Maggie’s on Meeker owner receives state Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Raman Arora, the owner of Maggie’s on Meeker restaurant, recently received the Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the annual statewide conference presented by the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation and the state Department of Archaeology & Historic Preservation.

Known as PLACES, the conference Oct. 16-18 in Walla Walla focused on the continued care of place through historic preservation, placemaking and economic vitality, including Main Street communities. The conference drew preservationists, planners, downtown development professionals and others.

As part of the conference, the Excellence on Main Awards celebrates local businesses that bring Main Streets to life, according to the Kent Downtown Partnership. This award honors community driven projects, entrepreneurs and volunteers that go the extra mile. It’s a recognition of the dedication, innovation and passion that local business and property owners invest in making Main Street a lively center of culture, commerce and community spirit.

Kent Downtown Partnership nominated Arora based on her entrepreneurial journey and testament of her innovative spirit, unwavering dedication and impact on the community.

Originally from Punjab, India, Arora embodies passion, resilience and a commitment to excellence, according to Kent Downtown Partnership After high school, she chose to pursue a career instead of following traditional expectations. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to London, England, where she discovered a love for the hospitality industry. With dreams of owning her own restaurant, she moved to the greater Seattle area at 25, drawn by the region’s diversity and opportunities.

Arora worked diligently in the restaurant industry, saving for years, including jobs at Dairy Queen and Wild Wheat Bakery & Cafe, according to Kent Downtown Partnership. On April 1, she achieved her dream by becoming the proud owner of Maggie’s on Meeker, a cherished women-owned legacy business in downtown Kent at 307 W. Meeker St., that opened in 2005.

“Raman is thriving as a business owner, maintaining Maggie’s reputation for great food, community spirit and a welcoming atmosphere,” according to a Kent Downtown Partnership statement. “She frequently donates to community causes and supports local charities, always giving back to the community she loves.

“Her journey has been supported by friends, customers, and her “American Mother,” Kaki, whose encouragement has been invaluable. Raman’s story is one of dedication to quality, community, and a love for Kent, which she proudly calls home.”

Maggie’s continues to be a gathering space for many.

“Raman has a generous and inclusive nature about her that comes from her heart,” according to Kent Downtown Partnership. “She continues the previous owner’s (Sue Floyd) legacy of a welcoming presence on Meeker Street. In addition to families and friends, Maggie’s is a gathering place for work groups such as Kent-Meridian teachers, Public Health nurses and City of Kent staff. You’ll find work colleagues at Maggie’s gathering for socialization and team meetings.”