WHO WE ARE
Our story began in 1989 when we opened a tiny shack down by the water to serve fish and chips. We started with a small staff and limited menu. Eventually we moved to our current location at 237 Taylor, which allowed more space to expand our offerings. We dove into extensive renovations (while keeping the building’s historic integrity and character intact) to make this space what it is today. Since then we have served countless lunches, dinners, glasses of wine and beer, and creative craft cocktails to happy customers. Through forming solid relationships with other local businesses, organizations, and individuals, we have flourished within our beloved community.
In 2020, like so many other small businesses, we faced significant challenges due to Covid. Our staff of fifty was reduced to twenty-five and our operations switched to take-out only. As the pandemic continued to threaten, we chose to put our staff and community’s health first and temporarily closed our doors. We took this time away to re-center ourselves and re-analyze our approach.
We reopened in early 2021 with hope and gratitude, eager to serve our community through collaborative partnerships, commitments to sustainability, and exceptionally good food.
We support local farmers and ranchers who love the land they work and the animals they keep. We buy from local fisheries that practice sustainable harvesting. Our unusable vegetable waste feeds our chickens or gets turned into compost for our gardens. But it doesn’t stop there. Because of our love for community, we are actively partnering with various local non-profits to broaden our reach.
Throughout it all, from 1989 to now, our deepest desire has been to nourish bodies and souls with our inspired cooking, genuine hearts, and open arms.
MEET THE SILVERWATER FAMILY
ALISON - OWNER
Alison was a young girl when her beloved Nonni Lucretia taught her how to cook. She and David opened the Silverwater Café in 1989; she continues to be actively involved in all aspects of running the restaurant, from hosting to cooking to ordering office supplies to payroll. Her warmth, sincerity, and joy can be felt by all who meet her.
DAVID - OWNER
David opened the Silverwater Café with Alison in 1989. He is a devoted plant master; he keeps all our beautiful plants in tip-top condition. He is also our dessert baker and go-to for pretty much all things. David is an exceptional conversationalist and can enchant just about anyone with his knowledge and enthusiasm.
JON - CHEF DE CUISINE
Jon describes himself as a “grateful, aging punk rocker.” He cooked his way across America and stopped in Port Townsend to raise a family and mentor the next wave of culinary talent. He has been with the Silverwater for 10 years.
ELANN - CHEF
“I was born and raised in Port Townsend. Thought I’d raise some kids and cook some delicious food! I love making people happy — what better a way to do that than through food?”
BETHANY - OFFICE MANAGER/SOCIAL MEDIA/FLOOR MANAGER
Bethany began working with us in 2018 as a bartender. After a year she switched to serving, and eventually moved into a management position. When not at the restaurant, she plans weddings and arranges flowers. Owls are her favorite animal.
ADRIAN - DAYTIME SOUS CHEF
Adrian is our extraordinary lunchtime chef. He has been a superstar in our kitchen since 2009. Singing along to classic rock while he cooks helps him make the world’s best sandwiches, soups, and salads. He claims he loves long walks on the beach… we’re not sure we believe him.
JAMES - EVENING SOUS CHEF
Jimi worked with us many years ago and has now returned. “Like Odysseus, I’ve travelled far and wide; the Silverwater - my home! - always escaping me. But! With thanks to the gods, I’ve returned. Behold!”
CHRIS - BAKER
Chris enjoys making delicious Silverwater desserts while listening to Chef Jon’s punk rock playlists. When not baking, he spends time teaching his daughter how to play baseball... to swing a bat and throw a ball. Real baseball. Not a video game.
MICHELE - SERVER
Michele is a true delight to be around. She has a smile and kind word for everyone. She wears the best jewelry! Michele loves being outdoors and going on summer camping trips with her family.
MASON - SERVER
Mason can talk to anyone about anything. He will become your best friend within minutes. He always has colorful hair, and his favorite breakfast is strawberries-and-cream oatmeal.
MAKENZIE - SERVER
Makenzie was voted the “Best server in Port Townsend.” We are lucky to have her on the team! She has been with us for over 6 years. She loves traveling, going to music festivals with friends, and leopard print on everything.
DUNCAN - SANITATION ENGINEER & SPICE ORDER FULFILLER
“Like clockwork: same time, every time! Hoping to save up to move to Australia and go to university. Stay hydrated!”