Historic 88-year-old Tacoma diner abruptly closes

After almost a century of operation in Tacoma’s Proctor District, Knapp’s Restaurant and Lounge abruptly closed on Monday.

An indication was posted within the window of the 88-year-old diner and bar situated at 2707 N. Proctor Street, studying “Knapp’s is closed. Thank you for the memories. We’ve enjoyed serving you,” based on The Tacoma News Tribune.

Tacoma diner finds new proprietor forward of closure

In 2024, rumors unfold that Knapp’s was up on the market and nearing closure, however the former house owners insisted the restaurant would stay open. The house owners have been truly entertaining a sale and had discovered a purchaser.

A Maple Valley man, Billy Brewer, took over operations of Knapp’s in August 2025, and beforehand advised The Tacoma News Tribune that he “fell in love with the place.”

Brewer additionally gave a nod to Knapp’s employees for protecting the place going.

“They kept this place open by the effort that they’ve put forth,” Brewer advised The Tacoma News Tribune. “Knapp’s means family.”

A second handwritten discover was positioned within the entrance window, which learn, “Open Saturday 7-10. Coffee only. Come share the [love].”

A glance again at Knapp’s 88-year historical past in Tacoma

Knapp’s was a neighborhood diner and bar that had been a “cornerstone” of the Proctor neighborhood since 1938, sitting contained in the historic Gamble Building, constructed by Ray Gamble in 1929.

The Gamble Building has been house to many tenants over its almost 100 years in Tacoma, together with Nelson Drugs, Sowers Jewelry, Frederick Dean Drug Co., Ernest Brown Fuel Co., and Stegrin’s Women’s Furnishings.

Ned and Corinne Knapp first launched Knapp’s as a delicatessen in what has been the corporate’s foremost eating room. Over time, Knapp’s expanded by opening a lounge, the Knappsack Lounge, in April 1969.

“We take pride in serving our neighbors and friends with hearty and familiar comfort foods,” Knapp’s stated. “Come join us for a trip down memory lane, embracing nostalgia, and don’t miss out on visiting our lounge, hailed as the finest dive bar in the area.”

The restaurant served traditional breakfast staples, resembling steak and eggs or corned beef hash, alongside its lunch and dinner choices like a Reuben, Knapp’s Burger, or its tuna soften. Knapp’s additionally supplied an expansive choice of beer, wine, and spirits.

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