In 2001, Lisa Owen opened what would become a landmark restaurant in Olympia, WA, The Mark. Her vision was to create an atmosphere of traditional elegance and charm where her guests could experience classic Italian food--the simple clean food of Tuscany with a touch of southern Italy. The Mark has always used organic, locally grown ingredients and is now certified organic by Washington State. The Mark serves rustic Italian fare in an attentive, yet subtle manner. The restaurant is well recognized for also having the finest cocktails in Olympia with a sophisticated and extensive bar selection.
Maintaining the original character of the 1940's modern historical building what was once a tire store, Lisa used recycled building materials and vintage fixtures when possible, creating an elegant retreat for the capital city. The Mark's signature dark mahogany wood paneled walls and red velvet curtains create the lush atmosphere that provides a warm invitation to a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The large outdoor garden patio area lends itself to casual, warm summer evenings. The Mark is and has always been completely independent and locally owned.
Lisa’s grandfather was a teacher at Bauhaus school of design in Chicago and an established sculptor. His work and lifestyle had a strong effect on her as a designer. The love of art and her dedication to the art community is reflected in offering the restaurant as a non-commission gallery space.
Lisa Owen, executive chef and owner of The Mark, grew up in Berkeley, California's infamous gourmet ghetto just a few blocks from Chez Panisse and The Cheeseboard Collective. It was the natural cooking of Lisa's mother and her kitchen garden that instilled a love of fresh healthy food early on. After falling in love with Italian design, language, food and culture, she chose to move to Italy to pursue learning more. While studying in Italy, Lisa spent time living with Italian families and teaching English. She lived with a farm family in Siena, and then with a wonderful family from Lucca at the beach in Forte dei Marmi. Later, when apprenticeships and school started in Florence, Lisa spent time with a family whose mother was the head of Italian Conde Nast. With each diverse household Lisa experienced and participated in their style of cooking and entertaining. She embraced a fresh perspective of a beautiful, more sophisticated Italian version of what serious entertaining and good food could be.
Returning to the US, Lisa finished her BA at Evergreen State College and began working for restaurants. She worked for LaBrea Bakery and Campanile in Los Angeles followed by a series of smaller Southern Italian family owned and operated restaurants like Marin Joe's, Il Nido, Salute, Piazza d'Angelo's, and Trinacria. Working with Southern Italian chefs added a touch of clean, Southern style to Lisa's primarily Tuscan influenced fare. Executive Chef Lisa Owen makes her education an ongoing effort by continuing to consult with amazing chefs, farmers, educators, environmental activists and artists in both Italy and the US.
Wonderfully, the historical restaurant space The Mark has become the clear choice when a special dinner or a party needs to be planned or when entertaining visiting friends and guests in Olympia. It has in essence become an extended part of the savvy Olympian's household or business.
