New eatery Pono Ranch set to hit Ballard this summer

Interesting new restaurant and drive-through coffee spot Pono Ranch (corner of Shilshole Ave and NW 46th St) is being built as we speak near the Ballard Bridge. Construction began last year and the eatery is set to open this summer.

Owner Jon Burgett has been working on the project since May 2012. He has been designing indoor and outdoor spaces for some time and when the location became available he couldn’t resist the opportunity to put his skills into practice. The name is also a unique one and has significance to Burgett’s vision. “The project is called Pono which is a Hawaiian word for harmony and balance – bringing together the rich histories of the past here to the present,” said Burgett.

Pono Rach will serve up organic food in a family-friendly indoor/outdoor environment. Drive through coffee will be a focus, as will the deck with self-service grilling facilities and simple early breakfasts for commuters.

In terms of the menu, Burgett is planning organic treats for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The menu will offer cafe sandwiches, salads and pastries, a take-n-grill selection of meats and veggies and much more.

The design vision of the eatery is quite unique. The outdoor area will house a 45′ vintage crane, saved from a scrapyard, that will provide shelter for guests on rainy Seattle days. The crane has been successfully installed and has been seen by locals driving past the construction site. According to the Snoqualmie Valley Record, the circa. 1903 steam crane was traded from the Snoqualmie Train Museum in December last year. “The crane is a 1903 Industrial Works unit used in the lumber industry until the early 1970’s and it is one of only two known to exist in North America of this type,” said Burgett.

An active solar heating system will be installed in both indoor and outdoor spaces of the restaurant to ensure guest comfort.

“This is a Ballard neighborhood of mills, maritime and railroads, and we want to create a great easygoing place for entertainment and relaxation from the hustle bustle of urban life,” said Burgett.

We will keep readers updated with opening event information. If you would like to see more click here to visit the Pono Ranch Facebook page.