An iconic Seattle restaurant is set to return this fall to the corner of 1st and Blanchard in Belltown.
Queen City, which first opened as a saloon in 1910 and later operated as a beloved restaurant for three decades before closing five years ago, is getting a new lease on life under new ownership.
New owner Jessica Gifford plans to honor the restaurant’s storied legacy while introducing a fresh era of hospitality.
“We’re bringing back a space you’ll recognize, community you remember and the best ingredients of the Pacific Northwest,” the restaurant’s website reads.
Queen City will offer starters ranging from a medley of olives, nuts and sardines to decadent crab cakes and tuna tartare. Salads feature seasonal ingredients, including a beet salad with blood orange and candied walnuts and the indulgent King Louie Shrimp Spectacular.
Entrees include seared scallops, Frutti di Mare pasta, rosemary-garlic chicken, a minty lamb burger, New York strip steak and zucchini ravioli. Housemade sides such as crispy fries, seasonal vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes complement the main dishes, while desserts including cheesecake, berry crumble and rich ice cream provide a sweet finish.
Queen City Grill’s cocktail menu showcases unique drinks. The Bleu Martini combines vodka, coffee liqueur and heavy cream over crushed ice with a splash of cola. Other offerings include the Flatliner, The Josephine, Mr. Darcy, Spiced Plum Sour, Robbin Swilliams and Lucid Lemon Drop, each crafted to complement the restaurant’s elevated menu.
While an official opening date has not yet been announced, the restaurant’s website reads: “Coming October 2025.”
What Now Seattle reached out to the Queen City team, however, they have not yet responded. This article may be updated.
