Where Phinney Ridge + Green Lake Meet: Why We Love this “Secret” Neighborhood

The center of the universe (or at least the universe that is North Seattle!) is tucked away right where the Phinney Ridge and Green Lake neighborhoods meet.

One of the BIGGEST reasons why we love this little “Secret Squirrel Spot” pocket of Seattle so much is that it’s truly in the center of so many of Seattle’s most desired neighborhoods: Take advantage of being super close to Green Lake, easily hop up the hill to Phinney Ridge shops, head south toward Wallingford, and scoot over to Fremont, Ballard, and Queen Anne in a jiffy. You’ve also got great access to Aurora (and you get to be close to the part with the pedestrian bridge that we love!) and Interstate-5 as well. 

Before we dive into a few more of the fun highlights (like where to have fun and play!), we want to get some business out of the way first. We have a new listing in this neighborhood to show off, but one of the big reasons why we love this neighborhood is that it feels like Green Lake without the price tag (we’re talking 15 to 20% less than GL).

Green Lake cherished by all, but it’s especially a popular neighborhood for UW students to move to once they graduate. Unfortunately, the neighborhood is also known for its high rents. Buying a home gives you the chance to take advantage of Green Lake conveniences while paying a mortgage that’s going to be cheaper than renting.

Here are a few more things we love about the neighborhood where Phinney Ridge + Green Lake meet:

Dining Highlights

 

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Did you know there’s a Caribbean beach right by Green Lake? Ok, so it might be a manmade “beach,” but if you love Caribbean cuisine then Bongos Cafe is a must-visit restaurant. Expect a laid-back beachy vibe (with actual sand!) and an incredible menu that’ll keep you coming back again and again to try something new.

 

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If you need some late-night sustence after a wild evening + night, Beth’s Cafe serves up quinessential American diner food. And perhaps the most importnat part… they’re open 24/7!

 

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Über Tavern along Aurora is another favorite spot, and beer enthusiasts will definitely appreciate the extensive beer selection here. Grab a keg of something they have on tap and peruse their impressive selection of bottled beer to start your weekend off right.

 

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If you need something fast, El Naranjo is our favorite food truck for Mexican food. They’re parked between 73rd St & 72nd St, making it a great spot to stop a fuel up as you walk around Green Lake.

 

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Another favorite Meixcan joint is El Chupacabra, which is described on their website as being a “Mexican style cantina with punk rock roots.” Margaritas, mission-style Mexican food, and homemade hot sauces are their specialty! Stop by for their happy hour for deals on eats + drinks.

 

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And when you need to stock up on groceries (or just pick up something at the deli for dinner), you’ve got a PCC Community Market in the neighborhood! We also love Ken’s Market, a fantastic local grocery. (Pick up one of their pre-made sandwiches!) 

Urban Exploration

 

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Even though you’re surrounded by city conveniences, this area also presents some prime opportunities for enjoying the outdoors. Of course, Green Lake and all of its outdoor amenities are right there, and the local biking community is a thriving one. Those with furry friends will find paradise in the neighborhood too—lots of doggies are around to play with, and your pup will definitely love exploring the local trails!

Woodland Park Zoo is within reach as well, and they have fun events throughout the year including concerts and wine and beer tasting events.

Transit Perfection

Not only is this “Secret Squirrel Spot” awesome for bikers and close to freeways, but those who need to get downtown will find it easy to hop on the RapidRide bus to zip downtown. (And, “normal” buses are also aplenty in the area.)