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Seattle Group Buys Historic Buckley Drive-In
24 Jun
Summary
- A Seattle restaurant group acquired Wally's Drive-In and its sister restaurant.
- The new owner plans to maintain the hometown feel of the establishments.
- Staff, including longtime managers, are expected to be retained.
Hold Fast Hospitality Group, with ties to the Seattle area, has acquired the iconic Wally's Drive-In in Buckley and its sister restaurant in Des Moines. The sale, which closed in mid-June, was finalized by David Meinert and his group. The previous owners, Mike and Judy Nordean, have retired after many years serving the community.
Wally's Drive-In, a fixture since the 1960s, has been a popular spot for burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The Buckley location's history traces back to its construction in 1959. Meinert, a seasoned hospitality entrepreneur, aims to maintain the "hometown feel" for both restaurants. He plans to retain existing staff, including experienced managers, while implementing updates to point-of-sale systems and undertaking building maintenance.
Meinert's portfolio includes other notable Seattle establishments like The 5 Point Cafe and Mecca Cafe. He also has a history of involvement with other popular Seattle bars and restaurants. His intention to preserve the character of Wally's provides continuity for this cherished local eatery, which serves patrons heading to Mount Rainier National Park.
