U:Don Fresh Capitol Hill closes as next generation of food and drink takes shape in the 12th Ave Arts building

(Image: U:Don Fresh)

Capitol Hill’s 12th Ave Arts building mixes affordable apartments, nonprofit offices, and music and performance. The development is undergoing a full turnover in another mixed-use component: its street level food and drink tenants.

Over the weekend, the Capitol Hill expansion of U:Don Fresh served its final customers along its pick-what-you-want, cafeteria style line of Sanuki-style udon noodle bowl offerings.

“For more than 10 years, you’ve supported us in the Capitol Hill district, and we’re incredibly grateful,” the restaurant posted about its goodbye. Owner Tak Kurachi says U:Don decided not to renew its lease.

CHS reported here in 2014 as the restaurant lined up to be the first food and drink tenant in the unique affordable housing development that would mix office space with performance space at 12th and Pine.

In 2025, CHS marked ten years for the Community Roots Housing building.

The year since that anniversary has brought a full changeover to the food and drink mix at 12th Ave Arts including the exit of Rachel’s Ginger Beer, the closure of the Capitol Hill location of Pel Meni Dumpling Tzar, and, now, the end of U:Don.

This week will bring a fresh start.

Roma Roma, a new “by-the-cut” pizza project from chef Forrest Brunton, is expected to begin serving customers in the former Rachel’s space.

What will come next for the U:Don and the former dumpling joint remains to be seen.

Thanks to a CHS reader for bringing U:Don’s exit to our attention!

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