Dearest Machiavelli Family,

In our nearly 36 years, we've been through a lot together. With you, we've celebrated the beginning of life and the end of life: the proposals, birthdays, anniversaries and little moments of joy in between. We've raised children here, some who have now grown up to bring their own children here. We've been through two recessions, 7 presidents, a global pandemic, and with the support of our dear regulars, we've made it through. We're proud of the fact that even though Capitol Hill has changed, we've always remained the same.

However, the years since the pandemic have been full of obstacles for our Machiavelli family. You may have noticed that our windows have been dark this past week, and sadly, it's time to say goodbye to our beloved Capitol Hill institution.

During the pandemic, and the years after, we've had a very difficult time maintaining a consistent and solid staff in the kitchen (as have many Seattle restaurants). 

We've also had our share of challenges with our wonderful, but ever-changing neighborhood. Between the parking difficulties that affect our staff and guests (especially those who can no longer afford to live close by) and the construction and other issues, we've also seen a decrease in regulars and general foot traffic. 

The past eight months, we've been without a lease, and have had a very difficult negotiation process. And in the end, in conjunction with the other challenges we were facing, we realized the writing was on the wall.

Though we're currently closed, we are going to open for one last night on Capitol Hill: we'd love to see you, our family, for our final evening of service, giving us all one last opportunity to share food, drinks and memories. Your favorite bartenders and servers will be there as well as everyone else who has called this place a second home for over 35 years.

Final Capitol Hill Machiavelli night of service: Thursday, February 15, 3 to 10pm

Finally, we'd love to thank our staff who, over all our years, have realized how exceptional this place is and truly made this restaurant so special. We especially want to recognize the dedication of our "old- timers" who have seen it all we're looking at you Tracey (my best friend for 25 years), Michael, Devon, Sarah and Stacy. We love and appreciate you. 

And we want to thank you - all of you who have loved and supported us, even through the dark days of the pandemic, when you showed up day after day, generously keeping us afloat with your devotion. Your friendships have and will continue to mean everything to us. 

A personal note from the owner (Suzette): Please understand that this was one of the most difficult decisions of my life. I have poured my heart and soul into this restaurant for over 25 years. I met my husband while I was a bartender (and even shared our first kiss across the bar). I am as heartbroken about this as you are. The joy that this little corner of Melrose and Pine has brought to myself, my family and my Machiavelli family will never fade, and neither will my memories with all of you. You gave us comfort and hope no matter what was happening. We were in it together, like a small town in a tiny restaurant.