Bellevue Launches New Season of "Al Fresco" Expanded Outdoor Dining

Bellevue has launched its "Al Fresco" outdoor dining initiative for the summer of 2021, aimed at supporting local restaurants recovering from the effects of COVID-19. The program allows for expanded outdoor dining options, utilizing on-street, sidewalk, parking lot, and private property spaces to accommodate over 40 participating restaurants. Mayor Lynne Robinson praised the previous year's program, which garnered positive feedback from both restaurants and patrons, highlighting its importance in fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Mac Cummins, from the city's Community Development department, emphasized the program's role in facilitating a smooth transition towards normalcy as businesses adapt to new operational realities. The initiative, in partnership with Microsoft and the Bellevue Downtown Association, is designed to enhance the dining experience while ensuring safety amid ongoing pandemic considerations. Restaurants and businesses interested in participating can find resources on the city’s website. This year, the program aims to build on its prior success by promoting more local eateries and outdoor dining options. Overall, the "Al Fresco" program is a significant step in Bellevue's economic recovery and community engagement efforts.