Susan's Favorite Island places January 6, 2021

Coffee Shops and Bakeries of Bainbridge Island

Coffee | Cupcakes | Chocolate | Comfort

 

Cold and rainy days always call for ways to find comfort and be soothed by hot coffee and baked goods, which means a good bakery is indispensable these days. From market classics serving up traditional French pastries to a variety of savory treats; the shops on this list are a beacon of crispy, flakey, sugary hope.

When it comes to coffee and tea, Bainbridge Island has many tried-and-true industry veterans, solid neighborhood cafes, and a few quirky spots that contribute to our love of our unique dining experiences.

I am not a coffee drinker, so I have learned to order a complicated hot chocolate, so I feel like I fit in the NW. Because my expertise is not in coffee, I will share with you that the absolute best hot chocolate is available at L’ATELIER TR. Located in an industrial area, they have become a true destination bakery with offerings like handmade Belgian chocolates, sweet and savory waffles, cakes, and European pastries. Not the most elegant space, but oh, so good.

 

Downtown Winslow

 

Blackbird Bakery

A perennial favorite among local and tourists alike, Blackbird serves everything from coffee, pastries, cakes and pie (whole or by the slice), house made granola, seasonal soups, fresh bread, and TOAST! Holidays and special occasions are handily dealt with courtesy of their special orders. Adjacent to Blackbird is Madrone Lane where you will find tables with umbrellas – but no cars.

 

Cups Espresso

Indoor casual dining when allowed, also a few outside tables. Recently expanded their menu selections for breakfast and lunch, added wine, beer, and ice cream. Grab a cup and a sandwich for an impromptu picnic at nearby Waterfront Park. I like the energy bites on the go!

 

Bainbridge Island Coffee SHops

 

Pegasus Coffee House

Charming old building located down by the waterfront. Offers indoor and outdoor seating on a small patio with space heaters. Friendly staff and scratch made healthy foods. An Island institution since 1980.

 

Coquette Bake Shop

The cutest and most dangerous kiosk you have ever visited, Coquette is my absolute favorite bakery on Bainbridge. Located in Winslow Mall, set back from the street, and there is always a line. It takes all of my willpower to stay away from Coquette and now that Windermere has opened our new office right across the street… see you in line.

 

Town and Country Market

Affectionately known to locals as T&C; Town and Country is a full service grocery store. There is a coffee shop inside, as well as a pizza oven, sushi bar, and more. It’s very convenient (and delicious) to grab a few things to go when you are on the run.

 

Hitchcock Deli

Chef, Owner, and James Beard Award winner Brendan McGill, owns and operates 3 restaurants on Bainbridge Island.  At Hitchcock Deli you can get fresh brewed specialty coffees all day. The chef has also started a street food smoking option for lunch, and there is often a line on weekends.  Hitchcock is in the heart of town on Winslow Way on the south side of the street.

 

Commuter Comforts

Sometimes catching an early morning ferry means not having enough time to make coffee, or plenty of extra time for coffee because you didn’t make it on the last boat. Service is swift with a smile to get you on your way, and offerings include baked goods and cold drinks.

 

Center of the Island | Off the Beaten Path

 

Storyville Roasting Studio

Storyville’s Bainbridge location is in the Coppertop Industrial Building off Sportsman Club road. Equal parts roasting facility, coffee shop, and self-described creative space and gallery; it is a unique experience.

 

Carley’s Rolling Bay Café

Rolling Bay Café has been a part of this community for many years. It is attached to the Building housing Bay Hay and Feed and the Rolling Bay Post Office. It is a small community coffee shop serving baked goods, soups, and sandwiches. Grab a cup and stroll through Bay Hay and Feed shop, garden store, and fresh farm grown grocery section. A charming place to spend a little time and find something surprising that you can’t live without.

 

Starbucks

For those who prefer the company they know, there are 2 Starbucks on Bainbridge Island – both in the Safeway shopping center.  There is a proper coffee shop at the South west corner of the parking lot, and a Starbucks kiosk inside Safeway.

 

Southend | Lynwood Center

 

Market Place Coffee Bainbridge Island

 

The Market Place at Pleasant Beach

The Marketplace is a neighborhood gathering spot for meeting family, friends, and neighbors. Their coffeehouse, delicatessen and tap room offer a wide variety of quality food and drink – all with an emphasis on local. Located in Pleasant Beach Village, this open-air shopping center offers a multitude of dining options, lodging, and services. It is also the home of PAWS where I personally have adopted 2 cats! 

Just Listed by Susan Grosten September 4, 2020

13755 Sunrise Dr NE | Just Listed by Susan Grosten

13755 Sunrise Drive NE | Elevated Farmhouse Style

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 3,241 Square Feet | MLS #1623508

13755 Sunrise DR NE

 

Welcome to 13755 Sunrise Drive NE. Much like the traditional farmhouse, this home is elegant and yet simple. It represents a peaceful agrarian life, but at the same time it serves as a home base for its activity, hence connected to productivity. The modern farmhouse combines vintage elements with new, for an inviting atmosphere.

 

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

 

This impeccably maintained home is move-in ready with beautiful cherry hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and a sweeping staircase. Fine details of great craftsmanship are found throughout the home. Large wrap-around covered porch is a warm greeting space for friends and family.  

 

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

 

The spirit of every home is the kitchen and this one does not disappoint. Open to the family room and updated with the modern appliances that a chef loves, making meals will be a treat.

 

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

 

The Owner’s Ensuite bedroom features built-in cabinetry, and a large bath with a walk-in shower and soaking tub for two! Two additional bedrooms, a bonus room with an attached room for office, home gym or occasional guests rounds out the package.

 

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

 

The family room is accented by a fireplace, and access to the back deck. The living room offers a quiet space for conversations or reading a book. Formal dining room has French doors to access the back deck al fresco party zone.

 

Sunrise Drive Family Room

 

Large sunny yard has plenty of room for a garden, and Bay Hay & Feed is just down the street. Get organic vegetable starts or seed to grow your own harvest! Geothermal heating and cooling are very energy efficient. Don’t miss the artist “She Shed” in the backyard, a great studio space with power and heat.

 

13755 SUnrise Drive NE

 

SUNRISE DRIVE | ROLLING BAY NEIGHBORHOOD

 

The Rolling Bay Neighborhood is north of Manitou Beach and on the east side of the Island. The main thoroughfare is Valley Road, where you will find the commercial services in this quaint area. Rolling Bay is a mix of older farm homes on larger lots and new, modern homes in the last 2 years with amazing views of Puget Sound, Murden Cove and Mt. Rainier. You can still find homes in this neighborhood with cows and sheep, and plenty of gardens.

At the core of the local services is Bay Hay and Feed, a locally owned company on Bainbridge Island since 1979 when Howard Block and Ce-Ann Parker purchased the 1912 building. This thriving local store is home to a great garden store, a resident cat,  clothing, gifts, pet supplies, organic foods and more.

Just Listed Sunrise Drive

Sold By Susan Grosten April 2, 2020

Sold by Susan | Stetson Ridge

6457 Haley Loop Road | Stetson Ridge Bainbridge Island

Stetson Ridge Bainbridge Island

Sold by Susan Grosten

 

Tucked away on a quiet lane surrounded by mature trees, this stately home awaits you in Stetson Ridge.

 

Sold by Susan Grosten

 

Classic detailing exquisitely enhanced to complement your design choices; this home exudes elegance yet offers casual spaces. The wrap around porch offers a reflection of people gathering and a lemonade lifestyle.

 

Sold by Susan Grosten

 

Find your culinary inspiration in the finely renovated, top-of-the-line kitchen. Enjoy custom cabinetry, a marble-clad island with breakfast bar, as well as professional-grade appliances.

 

Stetson Ridge Bainbridge Island

 

The main floor suite offers a luxurious space for respite at the end of the day. The spa-like bath is highlighted by a soaking tub and skylights.

 

Stetson Ridge Bainbridge Island

 

Enjoy the casual and formal spaces for dining and relaxing. The top floor has a home office for the way we live now. The lower-level rec room offers room for everyone. Enjoy the luxury of space in this esteemed neighborhood!

 

LIVING IN STETSON RIDGE

Stetson Ridge has always been a popular neighborhood. The location is a quiet but also close to downtown Bainbridge and the ferry. The homes are large with an elevated Craftsman architecture. Lots sizes are very generous, ranging in sizes from .5 to 1.25 acres.

 

LIVING ON BAINBRIDGE ISLAND

Verdant farmland, gorgeous waterfront, and gourmet restaurants; Bainbridge Island offers you life’s luxuries in an atmosphere full of laid-back charm. Here you can escape Seattle’s lively pace without losing its taste and sophistication.

Just Listed by Susan Grosten January 30, 2020

10144 NE Kitsap Street | Just Listed by Susan Grosten

10144 NE Kitsap Street | Fort Ward Neighborhood

 

Welcome to 10144 NE Kitsap Street. At the end of a quiet lane sits this lovely home on 2.5 park-like acres, with south facing sun and big open skies.

 

Just Listed by Susan Grosten

 

A rare combination of carefully manicured natural landscaping and wonderful outdoor entertaining spaces.

 

10144 NE Kitsap Street

 

A timeless feeling of comfort and elegance through each room of this home, where the open chef’s kitchen and family room take center stage.

The spirit of every home is the kitchen… a base for decision powwows, planning events, homework… baking, broiling, grilling, steaming; parading your culinary skills.

 

Just Listed by Susan Grosten

 

The main floor master suite has a cozy fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Artistic elements with handcrafted wood features.

 

10144 NE Kitsap Street

 

 

Outside, you’ll be treated to a private, sublimely landscaped garden in a peaceful setting.

 

Living on Bainbridge Island

 

Verdant farmland, gorgeous waterfront, and gourmet restaurants; Bainbridge Island offers you life’s luxuries in an atmosphere full of laid-back charm. Here you can escape Seattle’s lively pace without losing its taste and sophistication.

Fort Ward is a historical neighborhood with lots of fun places to explore. Located at the southern end of Bainbridge Island, the elevation and openness of the Fort Ward neighborhood, makes it particularly sunny.

Bainbridge Island Neighborhoods October 15, 2019

Bainbridge Neighborhood: Pleasant Beach

Pleasant Beach Bainbridge Island

 

Pleasant Beach Bainbridge Island is a small community with a rich history. Often referred to as the “Gold Coast” of Bainbridge Island, the west-facing waterfront enjoys warm sunshine in the afternoon.

 

Pleasant Beach Bainbridge Island

 

For many years, the Pleasant Beach neighborhood had small, vacation homes. Now it is a luxury home community. The waterfront homes are set on large lots with sandy walkways that  lead to the waterfront.  Views of the Bremerton ferry gliding by is a beautiful sight at night.

 

Pleasant Beach Evening View

 

Resort-style living is available in Pleasant Beach Village. Beautiful new homes will be available Spring 2021. The amenities of Pleasant Beach Village are just steps away including the Manor House Restaurant, the charming Inn at Pleasant Beach, and a 75-foot outdoor swimming pool. 

The Pleasant Beach Village offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, art installations, locally-owned shops and  gathering spots. Nearby recreation spots include Lytle Beach and Fort Ward Park which offer sandy beaches, hiking trails, biking, and a boat launch.

 

Pleasant Beach Bainbridge Island

Just Listed by Susan Grosten September 6, 2019

6910 NE Baker Hill Road

6910 NE Baker Hill Road

Just Listed!

 

Baker Hill Road - Bainbridge Island

 

Beautifully built custom home with nearly 3 1/2 acres of wooded, yet private and sunny acreage. 6910 NE Baker Hill Road.

 

6910 NE Baker Hill Road

 

First time on the market, this energy efficient, well thought out home shines with soaring 2 story vaulted ceilings and over-sized windows to connect you with nature from every outlook.

 

Just Listed by Susan Grosten

 

Large open kitchen is great for entertaining with eat-in space, large island and walk-in pantry.

 

Baker Hill Road - Bainbridge Island

 

Four bedrooms with 3 full baths and a loft bonus room. Newer deck and shop space on lower level.

 

Just Listed by Susan Grosten

 

Not far from Pleasant Beach Village, Lynwood Center, and all this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.  Come Home and Love It!

 

 

Bainbridge Island Neighborhoods July 17, 2019

Bainbridge Neighborhoods: Wing Point

 

Wing Point Bainbridge Island

 

The beautiful Bainbridge neighborhood Wing Point offers an enviable lifestyle, including spectacular views of Puget Sound, the Seattle Skyline, snowcapped Cascade Mountains, and the venerable Wing Point Golf and Country Club. Many of the homes even enjoy an unparalleled View of Mt. Rainier.  The Point at Wing Point is the land  you see as you are gliding into Eagle Harbor. Nestled between the Ferry Terminal and Yeomalt Point, it’s close to town and all its amenities, making it a popular neighborhood.

 

Homes in Wing Point

You will find an eclectic mix of home styles, lifestyles, and sizes in the Wing Point neighborhood. Many of the older waterfront homes originally served as summer homes for Seattle residents.  Homes can also be found on the greens at the golf course, and the satellite neighbors surrounding them. CLICK HERE to preview current listings.

 

Susan Grosten Windermere Bainbridge Island

 

Wing Point Golf and Country Club

A central attraction for many homeowners in the neighborhood is the Wing Point Golf and Country Club; enjoyed for amenities like fine dining, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a comfortable club house for special events. Built in 1903, the club hosts several tournaments each year, and offers a reciprocal agreement with many golf clubs.

 

Hawley Cove Park Bainbridge Island

 

Hawley Cove Park

Only 1/4 mile from Downtown Bainbridge Island, this public waterfront park is located at 1287 Wing Point Way.  The park is a shy 12 acres of upland forest, a 600-foot boardwalk with 3 viewing platforms, and is part of the Bainbridge Island Waterfront Trail System.

 

Bainbridge Island AdventuresSusan's Favorite Island places June 29, 2019

Blakely Rock Bainbridge Island

BLAKELY ROCK BAINBRIDGE ISLAND

 

I have sailed around Blakely Rock many times over the years, but never explored it. Recently I pulled our son’s run-a-bout boat up on to the beach, on the west side of the rock. I was amazed at how much there was to see! Blakely Rock Bainbridge Island.

 

MARINE LIFE ON BLAKELY ROCK

 

Not just an obstruction to keep clear of, Blakely Rock has a life of its own at low tide. Giant star fish in purple and orange, big kelp beds with bright red sea anemones, and red crabs live and thrive here. The rock formation is totally different than what popped above the water’s surface as I sailed around it, offering watery beds for the marine life.

 

Bainbridge Island Parks Blakely Rock

 

Sea lions are a large part of marine life in Puget Sound. Not only do they like to rest on buoys all around Bainbridge Island, they also like finding a good sun spot.

Blakely Rock serves as a refuge for harbor seals. Often, you’ll see groups of seals sunning themselves on the north or west side of Blakely Rock on warm days.

 

Blakely Rock Bainbridge Island

 

TOURING BLAKELY ROCK

 

If you have a kayak, look for extreme low tides and launch from the public park at the south end of Rockaway Beach, to paddle to Blakely Rock. The western side of the rock has a sandy beach that is easy for small crafts to land on.

For those with less or no experience using watercraft in Puget Sound, hiring a professional tour guide is a great idea. Exotic Aquatics has been the epicenter of scuba diving and kayaking adventures on Bainbridge Island since 1990! They offer a guided tour to Blakely Rock plus a picnic lunch.

 

Blakely Rock Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island Neighborhoods June 27, 2019

Bainbridge Neighborhood: Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach Bainbridge Island

Rockaway Beach is a premier waterfront residential neighborhood on the eastern shore of Bainbridge Island. Homes here enjoy no bank waterfront and spectacular views; the sparkling Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, Cascade mountains, and ferries. Once filled with summer homes, Rockaway Beach is now home to an eclectic mix of elegant homes for living year-round. 

Rockaway Beach is bordered to the north by Eagle Harbor, where the Seattle/Bainbridge ferry docks. The ferry literally glides past your back yard on Rockway Beach and alternately, comes straight forward from the Seattle dock.

 

Evening view of Seattle skyline and the Cascade mountain range from Rockaway Beach Bainbridge Island.

 

The homes along this stretch, own the beach and waterfront up to a designated area in the tide line. You will see crab pots out in the waters in front of Rockaway Beach and into Blakely Harbor during Dungeness Crab season. Be sure to watch for buoys if you are headed out to kayak!

 

Bainbridge Island Real Estate

Washington State Ferry rounding the corner from Eagle Harbor, on the way to Seattle.

 

There is a wonderful public park at the south end of Rockaway Beach just before it turns up the hill and becomes Halls Hill. Check the tide charts and visit at low tide for maximum exploration. It is a small ½-acre park, but it expands during low tide, exposing an abundance of marine life to explore. The park contains wetlands and saltwater shoreline on Blakely Harbor, and has a picnic table, benches, and a new stairway for scuba diving access to Blakely Harbor, North Point, and Blakely Rock. It is an excellent place for diving enthusiasts to observe unique underwater fissures.

 

Bainbridge Island Real Estate

Rockaway Beach Waterfront Park

Bainbridge Island Neighborhoods April 20, 2019

Bainbridge Neighborhood: Point Monroe

Point Monroe | Bainbridge Island

 

At the northeast point of Bainbridge is a sand spit called Point Monroe. Known locally as The Spit, it is a unique piece of the island’s real estate and much more charming than it sounds. Point Monroe offers sea-to-sky, waterfront living with nothing between you and the water, except sand.

The east side of the spit is on Puget Sound waters with major shipping lanes, and personal pleasure craft. The wide-open waterfront grants broad views from Mount Rainier to Mount Baker, and the Cascade Mountains in between. There is also a spot near the adjoining Fay Bainbridge Park where great crabbing for Dungeness can be done.

The lagoon side of the spit has a full tide change twice a day, and an opening at the northern end to get out to the Sound when tide permits. Homes have small docks and large decks overlooking the lagoon as it is rich with bird life. The water is calmer here, but you can still hear the soft rhythm of the waves just across the narrow street.

Being a natural extension off the island without a lot of trees, Point Monroe gets all day sun. This has been a funky beach neighborhood for many of the years I have lived on Bainbridge, but over the last 5-10 years I have seen a lot of redevelopment from funky beach hut with no insulation to full year-round living and spectacular homes. The complete beach lifestyle exists here with boating, kayaking, stand-up paddle boards, and beach combing.

The lots are small and the homes are close, so you need to be a good, beach loving neighbor. Residents are protective of each other and their way of life. When driving on the narrow roadway, the rule is to wave as you drive by and they will do the same; ensuring everyone sees each other. If your neighbor’s dog and/or children wander into your yard, it is because this is a tight community a shared beach to them. FUN FACT: Residents of Point Monroe have their own 4th of July Parade!

 

Pont Monroe Fay Bainbridge

 

Located next door to the spit is Fay Bainbridge waterfront park. It has volleyball nets, a few camp sites, lots of washed-up driftwood, a playground and covered picnic area. The way the road bends down and loops into the residential are of the spit, you are quite separated from the park activity, but it does give kids a larger playground.

 

Point Monroe Fay Bainbridge