Northlake Tavern is reopening as Big Mario's Northlake Tavern this month

Seattle's beloved Northlake Tavern & Pizza House closed its doors after more than six decades earlier this year, but the legacy continues.

The establishment near the University of Washington campus will now be called Big Mario's Northlake Tavern, and the reopening date is almost here — doors will open on Wednesday, Aug. 30. The first 100 guests on opening day will receive a free slice of pizza.

After Northlake Tavern closed in January, the bar planned to be closed for just two months, but that turned into a full-blown seven-month renovation, said owner Jason Lajeunesse in a press release.

"The project took on a much bigger scope than originally intended. While we thought the space would make a perfect Big Mario's upon hearing of its closing, and imagined this a simple flip, we quickly discovered that the space and infrastructure needed a full extensive rehab," he said.

Big Mario's Northlake Tavern will be the spot for pizza, beer and sports, keeping the 65-year tradition alive for fans of the original Northlake Tavern.

"We are excited to get this place back open and offer quick-grab items like slices, beer and wine," said says operations manager Melissa Satterly in a press release, "in tandem with our whole pies that guests have come to love while watching a game or catching up with friends inside the Northlake Tavern."

Big Mario's Northlake Tavern is located at 660 Northeast Northlake Way in Seattle.

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