about us
Seaview’s Golden Age
Seaview’s popularity as a vacation site began in the 1870’s when families would arrive by horseback, wagon, stagecoach and steamer. The transition from campground to resort is credited to Jonathon L. Stout, a barrel maker from Ohio who homesteaded 153.5 acres near the Willows in 1880.
“A summer retreat registered as ‘Sea View’ at the Oysterville courthouse in 1881.”
1888 – 1930
The Clamshell Railroad
Lewis Alfred Loomis, a founding father of the peninsula, needed a faster way to handle his mail contract than the slow stage lines. In March 1888, construction began on the Ilwaco Railroad and Navigation Company.
Because steamers could only reach the wharf at mid-flood tide, train departures changed daily. It was likely the only railroad in the world to operate by a tide table, earning its famous nickname.
Present
Where the Past Welcomes the Present
When you step into The Depot Restaurant, you aren’t simply arriving for dinner— you’re entering a lovingly preserved piece of Seaview’s history, a place where time slows just enough for you to feel its stories.
Our building began its life around 1900, after the Union Pacific took over the line and replaced the original shed‑like structure with the depot that still stands today. Known as the Seaview stop on the beloved Clamshell Railroad—the tide‑timed, narrow‑gauge line that carried travelers, families, fishermen, and adventurers up and down the Long Beach Peninsula—this little station quickly became a lively hub of coastal life. For decades, it bustled with energy as passengers stepped down from the train with luggage in hand and ocean breezes in their hair.
More than a century later, the depot still stands proudly in its original location, alive with that same spirit of welcome.
The photographs on our walls are more than decorations—they’re glimpses into the depot’s earliest days, capturing the faces, trains, and enduring charm of Seaview and the peninsula’s past.
And in the southwest corner, you’ll find our most treasured tribute:
the original 1900 depot entrance door, displayed exactly where it once greeted arriving passengers. Beside it, a hand-painted train-themed mural honors the Clamshell Railroad and the era of steam, timber, and tide-driven travel.
This humble station began its new chapter as a restaurant thanks to the vision and passion of Chef Michael Lalewicz and Nancy Gorshe, who transformed the historic depot into a beloved fine-dining destination. Their dedication laid the foundation for everything The Depot has become, and we are grateful to continue the legacy they began.
In 2025, MSN and writer Deborah Cicurel named The Depot the Most Charming Restaurant in Washington State, placing it among the most enchanting dining rooms in the entire country.
Today, under the care of Glenn and Hillary Trusty and the Trusty family, we continue to honor this building’s story—preserving its character, celebrating its heritage, and crafting each dish with the same care and heart that once welcomed passengers from the little train that could.
Here, the past isn’t forgotten—
it’s alive in the walls, the flavors, and the hospitality you feel from the moment you arrive.
Thank you for becoming part of our depot’s continuing journey.
A Living History
The Depot Today
The Depot Restaurant features fine dining with international wines, on-tap microbrews, a display kitchen, heated outdoor deck, and special events ranging from wine dinners to Jazz events. This Seaview train depot has more than stood the test of time!
Founding of Seaview
1881
A summer retreat was registered as ‘Sea View’ at the Oysterville courthouse in 1881.
Railroad Construction Begins
March, 1888
Construction of the Ilwaco Railroad and Navigation Company began at the Ilwaco wharf. Likely the only railroad to operate by a tide table, earning it the nickname, the ‘Clamshell Railroad’.
Construction of The Depot
1905
The railroad reached Long Beach by July 1888. Track laying continued to Nahcotta. A proper train depot was constructed in Seaview in 1905 to replace the original platform shed.
Last day as a Train Depot
September 10, 1930
The railroad continued in operation until 1930, when car ferries and highways brought most visitors. The only remaining buildings are the Long Beach and Seaview train depots.
The Depot Restaurant Opens
May 3, 2003
For over 20 years, The Depot has been operating as the top fine dining restaurant on the peninsula. Experience the history of Seaview and Long Beach, and an incredible meal.
“One of the best dinner houses in the northwest”
— Gerry Frank, The Oregonian