SEATTLE — Despite some gloomy weather on May 18, Seattle's Golden Gardens was packed with people, many of whom stopped by the beach's newest business, the “Kite Café.”
The café is owned and operated by two Ballard High School alums.
"I like to think that we are the local guys making good in the community," said Matt Kelly.
Kelly and his lifelong friend Tony Meyer are the owners of the newest business at the popular beach.
"I'm really excited to work with my best friend. He and I are of the same mind of many things,” said Kelly. “And certainly take creative initiative in this café and in life."
Kelly and Meyer have been best friends for more than two decades. They also played on the Ballard football team together.
They're now teaming up once again. This time, with the goal of supporting local businesses.
"Support local purveyors, growers and vendors. And as the season progresses and growers, goes on we're excited to add more Seattle and Washington businesses wherever possible."
Kelly said they hope to provide job opportunities for young people in the community.
“Excited to have some students joining us this summer, both high school and college age," said Kelly. "To help build their job background and enhance their skill sets and allow them to go out in the world with great opportunities and skills.”
The two friends have extensive experience within the food industry. Kelly is the executive director of the Queen Anne Farmer's Market and the manager of the beer garden for the local semi-pro team Ballard FC. Meanwhile, Meyer has worked at a handful of food establishments throughout his life and has expertise in marketing and consulting.
Their plan is to dish out east-coast style sandwiches, salads, drinks, and snacks throughout the year.
"The line hasn't stopped, and we've had all of our friends and family and the public just so supportive, so excited," said Kelly.
Excitement that can't be contained as the two friends take flight on this new adventure together - hoping to become a longtime fixture in a place that helped shape them.
"If you're coming to Golden Gardens stop in and say hello,” said Kelly. “Tony and I are here every day and would be so excited to get to know you and serve you."
Kite Café is the first business to operate inside the Golden Gardens Bathhouse. The previous business shutdown in December 2022. According to Seattle Parks and Rec website, it selected the Kite Café following a Request for Proposal process that closed last October. The website states it selected Kite Café because it “best demonstrated the ability to provide innovative, affordable, healthy, safe, and reliable food service to park patrons while paying reasonable concession fees to SPR.”
May 18 was the soft opening for the Kite Café. The grand opening is being held on May 23 at 1 p.m.