Madrona
Text and photos by Virginia Bunker
Just a short drive from bustling Martin Luther King Jr. Way via Union Street, Madrona’s shopping and dining district feels like a “secret” spot, albeit one that’s hiding in plain sight. Resident “trendscaping” expert Shannon Kelly, principal of In Your Head, LLC, works and lives near Madrona’s core. She says: “Storefront retail is booming on 34th with new restaurants, unique shops, friendly community — it’s a charming place.” Three coffees, one brunch, two cupcakes and a full shopping bag later, I couldn’t agree more.
1. 1410 34th Avenue Hi Spot Café (206.325.7905) A neighborhood favorite for breakfast, brunch or lunch, the Hi Spot Café satisfies with scrumptious three-egg omelets, fresh baked goodies, house specialties and my personal favorite, a tall stack of pancakes.
2. 3406 East Union glassybaby (206.568.7368) A glassybaby is a colorful hand-blown vessel that serves as a cup, candleholder or vase. It’s available in myriad hues and seasonal trios, and 10 percent of sales of select colors benefits cancer-related charities.
3. 1101 34th Avenue Vérité Coffee & Cupcake Royale (206.709.4497) It’s time for harvest — a harvest of cupcakes! Try seasonal flavors like apple cake with caramel frosting, or zucchini, carrot or pumpkin. Oh, a baker’s take on autumn! Suddenly vegetables are easy to love.
4. 1105 34th Avenue JayWalk (206.328.7776) Proprietor Amy Bush celebrates the exceptional in her charming storefront showcasing more than fifty local artists — many affiliated with Pratt Fine Arts Center. Discover interesting finds like this eweCUFF bracelet designed by Brandon Perhacs.
5. 3314 East Spring Street Juniper Clothing (206.838.7496) Owner Lisa Clinton presents a perfectly edited selection of apparel and housewares designed with an eye toward timelessness and, often, sustainability. For enduring and effortless chic, Juniper stands out.
Also noteworthy:
3308 East Spring Street: Two Owls Sustainable apparel | On 34th Avenue: 701 Precocious Toys Imagination makers | 1123 Hitchcock Madrona
Jewelry & accessories | 1138 Madrona Eatery & Ale House Pub grub | 1400 Café Soleil Ethiopian cuisine | 1406 Décor on 34th Interior flair | 1411 Fetch Pet grocery | 1423 Crémant Steak frites
