Taste of Tradition: Donna Moodie's Marjorie Restaurant Celebrates Jamaican Heritage and Community
Marjorie Restaurant, owned and operated by Donna Moodie, is a beloved Seattle institution with a history dating back to 2003. After starting in Belltown and moving to Capitol Hill, the restaurant was forced to close its doors during the pandemic and rising operating costs. Moodie, who also serves as the Chief Impact Officer at the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, was determined to bring Marjorie back to the Central District, creating a space that honors her mother’s love for food and community.
To ensure the restaurant’s long-term sustainability, Marjorie partnered with the City of Seattle's Office of Economic Development (OED) and the nonprofit Grow America through the innovative Business Community Ownership Fund (BCOF) in 2024. The BCOF provided financial and technical assistance to help businesses purchase and own their commercial spaces, a program designed to address concerns around commercial displacement and keep businesses rooted in their neighborhoods.
The globally inspired menu continues to feature Moodie's Jamaican heritage with signature items like the legendary jerk chicken. Other menu favorites include crab mac and cheese, coconut braised greens, and happy hour hush puppies served with Arbol honey and bacon. With a renewed focus on local sourcing and curating a warm, inviting atmosphere, Moodie ensures Marjorie remains a vibrant gathering place where every customer is treated like family.
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