After nearly two decades of serving the community, Lake Forest Bar & Grill is permanently closing, citing financial challenges that it can no longer overcome.
The family-owned restaurant, located at 17535 Ballinger Way NE in Lake Forest Park’s Town Center, shared the news Wednesday in a heartfelt message from owner and chef John Schmidt.
He thanked customers for 17 years of support while asking the community for one final favor.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share that, after 19 years, Lake Forest Bar & Grill will be closing our doors,” Schmidt said in the announcement.
“Like so many independent restaurants, we’ve faced ongoing financial challenges that we simply can no longer overcome. This is not the ending we hoped for, but it is the reality we now face,” Schmidt said.
The restaurant plans to remain open through Sunday evening and is encouraging longtime customers to stop by one last time.
Schmidt said every visit this week will help the business reach an important goal: paying employees one final paycheck.
“Our incredible team has worked tirelessly to serve this community, and we would love nothing more than to take care of them one last time,” Schmidt said.
The announcement also reflected on the role the restaurant has played in the community over the years.
“You’ve allowed us to be part of birthdays, anniversaries, first dates, family dinners, game days, and countless everyday moments. We will always be grateful for that,” Schmidt said.
Opened in 2009, Lake Forest Bar & Grill became a neighborhood gathering place known for its all-day breakfast and brunch, American comfort food, daily happy hour specials and family-friendly atmosphere.
The restaurant featured a cozy dining room with a fireplace, a sports bar lounge, private event space and a secluded, dog-friendly outdoor patio.
Popular menu items included its Wagyu Classic Cheeseburger, Elk Burger, Charred Grills Steak Salad, Alaskan Cod & Chips and Burrata Eggs Benedict.
Online reviews frequently praised the restaurant’s welcoming service, generous portions and relaxed atmosphere. Many guests also highlighted its outdoor patio, which became a favorite gathering spot during warmer months.
Schmidt ended his message with one final invitation: “Please come see us one last time before we close our doors. We’d love the chance to thank you in person.”
Lake Forest Bar & Grill’s final day of business is expected to be Sunday. Find out more on its website.
Don’t Miss: A Bothell Cop’s Bullet Killed His Partner. Here’s Why Prosecutors Charged A Different Man With Murder.
