The popular Korean eatery Third Place Shuts Down in downtown Redmond, leaving loyal customers stunned and disappointed.
Residents recently noticed the restaurant’s signage removed and its windows covered, confirming that the once-bustling spot has permanently closed its doors.
For many in the community, Third Place was more than just another restaurant; it was their go-to destination for Korean comfort food, especially its highly praised Korean fried chicken.
Social media discussions quickly filled with reactions from locals who said they would miss the restaurant’s crispy wings, kalbi specials, dumpling soup, and pineapple soju cocktails.
Third Place Permanently Closed
by u/bbreader-acct in redmond
Regular customers described Third Place as one of the few standout Korean dining options in Redmond. Many said it was their favorite spot for KFC (Korean fried chicken), while others praised the restaurant’s flavorful bulgogi dishes and hearty soups during colder months.
Some longtime diners, however, admitted the restaurant often appeared quiet, even during peak dining hours. A few community members speculated that financial struggles may have contributed to the closure.
According to discussions shared online, the business had temporarily shut down before but was unable to recover this time.
Customers also pointed out that the same owners previously operated Yeon’s Chicken in Kirkland, which closed years earlier.
Other associated names mentioned by patrons include Underground Kitchen and Shin Sung Korean BBQ in Federal Way. It remains unclear whether those establishments are still operating under the same ownership structure.
The closure of Third Place highlights broader challenges affecting restaurants across Redmond. Some locals cited limited dedicated parking as a factor that may have reduced foot traffic.
While nearby public lots exist, several residents admitted they often forgot about them or experienced difficulty finding spots at certain times.
Others pointed to changing consumer habits and economic pressures. Rising costs, inflation, and shifting dining patterns have made it increasingly difficult for independent restaurants to survive, especially in competitive areas where chain establishments and larger venues draw steady crowds.
Several diners also noted what they perceived as a decline in food consistency toward the end. A few customers said dishes that were once known for their caramelized textures and rich flavors seemed more watery or less carefully prepared in recent visits — a potential sign of operational strain.
With Third Place Shuts Down, many residents feel a noticeable gap in Redmond’s Korean dining landscape. While other Korean restaurants remain in the area, customers expressed that Third Place had carved out its own identity through its signature fried chicken and specialty dishes.
As downtown Redmond continues to evolve with new apartment developments and incoming businesses, locals hope a new restaurant, perhaps offering something unique, will eventually take over the space. For now, though, Third Place’s closure marks the end of an era for fans who considered it a neighborhood staple.
For many, the sentiment remains simple: Redmond just lost one of its most beloved Korean comfort food spots.
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