A new generation of owners takes the helm, honoring more than a century of Virginia Inn history at the heart of Pike Place Market
SEATTLE, WA — The Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) is proud to announce that four longtime Virginia Inn employees, Jackelyn Batingan, Amber Quezada, Manuel Sarabia, and Marisa Mohr, have officially become the new owners of one of Seattle’s most historic and beloved establishments.
Located at the gateway to Pike Place Market, the Virginia Inn has been serving Seattle locals and visitors for over 122 years. This new chapter marks both a continuation and a celebration of its legacy, ensuring that the Virginia Inn remains a cherished gathering place for generations to come.
“We are thrilled to be the new stewards of this historic Seattle establishment,” said the new ownership group in a joint statement. “As longtime employees, we feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to bring our unique personalities, experience, and enthusiasm to this beloved place. We are proud to be a woman, queer, and immigrant-owned business and will continue to be a welcoming and inclusive ‘third place’ for our communities. The VI has had a storied history for the last 122 years, and we are excited and eager to begin the next chapter. Please join us and keep the spirit of the VI alive!”
Each new owner brings deep roots in the restaurant and the Pike Place Market community:
Jackelyn Batingan shared, “I’m from the Seattle area and I’ve worked at the VI for over 12 years. I’ve had many service industry jobs, but this has always been a particularly special place. There’s a closeness here and it has never felt like ‘just a job.’ It’s cheesy, but I’ve always said being at the VI feels like a warm hug.”
Amber Quezada added, “I’m grateful to have this opportunity to not only continue my journey doing what I love for this Seattle institution, but also to be the first queer woman of color to own the Virginia Inn.”
Manuel Sarabia noted, “I have been working within Pike Place Market for the past 25 years. The Market has become my life, my second home, my family. Owning a restaurant here is a dream come true.”
Marisa Mohr shared, “Originally from Northern California, I found my home here in Seattle 13 years ago. I’ve spent the past 7 years behind the bar at the Virginia Inn. I love how the VI feels familiar and comforting to so many. I hope to create memories (and cocktails) for many years to come!”
Rachel Ligtenberg, Executive Director of the Pike Place Market PDA, expressed her enthusiasm for the transition, “we are so excited to offer this opportunity to four incredible employees who share our deep commitment to preserving the Virginia Inn’s legacy. No one knows this restaurant, its history, and its loyal patrons better than they do. The PDA is honored to support them as they carry forward the Virginia Inn’s story as one of Seattle’s most enduring local treasures.”
With this change in ownership, the Virginia Inn continues to stand as a cornerstone of Seattle’s culinary and cultural scene, a place where locals gather, stories are shared, and the spirit of Pike Place Market thrives.
About Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority
The nine-acre historic district is maintained and operated by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), a not-for-profit public corporation created by the City of Seattle in 1973. The PDA supports the Market’s remarkable community by increasing farm and food retailing opportunities, supporting small and marginal businesses, and providing services for low-income individuals. In addition, PDA helps protect the essence of the Market by preserving, rehabilitating and maintaining the buildings within the Market. PikePlaceMarket.org
Media Contact:
Madison Douglas
Director of Marketing & Communications at Pike Place Market PDA
E: Madison.Douglas@PikePlaceMarket.org
P: (206) 724-8142