What restaurants started in Seattle?
Sarah Duran
Published Feb 25, 2026
Ivar’s. “Keep clam” remains the motto at Ivar’s—a punny reminder of the seafood chain’s irreverent founder, Ivar Haglund, who originally opened an aquarium of sorts along the Seattle waterfront in 1938 and began selling red clam chowder and fish ‘n’ chips on-site.
What was the first restaurant ever established?
The interior view of the restaurant ‘Sobrino de Botín’ in the centre of Madrid, Spain, 15 January 2018. The restaurant was opened in 1725 and can be found in the Guinness Book of World Records as ‘the world’s oldest restaurant’.
Who owned the first restaurant?
The first restaurant proprietor is believed to have been one A. Boulanger, a soup vendor, who opened his business in Paris in 1765. The sign above his door advertised restoratives, or restaurants, referring to the soups and broths available within.
Where does the restaurant first emerge?
The term ‘restaurant’ first appeared in the 18th century in France. It referred to a reinvigorating meat broth which people ate to refortify the body. It was not until the French Revolution and subsequent industrialisation that culinary establishments such as we know them today began to appear and develop.
What is the oldest restaurant chain?
A&W (1919) That’s right—the root beer kings founded the first-ever chain restaurant in America.
Were there restaurants in ancient times?
Restaurants in Ancient Times When peasants and farmers brought their livestock and other goods to urban markets, often they traveled for several days at a time and needed a place to eat and rest. This brought about the earliest form of restaurants, the roadside inn.
Are there any restaurants in Seattle that are no longer around?
Click through the slideshow to see the iconic Seattle restaurants that are no longer around. 1. Zesto’s: Generations of Ballard High School teens hung out at Zesto’s for its burgers, fries and jukebox cool. It opened in 1952 and was known as the place with a ’57 Chevy on the roof. It closed in early 2012.
When did Andy’s diner in Seattle, WA close?
The rail cars at Andy’s Diner included one that President Franklin Roosevelt reportedly traveled in during his 1944 re-election campaign. The South Seattle landmark closed its doors in 2008. 23 of 47 25. When the 24-hour Dog House restaurant and bar closed in 1994, it was a passing of an era.
Who is the owner of the dog house in Seattle?
KCTS broadcast its last day live, and Seattle PI columnist Jon Hahn wrote it was “an epoch of Seattle history, a virtually non-stop, open 24-hours run of food, booze, music and fellowship.” Pictured is Laurie Gulbransen, who ran the Dog House for nearly 60 years.
Where was the Spaghetti Factory in Seattle located?
Big Top: Pictured in 1968 at the Northgate mall, this circus-theme restaurant was part of an empire owned by Walter Clark, an industry giant who also owned Twin Teepees. 34 of 47 Waiter Tom Baehr poured a carafe of wine from the bulk wine tanks at the Old Spaghetti Factory in March 1970.
