We have sad news for lovers of Rachel’s Ginger Beer. Rachel Marshall, founder of Seattle-based Rachel’s Ginger Beer, passed away on April 24, 2023 at the age of 42. Marshall was also the co-owner of two Seattle bars: Nacho Borracho and Montana. Marshall leaves behind her partner, Adam Peters, and two sons.
Read on for more details about Marshall and the upcoming memorial.
Allecia Vermillion, executive editor and friend of Marshall, wrote the following in an obituary for Seattle Met:
Rachel was a connector, engaging easily in conversation with everyone from CEOs to random customers at her bars… Her curiosity and pragmatism prompted creative solutions that in hindsight were deeply entrepreneurial. She and [business partner Kate Opatz] were the first in the city to pour cocktails on draft. Later, when she wanted to give customers food without getting into the restaurant business herself, she turned over her kitchen spaces to chefs like Kevin Burzell and Alysson Wilson of Kedai Makan, Taylor Cheney of Yalla, and Mark Fuller’s Ma’ono.
According to Vermillion, Marshall grew up mostly on Whidbey Island and was inspired by British-style ginger beer while living in Germany. Rachel’s Ginger Beer was founded in 2011. Marshall grew her ginger beer business from a stall at the Capitol Hill Farmers Market to the four Seattle locations that exist today. You can get Rachel’s Ginger Beer in addition to cocktails, soft serve, and even food at the storefront bars in Capitol Hill, Pike Place Market, University Village, and in SLU near the Spheres.
As Vermillion wrote, Marshall “parlayed the business into a singular influence in Seattle’s food and beverage scene.” You’ll find Rachel’s Ginger Beer on the menu at many Seattle restaurants and bars.
The hype has spread beyond Seattle, however. Rachel’s Ginger Beer is now shipped all across the country.
Rachel’s Ginger Beer is one of the most iconic flavors of Seattle. The news of Marshall’s passing is sure to touch everyone who lives in Seattle or who has visited and has a fond memory of getting soft serve and ginger beer at Rachel’s. We’ll be sure to raise a glass of Rachel’s Ginger Beer this week in Marshall’s honor.
If you would like to attend Rachel Marshall’s memorial, it is taking place on Friday, May 19 at Benaroya Hall. Doors open at 10:00 a.m. and the memorial starts at 11:00 a.m. It will be a “community celebration to honor” Marshall; everyone is welcome. You must RSVP here so that the organizers can estimate the attendance.