Remembering ‘Be,’ and two ways she’ll be honored

From Jade Nguyen, proprietor of recently reopened Bonjour Vietnam and adjacent speakeasy The Alley in The Junction, where Be’s Restaurant – operated by her mom – used to be:

To our West Seattle Neighbors, Family & Friends

(WSB photo, 2020)

For those who remember Be’s, it was a cherished diner in the neighborhood since 1986. Built by Be herself, and for decades it was more than just a diner – it was a home. She created a space where strangers became regulars, and regulars became family. Since her retirement, her daughter had introduced a new vision, bringing Vietnamese cuisine to the space while honoring that same spirit of connection.

In recent years, Be’s health declined, and it is with heavy hearts that we share her passing.

As we honor her memory, we’ll be rebranding and looking ahead to continue serving the community she loved so dearly. We appreciate your kindness and patience as we take time to grieve this loss.

With love and gratitude,
Bonjour Vietnam, formerly Be’s
We will be hosting a casual Celebration of Life September 14 , 6 pm, 4509 California Ave SW

In honor of my mom’s favorite pastime, we will be hosting karaoke at 8 pm

Regarding the rebranding, Jade adds, “I am planning to rename the business back to Be’s, in honor of her memory.”

5 Replies to "Remembering 'Be,' and two ways she'll be honored"

  • Alki resident August 18, 2025 (2:00 pm)

    Jade I’m devastated to hear this. We were there all the time for breakfast and your mom was so incredibly welcoming and loving. She will be missed dearly. 

  • Westiiieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee August 18, 2025 (2:06 pm)

    So sorry for your lossBring back the Vermicelli bowls, those were soooooooooooo good!

  • Michele August 18, 2025 (5:56 pm)

    Be was a wonderful person. She will be remembered by all who spent countless hours eating her delicious food and by feeling welcomed in her restaurant. Sorry for your loss. Keeping her memory alive is a good idea. Michele and Michael

  • Marilyn Mears August 19, 2025 (9:58 am)

    My late aunt and uncle, Joan and Elmer Lindseth, LOVED Be’s and ate there regularly.  They became friends with Be and had her cater Elmer’s 75th birthday party.  She was a lovely lady and will be missed.

  • Rachel S. August 19, 2025 (7:42 pm)

    So sorry to hear of Be’s passing. I spent a lot of mornings enjoying the restaurant. It was a real family feel. Be would stop and share stories. She was an amazing woman. She and her husband raised a lovely family many of us got to meet. Good luck to Jade carrying on her mom’s legacy. Glad to hear the name will go back to Be’s! 

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