The Bellevue Downtown Association has awarded the 2022 Placemaking Award to Mary's Place, recognizing their contributions to creating a vibrant urban environment in Downtown Bellevue. The organization has provided a temporary shelter for families experiencing homelessness, significantly impacting the community. The award will be presented at the Downtown Forward event on April 21, 2022.
Downtown Bellevue is ready to welcome back office workers with a curated bar crawl featuring local favorites, from Civility & Unrest to Whiskey by John Howie. Each venue offers unique atmospheres and drink selections, making it an ideal way to reconnect with colleagues and the community post-pandemic. Explore this vibrant nightlife as part of the Heart of Bellevue campaign promoting local businesses.
David Rees, the owner of d'Original Jewelers in Downtown Bellevue, combines his artistic flair and geological knowledge to craft exquisite, custom jewelry. With a commitment to personalized service and a unique approach to jewelry design, Rees has built a trusted reputation in the community since opening his shop in 1990. Despite challenges from the pandemic, he remains dedicated to serving generations of families with high-quality pieces and expert advice.
Bellevue's Downtown Talks event highlighted significant development trends and projects shaping the city's future, with nearly 16 million square feet of office space currently in development. Industry experts, including Gary Guenther and Kate Joncas, discussed the impact of hybrid work, the importance of mixed-use spaces, and strategies for enhancing urban vibrancy post-pandemic.
Seattle Restaurant Week makes its much-anticipated return to Downtown Bellevue from April 3-16, 2022. Featuring a diverse array of local eateries, the event offers prix fixe menus at unbeatable prices, allowing attendees to explore unique culinary experiences while supporting the local restaurant scene. Enjoy highlights from participating restaurants like Baron’s Sino Kitchen & Bar and Cantinetta Bellevue, each presenting exclusive three-course meals.
Margaret O'Mara, a historian and professor at the University of Washington, discusses the evolution of Downtown Bellevue from a rural village to a high-tech hub and the significance of historical context in shaping vibrant urban environments. In her upcoming keynote at the Downtown Forward celebration, O'Mara highlights the impact of remote work on the tech industry and downtown real estate, emphasizing the need for flexibility and creativity in urban planning.
Donald Elfalan, the top men's clothing stylist at Nordstrom in Bellevue, has dedicated over 30 years to enhancing the shopping experience for diverse clientele, from professionals to everyday shoppers. His journey reflects resilience, particularly during the pandemic, which ultimately led to a remarkable revenue turnaround. Discover Elfalan's insights on the significance of relationships in retail and his favorite dining spots in Downtown Bellevue.
In celebration of Women's History Month, the article highlights six extraordinary female leaders in Bellevue, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the community. Each leader shares insights from their professional journeys, favorite woman-owned businesses, and valuable advice for future generations. This piece emphasizes the empowerment and resilience of women entrepreneurs in Downtown Bellevue.
Nestled within the Bellevue Botanical Garden, Copper Kettle Coffee Bar offers a unique café experience featuring local products and a tranquil atmosphere. Owner Christina Dong emphasizes community support and adapting to customer needs, especially during the pandemic, which increased foot traffic to the coffee bar. The establishment not only serves coffee but also supports local charities and small businesses in the Greater Seattle area.
Kate Joncas, director of urban strategy and development at MIG, discusses the essential elements for revitalizing downtown areas in a post-pandemic world. In a Q&A session, she shares insights on leadership, community engagement, and the importance of placemaking in creating vibrant urban environments. This article serves as a precursor to her appearance at the Downtown Talks Breakfast Series.
Andrea Steckler, owner of Salon TEWL in Downtown Bellevue, shares her journey from a hesitant hair stylist to a passionate business owner. With a focus on creating an inclusive environment and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Steckler highlights her experiences navigating the challenges of opening a salon during the pandemic and her love for transformative hair services.
Bellevue’s top cake shops cater to various celebrations, from weddings to birthdays, offering a delightful selection of extravagant cakes. The article highlights five standout bakeries, including Belle Pastry and Lady M Cake Boutique, known for their unique flavors and quality ingredients. This guide serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their special occasions with delectable desserts in the heart of Bellevue.
The East Link Light Rail project in Bellevue, set to enhance public transportation in the region, is nearing completion with a projected finish in 2023. A recent Q&A with Sound Transit's Luke Lamon highlights the project's importance in accommodating growth and providing efficient transit options for residents and visitors. The initiative also includes a partnership with Amazon to develop affordable housing near the new stations.
Gary Guenther, Executive Vice President at Kidder Matthews, shares insights on the evolving real estate landscape in Downtown Bellevue, highlighting its growth from a bedroom community to a sought-after destination for institutional investors. As part of the Downtown Talks Breakfast Series, he will discuss Bellevue's development pipeline and leasing trends on March 29. The article also explores Guenther's favorite local dining spots and the city's diverse parks system.
Black Bottle Bellevue, a gastrotavern in Bellevue, Washington, has partnered with Food Lifeline to combat hunger in the region by donating a nutritious meal for every share plate sold. Since launching this initiative in April 2021, the restaurant has contributed the equivalent of 15,649 meals, highlighting its commitment to community support during the pandemic.
The 15th Annual Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series is set to return from June 5-10, featuring renowned artists like Grammy Award winner Bobby Rush and Australian composer Blake Noble. This event will showcase a mix of free and ticketed performances across various downtown venues, encouraging community engagement through live music and dining.
Jubilee REACH, a nonprofit organization in Bellevue, supports students and families by providing various services, including school outreach programs and a thrift store. The organization relies on community donations and annual events like the Festival of Trees Gala to fund its initiatives, which have become increasingly vital during the pandemic.
Debra Barer, owner of The UPS Store in Downtown Bellevue, shares her family's 20+ year commitment to the community and highlights the store's diverse services beyond shipping, including mailbox rentals and printing. Barer discusses the impact of the pandemic on their business, her favorite local dining spots, and her love for the ever-growing Bellevue area.
Semicolon Cafe in Bellevue is a new community spot designed for relaxation and enjoyment, offering unique drinks and sandwiches. Owner Jizhou Li highlights the cafe's perfect fit for the bustling Downtown area, especially as local tech workers return. Despite facing pandemic challenges, they remain optimistic about building a loyal customer base.
Chef John Howie is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar in Downtown Bellevue, marking two decades of culinary excellence and community support. The restaurant will offer a 20% discount on menu items and host a special event featuring a rotating menu from March 11-31, while also honoring its contributions to local charities during challenging times.