After serving generations of south King County residents since 1959, the historic Pancake Chef will close its doors for the final time on Sunday, Sept. 28, according to longtime resident and former SeaTac City councilmember Fuzz Hill.
The family-owned diner has been a local landmark and gathering place in SeaTac for more than six decades, known for its comfort food, community atmosphere and regular customers.
After more than four decades at the helm, owner Loren Sisley is retiring and closing the restaurant.
Hill said the closure marks the end of an era for the city and its neighbors.
“Sad to see another locally-owned family business being shuttered, but happy for Loren for all his successful prior and many future restful years,” Hill said.
Last year, KOMO News’ Eric’s Heroes profiled the iconic restaurant, describing it as a “Northwestern gem” that has remained largely unchanged since opening in 1959. The segment highlighted the restaurant’s vintage charm, its role as a family gathering place for decades of regulars, and the dedication of staff who have worked there for more than 40 years:
History of The Pancake Chef
From their website (circa 2018):
“The Pancake Chef opened as part of the Clarks’ Restaurant chain on July 4, 1959 and has been dishing up great meals for nearly 60 years at the same location – 1-mile north of Sea-Tac Airport.
“It is one of those inconspicuous little neighborhood places with a reputation for an unfussy atmosphere and great food, cooked how the customer wants it, or it is prepared again.
“The seating area has a large, bright, open 1950’s style atmosphere. It also has an open kitchen, so that some interested guests may watch the meals being prepared.
“The menu is varied and appealing and, not surprisingly, concentrates heavily upon breakfasts, featuring pancakes, omelet’s, and waffles. Fresh oranges are squeezed daily for the best juice around. Breakfast is available during all open hours.
“As printed on all our menus since opening in 1959, our motto is:
“A love of good food tastefully prepared. A love for people and a wish to please them. A love for high quality, cleanliness and service.”
Last Chance for Flapjacks
Be sure to get your last taste of great, local flapjacks soon – the Pancake Chef is located at 15215 Military Rd S, SeaTac, WA 98188, and is open from 6 a.m.–2 p.m., with breakfast served all day, lunch after 10 a.m., and closed Tuesdays:
