Besa Gordon Visit Marjorie Restaurant for a Central District Culinary Masterclass

Besa Gordon recently paid a visit to Seattle’s Marjorie Restaurant, a beloved Central District favourite, as part of her ongoing Support Black Business campaign. Gordon sat down with owner Donna Moodie, affectionately known to many as Miss Donna, to get a full rundown on the restaurant’s globally-inspired menu and commitment to community hospitality.

To Gordon, Marjorie’s atmosphere was warm and inviting. “It feels like a Sunday dinner at your favorite auntie’s house,” she said. 

The visit featured a deep dive into Marjorie’s distinct menu, which Moodie and her team, including Chef Aislinn McManigal-Quintana, have perfected over two decades. Among the must-try dishes discussed were the happy hour hush puppies, which are served with Arbol honey and bacon. Gordon, who typically avoids hush puppies, praised the dish after the culinary team took the classic dish and made them lighter and more delicate. 

Other staples include the restaurant’s signature Jamaican Jerk Chicken and the Wild-Caught Tribal Cut Salmon, which is specially sourced by the chef. Guests can also try Gulf prawns with a macha salsa and a unique Caribbean-influenced appetizer of plantain chips with a shito dip, made from rum-soaked apricots and cashews. Beyond the core menu, Donna noted the restaurant incorporates seasonal eats, often featuring locally sourced foraged mushrooms and winter greens. 

Moodie’s approach to treating every customer like family is a key part of Marjorie's enduring appeal. She also shared the recent launch of a new grab-and-go section, allowing customers to purchase items like house-made dips, plantains, and specialty olive oils to enjoy at home. 

Visit Marjorie yourself Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10pm. At 2301 E Union St Suite P, Seattle. Learn more at marjorierestaurant.com 

Catch Back2Besa every Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 13 Seattle and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on FOX 13+. Viewers can also stream episodes anytime on the FOX Local app.

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