Seattle's Capitol Hill has three distinct neighborhoods – Broadway, Pike-Pine corridor and the late bloomer at the very top of the hill, 15th Avenue East and 19th Avenue East.
When spring's mild temperatures invite you out to play, a short stroll of a couple of blocks will offer exceptional food, shopping and a romp in the park.
Bakery Nouveau, 137 15th Ave E.
Words fail when trying to capture the divine experience of eating one of the French bakery delicacies at this sister shop to the famous original bakery in West Seattle. The only downside is that your group may be too satiated to move once you down a whole pastry or croissant sandwich for breakfast, so consider carry out for a picnic at nearby Volunteer Park.
Remedy Teas, 345 15th Ave. E.
In need of a peaceful place for quality one-on-one time with a kid or partner? Remedy Teas offers 150 options to choose from, served in an elegant heated teapot placed at each table.
The Wandering Goose, 403 15th Ave. E.
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The tiny restaurant can't handle a big group well, but find a way to go sometime for a breakfast or lunch of scrumptious, down-home cooking. Their biscuits and sawmill gravy are worthy of a crosstown trip, and on Friday nights, the only night they are open, they serve a fabulous fried chicken supper.
Red Balloon, 417 15th Ave. E.
Don't let the name fool you, there is more to Red Balloon than helium tanks. Check out their surprisingly good selection of toys and games.
Casita International, 423 15th Ave. E.
Browse Peruvian hand-knitted finger puppets, charming baby T-shirts and bilingual children's books, among the many treasures from around the world (and Seattle) you'll find in this little artisan boutique.
Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Ave. E.
With a newly remodeled playground, lovely huge wading pool for the summer and the spruced up Conservatory, this grand old park is the place to digest and dream while kids frolic.
Vios Cafe and Restaurant, 903 19th Ave. E.
Vios deserves their reputation as a family-welcoming place serving excellent Mediterranean fare. The play area has tables nearby so parents can keep an eye on junior while savoring their meal. www.vioscafe.com/vioscapitolhill.html.
Cone & Steiner, 532 19th Ave. E.
In the first of what looks to be many (Pioneer Square location up next), this charming little grocery offers an old-school , neighborhood shopping experience with an exceptionally well-curated selection of gourmet goodies and basics. There is even a small bar with beer on tap at the central counter.
Hello Robin, 522 19th Ave. E.
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From "Mackles'mores" to Habanero Orange Chocolate Chip – and so many good things in between – do not visit this neighborhood without going to Hello Robin cookies. Nibble the gasp-worthy cookies while hanging out in the beautifully designed space, watching cookie making or sitting at the interior window that allows you to spy on what's happening next door at Cone & Steiner. Molly Moon ice cream is also available seasonally.
Article photos by Kelli Tokos.
Editor's note: This article was originally published in April of 2014.
