Cook Weaver ready to hand over its historic space after a decade on Capitol Hill

Chef Zac Reynolds and Nile Klein of Cook and Weaver at its opening in 2017

For a chef who creates their own place on Capitol Hill, there are paths that might lead someday to your own restaurant group with 12 unique concepts and 20 locations.

And there are simpler routes that don’t lead to much more than good times and happy memories.

Chef-driven Cook Weaver has announced it will close with one last New Year’s Day of service after a decade in Capitol Hill’s historic Loveless Building.

“Why are we closing? Well, have you ever looked forward to a new chapter with anticipation, while also in tender thanksgiving for all that has brought you to this moment?,” owner Zac Reynolds wrote in the E Roy restaurant’s announcement. “That’s pretty much where I am. In truth, I really want to spend more time with my kid and my wife on evenings and weekends – it’s that simple.”

For Reynolds, the Cook Weaver exit is about as good as it gets for a small indie food and drink joint these days. Reynolds says they are selling and ready to hand off the longtime restaurant space to its next generation of food and drink.

Cook Weaver debuted in late 2016 in the Loveless Building in a space that has hosted a fascinating parade of food and drink venues through the years. Murals from early tenant Samovar still adorn the walls. Artist Vladimir Shkurkin who had previously painted the inside of the Seattle Civic Auditorium was commissioned by the Russian-flavored eatery for the work. His murals depict the story of three sisters — a cook, a weaver, and a wife — and a swan-turned-princess by Alexander Pushkin.

(Image: Cook Weaver)

Cook Weaver managed to overcome pandemic challenges and the changes that come with running any small business. Co-founder and front of house manager Nile Klein amicably exited the partnership in 2023.

Reynolds carried on and doubled down this year on Cook Weaver’s quirkier spirit with a “neo-bistro format” aimed at lowering costs and menu prices.

Now, with the New Year, Reynolds is ready to hand over the keys and get started on his own next chapter.

“I truly hope our food and hospitality has offered comfort, connection, and joy over the years,” Reynolds writes. “I am so thankful and grateful to you all. Please come see me over this next month – don’t hesitate to pop into the kitchen, I would love it.”

Cook Weaver will be open through New Year’s Day at 806 E Roy. Learn more at cookweaver.com.

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