Shutdown of Capitol Hills original Skillet Diner part of chains Seattle downsizing

Skillet Diner in Capitol Hill permanently closed its doors after 14 years, with ownership citing rising production costs as the primary reason for the shutdown. The diner, which evolved from a food truck into a popular chain, will continue operating at the Seattle Center Armory and Sea-Tac Airport. Owner Greg Petrillo expressed that the balance between meal pricing and production costs became unmanageable. The original Skillet opened in 2011, featuring late-night hours that catered to the vibrant Capitol Hill nightlife. Recent developments, such as the Tanager Apartments project, highlight the area's ongoing transformation.

The closure leaves a talented staff in search of new opportunities in Seattle's competitive hospitality market. In 2023, Skillet faced legal challenges, including a $324,000 wage theft settlement, which may have influenced its operational decisions. The company aims to streamline its business model while acknowledging the impact on its loyal employees.