Heart of Bellevue

Discover the people & places that bring life to the Heart of Bellevue.

About the Campaign

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Celebrating New BDA Members in the Era of COVID-19

Since COVID-19 landed back in March of last year, 27 regional businesses and nonprofits have joined us in championing the economic health and cultural vitality of the Downtown core. These recent members play an integral part in how we serve our Downtown constituents.

Meet Lady A: The Hardest Workin' Woman in Blues, Soul & Funk

Anita White, famously known under the name Lady A, has been telling stories through her music for over 20 years throughout the Pacific Northwest. Her love of singing, Louisiana roots and gospel background have led her back to the blues and gospel genre, mixed with flavors of soul and funk like a perfect jambalaya.

Person Behind The Place: Jenna Heberden

Passionate about making the world more inclusive, Jenna Heberden's job at AtWork! is to make the workplace more accessible for people with disabilities. Hear more about what Heberden's looking forward to this year, what makes Bellevue unique and her favorite places to spend time in Downtown.

Hello Again, Bellevue: Where to De-Stress in Downtown

Life can be stressful. Thankfully, there are many businesses in Downtown Bellevue that help alleviate the stresses of life. Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. Here are some of our favorite de-stressing services and events that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.

Bellevue Beats Wraps for 2021 – See You Next Year

As our beloved summer rhythms wind down, so does the Bellevue Beats Music Series. Thank you to everyone who joined us to champion live, local music these past six months and picked up some grub from local Downtown eateries on your lunch break!

Al Fresco Friday: Where To Get The Best Fries in Bellevue

T.G.I. FRY-day! For those who can’t get enough of the salty, crispy goodness, here’s our guide to the best fries in Bellevue, al fresco dining included.

Meet the Candidates: Bellevue City Council Forum Set for Sept. 30

On Thursday, Sept. 30, The Bellevue Downtown Association will host a virtual candidates forum as part of the Downtown Talks series. The community is invited to join this free, live discussion with all six Bellevue City Council candidates.

Get to Know Eastrail: Connecting the Eastside with 42 Miles of Trail

Built on the historic Burlington Northern rail line, the Eastrail will be an uninterrupted 42-mile trail that connects the communities of Renton, Bellevue, Kirkland, Woodinville, Snohomish and Redmond. The Eastrail is built to welcome everyone. It’s more than a trail, it's an innovative system that will connect neighbors and the world together.

Person Behind The Place: Cindy Gayte

Keeping the business in the family, Gayte took over Bellevue Thai Kitchen in 2009 and continued her mother's legacy with her own passion for food and hospitality, Bird Pepper was then opened in 2019. We caught up with Gayte on what makes Thai Kitchen Bird Pepper special and why she loves to work Downtown.

Hello Again, Bellevue: Five Reasons to Love Working in Downtown Bellevue

The Heart of Bellevue is more than just the tall skyscrapers we sit in day after day... there's a whole community that makes Downtown unique. Here are five reasons you'll love coming to work in Bellevue every morning.

The Journey of Café Aloe: Bringing Hong Kong Bites to the Eastside

Café Aloe began their humble beginnings in 2015. After working at a family-owned Dim Sum, co-founders Julie and John Wu knew they were meant to do more. After looking at numerous locations, they decided to settle right in the Heart of Bellevue.

Al Fresco Friday: Third Culture Coffee

Third Culture Coffee brings together the tradition and history of cultures with the allure and mystique of coffee and tea. General Manager John Hong is celebrating a global coffee culture and bringing the world together, one cup at a time.

He(ART) of Bellevue: Morgan Fyfe Powell

Abstract artist Morgan Fyfe Powell is heavily influenced by the places she spends time at. After graduating from the University of Mississippi, she moved to the Pacific Northwest and now calls Seattle her home. Fyfe still creates art from her roots in the South. You can see her artwork in person at the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market.

Hello Again: Re-Discover Bellevue (Safely) This September

Welcome back to the Heart of Bellevue. Although times are still uncertain, we are reminding our Downtown community that Bellevue is ready to be safely explored and re-discovered. Throughout September, we'll be highlighting 30+ activities taking place throughout Downtown. Take a look, and we're excited to see you back in Bellevue!

Person Behind the Place: Rachel Jenne

We caught up with local barista and cafe manager, Rachel Jenne, at Anchorhead Coffee Co. in City Center Plaza for the latest tea on - well, popular tea and coffee creations unique to the popular roastery and coffeehouse. Hear her thoughts on serving a rapidly shifting #HeartofBellevue and other details fresh off the (french)press!

Dave & Buster's Now Open in Downtown Bellevue

Over 110 locations later, Dave & Buster's has finally made its way to the Wilburton Center in Downtown Bellevue, marking its second location in all of Washington State. General Manager Shaun Wolf hopes to bring the true Dave & Buster’s experience to everybody.

Al Fresco Friday: Bellevue's Not-So-Ordinary Burger Joints

The Heart of Bellevue includes several restaurants taking the ordinary burger to extraordinary with big flavors that are worth all the mess. Here's our list of al fresco burger spots that are fit to fulfill your dream burger bucket list. Recommended drink pairings, too!

He(ART) of Bellevue: Shamila Jiwa

Born in Tanzania and now operating from Seattle, Shamila Jiwa has managed to turn a simple jewelry hobby into a passionate career. Her jewelry is designed for the modern woman, combining age-old goldsmithing techniques with modern day stylistic elements.

Person Behind The Place: Gabriel Walton

After 20+ years of salon experience, Gabriel Walton pursued his dream and opened House of Hebe Salon. Walton continues to strive for excellence with his clients and their experience in the salon, as well as helping his students and fellow stylists succeed and grow their passion. Hear more about what inspires him and why he loves working in Downtown Bellevue.

Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series Returns in Person for 2021

From October 6-10, the Bellevue Downtown Association (BDA) is bringing together top regional talent to Downtown Bellevue at the 14th Annual Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series

Al Fresco Friday: Sushi Tour in Downtown Bellevue

From simple California rolls to extravagant Japanese-Latin fusion, there’s no doubt you’ll find a favorite sushi place in Downtown Bellevue. Celebrate sunshine and sushi at these welcoming restaurants with outdoor spaces. See our roll recommendations below.

He(ART) of Bellevue: Dina Ayoub

Seattle artist Dina Ayoub believes art is all about feelings. After living many years as a product manager in the tech industry and writing a fantasy novel, she's come to realize that she enjoys life the most when she’s creating. You can see Ayoub and her paintings in person at the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market, Sept. 4-6.

Book a Staycation in the Heart of Bellevue

With Labor Day fast approaching, it's the perfect opportunity to get away while staying local. From grand suites, extravagant amenities and top-tier dining, you’ll find yourself wishing for just one more night in the city!

Person Behind the Place: Ryan Grams

From design to construction, Ryan Grams' tenure at GIS International Group continues to enrich the Seattle area and Eastside region with premier authority on architecture planning, land development and custom designs.

Finding Strength in Motherhood With Fit4Mom Bellevue & Mercer Island

Fit4Mom Bellevue & Mercer Island is a prenatal and postnatal fitness and wellness program to help make moms strong in body, mind and spirit. Owner Jasmine Dailida is passionate about making it an inclusive place for all moms.

Al Fresco Friday: Araya's Place

Araya's Place emphasizes the importance of eating with others. The eldest son of Araya, Aratana Nualkhair, is determined to offer a spot where people can spend quality time together. Araya's team invites everyone to come and enjoy life as their family does - one moment and one meal at a time. Savor all the flavors on his patio this summer and try out owner Nualkhair's personal favorite dishes!

He(ART) of Bellevue: Angie Heinrich

Angie Heinrich, the owner of Zetamari Mosaic Artworks, has been creating mosaics in Seattle since 1998. Drawing inspiration from Moroccan art and architecture, Heinrich combines similar texture, color and meaning in her own art. You can see Heinrich and her mosaic art in person at the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market, Sept. 4-6. Read on for our Q&A with Angie Heinrich.

Through the Lens of Vivian Hsu, Photographer Extraordinaire

Vivian Hsu took the Greater Seattle area by storm and collaborated with multiple local publications like The Seattle Times and 425 Magazine, along with dozens of renowned clients like Microsoft and Nordstrom. While her love for photography continues today, Hsu found a new love: the event world.

Person Behind The Place: Wendell Shirley

In 2020, amid national protest and police reform, Wendell Shirley saw an opportunity to create change and came out of retirement from working in law enforcement for 26 years. Wendell is now the new interim chief for the Bellevue Police Department. We talked with him about the issues he plans to focus on and his favorite part about working in downtown.

Washington Wine Month: Celebrate Local Sips in Downtown Bellevue

It’s officially wine month in Washington State! Venture out and celebrate around the Heart of Bellevue with local sips at these watering holes, including discounted wine during happy hour - Toast to that!

Al Fresco Friday: Finding a Taste of Summer in the Heart of Bellevue

From peaches to eggplants, get the most out of your summer by trying our favorites farm-to-table Al Fresco restaurants that will leave you wishing that summer never ends!

He(ART) of Bellevue: Ashmita Gulati

Based in Bellevue, AURORA by Ashmita Gulati is a visual painter who creates contemporary and abstract art inspired by her personal and cultural experience. Read on for our Q&A with Ashmita Gulati.

Person Behind The Place: Linda Hoffner

From Mrs. Washington to a Senior Property Manager, Linda Hoffner is a Bellevue double threat. Her current focus is creating an all-inclusive community in The Spring District. We caught up with Linda to talk about Downtown's growth and where to find her in the Heart of Bellevue!

Aqua S: The New Australian Soft-Serve Shop in Bellevue

With endurance and hard work, Frankie Zhao became the owner of Aqua S Bellevue, the newest premium soft-serve ice cream shop in Downtown Bellevue. With a wide range of over 100 flavors, Aqua S combines bright colors with outrageous toppings for a treat that tastes as good as it looks.

Al Fresco Friday: Café Cesura

Café Cesura is more than just an average shop. Owner Sean Nickerson insists on sourcing, roasting and brewing their own coffee in-house. According to Nickerson, coffee represents the communities where they are cultivated, that’s why he strives to present them in a worthy way.

He(ART) of Bellevue: Caramia Justian

Located in Issaquah, Caramia Justian creates unique themed collage brooches and pendants that you can’t find anywhere else. She is one of the many artists who are fighting to keep the art movement alive. Read on for our Q&A with Justian.

Neighborhood Walks Return: Stroll Along Bellevue Sidewalks with City Leadership

After a year of webinars and virtual walks, the City of Bellevue is inviting residents to join City Manager Brad Miyake and other city leadership for in-person guided walking tours through Bellevue neighborhoods.

Person Behind the Place: Juliet Buder

After a nationwide search, the Bellevue Schools Foundation welcomed Juliet Buder on board as Executive Director to shepherd new strategies for educational access and revamp fundraising efforts.

Bellevue's Bucket List of Outdoor Recreation: Your Summer Adventures Await

Beyond the soaring skyscrapers, local shops and delicious food offerings, Bellevue also delivers an array of outdoor fun! Explore this collection of lively outdoor entertainment and activities in the Heart of Bellevue.

Al Fresco Friday: The Ultimate Guide To Brunch in Bellevue

There's nothing better than starting the day (or afternoon) off on a patio with delicious food and great company. You won’t have to look far for unique brunch spots in the Heart of Bellevue. For all those who love to sleep in late or want breakfast all day long... discover our favorite patio spots for brunch!

He(ART) of Bellevue: Rob Tilley

Photographer Rob Tilley captures more than just stunning images. He creates a connection by using visually impactful colors, textures, patterns and designs to pull at the strings of the viewer's emotion. After working in financial service for more than 20 years, he decided to follow his passion and became a full-time photographer. Read on for our Q&A with Tilley:

Back in Action: Downtown Entertainment Returns

Celebrate a return to gathering in person among friends and family at these favorite live entertainment venues and community events in the Downtown neighborhood.

Person Behind the Place: Patrick McCloskey

Inside the familiar comfort of a coffee shop, Capital One Cafés offer local espresso and loan info. conveniently in one place. With indoor seating now open, swing by the Bellevue Café and grab a seat to talk through all your money questions!

Al Fresco Friday: Andiamo Ristorante

Andiamo Ristorante has stood its ground in the Heart of Bellevue for 29 years, earning its title as one of the oldest restaurants in downtown. This charming Italian spot has continued to serve authentic dishes made from scratch with the freshest ingredients possible. Owner Reyes Camino produced an eclectic menu you can’t find anywhere else.

The Spring District: Eastside's New Urban Neighborhood Welcomes All

The Spring District has quickly emerged as a neighborhood designed for all lifestyles. Linda Hoffner, a senior property manager with Wright Runstad & Company, shares how they're creating a unique community space where people can work, live and play.

Bellevue Downtown Arts Market Returns in Person for Labor Day Weekend

The Bellevue Downtown Association is proud to present the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market, an open-air showcase of over 100 juried sculpture, jewelry, home décor, wood and glass work, fabrics, and other local crafts. More than 110 artists will be participating this year's event on Sept. 4-6.

Resonance Events Reopens With New Ideas & Big Improvements

Since last March, tight restrictions on in-person events threatened the survival of many local event spaces. Resonance Events felt the impacts. After what could be described as a 'long intermission', Resonance Events is reopening with the first in-person show this year on Friday, July 16.

Person Behind The Place: Sophie Banh

Sophie Banh, with the help of her brother, Eric Banh, came to Washington knowing she wanted to do something different in the food world. With limited Vietnamese restaurants in the Seattle area, Monsoon was born in 1999, becoming the first Seattle restaurant to reimagine Vietnamese cuisine using local ingredients and pushing boundaries.

Al Fresco Friday: Dog-Friendly Patios To Bring Your Pup

After a long year staying home, there's no doubt that you and your pup have bonded closer than ever before. Now that patio season is back in full swing, grab that leash and take your pup to one of the many dog-friendly Al Fresco spots located in the Heart of Bellevue!

Fresh Cuts for Fellows: A Man's Guide to Grooming in Bellevue

Before your next backyard barbeque or weekend reservation on an Al Fresco patio, spruce up your locks at any number of these superb #HeartofBellevue salons!