Historically Hip Downtown Issaquah Creates Enthusiastic Consumer Traffic to Generate Sales for Local Merchants

A new restaurant video series, the popular “Streatery” and a continuous cadence of activities underscore importance of community

ISSAQUAH, Wash., Oct. 6, 2020 – The Downtown Issaquah Association (DIA) is helping small businesses take the unprecedented pandemic by the horns to produce summer and fall revenue and save jobs.

The creative approach involves collaboration with local restaurants, retailers, service providers and the city.

One example is the Streatery, which restaurants and small businesses declare a salvation amid Covid-19. “Streatery” brought in record summer sales for some restaurants and retailers. The popular outdoor foodie scene has been extended through November 1.

“This summer was the best since I’ve been here,” said Art Freas, owner of Art by Fire and a 4th-generation glass worker and artist. Issaquah restaurateurs who have dining establishments elsewhere in the state cite the Streatery for saving jobs there, as well.

Continuing the food theme, DIA’s newly launched “Issaquah Restaurant Review Time” video series produces regular updates featuring local cuisine. https://downtownissaquah.com/restaurant-review-series/

The series brings the grub and libations to life through charismatic entertainer Troy Kline. The owner of Troy’s salon in Historic Downtown Issaquah reviews rotating restaurants and demonstrates the array and diversity of the restaurants’ artistic offerings. He has been part of the Issaquah community since 1985.

Yes, Artistic Food

Consider Fin’s Bistro, Levitate, Vino Bella, Experience Tea and Yum-e Yogurt, whose apple specials tie in with the community’s Issaquah Goes Apples fall campaign. Fin’s risotto is served in a miniature pumpkin as a spectacular side dish — a perfect complement to its salmon in Pink Lady emulsion. Levitate’s apple cocktail comes with an edible flower. Even the popular Vino Bella wine bar gets into the spirit by pairing pinot, cabs and chardonnay with apple pie. Experience Tea and Yum-e Yogurt serve a variety of apple and pumpkin drinks and treats.

DIA President Christina Bruning shares the sentiment of the local community. “We like to demonstrate the meaning of entrepreneurial spirit and find limitless, fresh possibilities through local talent,” Bruning said more inventive fun is planned through the end of the year and into 2021.

Calendar of Covid-Conscious Programs:

See a sampling below. Details are posted on DIA’s website https://downtownissaquah.com/

  • Issaquah Goes Apples. This community theme celebrates the harvest season combining interactive fun, food and drink. Happenings run from Oct. 17 through Nov. 21
    • Local farmers will be at the Historic Shell Station with a bounty of FARM FRESH produce from 9 to 2 Saturdays.
    • Issaquah Goes Virtual with Apples. Artists of all ages and geographies are entering an eagerly awaited art competition. Everyone is encouraged to submit apple-themed art in 2-D format between now and Oct. 17 to be entered for a variety of prizes. Winners will be announced Oct. 24.
    • Art by Fire offers virtual pumpkin-blowing glass Oct. 17. We live stream your pumpkin being made on a Facebook feed. https://www.facebook.com/artbyfireglass/. You can also watch in person at Art by Fire on Front Street. Pick your colors, watch your designer pumpkin become reality, and we will ship your personal pumpkin free!
    • Scarecrows on Front Street is back and scarier than ever! Have fun being creative as you design and build a scarecrow out of whatever materials you like! All entries should include an apple and are to be dropped off at the Historic Shell Station by Oct. 23.
  • The popular Zombie Walk takes its decade-long event online. The October 24th event will include Halloween games, fun ghoulish food to make, and how to create SLIME. And Zombie Walk would not be complete without dance tutorials for “Time Warp” and “Thriller.”
    • The online event will be held Saturday, October 24th. From 6:00-7:00 pm. The event is free, open to all ages and zombies of all skill levels.
    • For more details, visit https://downtownissaquah.com/zombie-walk/
  • Further celebrating the festive time of the year, an Historically Hip Artisan Market is popping-up in multiple locations. Artists are filling the Issaquah Depot Museum, the space recently vacated by the Rogue Brewery, and the fan-favorite Historical Shell Holiday Shop just in time for the holidays. The venues give local artists a front-and-center showcase for their wares. The market runs through the end of the year.CONTACT: execdirector@downtownissaquah.com 425-391-1112 

ABOUT ISSAQUAH

Downtown Issaquah is the bright cultural beacon on the east side of Seattle, drawing those looking for an urban scene on a human scale, situated only 15 miles to the east of Downtown Seattle. Downtown Issaquah is emerging as a hot spot for socializing and connecting with a local funky vibe on the eastside.

ABOUT DIA

The mission of the Downtown Issaquah Association is to cultivate a thriving Olde Town that builds community and celebrates our charm.

DIA ED
Author: DIA ED

Historically Hip Downtown