -- now a PetPros. The Milk Barn. What was the name of that store near Bellsquare that sold nothing but bicycles and model airplane kits? Uncle Something or other. Every day I grow more amazed that the Pancake Corral is still there. Posted by: Prov at July 12, 2005 10:45 PM I miss the OK Hotel the most. I spent 7 of my college years there (well, only 5-6 nights a week on average). No one else knows how to make a Gilbertini... Posted by: Aaron at July 12, 2005 10:46 PM I miss the old Seattle Center Coliseum even though it's evolved into Key Arena. I also miss Sicks Stadium and the Seattle Pilots. I'll never forget my first MLB game watching the Piots and Tigers. Posted by: rob allen at July 12, 2005 10:53 PM Herfy's - always made my folks stop for a kid meal on the way home from Seattle Center. Posted by: Lainie at July 12, 2005 10:57 PM Hate to say it... but I miss Video Vission and Suntanning. Spent many years renting videos and tanning and even worked there for a year. I also miss being able to drive on NW 85th street between 32nd and I-5 in under 10 minutes. Posted by: toby at July 12, 2005 11:00 PM Ditto on Charlie's on Shilshole. I remember frequently going there for breakfast with my family when I was a kid. Chubby & Tubby was great, I only went there a couple times, but they had good stuff for cheep. Rainier Beer; however by an act of the Almightly Himself, Rainier appears to be making a comeback. However, I still miss the Brewery and the giant R. I am too young to remember beer at Seafair, however I can imagine how great it would be to be hanging out with 100,000 of your closest freinds, watchig Hydros in the sun and drininkg Rainier on tap! I miss being able to go to U-Village and not have to deal with a zillion shmuk yuppies taking up all the parking spots. And I really miss the old Doughnut Shop that was next to the Lamonts. I am also to young to remember Memorial Stadium selling out for Metro League HS football, but I miss it nonetheless. Posted by: Paul Symington at July 12, 2005 11:00 PM Harold & Maude - the Jules Maes is back open i hear. Posted by: Paul Symington at July 12, 2005 11:04 PM Fredrick and Nelson and The Bon Marche Eating a meal and watching the boats go by at Hiram's at the Locks Posted by: Patrick at July 12, 2005 11:05 PM Anyone remember the Raison D'Etre on Virginia between 1st and 2nd? They baked these softball-sized brioche that were to die for when they were fresh in the morning. And, at a time when they and the Allegro and Last Exit in the U district were the only reliable espresso shops in Seattle (Starbucks only sold beans then), they were a treasure. Also miss: OK Hotel, 700 Club, Sit 'N Spin; toll booths on 520 (they should have to PAY to come here); Forward Thrust; Emmett Watson and KBO; the Food Giant; the Luau (maybe); my abs; the Monorail; I would have said "Dan Evans" until he supported Bush and Rossi last November; On the plus side, Zoka's is a welcome replacement for the Honey Bear, with professional baristas and pastries that aren't soggy and/or salty and a space that's just as amiable. The Tangletown Pub in the former Honey Bear space deserves a look. I agree about M&R PRoduce, a terrible loss. Posted by: Phil at July 12, 2005 11:07 PM I miss Rainier Beer being brewed in Seattle. I know they still sell it and it wasn't too hard to take when it was brewed in Olympia, but now that it's brewed in Irwindale, CA it's just not the same. I don't know what I'll do if they ever stop brewing it. Posted by: Greg R at July 12, 2005 11:07 PM The Offramp, I saw the very first show there, Mother Love Bone and Soundgarden. It's been called many things since, but they will never live up to, nor duplicate or replace The Offramp. I guess you could say that I was an original Offramp Tramp. Posted by: Izzy at July 12, 2005 11:09 PM Nobody has mentioned the Kalakala. For good reason. Blow it up, Tacoma! Posted by: Waygone at July 12, 2005 11:10 PM Hollyhock Bakery. The Music Hall. Pride in elected officials. Shorey's Books. Foreign Intrigue. Unique neighborhoods. La Louisiana. Nelly's. Bungalows. Kaizuka's. The NW Annual. Posted by: Just a lowly citizen at July 12, 2005 11:15 PM also... Creamland on 84th and Greenwood Ave Posted by: toby at July 12, 2005 11:18 PM I miss the little pool table in the back of Nite Lite.. Posted by: jeff at July 12, 2005 11:19 PM Rossellini's 410, 610, and The Other Place Arnold's on Broadway Farrell's The Princess Marguerite Ray McMackin, Bruce King, and Wayne Cody The Iron Horse restaurant, down by the Dome The Space Needle being the tallest building in town Pre-1990 Bumbershoot and Bite The Doghouse and...Wunda Wunda and Brakeman Bill Posted by: Gaz at July 12, 2005 11:22 PM Ditto the comments on Chubby and Tubby's. Nowhere else in town could you arrive at the checkout counter with a pair of purple Converse sneakers for yourself, size 2 soccer shoes for your daughter, a Barbie thermos, some really vile candy and a six pack of zucchini starts for the garden. The "Raison d'etre" on Virginia just east of 1st Avenue. Walking in the door of that cafe in the 70's instantly made you ten degrees hipper than you were a moment before. Gravity Bar. I keep hoping it will rise up somewhere, it has managed to make moves across town in its past, but the new QFC on Broadway may have cemented its fate forever. Oh, torture. Why is it that no one else can come close to their version of Lemon Tahini dressing over a lovely salad of greens, brown rice, buttery ripe slices of avocado and bright red tomatoes? Not to mention their outrageous fresh fruit concoctions and zinged out waitstaff? Emphasis on the wait, if you please. That was bad service as an entertaining art form, not as an annoyance! Fisheries Supply on Alaskan Way and the North Sails loft in Ballard: I am not quite sure how sailboats function in Puget Sound without these places... Mahtzoh Mama's on 15th. It wasn't an east coast deli, but it had a lot of chutzpah and the chopped liver wasn't half bad either. Jon Hahn's neighborhood columns in the P.I. - He made us all think we were more charming and eccentric than we have been since he retired his column. Funny, no one has mentioned Frederick & Nelson's. I don't miss them either. Posted by: Jane in Seward Park at July 12, 2005 11:27 PM Horluck's Ice Cream parlor. Double chocolate sodas were the best. And the Sara Bernhardt (?) double banana split (6 scoops of ice cream and toppings). King Cafe. Best shui mei in town. Hopefully they will return. ditto Surrogate Hostess. Great soup & bread. And you could go hang out there for a long time. ditto Almost Live (although it's nice to see Joel McHale has gotten a good gig) ditto Shorey's ditto Frederick & Nelson's. I miss the Divinity Half-dips at the candy counter. ditto Raison d'Etre's brioche. Gosh those were good! Posted by: Rebecca at July 12, 2005 11:28 PM Almost Live! I spent my childhood staying up late with my dad to watch it.... he Tivo's it now for us to watch. They taught my young impressionable mind all I needed to know about our area. Olympia beer being brewed in Olympia. How is it the water if it's brewed in Texas? Fredrick & Nelson's. Nothing compares. The Bon Marche. Call it Macy's all you want, but it's still the Bon to me. Posted by: Jessica at July 12, 2005 11:28 PM I miss the Pike Place Market - now it's all pseudo-hippy crap. The "farmers" don't grow their own produce, but buy it from a supplier in Portland. The grocery stores on the second level are gone replaced by junk made in China. The cool antique/2nd hand stores are gone. Pike Place Market is now just a tourist trap along with the Sanitary Market. I miss Ye Olde Curiosity Shop since it moved north of the ferry terminal. I miss Ivar Haglund's smiling face and his corny songs. He was a Seattle treasure. I miss Archie McPhee on Stone Ave N. The new Ballard store just isn't the same. I miss watching baseball games at Sick's Stadium - Thanks Lowes Hardware - not! Posted by: Las Vegas Mikey at July 12, 2005 11:29 PM How could I forget the 211? Even after the move from 3rd & Union, it was still great. My dad taught me how to play pool at the old location (even though I guess I was underage at the time). Posted by: Rebecca at July 12, 2005 11:30 PM 1. The 318 Tavern 2. The original Dubliner and their old menu. 3. Orpheum Records 4. KJET 5. Herfy's (I realize there are a couple places left with the name, but I miss the chain) 6. Woodland Park Inn 7. Twin TeePees 8. Pre-gentrified Belltown 9. The Cloud Room 10. Jake O'Shaugnessy's 11. Ileen's (or even when it was still called Ernie Steele's) 12. Schnitzelbank Posted by: Krass at July 12, 2005 11:31 PM Open mic night and warm apple pie with vanilla ice cream at The Last Exit. Spending my laundry money on Pac-Man games at Arnolds and wearing the same shirt for a week. That really nice lady at the Arctic Circle in West Seattle who used to give me the "biggest hamburger we make" when I was six years old. Trying to weasel a deal on Nikon lenses with grizzled old Ed at The Camera Show on Aurora as well his 7.5% off for CASH another 7.5% off for no return. Those cheap door prize-like tickets that the Washington State Ferry used to sell and the wink of the ticket taker who knew you were a half-fare but let you on the boat for free anyway.
Posted by: Third Floor Lander Rocks! at July 12, 2005 11:36 PM KZAM 1540 AM....Rock of the 80's with Steven Rabow Greenlake Bowl for the best burgers in town....well, maybe the 318 Tavern if Belle was working that day Glazed applesauce donuts at Frederick & Nelson's...and the milk chocolate penoche half dips Speaking of F&N, when's the last time you enjoyed a Frango milkshake?...like in the ambience of the Paul Bunyon Room. One last F&N memory: Remember when there was both a ladies' restaurant and a men's grill? Farrell's....wow....nothing like a Pike's Peak or going to a party where someone else was paying for the Mount Rainier Those big M&M cookies at Arnold's on the Ave Fish & chips from Gary & Al at The Fish Bowl on Aurora near 145th Huskyburger from the HUB dining room before they went to all outside vendors (blah) Posted by: Hugh at July 12, 2005 11:57 PM -The old Bartells (was across from what is now Westlake Mall). Had a funky basement where the bargains were, was damn and smelled funny, and a Krusty Pup hot dog restaurant on top. -The OLD Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe -Used record stores that made the U-District a Mecca for teenage kids with a few bucks in their pockets to spend on (gasp!) LP's -The Cinerama before Paul Allen screwed it up -The Flight to Mars ride at the Center before Paul Allen screwed it up -the sky-ride at the Center -the lunar landing module and the scales with what you'd weigh on different planets in building 5 at the Science Center -The "blob" on Queen Anne -The Woodland Park Zoo when it was free -The mural stage on the green at the Woodland Park Zoo when it was free -Fireworks at Greenlake where I could watch from my Grandparents' back porch in Greenwood -The JC Penney on 2nd Avenue near the market where a kid could still get a free cookie at the candy counter downstairs before grabbing a bus to the south end -being able to climb up in the water tower at Volunteer Park for one of the best, least-known views of Seattle -the Azteca near Shilshole - now sits rotting and empty. One of the last places to get an inexpensive, fun meal while watching the sunset and the boats go by -the old fish ladder at the locks - basically a series of concrete cisterns interlocked with one another. If you wanted to see fish - you walked along a slimy mud trail and looked down into them -the Sunny Jim peanut butter factory sign along I-5 -Jeff Posted by: Jeff Welch at July 13, 2005 12:06 AM "Harold & Maude - the Jules Maes is back open i hear. Posted by: Paul Symington at July 12, 2005 11:04 PM" Paul S. - new trendy place under old name. No ham & eggs and Rainier for breakfast like the genuine place with Jay cooking and his mom pouring :( I was there while a movie "Highway" (aka Leonard Cohen's Afterworld) was being shot. Haven't seen the movie yet but hopeful Jules wasn't edited out. Posted by: Harold & Maude at July 13, 2005 12:08 AM The original Koby's Fish & Chips in Leschi on the shores of Lake Washington. As kids, my father would take us there on as a special treat on a summery sunday's drive. We'd sit at the bar counter with our little feet dangling on the high stools while we joyfully watched "Pinkie" (Koby always had pink blush cheeks)drop breaded fish into the fryer and crank on the shinny Hamilton Beach blender for fresh scooped ice cream chocolate shakes. Afterwards we'd walk the docks and look at many bright colored sail boats with our dad. Peter S. Posted by: peter at July 13, 2005 03:49 AM The United Artists 150 movie theater in Belltown. That red velvet curtain was gorgeous. I wish some Microsoft billionaire had bought and restored it. Posted by: John at July 13, 2005 08:42 AM Anyone remember The Joker (late-night dive, diner/bar reliably soaking up the dregs of humanity in the wee hours)? The real Belltown (Free Mars Cafe..) There was a great little greasy Chinese restaurant on Broadway (late 80's) with a dark dark lounge where any group of 17 year olds playing hooky could get served cocktails (wish I could remember the name of that place) The old Rendezvous.. Espresso Roma on Broadway (back when even many Seattleites still though it was called "expresso") Cafe Counterintelligence (I think there was only enough seating for about 6 people in that place - a tiny hole in the wall at the Market) I was away from Seattle from 1993 - 2002, and the city I left behind sure wasn't there when I got back (driving down Western, I remember being genuinely disoriented, thinking "Where the hell is Belltown? Where am I?") And most recently, Sorry Charlie's.. Posted by: amy at July 13, 2005 09:04 AM Broadway. I work on Broadway and Pine and it just sucks these days. More winos and tweakers than you can chase with a stick I mean shake a stick at. How about the Broadway Market and the cinema in it? And of course the B'way cart peddlers. Just one big ugly Kroger now. Of course I miss Andy's Diner (not even Kelly Moore Paints could match that special shade of nicotine) and its endless toast conveyor belt and the crusty shrunken waitresses who fed it at each schlep past on the way to the pick-up window. Oh - and while I'm supposed to be at work I may as well mention how much I miss AEI Music. Lower Queen Anne. Seems like it got lapped up in the dread Bell Town tide. No more Sorry Charlies and Howard Bulson leading cocktailers through yet another rendition of stuff only KIXI-AM has the cahunas to play on the air (God Bless KIXI!)... and of course THE BLOB BUILDING - Man, was that ever beautiful inside! I got attacked by a belly dancer at dinner one night in its final incarnation as a fabulous Greek restaurant. I spit on the grave of the jerk who tore it down. Ptooey! One more: Chubby & Tubby. Just try buying only a fingerful of axel greese at Lowe's and see what kind of look you get from the clerk! Posted by: Andrew at July 13, 2005 09:13 AM The pizza place in Woodinville whose name escapes me that would actually deliver and made "pizza lasagna". They were voted Eastside's best pizza for years. And although it's not a "business", I miss Sunshine and Moonbeam - the large metal cow structures in a field on Woodinville-Redmond road in Woodinville. They brought a smile to my face every time I drove by them. Sigh. Posted by: Pam Syverson at July 13, 2005 09:21 AM The Legend Room, downstairs at the Bon in Northgate. Lunch w/Nana Edith, ALWAYS a turkey sadwich & a piece of candy from the candy counter on the way out. Sears double dipped peanuts Henry's Off Broadway, a Prom must in the 70's Daddy's Tavern The Brass Connection Morning Madness at Arnold's on Broadway The Ritz Cafe on 15th Posted by: Doug at July 13, 2005 09:25 AM Northwest Coffee on 45th. Before Starbucks took over the universe and Laurelhurst Yuppy-ness had usurped U-Village this was the best TRULY QUIET place to study (or chat quietly) and drink good Seattle espresso near UW. Comfy couches and miss-matched furniture, I wish I could replicate the atmosphere! Posted by: Nancy Peterson at July 13, 2005 09:29 AM For the single types in Seattle - remember the Wednesday/Thursday Club? Posted by: Larry at July 13, 2005 09:34 AM The Wallingford Food Giant. Not just the sign, but the whole store. Kroger/QFC isn't the same. The deli in the ground floor of the Times Square Building. KING-TV when it was doing real local news instead of chasing car crashes and fires The Brasserie Pittsbourg Posted by: john at July 13, 2005 09:38 AM Abruzzi Pizza House located on Pike St. Posted by: Steve Emerson at July 13, 2005 09:39 AM Abruzzi's Pizza and the Gay 90's. Used to pound cheap stiff drinks after work at the Gay 90's and then grab a slice or two to go. It was heaven. Reading this list makes me realize how much Seattle has changed in the past 15-20 years. So much character lost. Sad. Posted by: Brian at July 13, 2005 09:51 AM Dag's Hamburgers on Aurora. 19 cent burgers and 11 cents for fries. Posted by: Don M at July 13, 2005 09:59 AM I miss Charlie's at Shilshole, too. Also, Brad Radke's Rewind show on National Public Radio. He's still around on the radio, but that show was Seattle-based and just filled me with Seattle pride. I miss Lou Pinella's Mariners, too. Posted by: Maura at July 13, 2005 10:02 AM Chung Mee on 45th Golden Tides disco and pickup scene in the early 80's Posted by: Phil at July 13, 2005 10:10 AM As far as eateries go: As far as landmarks go: Posted by: Duane at July 13, 2005 10:11 AM I don't just miss Rainier Beer, I miss the old brewery. One because of the free tour and gift shop (I'll never forget my Rainier Beer waterski). What a cool place to go for a couple of free cold ones before a Mariner game at the Dome. Two because it was the first landmark that screamed "Seattle" when I drove up from Tacoma to work every morning. The rest of America will never remember Mickey Rooney like we will! Posted by: Dave at July 13, 2005 10:13 AM I can't believe nobody has mentioned Pizza & Pipes. That place was the best. Also, Electric Palace at Northgate (and all of the other video game arcades of my youth). The Northgate movie theater and the UA-150. Todays 12-screen places are so lame. I miss the days when everybody was there to watch the same movie. The Frontier Room. Thankfully, Belltown still has some great places. Please don't ever let the Nite Light go away. Reading this list makes me sad for what this town has become. Posted by: Craig R Jones at July 13, 2005 10:16 AM I miss the Wendy's on 4th too, heck, why is there hardly any fast food restaurants down here? I have to work here mon-fri and there are just not enough food options that people like me like (like KFC, Taco Time, Arby's, etc) Why does Sodo get a Krispy Kreme while we are inundated with Starbucks coffee????? Aaargggh, I don't drink coffee, but I do like doughnuts, it's sad. The layout of the downtown area leaves a lot to be desired. Mariam Posted by: Mariam at July 13, 2005 10:27 AM Bellevue's Valu-Mart in the early 60's, before retail got "big-boxed" Guess I'm dating myself.... still refer to 520 as "the new bridge" Posted by: jim at July 13, 2005 10:31 AM Lorraine's Hole-n-One donut shop on the Ave--best donuts ever, endless mugs of good coffee. Cause Celebre Cafe on Capitol Hill--great homemade ice cream, horrid service (I know, I worked there). Posted by: Robert at July 13, 2005 10:34 AM Kelly's Big K BarBCue on 24th. Absolutely perfect prime rib, often carved by Kelly himself, and if you were at the right point in line (every third or fourth person), Kelly plopped a rib on your plate. And you could take your plate to the the tavern next door and enjoy a beer with your meal. Posted by: Cliff at July 13, 2005 10:48 AM Warren Harding Monument at the Woodland Park Zoo. Bob Summerize record store at 12th & Jackson. The Trianon Ballroom on 3rd. Posted by: Gary Bloomquist at July 13, 2005 10:51 AM This list is about as depressing as it gets. Hearing those names of the past really brings back a flood of memories. What was the name of the tavern on 15th that the Hopvine took over? Nothing like a $5.00 pitcher of Rainer. We had the best venues in the 80's for shows.. mostly I miss how small the city was, knowing everyone, and wharehouse parties in SODO. Oh well. Posted by: ryan at July 13, 2005 10:52 AM I miss Ben Paris downstairs emporium, all of first avenue, ditto 3rd, 4th , 5th avenues, and the old "Jesus Christ Made Seattle Under Protest" which meant Jefferson, James, Cherry, Columbia, Marion, Madison. Union University and Pike and Pine. They are all mostly gone now. Where are the Seattle Rainiers, Leo Lassen, and Fred Hutchinson? Not The Hutch as narrated by Jean Enerson On King 5. Truth of the matter is that downtown Seattle is gone forever, Which is either good or bad, depending upon yourself. Posted by: jerry a. ferrell at July 13, 2005 10:54 AM The Endless Loaf Langendorf bread sign on Aurora. Posted by: Jane at July 13, 2005 11:09 AM I miss the Spanish Castle out in Midway. It was THE place to go for good dancing, meeting people, just enjoying life. It also served as a great place for the Fire Dept's to raise funds. Posted by: Jackie Juntti at July 13, 2005 11:16 AM The Little Cheerful Cafe, which used to be in the University Inn on Roosevelt. I was a law student without much money then; owners Don & Sandy Chichester and Voula afforded me breakfast and lunch on a "pay me when you can" basis every day. I don't know how it would have gone for me without their kindness and generosity. Don once even gave me his tickets to a Monday night Seahawks game against the Raiders. Thanks Don, Sandy and Voula, wherever you are. Posted by: Freeman at July 13, 2005 11:17 AM #1) The Cloud Room - how could we grant the time-share permits without guaranteeing this landmark piano bar remained open? #2) Sorry Charlies - what is his name, Harold?, who has played in Seattle piano bars forever. And the singers, actors and actresses who would sneak over during intermisssion or stop by after the show to have a quick one and belt out a tune. #3) The Price is Right - tucked in an alley way between 4th and 5th Avenues, I believe, down near Cherry St, it had great outdoor seating. #4) and this is a very sad loss, The old triangular Bartell's bordered by 4th and Pine and Westlake. It had a Frankfurter hot dog place upstairs with fresh squeezed lemonade. And we tore this architecturally significant structure down to accommodate a water fountain you can walk through? Posted by: Steve U. at July 13, 2005 11:29 AM I miss almost everything that used to be on Capital Hill. Cafe Minnie's at about 2 am, waiting for huge orders of home fries and eggs as well as the Pink Zone. There aren't any more kitchy stores to get that gay pride gear. Not to mention normal sized QFC's or even the Broadway Market. It's too depressing to go there now... And breakfast with Santa Claus and Frederick and Nelson's. Posted by: Amanda at July 13, 2005 11:30 AM I miss the Admiral Benbow in West Seattle. Sitting under the tail end of a pirate ship in the back bar, the rippling water reflected on the walls... that was amazing.
Posted by: Keith at July 13, 2005 11:31 AM Outrageous Taco in the U District. Absolutely the best burritos ever - a meal in themselves. Jack O'Shaunessey's - lost many a brain cell, and loved listening to the Irish tenor who would burst out in song whenever he felt like it. Benson's Pharmacy on 19th Ave E - where George and Evelyn always knew which family you "belonged to". Woolworth's and Woolworth's lunch counter. Talk about cheap eats and feeling so grown up to be out shopping and eating! Sears corndogs. The only place I ever ate them - there was just something about the batter that made them so good. Posted by: Terry at July 13, 2005 11:33 AM Hungry U. pizza on Roosevelt. That was my first (of many) date with my wife. The restrooms were papered with old petitions to lower the voting age to 18. What a radical idea! Posted by: Kevin Johnson at July 13, 2005 11:36 AM Hey, I'm a real old-timer. I miss the Ball N Rack pool hall in Wallingford, and also the Great Green Society. Great Green was a pizza place in the U District, and later with a 2nd location in Fremont, back in the late 60's and early 70's. And the Churn, an ice cream parlor that was on the AVe in the U District - it had pool tables in the back room. Posted by: Rose at July 13, 2005 11:44 AM The rusty palm tree sculpture on the west side before Hwy 520. Posted by: david at July 13, 2005 11:47 AM The rusty palm tree sculpture on the west side before Hwy 520. Posted by: david at July 13, 2005 11:47 AM Agreed about Charlie's, the Legend Room, and Twin Teepees. Almost Live is also greatly missed, it's too bad there isn't a way to buy the episodes through King 5. A few things that haven't been mentioned are King Dogs, a rockin colliseum, the old Ram at U village, and Ernst hardware stores. Also we are lucky to still have such places like; Spuds, Dicks, Ivars, and Husky Stadium. Posted by: Mark S at July 13, 2005 12:00 PM In addition to so MANY of my favorites mentioned above, I miss terribly that fine French Restaurant that was on lower Queen Anne, called LeTastevin. Oh my, talk about WONDERFUL! It used to be located in a smallish cozy place on Queen Anne Avenue, and then relocated to a much larger, and lovely building on First West and down a block or so from Mercer. Posted by: Barb at July 13, 2005 12:00 PM I miss the Sit-n-Spin. When I first arrived in Seattle I lived right across the street. My friends and I would sit for hours smoking, drinking their really bad coffee with loads of cream and sugar, and play checkers or candyland. I'd often drag my laundry across the street, even though it cost more, just to sit there and hang out. I also really miss the United Artists Theatre that was on 6th and Blanchard. That was, by far, the best theatre in town, way better than the Cinerama. That huge domed theatre was impressive. I worked there for a little over a year and it was the most fun job I've ever had. I heard once it was the first multi-screen theater in the city. Too bad somebody couldn't have saved that place from the bulldozers. I miss the RockCandy. Saw my first live show in Seattle at that place. Small, hot and LOUD, just how I like it. I miss 99.9FM KISW back when it was a killer rock radio station and still had Bob Rivers and Twisted Radio in the mornings. What happened to "Seattle's Best Rock?" Oh yea, Entercom... Posted by: Judd at July 13, 2005 12:01 PM I miss the Twin Tipis. I loved it as a little girl and even more as a senior. Posted by: H.Stegelvik at July 13, 2005 12:02 PM Pizza Pete in Ballard Posted by: Pat at July 13, 2005 12:02 PM I miss Johnson's Hi-Dive on Lake Surprise (near Milton). The 50 foot diving tower was the greatest thing I had ever seen as a kid! The slide was fantastic too. Too bad the developers and the high insurance cost killed it! Posted by: Tom at July 13, 2005 12:05 PM The Fremont Tavern, site of my most memorable underage beer swilling and pool playing. Posted by: ttom at July 13, 2005 12:05 PM The Fremont Tavern, site of my most memorable underage beer swilling and pool playing. Posted by: ttom at July 13, 2005 12:05 PM I miss the Doghouse -- great for late-night "studying" nursing a plate of French fries. Herfy's is long gone, too. The Western diner was a guilty pleasure for work lunches for years, and I think someone already mentioned Andy's and Ernie Steele's on Broadway, two great beehive dives. Also DeCaro's on Broadway; when I was a kid, a waitress named Shirley with a long ponytail would always bring me Shirley Temples. I thought they were named for her. Pizza Pete's on Broadway, a great, working-class pizza and pasta joint, fell victim to trendy Capitol Hill gentrification in the '80's, like just about everything else. Pizza and Pipes had the Wurlitzer going on over in Greenwood and served $5 pizzas, just right for a high-schooler's budget. Where StarSucks is now on Olive & Summit, there used to be a smoky old restaurant called the Pied Piper -- my first meal out with my parents, as an infant. Great breadsticks! (not much else I could chew at that age!) Classy Henry's off Broadway was a couple of blocks from there, too. I miss Espresso Roma, a cheap-but-good coffee joint in both the U-Dist and on Broadway. Plus the old Torrefazione, and the Dilettante Ephemere Sauce mochas at Seattle's Best, before StarSucks made both chains just another piece of their Borg machinery. Posted by: GCK at July 13, 2005 12:15 PM I miss 80's era Green Lake Jakes. Also Farells and Herfys. Posted by: Jen at July 13, 2005 12:19 PM I miss Bobo and Fifi and the Zoo-Key song...also, the Owl in Ballard, dirt trails around Greenlake, the Last Exit on Brooklyn, drag races at Golden Gardens before the marina, and Hasty Tasty's on the Ave--where you could get a HUGE platter of hashbrowns with cheese for under a dollar. I miss the 1968 Great Piano Drop!!! I miss the Helix, too...and seeing the likes of Tom Robbins, Tim Leary and Alan Ginsburg just walking around or speaking (outside and for free). I miss seeing Led Zepplin at Greenlake! Posted by: Mary W. (used to be M...used to be C.) at July 13, 2005 12:23 PM I miss the Opium Dens and Chinese gambling in Pioneer Square. Posted by: Jay at July 13, 2005 12:23 PM Also, gone are Juanita Beach and Shady Beach private parks on the north end of Lake Washington with their ballroom, etc. (Juanita is now a county park and Shady is condominiums) Posted by: Pat at July 13, 2005 12:25 PM Cow pastures in Issaquah, with glider planes. Going up Snoqualmie through North Bend. Being able to ride a bike without being killed by the intense traffic. Posted by: andrea at July 13, 2005 12:27 PM KYYX! Posted by: Jim at July 13, 2005 12:28 PM KYYX! Posted by: Jim at July 13, 2005 12:29 PM Zoo Tavern on Eastlake, when the patrons ! Posted by: Bob Danks at July 13, 2005 12:32 PM Catching poliwogs in the basement of what is now the Bon Marche as they were building Northgate (now I've really dated myself). Posted by: Pat at July 13, 2005 12:33 PM Gads! The Beeliner Diner brings back good memories! Posted by: Nancy at July 13, 2005 12:53 PM Mahtzoh Mama's on 15th: I adored the mahtzoh ball soup there, is there another place to get it in central or north Seattle? original Last Exit Chubby & Tubby's Doghouse and especially ... Hasty Tasty (Rasty Nasty) on University Way! Wonderful 3 a.m. place. Posted by: nevermind at July 13, 2005 01:02 PM Pre-Offramp, aka Eastlake East (or Yeastlake Yeast, if you prefer) Posted by: SAM at July 13, 2005 01:09 PM
Piccolo's (sp?), a great pizza joint in the U-dist. Wally's Hamburgers - on the site where the current QA Dick's stands. (not that I don't like Dick's!) No better burger around after a night of watching the Totems and the Buckeroos battle it out. The Green Lake hydroplane races, before a bunch of NIMBY's masquerading as GREENIES got 'em kicked out! Posted by: Dick at July 13, 2005 01:10 PM The Backdoor Lounge in Pioneer Square, the original layout before they remodelled. Ken Griffey Jr and Randy Johnson. The old Cascade neighborhood... Posted by: joe at July 13, 2005 01:13 PM Rosellini's 410! The best White Russian's in town, and great after-work appetizers! Posted by: JC at July 13, 2005 01:13 PM Hmmmmm ... Spanish Castle ... Ben Parris downtown (although I was too young to shoot pool there) .... pre-tourist Pike Place Market (which we note visitors and out-of-town TV types now have taken to calling "Pike's Market) .. The Italian Gardens Restaurant (downtown)... Rainier's baseball .. Rainier Brewery .... Hawaii Kai and Miss Thriftway squaring off at Seafair .. the beautiful Orpheum Theatre ..... and the Hat 'n Boots (I know, it's still there but my memories are of the SERVICE station :-)) ..... Posted by: Jazzsegue at July 13, 2005 01:16 PM Gils Drive-In in West Seattle where I had my first drive-in burger for 19 cents! Posted by: vicki at July 13, 2005 01:19 PM Has anyone else heard the Pink Elephant is shutting down? Now that will be a travesty... First the Rainier "R" came down, then the Tee-pees... if the Elephant comes down too, I'm moving! Ditto on Almost Live. True, it was only moderately funny, but it was a picture of Seattle, and it's always fun to laugh at ourselves. The original Enchanted Village - before Six Flags took over and ruined it. Does anyone remember the squirrel ride? That was my fav I also miss actual housing - not these in-city condo things that are springing up on every block. Is there something wrong with me? I'm sorry I would like a yard for my kids to play in... and ditto too on Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor - I spent almost every birthday there! Posted by: Lisa at July 13, 2005 01:21 PM Oh, how I miss the Boat Street Cafe, Fandango, Speakeasy Cafe, Guppy's and City People's on Broadway. And I know I'm going to miss Hines Public Market Cafe, the Wonder Bread sign and Torrefazionne Cafes. Sigh. Posted by: Digby at July 13, 2005 01:22 PM Someone already alluded to it, but Jones' Fantastic Museum in the basement of the Food Circus (now Center House) -- a great old-fashioned dime museum full of weird stuff, strange machinery, etc. I miss this place more than you can imagine! Posted by: litlnemo at July 13, 2005 01:30 PM I miss the Mirror Tavern, which was around First and Pike; the Adult Entertainment Center, which was a sleazy business on the second floor near Second and Pike (it had Dig-Dug, an underrated video game); the Gay Nineties Tavern, which was further up on Pike; and the Apple Theater (I own a piece of red brick from when it was torn down. Posted by: Ed at July 13, 2005 01:32 PM Most of these things are meaningless to me, since I live in Vancouver, BC -- but Almost Live was a key part of my entertainment life in the early '90s. Anyone miss Frederick and Nelson? I used to know a lot more about Seattle when the majority of our TV stations came from you across the border (KOMO, KING, KIRO, KCTS, and KVOS in Bellingham) in the '70s. Since Canada woke up and created a bunch of our own cable networks, we don't watch your news anymore. So maybe what I miss about Seattle is the simplicity of the old TV network days. Posted by: Derek at July 13, 2005 01:35 PM The Paul Bunyon Room in the basement of Frederick and Nelson's. Posted by: K at July 13, 2005 01:49 PM I miss: The Cloud Room - I only went there a few times, but it was still one of my favorite places. My friend Mike once got a double bourbon so big he married it. (Yes, the marriage ended at the bottom of the glass, but that's not uncommon) Just thinking about this is upsetting. Dags - Alas, for the loss of the Bag-o-Dags! Rainier Beer - I don't drink it, but I miss the brewing smell that you'd always get going past the brewery. And the green 'T' just doesn't live up to the script 'R'. The old 'W' logo for U-Dub, and the old purple and gold that went with it. And while I'm at it, the old blue and silver for the Seahawks. Was it worth abandoning history just for a few extra bucks from merchandizing? Posted by: Wolf at July 13, 2005 02:14 PM Superhighway underground rave club in Pioneer Square....the way the security guards would make you put your shirt back on even when the place was 100 degrees. Dark, trippy, and the best damn dj's!!! Posted by: matthew at July 13, 2005 02:17 PM I mostly miss J.P. Patches, Gertrude; Stan Boreson and Nomo. Great mornings to wake up to and what afternoon memories. Especially finding out where my birthday gift was hidden at home -- thanks JP!! Posted by: Sandi at July 13, 2005 02:24 PM 1 – Another vote for the UA 150 for a serious movie-going experience back when a flick stayed in the house longer than 6 days. Posted by: Richard L at July 13, 2005 02:46 PM When I read the prior posts I think of all the warm and fuzzy memories I have of growing up in Seattle Things I miss: -the Black Cat Cafe near the U-District -Honeybear Bakery! especially the miss matched coffee cups and common table -watching "Almost Live" and laughing at the local humor -watching Northwest rock local music videos during the grunge explosion -Chubby and Tubby's -Old Uwajimaya -Old Fremont with all the wacky shops, chill coffee hangouts, and prices that artist's can afford -Seeing shows at RCKNDY -the man who used to stand on the Ave. playing guitar and singing jazz/blues -The old kid valley or better yet...the iron horse for hamburgers -kingdome Ah the memories...sniff Posted by: Melissa at July 13, 2005 02:46 PM Farrell's and Shakey's, sure the lounge at the Legend Room at the Northgate Bon Darn Good Pizza (on Roosevelt), especially their garlic bread The Mirabeau and The Overdraft of course, many great musical memories at disAstor Park, Gorilla Gardens, the Backstage... I liked the Valhalla the way it was -- still have a beer token lying around somewhere Posted by: Ron at July 13, 2005 03:04 PM I miss Capitol Hill:
Posted by: Helen at July 13, 2005 03:23 PM I miss Sears on 1st and Lander, with the candy counter (Sea foam and swedish fish), corn dogs and the cafeteria on the 4th floor. Best ever tuna sandwiches and soup. And running the wrong way on the escalators. Posted by: llo at July 13, 2005 03:49 PM The A&W's on 160th and Aurora Ave N and there was one in Lake City (Thank God Dick's is still around!)...Parkers- not the casino...Before it became Bartells, there was a Rexall Drug store with soda fountain in Lake City...the Lake City and Northgate theaters...the Kenmore Drive-In and the Aurora Drive-In ...Bothell/Duvall/Monroe/Kent/Carnation before all the yuppie sprawl when there were lots of great farms and patures...The Princess Marguerite...Northgate when you had to walk outside between the stores...I loved driving by the Rainier Brewery on my way to work in the morning, loved the malt smell...So many things and places. Posted by: Michele at July 13, 2005 03:49 PM I'll miss the Pergola in Pioneer Square if they remove it. Someone should create a group to protect it as part of the heritage of Pioneer Square. Posted by: Daranee Oakley at July 13, 2005 03:57 PM Living Letterpress Museum in Belltown; Toaster Musuem in the Shoe Building; Bozotronics; Barlee's in Fremont; Still Life in Fremont; Beauty and the Bookstore in the U District; Last Exit (original location in U District; Simpatico's in Wallingford; Backstage at Ballard (they were diorganized, and either the staff called in sick or the fridge was broken, but what great shows I saw there!); Tower Books, the Blob World Books on lower Queen Anne; Rocket Pizza on Capitol Hill. The shows on community access channel (only the boring ones remain).I am happy that the Ladybug guy is still on 15th. Posted by: Relic at July 13, 2005 04:04 PM Definitely Farrel's Ice Cream! Also, Pizza & Pipes. Both were great places to spend childhood birthdays. Nothing else like them in town. Posted by: Kris at July 13, 2005 04:09 PM Hmm... I can't say I miss fast food places downtown (nor am I at all surprised they are gone - rents are way too high outside the food courts), but I sure do miss video arcades, like the joint on 4th where the "W" Hotel is now. Good memories there. The old Metro brown/yellow/white/gray buses, and the old driver's uniforms. The cafe at Frederick's, where my friend was a dishwasher and hooked us up :) I still have my charge card. A couple people already mentioned Barlee's in Fremont - great place to recover from the previous night's drinking. And the Benbow in West Seattle! How could anyone who was ever in there forget the ship!! I think my great-uncle used to hang out there. That was a real shame. Philly's Best cheeseteaks on 23rd - reopened under new management, but the old surly service is gone. The Kingdome. No doubt. The noise, especially in '95. And yeah, the Backstage. Beautiful South, the only time I ever saw them, on one of their only North American tours. Dudley Manlove on New Year's Eve. God but I miss that place. And the old Moe. And all the other great old joints that have gone away. *sigh* Posted by: Jake at July 13, 2005 04:10 PM The greasy little Chinese restaurant on Broadway was the Jade Pagoda. It's still there but has steadily declined over the years (along with Broadway). I miss it too! Pizza Pete's on Broadway. Great salads and cheap pizza. The Sears corndogs were called Krustypups. Made with Krusteaz batter. They sell them at the fair now but they just aren't the same. Theaters: The UA70/150, Star Wars! Need I say more? Drive In theaters Buy a pizza or a bucket of chicken and some pop and you were all set. My spouse and I smooched in every one of them! The Bubbleaetor. It went to Mary Bridge Children's hospital for a while. It was later sold to someone who turned it in to a greenhouse... Posted by: squisheye at July 13, 2005 04:21 PM Magazine city and the DT KFC. I would go every payday,get some magazines than have dinner at the Colonels. Also miss the Horn Room. A nasty looking dive but great breakfasts on Saturday, especially when "grandma" cooked. Posted by: shawn at July 13, 2005 04:38 PM A & P; child care at Northgate, next to Spudnuts. Also, lines of housewives waiting to get free gift for grand openings at Northgate, things like a pair of nylon stockings. Ham salad sandwiches at Woolworth's, Kress or Newberry's lunch counters. Butler Brothers department store. Posted by: Pat at July 13, 2005 04:56 PM I loused up my post of this a.m. Jul. 13. I left out Spring and Seneca in the jesus christ made seattle under protest part of the post. And forgive me for chastising Jean,as I imagine everyone refers to the Hutchinson Cancer center as "The Hutch." I just remember Hutchinson as a 19 year old player for the old Rainiers. It seems like he played with Emmett Watson some, who I also miss. Also Royal brougham,and I guess one could write a book if one were to keep going with this.
Posted by: jerry a. ferrell at July 13, 2005 06:13 PM The doorman at Frederick and Nelson's Posted by: Sue at July 13, 2005 08:31 PM How could I have forgotten and left these off my list?! Well, I'll continue from my previous list: 13. Pizza & Pipes 14. The Underground in the U-District 15. A&W on Aurora 16. The Old Ravenna Tavern before they remodeled it with pull-tabs and those annoying fluorescent lights around the bar. Posted by: Krass at July 14, 2005 01:03 AM After reading this, I want to FOAD! Soooo many great places and memories gone into the Hellhole that Seattle has become. I lived there from 1980-1999 and fondly remember: REX, before it became the Vogue - dancing like mad to the ENEMY - the Greatest Seattle Band That Never made It! Rock On George Gleason & Co! The Last Exit on Brooklyn for it's awesome peanut-butter sandwiches - enough to sustain a starving student. THANK GOD I'M a Husky, not a damned Coug!! Jake O'Shaunessey's in Queene Anne, for Robert-what's his name, a great Irish tenor, spiked Murphy's, alder-planked salmon, and a cool, grown-up atmosphere, plus draft Guinness and hands-down, the most sh_t faced I've ever been on my birthday, # 21..., on Glenlivet... All of Broadway, once upon a time. Back before B.C. bud was way too trendy to afford... Beach fires at Shilshole before the beach nazis took over - I nailed my girlfriend there before we got hitched. The CLOUD ROOM - a great way to say, I love You and I'm somewhat sophisticated... The UA 150 for movies. The ORIGINAL STARBUCKS, in the Pike Street Market, before it became the Evil Empire and the McDonald's of coffee! Model Airplane contests at the Kingdome - 12-year olds would routinely beat Boeing engineers... Beth's for the Largest Omelettes In the Known Universe. The simple fact that you could be downtown and see people you'd seen before, somewhere, but didn't know, but it was cool, like 'Hey', I know you... Chubby & Tubbys for cheap X-mas trees, sneakers, and whatever else you needed. Greenlake Jake's and all the other great breakfast spots for helping me with my hangovers. OMGAWD, I could go on and on. To all you newcomers, sorry folks, you missed the boat, you're all a bunch of wankers, Seattle Now Officially Sucks, it's Not Your Fault, but You We're Simply Born to late. There is Nothing, i repeat Nothing Left, that is really Cool and Free. Peace Out, Y'all... Posted by: Bill Wildprett at July 14, 2005 01:21 AM At Jake's, his name was/is Robert Julian! despite the huge alcohol intake, I DO still have brain cells, all the Irish classics, especially 'Danny Boy'. God Bless You Bob, and thanks for being the consummate artist you were/are! Posted by: Bill Wildprett at July 14, 2005 01:40 AM Wow,I just went down memory lane reading all this.The only place I didn't see mentioned was the Triplexxx drive in on 15th ave.I was very young but I remeber it,the Zoo when it was free,fredrick&nelson's,twin tepee,Mom & I ate alot there,I was about 8 or 10 last time I was there.The old pike street farmers market.Seems like there was the Liberty theater on pike too.My memory is not as good as it once was,plus I've been gone so many years. Posted by: Lynne Culipher at July 14, 2005 01:53 AM Man, what a trip down memory lane gang! I was born here in the early sixties, grew up in West Seattle for a while, then moved A LOT, then came back. It was still home, but not so much anymore. Hope it's not too corny, but I miss Seattle. Old Seattle. Musty, grungy, backwater, non-hip, blue collar, provencial Seattle when our claim to fame was Jimi Hendrix, Here Comes the Brides, and that song "The Bluest Skies You've Ever Seen Are In Seattle". -The easy going mellow that turned into progressive angst & anger and funky chic in Belletown. The po-dunk attractions that we lived for including: -JP Patches and Gertrude (proud Patches Pal!) Seafair; where half-drunk pirates invaded the shores with no thought of harrasment lawsuits and radio even made special announcements! -Yep, the Dog house, Twin Teepees and that great greasy spoon down on Airport Way, Red Rooster? Help someone! They introduced me to the chilli omelette -The Raineer brewery. Yes a craft beer fan, but still, Raineer was hometown! -Laugh if you will, but I miss the Kingdome! I remember how proud we all were of it when built. It was the largest unsupported structure of it's kind in the world. When the Supes and & Seahawks thru the the end of the Knox era were running wild, that dome rocked like no other venue, anywhere, at any time! Heck, the No Fun League made rules banning excessive noise because of us! Plus, I saw some great concerts there, highlighted by Zepplin. Okay, the sound wasn't great, but it was still fun! The Dome was utillitarian, functional, practical and tough, like us! Thanks for the great memories everyone! Posted by: Adam at July 14, 2005 02:10 AM Ooh! Sorry, but I forgot about Eddie Cotton's! Home of the Eddie Cotton hotlink burger! My best bud and I still make them! 10-4 on Andy's Diner too...Mmmm, Andy's Special and the pork chop sandwiches! Posted by: Adam at July 14, 2005 02:14 AM Also remembered the old donut factory on 15th.ave.accross from pier 91.There was a bar accross the street.The Barnum & Bailey circus,when it was a real circus.I was raised on Queen Anne Hill,& every nite at 8 pm Taps would be blown at pier 99,they put me to sleep more times than one.I haven't lived there since 1953,many things have changed.I read the Seattle paper every day on my computer,well,both of them. Posted by: Lynne Culipher at July 14, 2005 02:34 AM Growing up in West Seattle and then moving to Bellevue when I was 10.....many places run across my mind. In West Seattle--Zesto's Hamburgers(where the little McDonalds is now across from West Seattle High), Cobb's Market, N&N Variety, and various other little places at Admiral Way & California Avenue. Fond childhood memories. Not to mention the old Mobil Station where a new Bank of America is going up. The Kress and JC Penny Stores at the Junction. And Clair Smith's "West Seattle Realty." How about the old Clipper Gas station on California Avenue---not to mention the Chevron and the old IGA Store that was there on the corner of Charlestown Street and California Avenue. In Bellevue--Belle Lanes(where I learned to bowl--now Barnes & Noble), and the John Danz Theatre right next door. The Dick's Drive-Inn in Bellevue, The Old House of Values(my mom worked there), KFKF-Radio in Bellevue Square--my dad Jack Hemingway worked there when it was a shopping center. The Jolly Boy Drive-Inn, the old Arctic Circle in Lake Hills, and not that I shopped there alot--the old Wigwam Store in Sunset Village at Eastgate. And how about the old Bellevue Airport, and the old A&P Stores--including Bellevue Square. Mayfair Markets, And Village Greens par-3 golf course. And one other place I really miss is Maxie's Broiler on 108th and N.E. 6th--they made the best French Dip sandwiches---bar none! And I almost forget Bellevue Jr. High where I did 7th, 8th & 9th grade. It was where the beautiful downtown Bellevue Park is now Just some of my fond memories of things no longer here! Posted by: J.J. Hemingway at July 14, 2005 02:52 AM Almost forgot....another Seattle burger institution-----Dag's. Dag's rocked!!! Posted by: J.J. Hemingway at July 14, 2005 02:57 AM How about the movie theatres? Thanks to Paul Allen, we still have the Cinerama, but how about the UA150 were my father took the day off work in 1981 to wait in a line that went around the block three times! for tickets to see Empire? Posted by: JonnyB at July 14, 2005 03:07 AM i miss fires at alki Posted by: jim at July 14, 2005 03:52 AM I've been a frequent traveler to Seattle since about 1991 or '92. I used to come on business, but now have very good friends in the area and visit a couple times a year. And while I can't point to a specific landmark or restaurant that has disappeared, I can say that, as an outsider looking in about every 6-9 months, Seattle has lost some of the soul that made me fall in love with the city nearly 15 years ago. All of the out-of-towners who've moved in -- and the trendy, gentrified and homogenized amenities that cater to this new population -- have significantly eroded the local personality. I live in the midwest, where it is pretty boring but familiar. Seattle used to have a familiar feeling, but each time I visit, it is becoming more and more "corporate." The people on the street aren't as friendly -- they're all from someplace else and have an air about them that's hard to define other than saying its phoney. I know you can't put the cat back in the box -- and I still really like the city -- but Seattle has lost some of its soul. There are, however, a couple of enduring Seattle institutions to celebrate: Kidd Valley restaurants -- great milk shakes! And the giant, revolving Elephant Car Wash sign downtown. Oh, and I did think of a disappeared icon: the "toe truck." Posted by: Barry at July 14, 2005 04:55 AM Burgers 5 for $1.00 Posted by: Lynne Culipher at July 14, 2005 04:56 AM Jesus, all of mine have been tape-looped, but thank God someone besides me misses Farrell's and Gorilla Gardens! (And of course, the Last Exit, the old Rendevous, A&W, Herfy's and too many more to name.) But here's the saddest thing: living in Korea now for three years, the real tragedy is that I miss one thing above all about Seattle: Having a Seattle to miss. The last traces of Seattle were vanishing when I left ... every time I come back to visit, what's there is a place I don't know and can't believe I grew up in. If a nuke hit Seattle tomorrow, I'd mourn the few family and friends I have left there, and cheer the destruction of everything else. Except Dick's. And maybe Kettel's in Georgetown, a favorite spot for beer and breakfast after the Amazon overnight shift. Port Orchard, my home for two years after the rent rockets drove me out of Ballard for good. And RIP, Seattle's two best bands ever - the Fastbacks and the Young Fresh Fellows. God bless. Posted by: Derek Denton at July 14, 2005 05:25 AM I have moved from Seattle and I realize a lot of what I miss is long gone....God, the yupification of the town is enough to make you gag....i see from these listings that even some of the yup joints have folded for example the Beeliner and half the overpriced "bistros " in belltown....I hope Targy's is still going....I guess I miss Ernie Steele's the most---great bar, people and jukebox...Seattle was the greatest place to live 25 years ago....Now?? Please...It's full of people trying to convince themselves that $1200 studio apts, mind boggling traffic and pretentiousness is the perfect way to live....They know it's not but hey , it's Seattle--this is perfect..Yeah, right..Delusional Posted by: mark at July 14, 2005 06:35 AM I bet people miss that it just isn't white anymore...boring bad fashion and smelly...don't forget the vague waspy attitude...Seattle's now improved - needs to be more diversity..like I said still pasty and white... Posted by: JB at July 14, 2005 06 |
