Jobaaj Stories
The Virginia Inn, a beloved Seattle institution since 1903, has announced it will permanently close its doors on April 27, 2025. The closure comes after unsuccessful lease negotiations with the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), which manages the historic market district.​
A Century-Old Legacy Comes to an End
Situated in the Hotel Livingston, the Virginia Inn has been a fixture of Seattle's downtown scene for over a century. Known for its rich history and as a filming location for movies like "Sleepless in Seattle" and "Singles," the establishment has weathered numerous challenges, including Prohibition, the Great Depression, and the COVID-19 pandemic.​
Owner Craig Perez expressed deep sorrow over the closure, stating, "The terms of our lease are not making it able for us to do business, and it crushes me, it absolutely crushes me." Perez noted that the lease offered was financially unsustainable, leading to the difficult decision to shut down operations.​
Lease Negotiations and PDA's Stance
The Pike Place Market PDA, which oversees the market's properties, emphasized its commitment to equitable lease agreements for all tenants. In a statement, the PDA said, "As a public agency, we must ensure leases are consistent across tenants and cannot offer significantly lower terms to one business over others." Despite efforts to find a mutually agreeable solution, the parties were unable to reach terms that would allow the Virginia Inn to continue operating.​
Community Reaction and Farewell Plans
The announcement has elicited strong reactions from the community. Long-time patron Paul Leonardo remarked, "It's a part of our city's history, and to lose that feels like we are losing a part of ourselves." The Virginia Inn has invited supporters to join in a farewell celebration, encouraging patrons to "have a drink, share a cry or a story, buy a t-shirt," with proceeds supporting the staff.
