BIZNOTE: New ownership, other changes ahead for Locöl

When Locöl reopens at 3 pm today after being closed since Friday, some changes will be in place. Most notably, a new owner – Kevin Beardsley, at left below with managers April Savage and Ian Joyce:

(WSB photos)

We stopped by on Monday to find out what’s changing – and what isn’t.

The restaurant/bar at 7902 35th SW is changing its name slightly – Locöl Kitchen and Bar replaces the original Locöl Barley and Vine. That’ll be a clearer representation of what they are – especially the “bar” part, since now Locöl has a full liquor license, after 12 years of serving only wine and beer.

The full cocktail menu won’t roll out until around the first of the year, but they’ll be offering what you might call some teasers – tastes – before then.

They’ve also done a bit of a refresh – some paint, for example.

The food menu isn’t changing much – it gets some new dishes every few months anyway. The popular pork carnitas tacos, for one, are definitely staying. They might even get better, as Locöl plans to have all its tortillas sourced soon from nearby Milpa Masa. And that fits with the overall theme of local, made-from-scratch food – the menu also spotlights “comfort food”; twice-baked potatoes are popular too, as are sharable plates.

Also ample vegetarian options, the Locöl crew notes. And beyond the as-local-as-possible food, they’ll continue to showcase local art:

Locöl is 21+ and also has a covered, heated patio out back with room for up to 20 people. Hours are 3-10 pm Tuesdays-Fridays, 1-10 pm Saturdays, 1-8 pm Sundays, closed Mondays for now (but hoping to change that as staffing allows). The 3-6 pm Happy Hour is staying too.

14 Replies to "BIZNOTE: New ownership, other changes ahead for Locöl"

  • RogerThat November 22, 2022 (2:33 pm)

    That’s so great they’re sourcing from Milpa Masa – they’re such a neighborhood gem!

    • AJ November 23, 2022 (10:10 pm)

      Came in to say the same thing! Love their tortillas. 

  • R2 November 22, 2022 (3:05 pm)

    My heart sank before I finished reading the entire headline and story! My wife and I love Locol! It’s long been a favorite of ours for an occasional date night, especially in the fall and winter. I’d be there all the time if I lived closer. It’s just so warm and cozy. The cheese and meat boards are perfect for when we’re looking for something on the lighter side, and their dinner entrees are always on point when we really want to tuck in to a full meal. I always love the selection of beers on tap, and my wife always finds a wine she enjoys. I know we will both enjoy it even more now with a full bar!

  • Andros November 22, 2022 (3:27 pm)

    I bet this is going to rock. And please, please, please, keep the picture of Lou on the bar shelves. <3

    • WSB November 22, 2022 (6:47 pm)

      It was still there when we visited. So is the sign on the wall from the space’s long-ago incarnation as a little store.

  • Arbor Heights Cabnernet November 22, 2022 (3:40 pm)

    Love this place and so glad it remains open and locally owned. It is a great and unpretentious gathering spot with great food. 

  • sam-c November 22, 2022 (4:18 pm)

    Are the waxy candles still there ??

  • RS November 22, 2022 (4:56 pm)

    We love Locöl! So happy they are thriving and will continue offering their great food. 

  • Mark November 22, 2022 (5:08 pm)

    Congratulations! And the three of them have excellent skills and knowledge of the industry. Primed for even greater success.

  • Peter November 22, 2022 (6:45 pm)

    Very glad to hear this! I’ve lived a few blocks away for 6.5 years but have only been there three times due to inconsistent quality and, the last time I went a few years ago, clearly unsanitary conditions. It looks like they’re entering new era and I will definitely give it a try. 

  • Kristi November 22, 2022 (10:35 pm)

    Wonderful- this place is a West Seattle favorite.

  • Teri Ensley November 23, 2022 (1:07 am)

    April and Ian!  Be seeing you soon!!!’

  • Patti Studley November 23, 2022 (8:57 am)

    Jerry and I have been going for years! Can’t wait to come see what’s new! 

  • Don November 24, 2022 (2:03 pm)

    The only bar in WS without a TV and we love it for that!

Sorry, comment time is over.