Local News

Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink Welcomes Local Families Through January 19. Families are enjoying seasonal activities at the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink, which features over 9,000 square feet of ice skating space in Downtown Park. Located near Bellevue Square, the rink operates daily and will remain open to visitors until January 19, 2026. The attraction offers an opportunity for community members to participate in winter recreation close to home. Its central Bellevue location draws both residents and nearby visitors. (Source: The Seattle Times on Dec 31) Eastside Bellevue, WA

Unique Green Tea Introduces AI-Powered Matcha Cafe in Downtown Bellevue. Unique Green Tea has opened its first Washington location in Downtown Bellevue at 308 105th Avenue Northeast, offering tea and matcha beverages made using artificial intelligence-driven brewing. The business, part of the Sharetea group from Taiwan, aims to combine modern brewing technology with traditional flavors. The cafe is holding a soft opening period until January 2, with a planned grand opening on January 3. The menu features various teas, smoothies, and specialty drinks including its signature jasmine tea. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 31) Eastside Bellevue, WA

Key Bellevue Stories of 2025: Development, Dining, and Business Changes. In 2025, Bellevue residents were especially focused on stories concerning new development projects, local restaurant activity, and significant business shifts. The city's most-read articles included coverage of a restaurant's liquor license suspension, financial challenges faced by Bravern Towers after Microsoft moved out, and the introduction of new eateries such as Voodoo Doughnut. These topics captured wide public attention and reflected the community's interests over the year. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 30) Eastside Bellevue, WA

Eight-Story, 225-Unit Apartment Building Proposed for Wilburton in Bellevue. Plans have been submitted for an eight-story residential building at 1200 116th Avenue Northeast in Bellevue’s Wilburton neighborhood. The development would feature 215 to 225 apartment units, with about 10% designated as affordable housing, and provide two levels of underground parking with up to 155 spaces. The project involves demolishing an existing medical office building, and no retail or commercial space is planned. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2027, pending city approvals. (Source: Downtown Bellevue Network on Dec 29) Eastside Bellevue, WA

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