Ivar’s Salmon House is a Seattle institution that’s been serving up delicious seafood and breathtaking views for over five decades. Nestled on the north shore of Lake Union, this unique restaurant offers more than just a meal – it’s a full-on Pacific Northwest experience. But what makes Ivar’s Salmon House so special? And why do locals and tourists alike flock to this waterfront eatery year after year? Let’s dive in and explore the rich history, mouthwatering menu, and unforgettable atmosphere that have made Ivar’s Salmon House a true Seattle landmark.
Who is Ivar Haglund?
Ivar Haglund wasn’t your average restaurateur. He was a Seattle icon, a folk singer, and a bit of a prankster. Born in 1905, Ivar grew up on the shores of Alki Beach, where he developed a deep love for the sea and its bounty. He opened his first fish and chips stand on the Seattle waterfront in 1938, and from there, his empire grew.
Ivar was known for his catchy slogans and publicity stunts. He once staged an “octopus wrestling” event to drum up business, and he famously painted “Keep Clam” on the roof of one of his restaurants. His larger-than-life personality and commitment to quality seafood made him a beloved figure in Seattle.
But Ivar wasn’t just about gimmicks. He was also a savvy businessman and a true visionary. He saw the potential in Seattle’s waterfront long before others did, and he played a significant role in shaping the city’s culinary landscape. His restaurants, including the Salmon House, became synonymous with Seattle seafood.
Ivar Haglund Known Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ivar Johan Haglund |
| Born | March 21, 1905 |
| Died | January 30, 1985 |
| Occupation | Restaurateur, folk singer, Seattle personality |
| Known For | Founding Ivar’s seafood restaurants |
| Notable Restaurants | Ivar’s Acres of Clams, Ivar’s Salmon House |
| Slogan | “Keep Clam” |
| Legacy | Seattle icon, waterfront development, seafood innovation |
Where Does Ivar’s Legacy Live On?
While Ivar Haglund may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on in every Ivar’s restaurant across Seattle. But nowhere is his spirit more alive than at Ivar’s Salmon House. Located at 401 NE Northlake Way, this restaurant continues to embody Ivar’s vision of great seafood, warm hospitality, and a true celebration of Pacific Northwest culture.
The Salmon House isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a living museum of sorts. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a world that Ivar created, one that honors the region’s Native American heritage while serving up some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste.
Ivar’s Salmon House
Ivar’s Salmon House is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a Seattle institution that’s been delighting diners since 1969. Perched on the north shore of Lake Union, this restaurant offers a dining experience that’s uniquely Pacific Northwest.
As you approach the Salmon House, you can’t help but be struck by its distinctive architecture. The building is designed to resemble a traditional Northwest Coast Native longhouse, complete with towering cedar logs and intricate carvings. It’s a sight that immediately sets the tone for the experience to come.
Inside, the theme continues. The walls are adorned with authentic Native American artwork, from masks to totems to woven baskets. The centerpiece of the main dining room is a massive, open-pit barbecue where chefs smoke salmon over alder wood, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma.
But it’s not just about the decor. The real star of the show at Ivar’s Salmon House is, of course, the food. The menu is a celebration of Pacific Northwest seafood, with a focus on – you guessed it – salmon. From classic preparations like alder-smoked salmon to more innovative dishes, there’s something to satisfy every seafood lover’s palate.
And let’s not forget about the view. The Salmon House boasts panoramic windows that offer stunning vistas of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. As you dine, you can watch seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake, boats cruising by, and the city lights twinkling in the distance. It’s a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds.
1. Luxury Amenities of Ivar’s Salmon House
- Panoramic views of Lake Union and Seattle skyline
- Open-pit alder wood barbecue
- Full-service bar with specialty cocktails
- Outdoor dining deck
- Private dining rooms for events
- Complimentary parking
- Native American art collection
- Gift shop with Ivar’s merchandise
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Live music on select nights
2. Inside Ivar’s Salmon House
Step inside Ivar’s Salmon House, and you’re immediately transported to another world. The interior is a masterful blend of rustic charm and Native American-inspired design. Massive cedar logs form the structure of the building, their rich, warm tones creating a cozy atmosphere despite the restaurant’s large size.
The main dining room is dominated by the open-pit barbecue, where chefs skillfully prepare the restaurant’s signature alder-smoked salmon. It’s not just for show – the smoky aroma that wafts through the air is an integral part of the Salmon House experience, whetting diners’ appetites before they’ve even glanced at a menu.
Throughout the restaurant, you’ll find an impressive collection of Native American artifacts and artwork. Intricately carved masks peer down from the walls, while beautiful woven baskets and other handicrafts are displayed in cases. It’s like dining in a museum, but with better food and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The bar area is a popular spot, offering a full range of drinks including some creative cocktails inspired by Pacific Northwest flavors. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink while taking in the view of Lake Union through the expansive windows.
Speaking of views, they’re a major part of the Salmon House experience. The restaurant is designed to maximize its waterfront location, with large windows offering panoramic vistas of the lake and the Seattle skyline beyond. As day turns to night, the view transforms, with the city lights creating a twinkling backdrop for your meal.
3. Ivar’s Salmon House Then and Now
| Aspect | Then (1969) | Now (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Menu | Primarily salmon dishes | Expanded seafood options, including sustainable choices |
| Decor | Original Native American artifacts | Mix of original and new Native American art |
| Seating Capacity | Around 200 | Over 300 with expanded dining areas |
| View | Unobstructed lake view | Partially changed due to development, but still stunning |
| Cooking Method | Solely alder wood smoking | Alder wood smoking plus modern cooking techniques |
| Prices | Affordable for most | Higher-end dining experience |
| Clientele | Mostly locals | Mix of locals and tourists |
| Sustainability Practices | Not a major focus | Emphasis on sustainable seafood and eco-friendly practices |
4. How did Ivar design his house to reflect his personality?
Ivar Haglund was a man who loved Seattle, its history, and its culture. This love is reflected in every aspect of the Salmon House’s design. The decision to model the restaurant after a Northwest Coast Native longhouse wasn’t just an aesthetic choice – it was Ivar’s way of paying homage to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Ivar was known for his larger-than-life personality and his flair for the dramatic. This is evident in the restaurant’s grand scale and its prominent position on Lake Union. He wanted to create a dining experience that was as memorable as his famous publicity stunts, and the Salmon House certainly delivers on that front.
But Ivar was also a man who appreciated the simple things in life, particularly good food and good company. That’s why, despite its impressive architecture and decor, the Salmon House has always maintained a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. The open-pit barbecue in the center of the restaurant isn’t just for show – it’s a nod to Ivar’s belief that food should be prepared simply and honestly, with respect for tradition.
The extensive collection of Native American art throughout the restaurant reflects Ivar’s curiosity and his respect for the cultures that shaped the Pacific Northwest. He wanted diners to not just eat a meal, but to learn something and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.
Even the menu, with its focus on locally-sourced seafood, particularly salmon, is a reflection of Ivar’s personality. He was a champion of Pacific Northwest cuisine long before “farm-to-table” became a buzzword, and he believed in showcasing the best of what the region had to offer.
How much is Ivar’s Salmon House Worth?
Determining the exact worth of Ivar’s Salmon House is a bit tricky, as it’s part of the larger Ivar’s restaurant chain and not a standalone property. However, we can look at some factors that contribute to its value.
The Salmon House’s prime waterfront location on Lake Union is a significant asset. Real estate in this area of Seattle is highly valuable, especially for a property with such stunning views. The unique architecture and historical significance of the building also add to its worth.
In terms of business value, Ivar’s Salmon House has been a successful and popular restaurant for over 50 years. Its reputation and consistent patronage contribute significantly to its overall value.
While we don’t have access to the exact financials, here are some details about the property:
- Build Year: 1969
- Recent Renovations: Ongoing updates to maintain the property
- Area: Approximately 15,000 square feet
- House Style: Northwest Coast Native longhouse
- Architectural Design: Custom design inspired by traditional Native American structures
- House Condition: Well-maintained
- Full Address: 401 NE Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98105
It’s important to note that as a restaurant rather than a private residence, its value is tied more to its business operations than to the property itself. The Ivar’s chain, including the Salmon House, remains privately held, so exact financial details are not publicly available.
Breakdown of Ivar’s Real Estate
While Ivar Haglund passed away in 1985, his restaurant empire continues to thrive. Here’s a breakdown of some key Ivar’s locations:
- Ivar’s Acres of Clams (Current): Located on Pier 54 in Seattle. This was Ivar’s first full-service restaurant, opened in 1938. The current building dates to 1985 after a fire destroyed the original structure.
- Ivar’s Salmon House (Current): As we’ve discussed, located on Lake Union in Seattle. Opened in 1969 and continues to be a popular destination.
- Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing (Current): Opened in 1985, this restaurant offers views of the Mukilteo ferry terminal and Possession Sound.
- Ivar’s Seafood Bars: These quick-service locations can be found throughout the Seattle area, including at sports stadiums and airports.
- Kidd Valley Restaurants: While not seafood-focused, this burger chain was acquired by Ivar’s in 1976 and continues to operate under the Ivar’s umbrella.
Ivar’s has also had locations come and go over the years. For example, there was once an Ivar’s at Shilshole Bay Marina, which has since closed.
The Ivar’s company continues to adapt and evolve, but always with a focus on quality seafood and the spirit of fun that Ivar Haglund instilled in the business from the beginning.
Conclusion
Ivar’s Salmon House is more than just a restaurant – it’s a Seattle landmark, a tribute to Pacific Northwest culture, and a living legacy of Ivar Haglund’s vision. From its stunning architecture to its mouthwatering menu, from its impressive art collection to its unbeatable views, the Salmon House offers a dining experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Whether you’re a Seattle local or a visitor to the Emerald City, a meal at Ivar’s Salmon House is a must. It’s a chance to taste some of the best seafood the Pacific Northwest has to offer, to soak in breathtaking views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline, and to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
So next time you’re in Seattle, why not take a trip to Ivar’s Salmon House? Who knows – you might just find yourself falling in love with this unique restaurant, just as generations of diners have done before you. After all, as Ivar himself might say, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a delicious meal while keeping clam and carrying on.
