Columbia City & Rainier Valley

Explore

The juried exhibits and public receptions at Columbia City Gallery, an artists’ co-op, showcase the neighborhood’s creative spirit. Explore old-growth forest, nature trails, and bird-watching terrain at Seward Park on Lake Washington, and stunning natural beauty at Japanese-style Kubota Garden.

Eat and Drink

The James Beard Award semifinalist Off Alley presents locally sourced Northwestern cuisine. Lil Red Takeout specializes in scrumptious soul food, barbecue, and Jamaican cooking, while Pizzeria Pulcinella is known for tasty wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies. Taproot Cafe & Bar serves cold-press juices and smoothies; in the evening, come for the craft cocktails and creative dinners. Notable spots for Vietnamese food include Wicked Chopstix and Bánh Mì Deluxe. In Rainier Beach, Onda Origins Cafe & Roastery is an inviting fair-trade coffeehouse with yummy pastries from local chainlet Fresh Flours Bakery. The convivial gastropub Jude’s Old Town is planning to soon open a zero-proof mocktail bar, Rosette. Drop by Creamy Cone Cafe for ice cream or a shake.

Shop

Whimsical greeting cards, fragrant candles, and colorful gifts for your garden and home are sold at Columbia City Bouquet. Pick up more one-of-a-kind treasures at the jewelry and women’s clothing boutique Andaluz and at trusted fashion house Gather Consignment, and cheerful children’s attire at Chrysanthemum.