Homemade poptarts from Shikorina Pastries. Courtesy Shikorina Pastries
courtesy Northwest African American Museum

Central District

The longtime hub of Seattle’s Black community thrives with engaging shops, eateries, and arts spaces. 

Courtesy of Chona Kasinger

Explore

This diverse neighborhood supports several cultural spaces, including Wa Na Wari (911 24th Ave), a remarkable community center that shares local history and features works by contemporary Black artists, and LANGSTON (104 17th Ave S), an arts space set in a converted synagogue that hosts local theater groups, concerts, and other engaging events. The Northwest African American Museum (2300 S Massachusetts St) has superb exhibits and is adjacent to Jimi Hendrix Park (2400 S Massachusetts St), an appealing spot for a stroll. Or check out Central Cinema (1411 21st Ave), which presents everything from classics to campy favorites. 

Eat and Drink

Head to Reckless Noodle House and Cocktails (2519 S Jackson St) for modern Asian fare, like caramelized-pork belly rolls, and Ezell’s Famous Chicken (501 23rd Ave), which has served perfectly fried chicken since 1984. Alexandras Macarons & Cafe (1410 18th Ave) is a favorite for brunch and for its namesake desserts. In the leafy Madrona neighborhood, Red Cow (1423 34th Ave) is a classic French brasserie specializing in steak frites, Cafe Soleil (1400 34th Ave) serves a mix of Ethiopian and Italian dishes, and Hi-Spot Cafe (1410 34th Ave) turns out delicious breakfasts—try the tofu scramble with mixed veggies. Standard Brewing (2504 S Jackson St) and Métier Brewing Company (2616 E Cherry St) are friendly spots for excellent beer and conversation. 

Shop

Swing by Arte Noir (2301 E Union St) in Midtown Square, a fine art gallery selling eclectic products from Black creatives. Down the street, letterpress Grapheme Seattle (2421 E Union St) carries all the fountain pens your heart desires. Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry (1422 34th Ave) produces gorgeous custom pendants, earrings, and more, and glassybaby Madrona (3406 E Union St) is highly acclaimed for its stunning hand-crafted glass votive candleholders and barware.

Partners in the Central District

QueenCare Central District

QueenCare

  • Address 2315 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98144
  • Phone (425) 200-4027
  • Connect
Carmelo’s Tacos Central District

Carmelo’s Tacos

  • Address 1223 E Cherry St., Seattle, WA 98122
  • Phone (206) 659-0159
  • Connect

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