Community Spotlight: Messina
- YP Media
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
Where dinner casually turns into a full-blown evening (no regrets).
Tucked into Lower Queen Anne, Messina is what happens when you take coastal Italian energy and drop it into Seattle... with zero intention of keeping things low-key. It’s the kind of place where “just one drink” quietly turns into your entire evening.
We caught up with Kaylana Faulkner, Food & Beverage Director at Messina, to get the inside story on what makes the space tick, and why people keep coming back.
What’s the story behind the name: Messina?
Kaylana Faulkner: Messina is named after the coastal city in Sicily, but for us it’s really about a feeling. Italian culture does a beautiful job of slowing people down - good food, delicious wine, long conversations. We wanted to bring that energy here, but make it feel modern, social, and a little more alive.
How would you describe the overall vibe and experience at Messina?
KF: Messina is the kind of place where dinner accidentally turns into your whole night. It starts chill, and then it builds - music comes up, the room fills in, and the energy just shifts. It’s warm, a little moody, very social. You come for a drink, and stay for the vibes.
Restaurants and bars are where life actually happens... People want somewhere they can go and just feel something.
What sets Messina apart from others in the area?
KF: We’re not just a restaurant - we’re building an experience people want to be part of. Between late night happy hour, live music, and curated events, there’s always something happening. It feels consistent, but never repetitive. That’s what keeps people coming back.
What are some of your signature dishes or drinks that customers must try?
KF: The pasta flight is always having a moment - it’s fun, elevated, and super shareable, which people love. Drink-wise, our espresso martinis are fabulous and very well balanced.
How do you engage with the local community beyond serving food and drinks?
KF: We really use our space as a platform. Whether it’s influencer events, live music, or creating promotions that make our space more approachable, we’re always trying to bring people together to build community.
What role do you think bars/restaurants play in fostering connection and belonging in a city?
KF: Restaurants and bars are where life actually happens. Celebrations, first dates, random nights that turn into memories - it all starts there. Especially in Seattle, having a place that’s energetic and welcoming makes a huge impact. People want somewhere they can go and just feel something.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about small business ownership?
KF: Every detail—marketing, staffing, music, lighting, flavors— is intentional. You’re constantly balancing the creative side with the operational side. It’s a lot, but when you see a room full of people smiling laughing creating moments they will remember forever, it makes it worth it.
Follow Messina:
Website: www.eatmessina.com
So, in conclusion...
Messina is doing what a lot of places try (and fail) to do: make you actually want to stay. Not just for another drink, but for the energy, the people, and the feeling that something’s happening. Which, conveniently for you, it is... especially on April 28.
