“We intend 1889 PRIME Steakhouse to be the premier steak house in Olympia,” says Drew MacEwen, co-owner. The upscale restaurant in the heart of downtown Olympia transformed the ground floor of the Views on Fifth luxury apartment building into a stylish establishment where diners can feast on an excellent steak accompanied by a glass of wine. The menu will highlight steaks, but there are plenty of other options.
Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the expansive views of Isthmus Park with grassy lawns and views of our Capitol dome and Capitol Lake. Inside seating accommodates 135 people, with a private room available for parties up to 30 guests. During the warmer weather people can sit outside on the wrap-around patio.
The name refers to the time when Washington gained its statehood, when then-President Benjamin Harrison issued a proclamation approving the Constitution on November 11, 1889. MacEwen is a state senator representing the 35th legislative district.
1889 PRIME will maintain its focus on Washington. Beef, produce, and wines will primarily be local and regional. Beef is being sourced from Double R Ranch, where cattle are thoughtfully raised by a network of families in the Northwest. The hand-selected beef is USDA Choice or higher marbling levels. The business practices humane treatment of animals and ecological treatment of the earth.
The menu will evolve as Executive Chef Josh Race gets to know his customers. “I put my heart into the creation of food that puts a smile on people’s faces,” he says. Race has made a career in the restaurant business, getting an early start decades ago at the New Market Skill Center. “I’ve had great mentors along the way,” he recalls as he looks ahead to turning up the heat in his new kitchen. General Manager Nicole Andres is already known by many through her restaurant associations and business, Nicole’s Bar, also in downtown Olympia.
Keep up to date on special events such as wine tasting or a specialty jazz brunch on social media. “I look forward to welcoming everyone in,” say MacEwen. “The restaurant is a labor of love.”
1889 PRIME Steakhouse will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 4:00pm to 10:00pm.
For Additional Information
1889 Prime Steakhouse
1889prime.com
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS