02/06/2026
When we announced the closure of Kirkland’s beloved burger institution last fall, it came with a lot of mixed emotions. We were sad to let it go, but also grateful for the gift of change and a little more free time. I had some health matters to attend to, and as we headed into another long off-season, it became clear it was time to let go.
What made it hardest was knowing how deeply The Slip was woven into your lives - family lunches, anniversaries, birthday dinners, and everyday routines - and how much our lives revolved around each other and you. Letting go was just as hard for us as it was for many of you.
And we heard you.
Today, I'm really happy to share some great news: The Slip has a future.
Later this spring, Ricky - the owner of BeachHouse Bar + Grill just down the road - along with his wife Maria, will be taking over the space and relaunching The Slip in time for summer.
For the past eight years+, you showed up for the awesome location, fresh custom tri-blend burgers, creative cocktails, cold local beers, and of course, the people - hardworking residents and local students home from school, ready to serve you.
We worked hard to honor that loyalty: upgrading the kitchen, expanding the menu, building a beautiful deck, adding the little view bar, improving systems and staff training, shortening wait times, offering delivery, and maintaining a clean, welcoming space with Excellent health department ratings - all while keeping the soul of The Slip intact.
We also want to honor the original founders, who started it all nearly 30 years ago creating something truly special for this community.
This next chapter continues that trajectory.
Ricky and Maria are a wonderful local family already operating right here in Kirkland. They are deeply committed to honoring The Slip’s legacy while bringing their own energy, ideas, and care to the space - and a renewed commitment to being the best little burger spot in town.
Running a small, family-owned restaurant isn’t easy these days, especially one that’s seasonal and moderately priced. If The Slip is going to thrive long-term, it needs love not just on sunny July weekends, but all year round. It’s cozy, the food is great, and it’s a special place - even (or maybe especially) in the quieter months. The value is second to none.
As burgers in our burg creep toward $25 and dinner pushes past $40 an entrée, The Slip remains one of the last places in Kirkland - indeed, the greater Seattle area - where you can enjoy a great meal near the water for under $20. It’s part of Kirkland’s history, and one of the oldest restaurants and buildings in town.
For many Kirkland kids, it’s been a first job. We’ve seen staff return year after year through college, or land here when those plans changed. Locals who walk or bike to work. Neighbors serving neighbors. The Slip is just a building - but the people make it special. The food makes it hum. The vibe makes it unique.
This will be one of my last posts as The Slip. There will be a new page for the next chapter, as Meta wasn’t able to transfer this one. It’s been a joy sharing the behind-the-scenes moments with you over the years, and I look forward to supporting the new team from the sidelines.
Thank you for your support, your loyalty, and your friendship. It’s been a great run. I’m still in the neighborhood helping Milo at our other spot across the parking lot, Vovina, where some of our amazing Slip staff have landed - cooking, bartending, and serving. We’re proud to continue being part of this community.
We also wish the very best to our wonderful neighbors - from the mighty Grape Choice, authentic Prosecco, tiny Coffee & Cone, bubbly Pop Culture, and so many other small businesses that make downtown Kirkland special. May they continue to thrive as we welcome a new neighbor.
If small, locally owned, family-run businesses matter to you, we hope you’ll continue to show up - November through April, as much as summer. Keep sharing your feedback, keep spreading the word, and keep The Slip in mind when choosing where to eat.
Stay tuned - I’ll share how you can follow and support the new Slip team as they get ready to reopen.
Let’s keep Kirkland full of real, authentic mom-and-pop places - and keep the burger legacy alive.
Cheers to The Slip, and best wishes to Ricky and Maria!
