SEATTLE — The historic J&M building in Pioneer Square is set to have a new owner in December. Dating back to 1890, it has been a Seattle landmark since its construction following the Great Seattle Fire.
Over the years, it hosted several establishments, including a bar, hotel, liquor store, music venue, and, most notably, a cafe. It closed in 2020.
Angela Williams, owner of nearby Luigi's, an Italian restaurant, welcomes the potential reopening of such an iconic spot.
"We're glad to see something is finally going to happen with it because it's been empty for so long," Williams said.
The online auction site lists the space as having 24 apartments and a first-floor retail suite. It notes the building's proximity to several venues, transportation options, and attractions. The listing even mentions an option for a basement speakeasy. Williams said that the building reflects the "Bohemian nature" of the neighborhood.
"You used to be able to get a stamp from J&M and go up and down Pioneer Square to hear several different bands play," she said. "They brought all the bands and really made that a thing."
With the potential reopening of the buildings, Williams believes Pioneer Square's best days are ahead.
"Pioneer Square should be the gem of the city. It's historic. The architecture down here is beautiful. The trees down here are beautiful. This is like no other neighborhood you'll find in Seattle," she said. "We hope a local buyer buys it to keep it in the spirit of what Pioneer Square and Seattle is."
The online auction runs Dec. 16-18. The starting bid is $600,000.