Seahawks Super Bowl run means big bucks for local businesses
Jan 31, 2014, 2:58 PM | Updated: 4:07 pm
Regardless of whether the Seahawks can bring home the Lombardi trophy or not, local businesses are already big winners thanks to the run to the Super Bowl.
Seattle’s iconic F.X. McRory’s in Pioneer Square had its busiest day in its 35 year history when the Seahawks won the NFC Championship. Owner Mick McHugh says he expects a record-setting repeat on Super Bowl Sunday.
“As you know, these seasons don’t come around that often,” McHugh says of the fever sweeping the city.
The veteran restaurant owner says interest in the Seahawks has driven increased sales all season long, which benefits the entire community.
“We buy extra beer, we buy extra food, the taxis are running, everybody is buying gear, it’s just a huge economic boost for everybody.”
The unprecedented interest in the Seahawks has helped boost business anywhere there’s a TV, says Dave Tolan, co-owner of the Belltown Pub in Seattle. He’s seen increased sales since the preseason whenever the Seahawks play. And the place has been packed for the playoffs. Sunday is expected to be the busiest yet.
“We literally stopped taking reservations about three weeks ago, we filled up about 80 percent of the place and we’re leaving the rest first come, first served. And I have told everybody if you want a seat at one of the non-reserved tables, you better get there hours early,” he says.
The timing couldn’t be better. The winter months are usually the slowest for Seattle-area restaurants.
“Coming into February and March, an extra couple of days is hugely important to us,” Tolan says.
Along with the increased traffic, many restaurants have benefited from Seahawks related specials that can significantly increase the tab.
At World Sports Grill in the South Lake Union neighborhood, general manager Wade Clark says the restaurant and bar has sold dozens of VIP packages that include reserved seating, unlimited food, soft drinks and service for groups of 10 or more. The Super Bowl is virtually sold out.
“It’s been great, not only for us but everybody across the city. We can’t wait for Sunday,” he says.
