Stories

Keep up with the rapid beat of the Heart of Bellevue. Read stories of the people behind the place. Get to know the BDA with a member spotlight. Stay informed on the latest advocacy efforts and what's happening downtown. Whether you come downtown for work or fun, make the most of your visit by enjoying Bellevue Beats and Al Fresco Dining.

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A (Brief) Farewell to Al Fresco Dining - City & BDA Seeking Feedback for Next Year

As cooler weather approaches, we temporarily say goodbye to this year's Al Fresco expanded outdoor dining program. To ensure that on-street dining continues and to create an even better Al Fresco program in 2022, we are seeking feedback on the Old Bellevue dining experience.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

Al Fresco Friday: Fun Shareables For the Table

Food is better when shared with your favorite people. This Independence Day weekend and beyond, enjoy delicious shareable dishes made for the whole table! Here's our list of Al Fresco spots that offer unique appetizers and shared plates.

Al Fresco Friday: Beat the Heat with Cool Cocktails

Nothing sounds better than sitting on a patio with a refreshing drink in hand, and delicious food to pair with it. Be bold and bask in the sun (or shade) at any of Downtown Bellevue's Al Fresco locations! Here are some of our favorites.

Al Fresco Friday: Monsoon Bellevue

With endurance and hard work, Monsoon Bellevue opened its doors 11 years ago and has continued to deliver authentic Vietnamese dishes using local and fresh ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. Browse our collection of handpicked dishes from the menu.

Al Fresco Friday: 520 Bar & Grill

Widely known for its community-centric culture and electric atmosphere, casual dining with a locally savvy flair has taken on new meaning at 520 Bar & Grill for its returning appearance in the citywide Al Fresco dining program.

Al Fresco Friday: Handcrafted Sweet Treats Under the Sun

Slather on some sunscreen and gear up for a patio crawl around your Bellevue stomping grounds. Savor some of Bellevue's most delicious sweet treats served al fresco style - with plenty of sunshine, just in the nick of time for the holiday weekend!