Beneath the skyscrapers, tucked in the various enclaves of Bellevue, the city is filled with vibrant third spaces. Ray Oldenburg coined the third space, giving weight to just how important these places, where people gather to connect, socialize, relax, and build community, are.
So if you just don't want to go back to the hotel (or home) yet, and you've got just enough energy and curiosity to meet the locals, business travelers, and out-of-towners, this is your list of where to go. Whether you go solo, as a couple, or a group, these spots offer warm and welcoming environments that serve a mix of regulars and newcomers. Maybe you'll drop in on a Trivia Night, Open Mic Night, or Wine-Tasting Pop-Up, there's always something going on.
Mox Boarding House
In the Bel-Red Arts District, Mox Boarding House is more than just your local game store, it's a gathering place for board game enthusiasts and fandoms of all ages, with a full dining experience. Check out the free game library for when you enjoy a meal or drinks. They host daily events in their tournament room, and there's a hidden speakeasy for cocktails. You can even grab your pronoun signs at the register.
Third Culture Coffee
Third Culture Coffee by Bellevue Downtown Park serves fantastic specialty coffee, as well as a selection of port wines. The space hosts various open mic nights after hours, and the evenings are full of music, art, wine, and community. Sometimes, there's the occasional wine tasting pop-up event, or ice cream pop-up, or Zero Proofed Pop-Up Party. You'll have to keep tabs on their Instagram @thirdculturecoffee for updates.
Paddy Coyne's
A real Irish Bar, Irish owned and operated, right in the middle of downtown Bellevue. Paddy Coyne's is a family business serving friendly Irish and American favorites, made from scratch, and a whole lot of Guinness. You'll either want to mark your calendars or steer clear of Trivia Night on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. It's a busy, fun night featuring Guinness Chocolate cake, tricky useless questions, and cash prizes. You'll have to go early to hold your team's table, and get ready to rumble.
Story Coffee Bellevue
Next to Minamoto, Story Coffee Bellevue is a cozy coffee shop that is a multi-use consignment space featuring many other small, local businesses. Inside, there's a variety of plants that double as decor and houseplants for sale from Urban Jungle. They're serious about their coffee, and carefully curate new retail espresso blends each week. There's a neon sign on a brick floating wall that reads, "Story Open Mic", for their open mic nights. There are often pop-ups, featuring handcrafted goods from local artisans, because Story Coffee is all about helping small businesses grow. For updates, check their Insta @story_coffee_Bellevue.
Tapster Bellevue
New to town, Tapster Bellevue is all the buzz. The pour-it-yourself beer bar has 45 rotating taps of craft beers. There's also a couple cocktails on rotation, as well as a bunch of ciders, wine, spirits and other beer options on deck. You'll find a wide variety of zero proof items like cold brew coffee, kombucha, and soda. The event calendar is full of exciting things, with paint night on Wednesdays, trivia on Tuesdays, and DJ parties on Fridays and Saturdays.
Jocovine Bistro
Along Main Street, Jocovine Bistro is a European-inspired restaurant with a modern twist. With an inviting and lively atmosphere, the bar is a stunning showcase of spirits and liquors. Next to it is a wall of wine lockers, for the regulars. There's often live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, as patrons gather for dinner or just drinks. During the day, the beautiful open view of Main Street passerbys, paired with the velvety and opulent decor, makes for a really lovely place to grab breakfast or lunch.
The Redd Dog
At the north end of Bellevue Way lies The Redd Dog, with its large open patio space for four-legged buddies. This lively self-pour taproom has over 40 rotating taps of craft beers, wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic options. The spacious interior includes cozy booths, communal tables, and a dog-friendly patio. Every Monday is for $10 Cheez & Pup-Peronia pizzas, Tuesday is Trivia Night and Taco Tuesday, Wednesdays are for Live Music, and there's the occasional special event.
The Pumphouse
If you’re looking for a classic dive bar atmosphere, The Pumphouse has been a Bellevue favorite for decades. Located near the Wilburton Station on the 2 Line, this no-frills bar serves up cold beers, hearty burgers, and a welcoming, laid-back vibe - and it's 21+ only. It’s the kind of place where regulars know the bartenders by name, and newcomers are greeted with open arms. With pool tables, darts, and a jukebox, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a casual evening out. Their burgers are great, and there are TV screens everywhere, featuring the latest in sports.
Explore Bellevue’s Social Scene
Bellevue's third spaces offer more than just a place to grab a drink or a bite—they’re where connections happen, ideas are shared, and community thrives. From craft beer at Tapster and live music at Story Coffee to a laid-back dinner at Jocovine, these spots reflect Bellevue’s local flavor. Whether you prefer a casual coffee shop, a lively pub, or a self-pour taproom, there’s something here for everyone. Step out, explore, and you might just discover your new favorite hangout.
