Your trusted source for local Bellevue, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The BDA President Patrick Bannon reflects on the challenges and successes faced by Downtown Bellevue in 2021, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation amid the ongoing pandemic. The article outlines the achievements of the Heart of Bellevue campaign, which aimed to support local businesses and foster unity in the community.
The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink, presented by Symetra, closed its 2021-2022 season after attracting over 40,000 skaters, marking a successful return following the pandemic shutdown in 2020. With new safety protocols, community partnerships, and special events, the rink has solidified its place as a beloved holiday tradition in Bellevue.
Joseph Brazen, the owner and director of hospitality at 520 Bar & Grill in Downtown Bellevue, has significantly impacted the local dining scene by creating vibrant community spaces. His journey, inspired by a trip to Ireland and a desire to revitalize Old Bellevue, showcases resilience during the pandemic and a commitment to family and community. Discover his insights on the evolution of Downtown Bellevue and the legacy he aims to leave.
House of Hebe Salon in Downtown Bellevue celebrates its first anniversary after opening during the pandemic in January 2021. Owners Gabriel Walton, Aleeta Hinton, and Chrissy Smith focus on high-quality customer service and a vibrant atmosphere inspired by the Gucci Garden in Florence, Italy. Looking ahead, they plan to refine their services and potentially expand with a new location and product line.
Bellden Cafe, owned by Claire Sumadiwirya, embodies community spirit in Bellevue, WA, by intertwining coffee sales with charitable efforts. Since its opening in 2017, the cafe has supported local charities, including Overlake Medical Center, with unique drink campaigns and has begun initiatives to empower immigrant female business owners.
Dough Zone in Bellevue has launched an exclusive happy hour from 1-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, offering 50% off draft beers. This initiative aims to express gratitude to the Bellevue community and highlights the restaurant's unique design, making it the only Dough Zone location with a bar. Signature dishes such as Xiao Long Bao and Dan Dan Noodles will complement the new beverage offerings.
The event "Discovering a New You in 2022" invites participants to explore personal and professional growth in the new year. Set in Sandy, Utah, this event emphasizes career development and local community engagement, making it a timely opportunity for those seeking to make impactful changes in their lives.
Van Pham Choe, owner of Vanity Pham Salon, has transformed an 850-square-foot space in Downtown Bellevue into a thriving beauty hub specializing in lash extensions and permanent makeup. The salon's design reflects a feminine yet modern aesthetic, thanks to collaboration with an interior designer. Choe discusses how the pandemic impacted her business and her love for the vibrant community in Bellevue.
Reality Break Escapes, an innovative escape room business in Bellevue, offers a unique blend of entertainment and team-building experiences. Owner Brenda Luper emphasizes collaboration over competition, providing virtual options to adapt to the pandemic while planning for future expansions. With immersive themes like "The Lucky Duck Speakeasy" and "Cyperspace," the venue invites groups to solve puzzles and strengthen workplace relationships.
Kemper Freeman, chairman and CEO of Kemper Development Company, discusses the transformation of Bellevue into a vibrant mixed-use shopping and entertainment center during the Downtown Talks event. The article highlights the role of retail as a growth catalyst and offers insights into current consumer trends and future developments in The Bellevue Collection.