Images: Jingle Jackson

Bothell is Beige no More

Years ago, in my work life, I attended a meeting with a particularly colorless presentation. After the speaker was done, the officiant summed it all up in a brief sentence. "That was beige. Like the city of Bothell."

I remember that largely because, well, if the presentation had been a color, it really would have been something fairly non-descript like beige and I sort of agreed about Bothell too. There was not a lot in the city, at that time, that really stood out.

Now, very likely, that was an unfair assessment even then, but these days it definitely would be. You simply could not call Bothell beige. Bothell, for those who may not have visited, is at the south end of the Bothell Everett Highway and these days it could best be described as colorful and bustling.

I hadn't drifted down the Bothell way really since the Bothell Country Village closed many years ago. Bothell has an enviable location on the south end of Lake Washington, near the Woodinville wineries and boasting the very fun addition of McMenamins to its downtown area. 

On this day, though, I was meeting good friends at a popular little spot called The Cottage. I quickly learned the negative to enjoying the new and improved downtown Bothell is parking. There's not a lot of it. But the area is so pleasant, I didn't mind a walk around town to get to my destination. 

The Cottage describes itself as "cozy" and I would agree. It has a warm, welcoming feel to it with different kinds of seating and different seating areas. This is a farm-to-table eating spot so the menu reflects lots of fresh, locally sourced foods.

We were there for brunch which offered a wide selection on the menu from quiche to a butternut squash salad to a meatball sandwich. It all sounded delicious. In the end, being an adventure eater who likes to try new things, I went with the herbed mushroom toast with seasoned goat cheese, white wine mushrooms and thinly sliced radishes. I don't know that it would be for just anyone (like I have strong doubts my husband would have loved it) but I enjoyed every fresh bite.

My dining companions went for more traditional fare - short rib hash and a breakfast sandwich - and both gave their food the positive nod as well. It was our three-year-old that might have enjoyed her meal the most. She had the kids French toast which came with fruit and a lot of whip cream. A big hit! Oh, and this is a great place for diners looking for vegan and gluten free choices. 

The Cottage started as a coffee house and their coffee is yum. They also have a full bar with fun-sounding cocktails and a full dinner menu as well. This is a great destination spot when you feel like a little drive out of Everett, don't want to go far but are in the mood for something that feels like home away from home where you don't have to cook or do dishes. Afterwards, do a walk around Bothell and enjoy this colorful city by the lake. 

We live lucky my friends! -- Jingle

The Cottage
10029 NE 183rd St
Bothell, WA

Jingle Jackson grew up in Everett, attended WSU (go Cougs!) and worked a great career at Snohomish PUD. Now, she is working on the pursuit of new adventures and fun wherever she can find it.