Built in 1914 by George Macguire, The Roanoke Inn is the oldest business on Mercer Island. During the Innโs early years, Mercer Island was a lush dairy farming community and prime deer hunting territory. Located just a block away from the ferry terminal serving Kirkland and Leschi, the Roanoke was a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists. The warm atmosphere, delicious food, and cold beer
quickly gave the Inn a reputation as a great place for friends to get together. Over the years the Inn has adapted to suit the needs of the community. There may be some truth to the rumors of dancing girls, bootleg liquor, and gambling. The Reeck family purchased the Inn in 1941 and worked hard to continue the legacy of the Roanoke for the Island. In 1976, the State of Washington registered the Roanoke Inn as an official historical landmark. With such a rich and vibrant past, it isnโt hard to see how the Roanoke Inn has become a place โWhere Friends Meet Friendsโ.
