Seattle Culture
It’s Always Back to School Season Here
Check out The Schoolhouse District in Woodinville for an education you’ll enjoy
By Stephanie Russell September 6, 2024
Do you remember, as a youngster, being excited to walk into a schoolhouse? You can recapture that same thrill, albeit in much different circumstances, at The Schoolhouse District in Woodinville. Instead of chalkboards and uncomfortable wooden desks, this time around you can explore an abundance of restaurants, wine tasting rooms, boutique retail shops, farmers markets, and more. If you haven’t been recently, check it out.
You may know that the Schoolhouse has undergone many transformations since 1892, when the first wood-frame schoolhouse was built here. In 1909, the original building was replaced by the first brick school east of Lake Washington. It is now a city of Woodinville landmark. And is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Seven years ago, MainStreet Property Group developed the Civic Campus Project, which included storing and renovating the schoolhouse. The building incorporates artwork reclaimed from the old schoolhouse.
I went for the first time on a beautiful, sunny Saturday morning. I could feel the energy as more than 40 vendors stacked their booths with fruits, vegetables, delicious treats, homemade goodies, flowers and more. I felt the warmth from the sun on my face and headed straight to Alpenglow for a fresh huckleberry lemonade. I scooped up flowers from a local vendor and a plant-based snack from Bamm. Hazelnut and coconut filled my taste buds as I tried as many samples as I could. I took a few bags home for a midday snack during my work week.
Once you’ve collected all your goodies from the market, continue the excitement with brunch at Pintxo. Order one of everything. Bring a handful of friends or family and get all the plates to share. My favorite was the Jamon Benedict — one crack of the egg, and your plate is filled with deliciousness. Don’t forget to add a cocktail or, as Will the manager might say, “We have a cocktail that would look great on you!” I mean, how can you say no?
Plan on dinner at Walla Walla Steak Co. Enjoy crispy brussel sprouts, truffle mac and cheese, scallops, and, of course, steak. Servers even slice it at your table. Both Pintxo and Walla Walla Steak Co. offer a great dining experience.
The Schoolhouse District houses a few tasting rooms, and now it’s time to grab a chair, a glass of wine, and relax with some wine. Whether it’s Montinore Estates, Landlines Estates, L’Ecole No. 41, Barnard Griffin or Mullan Road Cellars, you’re covered. I tried wines from each location and was not disappointed. If wine isn’t your jam, head over to McQueen Champagne Bar.
Finally, hit Oasis Medspa & Salon for a massage, beauty treatment and more. It’s a must stop. End your day with dessert at Ephesus Cafe & Gelato. You’ll be happy you did.
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