1889 Prime Steakhouse is proud to celebrate its third anniversary, marking three years of exceptional hospitality, premium Northwest cuisine, and memorable dining experiences in the heart of downtown Olympia. As the restaurant celebrates this milestone, it is also excited to announce the appointment of Chef Joe Rumberger as Executive Chef – a move that signals an exciting new chapter for one of the South Sound’s premier dining destinations.
Since opening in 2023, 1889 Prime Steakhouse has earned a reputation for serving premium steaks, fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and exceptional wine, all delivered with a commitment to genuine hospitality. Now, as the restaurant enters its fourth year, Chef Rumberger will lead the culinary program with a vision that honors the steakhouse’s foundation while elevating it through seasonality, local partnerships, and world-class technique.
“Three years ago, we set out to create more than just a restaurant – we wanted to create a place where people celebrate life’s most important moments,” said Drew MacEwen, owner and managing partner of 1889 Prime Steakhouse. “The support from our guests and our community has made that possible. Bringing Chef Joe to lead our restaurant is an investment in our future and in our commitment to delivering one of the finest dining experiences in Washington.”
Chef Joe Rumberger has been cooking professionally since 1999, beginning his culinary journey in his neighborhood pizzeria in Seattle. Captivated by the energy, creativity, and camaraderie of the kitchen, he knew early on that cooking was his calling.
After earning his Culinary Arts degree from The Art Institute of Seattle in 2002, Chef Rumberger honed his craft in several of Seattle’s premier kitchens before relocating to Washington, D.C. in 2007 to further his career. There, he held leadership positions at Restaurant Nora, America’s first certified organic restaurant, serving as Sous Chef before joining acclaimed Chef Fabio Trabocchi at the Michelin-starred Fiola.
In 2013, Chef Rumberger embraced an opportunity to relocate to his ancestral homeland of Ireland, where he became the Executive Chef at Fallon & Bryne in Dublin. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned recognition from both The Irish Times and The Sunday Business Post, further establishing his reputation for refined, ingredient-driven cuisine.
Returning to the Pacific Northwest during the pandemic, Chef Rumberger shifted gears and launched Bastard Pies, a wood-fired pizza pop-up that quickly evolved into a successful food truck serving the Tumwater community. In 2024, he opened Bar C’est L’eau, in the Tumwater Craft District, earning praise for its innovative approach to Pacific Northwest cuisine.
“I’m incredibly excited to join the team at 1889 Prime,” said Chef Rumberger. “This region produces some of the finest beef, seafood, and artisan products anywhere in the country. My passion has always been working directly with local farmers and ranchers to create food that tells the story of where we live. Together, we’re building a steakhouse experience that celebrates the Pacific Northwest while delivering the timeless quality and hospitality guests expect from a premier steakhouse.”
Guests can expect an evolving menu featuring seasonal ingredients, elevated presentations, and thoughtful collaborations with many of the region’s top ranchers, farmers, fishers, and artisan producers. While honoring the classics that have become synonymous with 1889 Prime, Chef Rumberger will introduce fresh culinary perspectives that reflect his extensive international experience and passion for local sourcing.
Throughout the month of August, 1889 Prime Steakhouse will commemorate its third anniversary with special menu features, behind-the-scenes content, employee spotlights, and celebrations that honor the people who have made the restaurant’s success possible.
“This anniversary is really about gratitude,” said MacEwen. “We’re grateful for our guests, our incredible team, and our community. Welcoming Chef Joe at this moment gives us the opportunity to celebrate where we’ve been while looking ahead to an exciting future.”
As 1889 Prime Steakhouse enters its fourth year, its mission remains unchanged: to deliver exceptional food, outstanding hospitality, and unforgettable experiences while showcasing the very best of the Pacific Northwest.
Guests are invited to join the celebration throughout August and experience the next evolution of 1889 Prime Steakhouse.
About 1889 Prime Steakhouse
Named for the year Washington achieved statehood, 1889 Prime Steakhouse is Olympia’s premier destination for refined dining. Featuring premium locally sourced steaks, Pacific Northwest seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and an award-worthy wine selection, 1889 Prime is committed to celebrating the region’s finest ingredients through exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence.