“This old restaurant, it was fair, it had a bunch of old English chairs. With a knick knack paddiwhack order me some beef, this restaurant left in the night, like a thief.” – Kjell7 News Correspondent.
Yes. Sad. True. Mysterious.
All of the above for this renowned eatery.
In 1983 a dream, a vision, a menu, and, therefore Barnaby’s was born. Located at the corner of Strander Boulevard and West Valley Highway in Tukwila, Washington, it stood out like a God amongst insects. From the outside, one could see stained glass amongst stunning wooden craftsmanship in a setting along the beautiful Green River. The Renton Hipster Blog described the interior as “a massive wooden structure that is decorated on the inside like Sean Connery's rumpus room”. If that doesn’t mean good things, then please do not read any further. This proud structure was a magnificent convection of design, themes, construction, and foremostly effort.
Relics of the past on what was once the Barnaby’s web site illustrate the restaurant’s formidable stance on the beef, bay, and bottle market. The site contained passages such as:
“At Barnaby's, uniqueness is our hallmark. Our menu features the best of USDA prime beef, Pacific NW seafood and an array of domestic and imported spirits, served in an atmosphere reminiscent of Old England” and “In our lounge, we serve quality liquor, spirits and Ales from all over the world. From our wine list we feature hand picked Vintage Wines for you to enjoy and experience.”
For the record, the ONLY other place that Kjell7 News knows of with such exquisite world travel liquor and spirits selection is Passports Pub in Kent, located inside Kent Bowl.
Originally opening in 1983, Kjell7 news has exclusive reports from old timers that it was absolutely the place to be. But after a long stint in the 80s and 90s, and a re-opening in the 2000’s era, Barnaby’s was then, in recent years, temporarily an events center called the Chateau events center, which didn’t last long.
Interestingly enough, reports from the King County eReal Property viewer website, show that almost exactly one year ago from this article, the property and building were sold to King County itself, for $1,750,000 dollars. It’s currently listed status is that of a vacant government building. So, after being privately held since 1983, it is now owned by King County. What does the future hold for this creative space by the river?
Perhaps King County is making secret plans to open its first ever fine dining establishment. Perhaps one will be able to have a nice meal, pay a fine, grab a beer, and sit with your local official and discuss public transit. Wouldn’t that be cool?
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