September 23, 2011

Dear Friends of Rosebud Seattle:

We are sadly announcing that after many happy memories, Rosebud Seattle at 719 E. Pike Street will be closing after our brunch service this Sunday, September 25th at 3 pm.

With the closing of this landmark location that has served the community for many years, many have asked and speculated why Rosebud is closing and I felt it prudent to post the details here to avoid any confusion or further mis-information.

When I purchased Rosebud last January, I did so under the assumption that the current lease would transfer and allow me to then obtain a liquor license in the new business name. Unfortunately, after months of negotiation and lots of love and effort to try to improve what the former owner created, I was not successful. As we received several extensions on the provisional liquor license, the final extension expires after this Saturday, September 24th and we can no longer serve liquor. It was an extremely difficult decision to say farewell to this location after many months of work to improve the property, develop solid entertainment and offer a great restaurant experience. What I've learned here in this location will carry forth as our team now works to move to a different venue in the nearby neighborhood.

In the next few months, we do plan to relocate to a new spot but it will be a different space and atmosphere and, unfortunately, won't be the same place with the history that has made so many smile here for years.

As we say farewell at 719 E. Pike Street, all of the staff are hoping you can stop by this weekend to laugh and tell your favorite stories about your experiences over the years to say "thanks for the memories" as I know many of you have called Rosebud "home" in many ways over the years.

I want to thank my incredible team who have carried me through good and bad times this past year - especially Justin DeLong, Jerry Smith, Roman DiLorenzo and James Wessels - without you none of this would have been possible. All the staff at Rosebud over the months have been an inspiration to me to continue my vision to offer a great place to dine in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

And to the many incredible folks in the entertainment community that continue to support the Arts and Live Entertainment, specifically, Jinkx Monsoon and Richard Andriessen, Alex Garcia, Steven Clark and Wayne Trinklein's magic, along with DJ Cas, DJ Skiddle, DJ Blondzie, DJ Dubonnet, DJ Spirit Fingazz, DJ PBear, Tim Kennedy, David Simon, Chase Hills and Ryan Hazy (aka Cabaret Magnifique) who's committment to "sound music" has been incredible in the last year.

To the greater community that has been SO SUPPORTIVE, thank you. Without you, there simply would not have been a "Rosebud Seattle".

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you everyone! As soon as we have information on the new location and details, we will post these immediately. In the meantime, let's all take a moment to step back and remember Rosebud - not in anger or sadness - but in laughter, happiness and joy.

Most sincerely,

Todd Nordahl