Traditions, Booze and History Lessons

Photo by Garrett Rubis

As the city of Seattle gears up for the annual Seafair festivities this weekend, the Roanoke Inn located at 1825 72nd Ave S.E. on Mercer Island, might be one of the most central locations to celebrate the event, as well as the local history. 

Beginning as a bed and breakfast in 1914, the establishment has been a source of hometown spirit and familiarity as the years have gone by outside of its cottage-like walls. Other than dropping the hotel amenities, the only significant change made to the establishment has been the evolution of their liquor license, food menu and technology. Tradition can be seen in the decades old collection of paraphernalia on the walls, appearing as a well-organized basement full of prized liquor, beer, and bar accessories. 

The comfortable ambiance welcomes new people, and continues to bring in the regulars. Although located on Mercer Island, patrons frequent the establishment from all over the Seattle area. "Most of our regulars aren't even from the island," said Regina Alleto, a server. "They're the definition of regulars, some of them it seems have been coming here for years." 

"Regulars," have been a staple point since the Roanoke first opened its doors. Now a full bar and restaurant open from 8 a.m. on the weekends, and 11 a.m. Monday through Friday, it's rumored that the Roanoke was once the home of illegal gambling, and ladies of the night. It also operated through Prohibition using communication with the ferries that ran between the Roanoke and Seattle ports. 

"There's a green light on the roof that used to signal to people in Seattle," said Michael Scott, the manager. "Now the Blue Angels use it as a mark to fly over." 

The establishment welcomes the regulars, as staff and customers remember each others names, or recognize their faces from familiar past encounters. Although the Roanoke does not normally take reservations, they make sure to welcome Mercer Island High School reunions annually throughout the summer, said Alleto.

"People will come and say 'I haven't been here in 35 years, it looks the same'," said Alleto. 

Complete with dart boards, an outdoor patio, croquet, antique decorations, Golden Tee, a fireplace, juke box, three flat screens, and a further expanding menu, 21 and over bar goers of all ages are able to find some way to enjoy themselves at the Roanoke. 

"The food's gotten better," said Scott.

Recent improvements include daily specials with entrees like portobello shrimp quesadillas, fish tacos, and vegetarian options. Sports fans in need of a cocktail can also order unique drinks like the "Hawkarita," or the blue "12th Man," both in honor of the Seahawks. 

The Roanoke has been registered as a Washington State Historical Landmark since 1976, and despite its traditional atmosphere, continues to fill up with new and old patrons alike. This weekend should be no exception.

"On Seafair we're double staffed for the night," said Alleto.