Eleanor Roosevelt once remarked, "A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water."
These words encapsulate the essence of women's resilience in the face of adversity, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger.
March is Women’s History Month – a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of women throughout history and recognize the remarkable achievements, struggles, and progress made by women across the globe.
That makes March a great time to support businesses around the region that were founded by women! And many are within a mile of Sound Transit stops and stations.
Here’s a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide (but not a comprehensive list by any means):
Capitol Hill
Founded by Autumn Martin and co-owned by Kari Brunson, Frankie & Jo’s is a popular plant-based ice cream shop with locations across Seattle. One of its branches is conveniently situated within a half-mile walk from Capitol Hill Station:
Address: 1010 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122
Hours: 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Monday - Thursday), 3 p.m. - 11 p.m. (Friday), 1 p.m. - 11 p.m. (Saturday), 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Sunday)
This beloved dessert spot offers delectable treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Since opening its second location in Capitol Hill, Hot Cakes has been a must-visit for transit and dessert aficionados.
Address: 1650 E Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98102
Hours: 4 - 11 p.m. (Monday - Thursday), 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. (Friday), 3 p.m. - 12 a.m. (Saturday), 3 p.m. - 11 p.m. (Sunday)
Wrapping up our dessert tour of this neighborhood is Hello Robin! Founded by Robin Wehl Martin, Hello Robin is a renowned Seattle cookie company known for its delicious handmade cookies. Despite being a bit of a walk from the station, it's worth the trip for their irresistible sweet treats.
Address: 522 19th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112
Hours: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Sunday - Thursday), 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
Founded by Liz Dunn, The Cloud Room is a coworking space, culture club, lounge, and bar located in Capitol Hill's Pike-Pine Corridor. With a commitment to fostering community and supporting local businesses, The Cloud Room offers a unique and vibrant workspace environment.
Address: 1424 11th Avenue STE 400 Seattle, WA 98122
Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (staffed coworking hours) and 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. (Cloud Room Bar)
Downtown
Owned and operated by Aimee Peck, Monorail Espresso is a Seattle institution known for its exceptional coffee and commitment to customer service and inclusion. With multiple locations in downtown Seattle, including one near University Street Station, it's a convenient stop for your daily caffeine fix.
Address: 1411 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Hours: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Monday - Friday)
Pioneer Square
Nestled in both Seattle's Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square neighborhoods, Cone & Steiner General is more than just a convenience store – it's a community hub bursting with local flavor and charm. Here, you'll find an eclectic mix of fresh flowers, produce, artisanal goods, and everyday essentials thoughtfully curated to satisfy every shopper's needs. Founded in 2017 by Dani Cone, Cone & Steiner draws inspiration from her great-grandfather's store, which bore the same name and legacy a century earlier.
Address: 135 S King St, Seattle, WA
Hours: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Monday - Friday), 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)
Beacon Hill
For those seeking a refreshing pint in Beacon Hill, look no further than Perihelion Brewery, the neighborhood's inaugural craft beer destination. Established in 2015 by Karin Paulsen and her partner Les McAuliffe, Perihelion Brewery has become synonymous with quality brews and laid-back vibes. Step into their inviting space and take a seat on their covered and heated outdoor patio, where you can sample an extensive range of ales crafted with passion and precision.
Address: 2800 16th Ave S, Seattle WA 98144
Hours: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Tuesday - Thursday), 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Friday - Sunday)
Owners Luis and Leona Rodriguez met at Seattle’s Nathan Hale High School. Located near the Beacon Hill light rail station (with a second location coming soon near Columbia City Station!), their business, The Station, serves as a cozy community space where visitors can enjoy coffee, pastries, light bites and even wine!
Address: 1600 S Roberto Maestas Festival St, Seattle, WA 98144
Hours: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Monday - Friday) and 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)
Rainier Valley
At The Flour Box, filled brioche donuts are made by hand and from scratch in small batches each day. The menu is inspired by a lifelong fascination of food from around the world, as well as an appreciation for the beautiful region we live in. Take about a mile walk from Columbia City Station and check it out!
Address: 5520 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
Hours: 10 a.m. until sellout
Seattle’s ice cream queen Molly Moon Neitzel founded her homemade ice cream business in 2008, and currently serves as CEO. Molly Moon’s is celebrating Women’s History Month with some signature flavors named after women making the world better through their work in government, nonprofits and the private sector.
Molly Moon’s has many locations around the Puget Sound, including one that is about a quarter mile walk from Columbia City Station:
Address: 4822 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
Hours: 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Daily)
Seattle is home to a diverse array of women-owned businesses, each contributing to the city's unique charm and vibrancy. By supporting these establishments, we not only enjoy high-quality products and services but also contribute to the economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs.
What did we miss? Let us know by tagging us @SoundTransit!