Based on the way some Seattleites talk about the Eastside, it seems like an untouchable place where you settle down, buy a house with a yard, get a dog (or a roomba), and send your fleeting youth away in a puff of humidifier smoke. But let’s be real - you kicked yourself when you found out that Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber were randomly in Bellevue that one time.

Bellevue’s actually a pretty cool place to be. There are awesome hiking trails, a couple of grassy parks, and a ton of great companies to work for - plus a mall that’s way better than Southcenter. There are also some excellent restaurants and bars. So whether you’re grabbing lunch with coworkers or going on a dinner date, here’s where to eat and drink when you’re not navigating the parking situation at Lincoln Square or hiding in a bush with binoculars trying to anticipate Jelena’s next public appearance.