The anticipation surrounding the new Eggslut location in Seattle’s Melrose Market has quickly turned into frustration for neighboring businesses.
Russ Flint, owner of Rain Shadow Meats, recalls his first encounter with Eggslut’s concept while engaging with a potential tenant last year.
The name, initially thought to be quirky or humorous, has since drawn criticism from local business owners who find it ‘offensive’ and detrimental to their livelihoods.
Eggslut, founded by Alvin Cailan in 2011 as a food truck, has successfully expanded to multiple major cities, including Los Angeles, New York, and even Tokyo.
The chain’s standout breakfast sandwiches have gained substantial culinary acclaim, leading to a growing number of locations.
However, the latest addition to Melrose Market is causing upheaval among existing tenants.
The trouble began shortly after renovations started at the space formerly occupied by Homegrown sandwich shop.
Once Eggslut announced its move, window coverings were installed that not only showed the brand name but effectively blocked natural light from entering the market.
This opaque barrier has led to significant confusion among customers, with some mistakenly believing Rain Shadow Meats is closed.
Ahmed Suliman, who operates Cafe Suliman, echoed Flint’s concerns, stating that customers have been disoriented by the barriers.
Both Flint and Suliman reported noticeable declines in their business since the renovations started.
Suliman claims that lunch sales have dropped by about 50 percent, with foot traffic drastically affected by the construction work’s impact on visibility.
Flint noted a 25 percent decrease in total sales, attributing this troubling trend directly to the changes occurring in the market.
In response to the complaints, a spokesperson for Eggslut stated that efforts were being taken to mitigate disruption for neighboring businesses.
The company has communicated that removing the barricades would lead to safety hazards and would expose visitors to an unappealing construction zone.
They expressed a desire to contribute positively to the market community, emphasizing their previous experience as a cornerstone of vibrant food culture.
Despite assurances, confusion and frustration have persisted among other market tenants.
In an email to Eater Seattle, Suliman remarked about the lack of communication regarding the construction timeline from the landlord.
On the landlord’s side, Regency Centers indicated that Eggslut’s build-out is expected to complete within the next six weeks, pointing out that they have maintained communication with all tenants throughout the process.
Concerns regarding construction were heightened when Suliman compared his past renovation experience at Cafe Suliman, where he felt restricted from utilizing similar construction barriers.
He noted that further complications were faced during his own renovations, where such projects were heavily scrutinized while Eggslut seemed to receive preferential treatment.
The Regency Centers spokesperson responded by stating there is no record of a request for similar coverings during Suliman’s renovation but hinted that one would have been reviewed if submitted.
Suliman expressed further discontent about how an established chain like Eggslut seems out of place in Melrose Market, which has historically rented to local businesses.
He remarked, “Having a place like Eggslut coming in, it makes no sense.”
The spokesperson for Regency Centers, emphasizing their tenant curation process, claimed Eggslut presents a unique offering that enhances the overall market experience.
They believe the new location will energize the market and generate more visitors, ultimately benefiting all tenants involved.
As Eggslut prepares to open, local business owners face uncertainty over its impact on their sales and the market’s atmosphere.
Flint and Suliman remain hopeful for a timeline that would alleviate ongoing disruptions and restore the vibrancy of Melrose Market, hoping for a resolution that favors both new and existing tenants alike.
image source from：https://seattle.eater.com/2025/6/9/24445042/eggslut-melrose-market-seattle-construction-problems-for-rain-shadow-meats
