Hi all,

Sending another Good News Downtown, a communication to showcase uplifting, interesting, positive stories about activities and people Downtown.

If you have news or events to share, or if you want to talk about the work being done to revitalize Downtown, send me an email.

Weekly digest

Credit: Mixed Pantry

🔦🍴 Small business spotlight: At Mixed Pantry in Belltown, owner Takeshi “TAK” Kunimune created a space where tasting food is a window into culture, craftsmanship, and community. Kunimune started the shop as a pop-up through Seattle Restored and ended up signing a lease for the Belltown space. Known for its soy sauce and chili crisp tastings, the shop celebrates the diversity and unique expertise of Asian and Pacific Islander food producers, offering everything from condiments and snacks to cookbooks and community pop-ups. With Kunimune’s warm hospitality and a mission rooted in sharing flavors, supporting small creators, and building belonging, Mixed Pantry is helping cultivate a more diverse and delicious Downtown: Can soy sauce tastings bring us closer? Seattle shop owner thinks so – Seattle Times.

✨🏬 A major revival in Pioneer Square is taking shape as the historic Grand Central Block undergoes a sweeping transformation, bringing new life to one of Seattle’s oldest commercial hubs. The renovation includes restored storefronts, updated spaces for local businesses, and refreshed public areas like the popular Grand Central Arcade. As new tenants move in and longtime favorites return, the project signals growing confidence in Pioneer Square’s future and adds to the neighborhood’s steady resurgence as a destination for dining, shopping, and community: Grand Central Block, Pioneer Square’s 'old soul,' makes a comeback after years in the dark – King 5.

Looking for a new place to grab a drink? 🍸 Eater’s Best New Bars, Winter 2025 has a list of new spots to check out, including two new Downtown bars:

• 1928 Tap and Grill took over the vacant space in the Executive Hotel Pacific. Boasting an impressive draft beer list, classic cocktails, and happy hour deals, it’s a great place to watch a game or enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
• The new Reuben’s Brews Downtown may be the Seattle brewery’s “best space yet.” The spacious tasting room has lots of windows and a long deck filled with seating perfect for people watching. There’s also a full kitchen with burgers, pretzels, and funnel cake fries.

Looking ahead

Credit: Downtown Seattle Association

🎄🌟 Downtown’s beloved Annual Tree Lighting Celebration is Friday, November 28, at Westlake Center. This year’s celebration includes all-ages activities from 1 – 6 p.m., and the tree lighting ceremony, emceed by Mariners announcer Rick Rizzs, at 5 p.m. It’s a moment that brings Seattleites together to welcome the season with warmth, joy, and shared celebration.

Credit: CIDBIA

🧋🍜 Bring your appetite to the C-ID Small Business Saturday Food Walk on November 29 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Businesses across the C-ID will offer special $8 bites and exclusive discounts. Grab a menu at any participating shop, map your own tasting tour, and collect stamps as you go: Earn five stamps and you’ll be entered into a giveaway filled with neighborhood prizes. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying some of the best food Seattle has to offer.

Shop local and make magical memories at the 30^th Annual Magic in the Market. 🛍️🪄 This Saturday, November 29 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Pike Place Market will transform into a winter wonderland filled with crafts, music, photos with Santa, and more! The event concludes with the Market’s lighting ceremony, complete with a concert and dancers.

Credit: Seattle Christmas Market

☃️🎁 The Seattle Christmas Market is now open at Seattle Center and is open every day until Christmas Eve. Enjoy a charming European-style holiday experience with artisan vendors, festive food, twinkling lights, and family-friendly activities. Kids six and under enter free – don’t miss this exciting way for the whole family to kick off the holiday season.

Looking for something special to add to your holiday decorations? Pioneer Square’s annual Ornament Scavenger Hunt 🔎 launches Monday, December 1. Every day until December 20, at least one unique glass ornament will be hidden inside a neighborhood business. Daily clues will be posted online.