Explore Seattle Restored Small Businesses

The Seattle Restored program activates empty storefronts, featuring events, art installations, and small businesses. Launched in 2022 and part of the City of Seattle’s ongoing effort to revitalize the Downtown core, Seattle Restored provides artists and small business owners with space and promotional support

We’re excited to highlight six Seattle Restored small businesses across three Seattle neighborhoods.

Belltown

Hyphen Asian Food and Culture #AsianOwned #WomanOwned

From gourmet chocolate bars to soup bases, Belltown’s Hyphen Asian Food and Culture offers a unique variety of Asian foods and lifestyle items. Spouses Youn Chung and Toru Mino started the business with their neighbors Takeshi Kunimune and Mary Kunimune in 2022, joined by their collective passion for food. Together, they worked to create a warm and inclusive space for people to explore and celebrate Asian and Asian-American culture.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a special gift or simply treating yourself, you’re sure to walk away from Hyphen with something special. The team has carefully curated their selection to ensure top-notch quality and authenticity in every product.

Bonus: Book a soy sauce or chili crisp-tasting experience with them to sample a variety of products and flavors! 

Downtown

It’s Never 2 Early 2 Create & Innovate #BlackOwned

It’s Never 2 Early 2 Create & Innovate, or N2E, has been empowering and promoting young Black entrepreneurs since 2017. The program is organized by Olu Productions, led by founder and CEO Olu Dixon. At their downtown pop-up, opened in 2023, N2E showcases products from 14 businesses owned by young people of African descent, along with hosting a series of events and activities focused on entrepreneurship and community outreach. 

The driving force behind N2E’s mission is the strong belief that investing time and resources in young Black entrepreneurs will not only foster community growth but also create a positive impact for generations to come. Head to their website for more information about upcoming events and workshops! 

Only #AsianOwned #WomanOwned

Not only are Only by A.M’s clothing garments timeless and chic, they’re also sustainably made and ethically sourced. After noticing how difficult it was to find high-quality closet basics, founders Anisha Kili and Millie Phung decided to start a brand of their own. In 2023, after years of hard work, they opened their first pop-up location in Downtown Seattle. 

Only’s minimalist pieces are designed with quality and versatility in mind, suitable for any occasion. Each garment is ethically and environmentally sound, so you can feel good about what you wear and look fabulous doing it. 

Self-Made Couture #BlackOwned #WomanOwned

Self-Made Couture is your go-to destination for custom suits, tuxedos, and blazers, catering to both men and women. Co-owners and spouses Brandon C. Chestnut and Sydney Chestnut established the company in 2015, driven by their passion for impeccable tailoring and individual style. In 2023, co-owner Laron Daniels opened their pop-up store in Downtown Seattle. 

When you choose Self-Made Couture, you get to work directly with their skilled styling experts, either through virtual consultations or in-person meetings. Together, you’ll design your dream outfit, ensuring every element is carefully and expertly tailored to your preferences. Head to their website to book a consultation today! 

Voices Off Lounge #DisabilityOwned #LGBTQowned #WomanOwned

Killie Gillespie founded Visually Speaking in 2002, creating a supportive and inclusive space for learning American Sign Language. With a team of passionate and dedicated Deaf instructors, the center is committed to teaching American Sign Language (ASL) to students of all ages and levels and promoting an understanding of Deaf culture.

At the Voices Off Lounge, whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps in ASL or an advanced learner, Visually Speaking offers a versatile range of learning options. From one-on-one sessions for personalized instruction to ASL classes tailored for workplaces and community sign language classes, Visually Speaking ensures accessibility to ASL for everyone, regardless of age or hearing status.

Uptown

The Fishbowl #AsianOwned #WomanOwned

The Fishbowl is a vibrant gallery and events space dedicated to uplifting QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) artists and creatives. Artist Rya Wu founded the space in 2023, hoping to foster a safe environment where underrepresented voices can thrive, flourish, and co-create genuinely and without discomfort. 

The space features six private studios available for monthly rent, providing artists with a supportive and nurturing environment to work and create. Additionally, The Fishbowl hosts a variety of engaging events, including workshops, critique sessions, figure drawing sessions, and food pop-ups. 

Which Seattle Restored small businesses have you enjoyed visiting? Let us know in the comments below!