The Washington State Fair is gearing up for a major transformation with the introduction of the 1900 Food Hall & Rooftop Bar, a key part of a sweeping $28 million renovation project coinciding with the fair’s milestone 125th anniversary. Construction is already underway for this ambitious new culinary destination, which pays tribute to the fair’s inaugural year in 1900 and is set to open on the first day of the Washington State Fair on August 29, 2025.
A New Culinary Destination for Fairgoers
According to Stacy Van Horne, public relations manager for the fair, the new food hall represents a significant upgrade to the fairgrounds’ dining options and visitor experience. “We knew that we had to bring this building down and find a great way to rebuild it,” Van Horne explained, referring to the aging International Village that the new development will replace.
The extensive renovation project signals the fair’s commitment to adapting while honoring its rich history, ensuring the beloved Washington institution continues to thrive as it enters its next century of operation.
Six Distinct Dining Concepts to Satisfy Every Taste
Culinary excitement is building as details emerge about the six distinct dining concepts that will call the 1900 Food Hall home. Visitors will have their choice of Benji’s Diner for burger cravings, Big Mouth Sandos for gourmet sandwich options, and Upper Crust for pizza enthusiasts. The diverse lineup continues with The Pier featuring Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine, Fat Panda offering Asian specialties, and DOH! Sweets & Treats satisfy dessert lovers with an array of confections.
James Beard-Nominated Chef Leads the Culinary Vision
At the helm of this ambitious culinary collection is James Beard-nominated chef Mitch Mayers, who is overseeing the creative vision for all six restaurants. His involvement brings culinary credibility to the project and promises to elevate the fair’s food offerings.
“We feel like having this diversity in six restaurants really gives something to everybody,” Van Horne told The News Tribune, highlighting the fair’s intention to create a dining destination that appeals to all tastes and preferences while maintaining a standard of quality that matches the fair’s 125-year legacy.
The Rooftop Bar: The Best Views at the Fair
The rooftop bar component of the new 1900 Food Hall promises to become an instant attraction, offering what Van Horne describes as “probably one of the coolest views you’ll get at the Spring Fair and State Fair.” This elevated space will provide panoramic vistas across the fairgrounds, creating a spectacular setting both during daylight hours and after dark when the fair’s colorful lights and rides create a magical backdrop. As a central part of the fairgrounds, the bar is positioned to become a popular gathering spot.
The End of an Era: Replacing the International Village
The new development replaces the International Village, which had served as a fair fixture and food destination for four decades. While the previous facility housed multiple food vendors and also featured a rooftop bar, fair officials determined that the aging structure had reached the end of its useful life.
Van Horne explained that the decision to replace it was driven by multiple factors: “The building was old and decrepit — so for aesthetic reasons, for safety reasons, for good variety and to continue to become a first-class facility,” making the renovation a necessary step in the fair’s ongoing evolution.
$28 Million Renovation: A New Era for the Fairgrounds
Beyond the highly anticipated 1900 Food Hall & Rooftop Bar, the Washington State Fair’s $28 million renovation project includes several other significant improvements to the historic fairgrounds.
A new water feature is being constructed at the front of Gold Gate, creating an enhanced entrance experience that will welcome visitors with visual appeal and a sense of arrival befitting the fair’s 125th anniversary celebration. These thoughtful updates aim to blend modern amenities with the cherished traditions that have made the fair a regional landmark.
Transforming Barn M Into an Entertainment Hub
Another major component of the renovation involves the demolition of Barn M, which will be transformed into a dedicated entertainment area. The animals previously housed in this facility will be relocated to other areas throughout the fairgrounds, ensuring that the fair’s agricultural heritage remains intact while creating new spaces for visitor engagement.
With opening day set for August 29, 2025, these improvements demonstrate the Washington State Fair’s commitment to remaining a premier destination for generations to come while honoring its storied 125-year history.
