Olympia welcomes back The Reef, a much-beloved eatery in the heart of downtown. With new ownership and management, The Reef offers homage to its roots by keeping its diner vibe with original tile floors, ceiling, and furniture after having undergone a deep clean and refurbishment. It’s a family-welcoming atmosphere with a fresh, seasonal menu offering traditional favorites like a burger along with freshly grilled oysters and kimchi fried rice.
Friends since kindergarten, owners Sam Dinsmore and Ryan Perkins, also known as the Oyster Boys, have been catering private dinner parties, pop-up events, and festivals over the past three years. “We always wanted a place in downtown Olympia – with a community sense, like we had when we grew up,” says Dinsmore. Joining the ownership team is Noah Murray, also a cook.
The pair grew up in the Boston Harbor neighborhood. Now with young families of their own, they wanted flexibility in the workplace and a space welcoming to other families. It took months to get the diner ready to open, as the doors had been shut nearly two years.
“I cook the style I like – what I like to eat,” explains Dinsmore. The Reef sources produce and other ingredients from local farmers and purveyors. You’ll find oysters on the menu from the Perkins Family Farms. The menu, like the space, is a bit eclectic. Ladyberry Produce supplies organic vegetables and you’ll taste the difference. Dinsmore especially likes the kale.
The Reef has its own pastry chef, Olivia Vidallon, known for her malasadas. She’s baking up cinnamon rolls on the weekends and many other goodies. The Reef also bakes its own biscuits and breads and makes its sauces and marinades. Late-nighters will be thrilled that the kitchen is open on Friday and Saturday nights from 10pm to 2am. Enjoy weekend brunch, too.
Those over 21 can take a journey back in time when you enter the bar. It’s amazing. The alleyway just outside the bar offers picnic tables. The space will be spruced up over time with a cover, heaters, and even live music.
The Reef is a place to come as you are, bring the kids, your parents, have a milkshake or a cocktail and relax. Welcome Back, The Reef!
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS
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The Reef
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