‘The prices here are outrageous’: Gee and Ursula discuss Seattle dining costs as her favorite restaurant closes

KIRO host Ursula Reutin’s favorite Seattle restaurant is closing, and KIRO host Gee Scott sees a broader problem behind the struggles facing local dining spots: Customers cannot keep absorbing higher prices.

On “The Gee and Ursula Show” on KIRO Newsradio, Ursula shared that Revel, the Fremont restaurant where she celebrated Valentine’s Day and her recent anniversary, had announced its closure on Instagram.

The news came alongside an appeal for help from the family behind La Palma Family Mexican Restaurant, which Ursula described as facing financial pressure that could force it to close.

For Gee, the discussion came back to what customers can afford.

“The prices here are outrageous,” Gee said.

He recalled finding lower dining prices during a visit to Chicago, even with its acclaimed restaurant scene. When he asked whether dinner for two at Revel could cost $100 without alcohol, KIRO producer Andrew Lanier agreed that was a reasonable estimate.

“That’s the problem. That’s what’s happening right now,” Gee said.

Ursula loses a favorite she thought was doing well

Ursula described Revel as a modern Korean restaurant she had repeatedly recommended. She did not know the reason for its announced closure, but the news surprised her because her own visits had given her the impression that it was drawing customers.

“Because I had no idea that Revel was struggling. That’s a fantastic restaurant. Like that really bums me out,” Ursula said.

She acknowledged that seeing a restaurant busy on a weekend does not reveal whether it is making enough money throughout the week.

Andrew shared her disappointment, explaining that Revel had been among his recommendations for more than a decade.

“Financial hardships and buzz play such a huge factor in who gets business these days,” he said.

A family appeal brings customers to La Palma

Ursula also outlined La Palma’s situation, describing a family-run restaurant that has operated since 1976 and is facing rising costs.

She recounted how granddaughter Lauren Jewett shared the family’s story on Instagram and TikTok, asking customers to help preserve the business. In Ursula’s account, the appeal brought a full parking lot Saturday and another large crowd Sunday.

But she questioned whether a burst of support could become something sustained.

“So by noon Saturday, the parking lot was full. Sunday brought another big crowd, but how long does that go?” Ursula said.

Gee argued that good food alone no longer guarantees business. Delivery apps, social media attention, and changing customer habits all influence where people spend their money.

“Some of these places have great food. People aren’t just going to places for great food anymore,” Gee said.

Ursula emphasized affordability as the biggest issue. Gee agreed that working-class customers who once supported neighborhood restaurants are themselves under pressure, leaving mid-tier establishments particularly vulnerable in his assessment.

Can discounts bring diners back?

Ursula pointed to Visit Seattle’s expanded “There’s Never Been More to SEA” campaign and a Perks Pass offering deals at more than 70 businesses, including restaurants, hotels and attractions.

The effort, she explained, is intended to encourage people from neighboring communities to visit Seattle.

That prompted memories of the entertainment book, with its restaurant coupons and other discounts. Ursula fondly recalled using enough coupons to leave the book dog-eared.

Gee questioned whether a modest discount could overcome the financial pressures keeping people home.

“Even going to that place saving 10%, what that what’s that really going to do? Because your gas is higher, the groceries are higher,” Gee said.

Ursula welcomed attempts to find creative ways to attract customers. But Revel’s announcement had already shaken her confidence.

When Gee asked which restaurant’s closure would make her start worrying, she did not hesitate.

“Revel,” Ursula said.

Watch the full discussion in the video above.

Listen to Gee and Ursula on “The Gee and Ursula Show” weekday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio.