Built in 1914, the Roanoke Inn is the oldest operating business on Mercer Island. Originally a chicken dinner inn and eventually a hotel and weekend destination, it was adjacent to Roanoke Landing, where a ferry used to shuttle passengers between Kirkland, Leschi and Mercer Island. In 1941, the current owner's family purchased the inn and through various transformations continues to operate the popular tavern/restaurant today.
This neighborhood pub features an indoor working fireplace, a front porch covered booths (with heaters) and a side patio with outdoor seating. During the summer, back yard tables, topped with thatched umbrellas, surround the grassy yard where you might find a game of croquet. The Roanoke has a full bar and continually rotates six draft selections featuring craft beers. The "Captain's List" features regional wines from Washington, California and Oregon (bottles only).
The chefs also cook up weekly specials in addition to the menu fare of various appetizers, salads, burgers, burritos and sandwiches. This Mercer Island neighborhood gathering place was placed on the historical landmark register in 1976.