Kickin’ Boot calls it quits

Geeky Swedes Ballard

BBQ joint Kickin’ Boot has shut its doors after a five-year run in Ballard.

“Unfortunately, due to many obstacles, the time has come to make the difficult decision,” explains a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “This closure is strictly due to the financial hardship we have endured.”

Truth be told, Kickin’ Boot’s location — down from the action on Ballard Ave. on 22nd — was off the beaten path for walk-in traffic. The owners, Zak Melang and Nathan Opper, also own Matador and Ballard Annex, which are sticking around.

“We are sorry that this news comes as a surprise, but we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years and for the community we have been fortunate enough to serve here in Ballard,” they write. “Thank you once again for your continued support and we hope to see you around the neighborhood.”

They say the “Whiskey Wednesday tradition” will continue at The Grog (located behind Ballard Annex) every Wednesday from 4 p.m. until close.

Geeky Swedes

The founders of My Ballard

6 thoughts to “Kickin’ Boot calls it quits”

  1. Their location wasn’t THAT far off the beaten path. They had a big spot and with the wage hike the city foisted on them I’m guessing it killed any profits.

    Side note- I’m still waiting for Kshama Sawant to open a business. Kshama, please show us how it’s done!!

  3. I quit going once they put on their menus, in very small print, that they were charging 20% on every bill for the wage raise hike. I would of been happy to pay more for their meals and drinks. I just thought it was irresponsible to handle everything like that and not figure their budget out on their own. I’ve boycotted all businesses who have done this since. It’s a bad practice.

  4. I went to Kickn’ Boot’s regularly until the $15 an hour wage increase. I saw their prices increase and a tax added to offset the added expense. I can understand one of them, but not both.

  5. If wage increase and price were the issue then how are the other restaurants making it? Fine for drinks but the food was mediocre, I quit going after the 3rd visit.

  6. If wage increase and price were the issue then how are the other restaurants making it? Fine for drinks but the food was mediocre, I quit going after the 3rd visit.

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