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Shop and Dine in Port Gamble
What Port Gamble lacks in size, it definitely makes up for in history and charm. With the perfect spots to find unique gifts and satisfy your sweet tooth, make sure to check out these local businesses. Each one is located in a historic building, so don’t miss the outdoor signs to learn more about the history of each spot. And, if you don’t live on the Kitsap Peninsula, Port Gamble is just a 15-minute drive from the Kingston-Seattle ferry and the Kingston-Edmonds ferry. We highly recommend spending a day in Port Gamble, a small-town gem.
One-Stop Shop
One of the longest-running general stores in the state, Port Gamble General Store & Café has something for everyone. They always have amazing seasonal home items as well as PNW-inspired gifts. You’ll also find candy reminiscent of the good old days. In the back of the store, The Café (with awesome water views) serves sandwiches, soups, salads, espresso, fresh-baked goods, two brands of locally-made ice cream, as well as a selection of local beers and wines. Operating in the current space since 1916, the original Port Gamble General Store opened in 1853 and sold goods to millworkers, visitors, and neighboring tribal members.
Open Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Food and Beverage
Known for delicious meals like the epic fried chicken sandwich, and many decadent desserts, Butcher & Baker Provisions is a local favorite. Their menu changes seasonally and always has both breakfast and lunch/dinner options. Entrees have included interesting options like Turkish Cilbir and the Albondigas Birria Sub. You’ll also find a selection of jams, oils, honey, and sliced meats by the pound. Sweets include cookies the size of your head and slices of cake that weigh in at almost a pound.
Open Thursday – Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Cafe & Bakery)
Coffee Shop open Monday – Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Thursday – Sunday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
If you’re looking for lighter fare and a craft beverage, House 11 Taproom & Bottle Shop is a great spot. Paninis like “Beet It Grilled Cheese” or the “Tennessee French” (which features pickled okra) are great accompaniments to a local craft beer or glass of wine. We love that they serve peanuts from CB’s Nuts, which are roasted here in Kingston. You can also purchase wine or beer to take home.
Open Thursday – Saturday, 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Unique Gifts
Stocked with fair-trade global goods, Tango Zulu Imports is the place to find curated collections. You’ll find alpaca socks from Peru, baskets from Ghana, jewelry from India, locally made felted bar soaps, and a variety of clever cards and stickers.
Open Monday through Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
Wish in Port Gamble is another must-visit shop. Peruse books by local authors, beautiful jewelry, an array of home decor, an extensive card collection, and much more.
Open Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Port Gamble Shops for Those Who Knit, Sew & More
Located in the historic stables building, Quilted Strait is a haven for all things fabric. From needlework and quilting supplies to classes and patterns, this is the place to go for sewing and quilting projects. Even if those art forms aren’t your thing, it’s worth it to simply step inside this beautiful building.
Open Monday – Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
If you’re interested in fiber arts, The Artful Ewe has a wide variety of materials for knitting, spinning, weaving, and felting. This shop is next to Port Gamble’s iconic water towers. The owner, Heidi Dascher, loves “teaching, sharing, and creating community.”
Open Friday – Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
We recently spent a day in Port Gamble with Visit Kitsap Peninsula. Watch our fun Reel, and stay tuned for more!
New Agent Spotlight: LisaMarie Shepard
Client-focused and involved in the community, LisaMarie Shepard is here to help homebuyers and sellers. She recently joined our Windermere Kingston office, and we’re delighted to have her on our team. Learn about her professional background, interests, and more in our Q & A.
What drew you to real estate?
I love helping people, and I learned so much when purchasing my home in 2021. I also wanted to provide for my family in a different way, so I got my license. It’s been a rewarding experience, and every day is different. I’m grateful for Windermere’s supportive environment and resources, which empower me to deliver the best possible experience to my clients.
What unique skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
With over a decade of customer service experience and 13 years as a Dental Assistant, I bring a unique blend of skills to the real estate table. My ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and communicate effectively will undoubtedly shine in this industry. My attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills honed from my professional background are invaluable in navigating the intricacies of a real estate transaction.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
In this line of work, traits like empathy, communication, attention to detail, resilience, and integrity are key. Being able to connect with clients, understand their needs, and guide them through the process with professionalism and care sets the foundation for a successful Realtor-client relationship.
Which areas do you serve?
I serve all of Kitsap County and the surrounding areas.
How long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I came to Washington from California when I was 12 and have been here ever since. I have lived in the same home for 8 years and bought it as a single mom.
How are you involved in the community?
I am as involved as I can be. I am on the Board of Directors for the Kitsap County Association of Realtors, a member of the National Association of Realtors, and, through Windermere, a member of the Kingston Chamber of Commerce. I attend as many of their events as possible. I am a huge advocate of the ShareNet Food Bank, Kitsap Humane Society, and Boys and Girls Club. I am on the PTO at my daughter’s elementary school, and I host my neighborhood community events.
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- PTO holiday event in 2023.
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- Boys and Girls Club Gala with an auction basket LisaMarie won.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I was drawn to Windermere Real Estate because of its reputation for excellence, strong community presence, and commitment to client satisfaction. Their values align with my own, particularly in providing exceptional service and giving back to the community.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
My youngest daughter, Sophia, is VERY involved with my real estate career. Please know if you meet her at a local event, she will probably color you a picture to hang on your fridge. You can often find me out walking my Doberman, Thena. I love where I live! Kingston is very dear to my heart, as is Kitsap County. I have raised 3 children here in the Kingston area. I went to Pearson Elementary and Poulsbo Middle School, and I graduated from North Kitsap High School. I also have an associate’s degree in business arts. I am very proud of how far I have come, and I am excited for my future.
LisaMarie and her dog Athena.
Visit LisaMarie Shepard’s website to learn more. Her local resources page is full of great recommendations, including great restaurants, and fun, kid-friendly spots. She’s also on Facebook and Instagram.
Regional Holiday Activities & Light Displays
December is such a magical time of year. Luckily, there are many ways to celebrate in our area. We’ve compiled a list of some light displays, festivals, events, and activities to check out.
Holiday Light Displays
Light Display at Mike Wallace Park
This waterfront light display is a hometown favorite right here in Kingston. Every year, locals and visitors are dazzled by a range of light sculptures using approximately 500,000 lights. And, it’s all thanks to the Port of Kingston and many volunteers who work on it for months. You’ll see some traditional displays like snowflakes and gift boxes along with unique designs like jellyfish hanging on a wire. This is a must-see! Located by the ferry terminal in downtown Kingston, the park/marina has public parking and can be accessed via sidewalks.
Runs until early January, 2024 | Free
Explore this enchanted garden trail loop that is 600 ft long, featuring 60,000+ lights. There’s a lot to see, including a 1/25 scale garden railroad, a candy cane lane, Santa’s workshop at the North Pole, the lighted orchard, and a nativity scene. The path is gravel and does have a few steps throughout. Located at 26730 Big Valley Rd. NW, Poulsbo.
Runs until Jan 1, 2024 from 4:30 to 9:30 PM | $12 per person, kids 6 and under are free
A holiday tradition for more than 35 years, zoolights transforms the Point Defiance Zoo into a winter wonderland with more than 800,000 lights. Perfect for families or even a date night, you’ll see a giant octopus, light tunnels, and goats wearing coats. And, you might even spot Sasquatch if you’re lucky. Additional activities include s’mores fire pits and a goat feeding experience. Pre-purchased online tickets required. Please note the aquarium is closed during zoolights.
Daily until Jan. 1, 2024 from 4:30 – 10:00 PM | $7+ for members, $14+ for non-members
“Village of Lights” in Leavenworth
On November 24, Leavenworth’s Bavarian town lit up with over half a million lights for the holidays. It’s a fun place to visit for a day or over a weekend, and the dazzling lights will be up through February. Additionally, there are a range of activities happening throughout the winter season. Listen to live music, see Santa, enjoy free crafts for kids, and more. Please note some events and activities are not free, such as Manuela’s Magical Christmas Spectacular.
Daily through February, 2024. | Free but activity prices vary
Festivals
The charming town of Port Gamble is transformed into a holiday wonderland with over 100,000 lights and Western Washington’s only winter fireworks display. During the day you’ll find hayrides and carolers as well as Santa’s workshop, crafts for kids, and holiday shopping time. Saturday night includes the tree lighting and spectacular fireworks!
Dec. 9, 2023, starts at 12:00PM, tree lighting @ 5:45 PM, fireworks @ 6:00 PM; Dec. 10, 2023, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Free but activity prices vary
Festival of Firs and Christmastown
In 2019, Shelton won a Guinness World Record for the most lit Christmas trees in one location. The town has been known as Christmastown, WA for decades. On your way into town, you’ll be greeted by a 32’ tall Santa Claus, built to celebrate the World’s Fair in 1962. You can take a walk through the lit tree maze, a wagon ride through the decorated town, cast your vote for the best gingerbread house, and more. The maze is located at 425 Cota Street, Shelton.
Maze open nightly from dusk until 10:00 PM until Dec. 31, 2023 | Free but activity prices vary
Get a taste of European traditions in Seattle with artisan vendors, street food, libations, live entertainment, and more. Created by the same organization as the beloved Vancouver Christmas Market, you’ll find 60+ local and European artisans with holiday gifts for everyone on your list. Savor bratwursts, German baked goods, crepes, and fudge. Sip hot-spiced mulled wine under the Christmas pyramid, sing some karaoke, or take the kids for a spin on the Nordstrom Merry Go Round. Book online for specific entrance times.
Open daily through Dec. 24 | Youth $12+ and adults $20+ (6 and under are free)
Other Fun Events and Activities
Get ready for the holidays with the Greater Hansville Community Center’s 3rd annual Holiday Market at Buck Lake. Get in the holiday spirit with small town charm and live music, food, various vendors, a silent auction, and Santa.
Dec. 9, 2023 | Free
If you celebrate Chanukah, this Sunday is the 6th annual Menorah on the Green. Head to Bainbridge Island to celebrate with loved ones and community members. There’s a giant menorah lighting, live music, latkes and donuts, arts and crafts, and more – all thanks to the Chabad of Bainbridge and North Kitsap.
Dec. 10, 2023 at 4:00 PM | Free but please RSVP.
Winter Cookie Decorating at Hood Canal Brewery
Here’s some delicious fun for the whole family. Take the kids to Kingston’s Hood Canal Brewery to decorate some cookies while you enjoy a pint. This event is free and cookies, decorating supplies, and light snacks will be provided.
Dec. 16, 2023 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Free but please RSVP.
Winter Wonders at Bloedel Reserve
Bloedel is beautiful in every season, and this all-ages outdoor experience will allow guests to see a different side of what winter has to offer. A sensory hunt guides visitors through the garden to listen and feel the natural elements. You can participate in a special winter solstice tour and a Soundscape installation. For those with little ones, check out Saturday Story Time at the Residence. Advance tickets required.
Open Tuesdays – Sundays 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | $5 – $22 per person
Holidays at the Village – Bainbridge
Pleasant Beach Village on Bainbridge Island is all decked out for the holidays. Register for a gingerbread house party, visit Santa or dance to some live music. And, you can enjoy seasonal beverages in the outdoor heated Wintergarden. Visit Pleasant Beach Village’s website for additional details.
Open daily and most special activities fall on weekends | Activity prices vary
For more fun this season, check out these outdoor winter activities.
How to Financially Prepare as a First-Time Home Buyer
While there are many steps in the home-buying process, it’s best to start by reviewing your finances, especially as a first-time home buyer. In fact, you should do this long before you start looking at homes. While diving into your finances can feel daunting, our partner at Penrith Home Loans is here to help. Cherie Kesti is a Branch Manager and Mortgage Consultant who also happens to be a Kitsap County local. With more than 20 years of experience working in the home financing industry, she was happy to answer these common questions from first-time home buyers.
What are the top things lenders consider when working with a first-time home buyer?
There are a lot of things we look for when qualifying a first-time home buyer, but four key areas are:
- Job security: Having a minimum two-year history is ideal.
- Other income sources: This includes other sources such as social security, alimony, child support, disability, retirement, and pensions. For these types of income, lenders must confirm that the money will continue being received at least 36 months post-closing.
- Credit history and monthly debt load: Having a good credit score is an indicator of your overall financial health. If yours is low, it’s important to take steps to improve your credit score before applying for a loan. Also, the amount of outstanding debt directly affects how large a loan a buyer qualifies for. If you’re able to pay down your debt, that’s ideal before qualifying for a loan.
- Assets: Some loans require a minimum amount of assets in liquid accounts such as checking, savings, and money market accounts or in brokerage, retirement, and stocks. Borrowed funds are not considered an acceptable source of funds for a home loan unless those funds are secured by an asset such as a vehicle, or property.
Is buying a home still achievable in today’s market?
Many young adults think that they may never be able to buy a home. There is so much discouraging information in the media. However, they become more optimistic after learning that there are a variety of lending strategies and programs available to help first-time home buyers. This includes programs that allow a small down payment and gift funds from a family member to be used as a down payment. There is also down payment assistance available and the possibility of negotiating a seller-paid mortgage-rate buydown to lower interest rates. All these options help with affordability and make buying a home more achievable.
Are interest rates too high right now to buy a home?
Don’t let interest rates discourage you from purchasing a home. Buying your home at today’s value, combined with the potential opportunity to refinance in the future, may be in your best financial interest. As we say in real estate, marry the house, date the rate. If you wait to buy, most likely, the home’s value will continue to increase. This requires a larger loan regardless of the interest rate. If you buy now with a lower home value, you will have a smaller loan. With refinancing, this means a smaller monthly payment in the future.
Do I need to have a large down payment to buy a home?
If you’re saving up to buy your first home, you may be relieved to know that for most buyers, low down payment options are still available. This includes the following options:
- 0 down: The Veterans Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture both offer a zero-down loan program for individuals and/or properties that meet their criteria. Sometimes, loans require little or no cash out of pocket. Some down payment assistance programs also give buyers a chance to purchase with minimal down payment.
- 3.5% down: The Federal Housing Administration loan program allows as little as 3.5% down. This program is also more lenient than others on minimum credit score requirements and other factors.
- 5% down: Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac conventional loans are available with down payments as low as 3%. The minimum on these programs can change depending on factors such as property type, credit score, and occupancy. Conventional financing is now allowing as little as 5% down payment on a multi-family/2-4 family home, which will allow homeowners to occupy one unit and rent out the other units as cash flow, which offsets the expense of their monthly mortgage payment.
If you have additional questions about finances as a first-time home buyer, contact Cherie Kesti or one of our Windermere Kingston Brokers. We also have other great resources to help you, including our home-buying guide and what to examine when touring a home. Best wishes on your home-buying journey!
Bundle Up & Enjoy These Outdoor Winter Activities in the PNW
Just because it’s winter in the Pacific Northwest, does not mean you have to stay cooped up inside. Bundle up and explore our area! Here are some fun outdoor winter activities in Kitsap County and beyond!
Chilly Hilly Bike Ride on Bainbridge Island
This late February event has been an annual tradition for over 50 years. More than 2,000 cyclists go on a 33-mile ride around Bainbridge Island. Participants come from all over to tackle two challenges: a climb of over 2,000 feet and the icy winter weather here in the Pacific Northwest. Also, entrance fees support Cascade Bicycle Club’s mission to make Washington a better place for people riding bikes. So, participants are supporting local nonprofits while getting great exercise.
Cost: $40+
Follow Cascade Bicycle Club’s website for more information about this event.
Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area in the Olympic National Park
While many people flock to the Olympic National Park in the summer, Hurricane Ridge is also a great place to visit in the winter. One of only two remaining lift operations in the National Parks, it offers a variety of winter recreation areas with scenic views. And, this small, family-friendly-oriented operation provides high-quality winter sports at a lower cost.
Cost: $24+ | Open: Saturdays, Sundays, and on Monday holidays
Lake Chelan Winterfest in Chelan and Manson
Both downtown Chelan and downtown Manson are home to Washington’s winter wonderland. With sprawling views of snow-capped hilltops and glacier-fed waters, Winterfest is sure to please. It includes intricate ice sculptures, fireworks shows, live music, and more. Also, there are many winter play activities in the area so that both kids and adults can enjoy the season in a variety of ways.
Cost: Varies | Open: January 13 – 22, 2023
Leavenworth in Winter
Leavenworth is a Bavarian town nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It offers outdoor winter activities for all. Whether it’s the Village of Lights: Winter Karneval throughout the month of January, petting a reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, or going snowmobiling with friends, there is something for everyone. Furthermore, for those looking for great dining and shopping, downtown Leavenworth provides a plethora of options.
Cost: Varies | Open: Year-round
Night Skiing at Crystal Mountain in Enumclaw
Crystal Mountain Resort’s night skiing option is family-friendly and great for those wanting to hit the slopes. Discovery, Gold Hills, and Quicksilver chair lifts shine bright at night with their Snow-Brite LED lights. A new option at the resort is the Last Chair Pass, which lets you hit the slopes anytime after 1:00 PM for three hours of access to the whole mountain before skiing or snowboarding under the lights.
Cost: Varies | Open: Friday and Saturday nights until 8:00 PM; now through February 19, 2023
Seattle Underground Tour
Although it’s more underground than outside, you will still need to bundle up for this attraction. If you’d like to explore a new side of the Emerald City, this unusual attraction will take you through the interconnected tunnels of the Seattle Underground. A 75-minute guided walking tour, you’ll get to explore the subterranean storefronts and sidewalks that were entombed when the city was rebuilt on top of itself after the Great Fire of 1889.
Cost: $10+ Please note that children under 6 years old are free but may find the tour challenging. | Open: Daily, year-round except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Valisblot in Poulsbo
Every year, on the weekend closest to February 14th, the Poulsbo Sons of Norway Vikings host a fun Norse Valentine’s Day. They’ll take over downtown Front Street and then light the bonfire down at the Waterfront Park, giving a proclamation of love to their sweethearts. After the festivities, we suggest taking a stroll along the beautiful waterfront and then dining at one of downtown Poulsbo’s many wonderful restaurants.
Cost: Free
Want to stay in the know about more local events? Check out our free, digital Kitsap Events Guide. You’ll find a variety of recurring and annual events listed by month with helpful links, videos, and more.
Should You Renovate Or Sell Your Home As Is?
You’ve decided to sell your home, so should you renovate or sell your home as is? As with all decisions, there are pros and cons to each choice. If you choose to renovate your home, it will most likely sell for a higher price and faster, but remodeling projects can be costly. And, some don’t have a high return on investment. If you choose to sell your house as is, you save money in the short term but you could miss out on making more money on the sale of your home. It’s important to understand the factors involved and work with your real estate agent.
Home Remodel Cost Analysis
One of the most important factors is the cost of home remodeling projects. First, how much are you willing to spend? Second, can you expect a decent ROI when you sell your home? Thankfully, you don’t have to figure this out on your own. Your local real estate agent is a great resource and should be an expert on the local market. It’s their job to evaluate your home and to know which remodels are most beneficial in your area.
Doing A Home Remodel
If you decide to move forward with renovations, the next decision to make is whether you can DIY or if you need to hire a contractor. If you are qualified, can you dedicate the time required to finish the project within your home sale timeline? While hiring a contractor costs more, it may be worthwhile. You may want the peace of mind of working with a professional, especially for highly technical projects.
According to the Remodeling 2022 Cost vs. Value Report, on average, homeowners paid approximately $27,000 for a midrange bathroom remodel and it had a 58.9% ROI. For a minor kitchen remodel nationwide, they paid about $28,000 and it had a 71.2% ROI. These numbers indicate that you can recover more than half to a third of your costs. For your home, simpler upgrades that increase your home’s value may be better. Consider painting kitchen cabinets, refinishing hardwood floors, or installing new bathroom tile. After you’ve updated or renovated, your agent can help determine the price of your home.
Selling Your Home As Is
If you decide not to remodel your home, you may ultimately sell your home for less. But you won’t have to deal with the costs and headaches that come with renovations. Plus, remodeling a home you are about to sell means you won’t get to enjoy any of the upgraded benefits. Where’s the fun in that? Lastly, choosing not to remodel or make any upgrades will impact what you get for your home and your home-buying budget. It’s important to remember the costs of buying a new home.
Market Conditions
Local market conditions are another factor to consider when deciding whether to renovate or sell your home as is. In a seller’s market, you most likely will still be able to sell your home for a great price without investing time and money into remodeling. Due to strong demand and limited supply, high competition among buyers will drive up prices. However, you’ll still have to take steps to prepare like making necessary repairs. And, staging your home gives buyers a great first impression and helps them easily imagine themselves in the space. That being said, sometimes certain projects like adding stone veneer to your home’s exterior (119.5% recouped at resale) or replacing your garage door (117% recouped at resale) can really increase the value of your home.
Here in Kitsap County, we still have a seller’s market. Though we are seeing a shift in the market, there are still serious buyers. Watch our video below to see our 3rd quarter market stats.
Waiting
If you’re still not sure what to do and you’re not working within a tight timeline, you could wait. This will give you more time to weigh your options and prepare for a future sale. With more time, you’ll be able to plan for any needed projects at a more relaxed pace.
When deciding whether to renovate or sell your home as is, Windermere Kingston has highly rated, experienced local real estate experts available to help. Take some of the pressure off and contact us today.
Kitsap’s Market: First Quarter, 2022
Kitsap County’s real estate market had a solid first quarter. In 2021, we saw strong buyer demand and low inventory, and that continues to be the case. It’s still a seller’s market, with many homes continuing to sell above the asking price. We’ve compiled key highlights and market trends below. And, if you have any questions our local experts are here to help.
News on Sold and Pending Homes
In the graph above, you can see a similar rise reflected in market volume that we saw this time last year. This follows the typical real estate market trend of a cooler first quarter before the market heats up in the summer. Sold homes still outpace pending listings and home prices are still increasing as a result of high demand. During 2022’s first quarter, 994 homes were sold. That’s up 10.7% year-over-year, showing more market activity.
Kitsap’s Market Still Favors Sellers
As supply remains low, sellers can list with confidence. Buyers will need to be prepared for competition. We do expect to see more homes come on the market as construction ramps back up, supply chain issues decrease, and the pandemic wanes.
Listing Price vs. Sale Price
Kitsap’s market still has many eager buyers and during Q1, we saw a 10.8% increase in home prices year-over-year. We expect prices to continue to rise since many buyers will continue to meet sellers’ pricing demands. We are also seeing more affordability issues for others who want to buy in our area. Currently, the average sale price in Kitsap County is $606,000.
Insights from Our Chief Economist
Matthew Gardner, Windermere’s Chief Economist, shared his Top 10 Predictions for 2022 in one of his recent Monday with Matthew videos. Here’s what Gardner predicts for 2022:
- Prices will continue to rise, though the pace of appreciation will slow. Gardner thinks it will be about 6% in 2022 versus the massive 16% rise of 2021.
- Spring will be busier than expected. This will increase buyer demand, as buyers get more clarity in their new hybrid model combining remote and office work.
- The rise of the suburbs will also result from this work hybrid model. Many buyers are moving within the same area they already lived in.
- New construction jumps since the cost to build has come down.
- Zoning issues will be addressed.
- Climate change will impact where buyers live. People will focus more on how safe a location is in relation to natural disasters.
- Urban markets will bounce back after the demand drop from Covid.
- A resurgence in foreign investors will return since the travel bans were lifted last November. The demand will rise as long as our borders remain open.
- First-time buyers will be an even bigger factor in 2022. This year, 4.8 million millennials will turn 30, the median age of first-time buyers in the U.S. First-time buyers will be looking for cheaper markets.
- Forbearance will come to an end and that will be okay. It was well thought out, and as Gardner says, “as of recording this video, there are now fewer than 900,000 owners still in the program.” Hopefully, this continues to drop.
Additional Information
You can learn more from Matthew Gardner by reading his Market Update by region or watching his Monday with Matthew video series.
If you’re new to our area, check out our free Guide to Kitsap. If you’re interested in buying or selling, our local experts are here to help.
Enjoy a Fun Night Out in North Kitsap
If this winter weather is getting you down, shake things up with a night out in North Kitsap. From excellent food and drink options to live music and creative activities, there are many fun things to do here. Check out these unique suggestions below.
Enjoy Wine, Food, and Live Music at d’Vine Wines
A popular place for friends and loved ones, d’Vine Wines is a great spot for a night out in Kingston. Just steps away from the Kingston Ferry Terminal, you can easily stop in for a glass of wine or enjoy it with dinner. They have indoor and outdoor seating, a wonderful wine selection, and they frequently host live music. Check out their updated menu, which includes tasty small plates like bacon-wrapped dates and flatbreads, as well as entrees like butternut squash risotto and Thai green curry shrimp.
For Valentine’s Day, they are offering a romantic brunch either on Saturday, Feb. 12th or Sunday, Feb. 13th. Additionally, you and your Valentine can enjoy dinner and live jazz on Saturday, Feb. 12th. Reservations are highly recommended. Follow d’Vine Wines’ Facebook page for additional information and updates.
Go on a Ghost Walk in Port Gamble
Grab a Pint & Watch or Play a Game at Downpour Brewing
For a casual night of fun, head to Downpour Brewing, just four blocks up from Kingston’s Ferry Terminal. It’s a popular local spot where you can watch a game or play one of their many board games. They’re known for great beer, friendly staff, open mic nights, and food truck pop-ups. They have indoor seating as well as a covered, outdoor beer garden. You are also welcome to bring in food from other places to enjoy there with your beer. Follow Downpour’s Facebook page for updates and events.
Get Creative at Dancing Brush Studio
A visit to Dancing Brush Studio makes for a unique, artsy night out. Whether you consider yourself a creative person or not, we can all use time getting in touch with our creative side. Paint your own pottery with friends or a loved one either in their downtown Poulsbo studio or at home by purchasing one of their take-home kits. If you want to paint at the studio, call in advance to reserve your table: (360) 598-3800. From cappuccino mugs to gnomes, platters to wine glasses – there are so many interesting things you can paint. For ideas and details, check out Dancing Brush Studio’s Facebook page.
Listen to Live Music at the Manor House
There’s nothing like experiencing live music, and there are many shows coming up on Bainbridge Island, specifically on the south end in the Manor House at Pleasant Beach Village. This series features everything from Latin jazz to alternative rock, indie folk to classical music. Tickets range from $25 – $40. There’s a full-service bar and snacks available for purchase. The 1920’s Tudor-style Manor House is a beautiful place to explore and is near many delightful eateries and boutiques.
Watch a Movie at the Firehouse Theater
Kingston’s Firehouse Theater offers a unique movie-going experience. They have excellent movie options, popcorn with real melted butter, and staff members who introduce each movie with bits of trivia and news on upcoming events. It’s a welcoming, cozy place, and they even offer movies for just $6 on Wednesdays.
Want to have the theater all to yourself? Well, you actually can rent out this theater for your own private event! You can either rent the Back Stage theater for $99 or the Main Stage for $175 (both for 2 hours with a 50% non-refundable deposit). And, concessions are available for your private rental.
Upcoming events at the Firehouse include a free Superbowl event on Feb. 13th where you can watch the game on the big screen. On February 14th, they’re hosting a Valentine’s Day Movie and Trivia Night from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM. To stay “in the know”, follow the Firehouse Theater’s Facebook page.
Our Community Involvement in 2021
Community involvement is one of our core values, so we thought we would share how our Windermere Kingston office has supported and invested in our wonderful community this year. By sharing this information, we hope it spreads awareness about these great events and nonprofits.
Local Events
In the spring, we helped with Community Kitchen, a free dinner provided by the Suquamish United Church of Christ. Since 2009, Suquamish UCC has been providing free meals to anyone in the community. They are now serving dinner almost every Wednesday of the year. On average, they serve more than 100 people at each meal. Different groups help prepare and serve meals and it was a pleasure to participate.
Every year, we love participating in Windermere’s Community Service Day. It’s a day when all Windermere offices across 10 states close in order for agents and staff to help local organizations in different ways. Collectively, we’ve logged over 1,000,000 community service hours so far.
This year, we volunteered to help Kingston’s Boy Scout Hall. For years, fundraising efforts have been underway, and this year we donated $4,800 to this restoration project. This past June, it was finally time to start renovating the Boy Scout Hall. Kingston North Kitsap Rotary Club stepped in to restore it. On Community Service Day, we cleaned up the area around the Hall in Kola Kole Park. We also bought materials and built a woodshed. You can watch our video below to see a bit of what we were able to accomplish, as well as the work of our colleagues at our other local Windermere offices.
Another great event was our annual Shred Fest. It’s a free day where you can safely and securely shred old documents and recycle old electronics. It’s always fun to help people declutter and catch up with old clients and friends.
Donations
There are a variety of important organizations to support, and this year we focused our efforts on a handful of local nonprofits. We donated $1,500 to The Coffee Oasis. A nonprofit, faith-based organization, The Coffee Oasis empowers youth escaping violence, homelessness, and poverty. They provide mental health services, job training, and short and long-term housing options, which help hundreds of teenagers in Kitsap County, including right here in Kingston.
Another great program for youth is Kids in Concert. It’s a free, not-for-profit music education program for North Kitsap students ages 6 – 18. This after-school program provides instruments, music instruction, tutoring, snacks, and concert attire. They’re “creating compassionate citizens of the world through the healing and developmental power of music.” We were happy to donate $500 to Kids in Concert. In addition to monetary donations, you can support this important program by donating gently used instruments or offering to teach kids if you’re a musician who loves to do so.
There are many in need in our community, and a food drive is another way to give back. In Kitsap County, approximately one-third of adults are food insecure and over a third of local children are in need of free and reduced lunch. We donated $2,000 to ShareNet Food Bank, which provides North Kitsap with emergency food provision, rental assistance, and weekend food backpacks for students in need.
Speaking of food for local youth, we also donated $2,500 to Kingston Cares‘s Food4Kids program. Another important nonprofit, Kingston Cares works hard to address poverty issues in North Kitsap. In addition to their Food4Kids program, they provide our local severe weather shelter program, medical equipment lending, and community meals.
There are many different ways to support and invest in our community. We’re proud of what we’ve done so far through our office’s community involvement and our Windermere Foundation. A portion of every Windermere agent’s commission is donated to the Windermere Foundation, and we’re also part of the broader Windermere Foundation, which impacts communities across 10 states. Collectively we’ve raised over $41 million to provide shelter, food, children’s programs.
If you want to get more involved in our community, we hope this has given you some ideas. We should note that our Windermere Kingston agents also support different nonprofits on their own. So, this only reflects our office-wide community involvement.
5 of Kitsap’s New Eateries You Need to Try
In case you missed our social media coverage, we’ve been featuring great, local eateries that have opened during the pandemic. We wanted to highlight them all in one place so you can fully appreciate their unique stories. It was such a joy to chat with all of these local small business owners and we hope you try these delicious eateries.
Bigleaf Maple Bakery in Poulsbo
Photos by Leo Phillips.
What do you get when you mix an archeologist and a choir teacher? Apparently, you can get amazing French pastries! Sarah and Wendi from Bigleaf Maple met three and a half years ago while working at Pane D’Amore on Bainbridge, and became “baking soulmates”.
“No matter where you think you’ll be, life puts you in different places,” they said of making radical career shifts, and then starting a new business during a pandemic. They started Bigleaf Maple in the winter of 2019, producing wholesale items in early 2020, like macarons for Bon Bon and fresh treats for the Poulsbo Farmers Market.
The bakery started out in a rented commercial kitchen space. As their fan base grew, they offered items for sale via social media for delivery at the beginning of the pandemic. Eventually, they opened their storefront in the late spring of 2021. They both said they love being located in Historic Downtown Poulsbo, allowing them to collaborate and support all of the other local small businesses.
It’s a wonderful place to start your day. Or, pick up some incredible treats for a special occasion!
Ono Poke Too in Kingston
Photos by Leo Phillips.
Poke is a way of life in Hawaii, and Steven Ono is bringing his culture and a new fresh food option to Kitsap through Ono Poke Too in Kingston. Growing up on O’ahu, Steven would race home from school to meet his uncle’s fishing boat to help clean the catch of the day, and take it to auction.
Open since March 2021, Ono has faced challenges, but it has been well-received by the community. Being embedded in the community is very important to the Ono Poke brand, and at the end of each day, any leftover food is shared with community groups via the employees, as EVERY dish is made fresh each morning. They also proudly offer discounts to military and first-responders. A rooftop patio and surfboard storage are on the wish list for additions to the space.
Their sister restaurant in Edmonds has been open for five years and serves more than 100 lbs. of poke per day.
Just a couple of blocks up from the Kingston Ferry Terminal, Ono Poke Too makes a delicious lunch or dinner spot and they have great drink options like Rainier Beer and Hunniwater. Check it out and enjoy!
Parlor Shop in Poulsbo
Photos by Leo Phillips.
When the world opened back up in June 2020, Mike and Taylor were ready with their new restaurant: Parlor Shop in Poulsbo! Before opening, Mike and Taylor had been hard at work renovating and curating the space and pizza menu – complete with a full-service cocktail bar. Their hard work shows in the comfortable lounge atmosphere and elegant bar design.
Mike and Taylor hope to host a community space centered around great food, drink, and company. “Every single day is a new starting point, and we’re trying to fulfill what we had envisioned,” says Mike, now on his second restaurant. For Taylor, who also boasts years of restaurant experience, “enthusiastic guests and repeat customers” is especially rewarding to see.
Nothing comes closer to realizing their Parlor Shop vision than live music. With tunes, pies, and drinks flowing, the community atmosphere shines bright, a beacon for the future of this new addition to the vibrant Poulsbo restaurant scene. Next time you’re heading down Viking Way, make a stop at Parlor Shop. Pressed for time? You can easily order online for carry-out.
The Slab Pizza Co. in Suquamish
Photos by Leo Phillips.
The Slab Pizza Company in Suquamish may be small, but it’s certainly mighty. Originally, “the slab” was a large cement basketball court known as a hangout for local youth, and one of the “spots to be” for fireworks. Having lived in the area since the 1990s, owner Drew Bateman chose the name to pay homage to the part of town that had the same name when he was growing up.
The interior of the shop is painted in rainbow colors, not just “because rainbows are cool,” but to show support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Drew hopes the shop can be a welcoming place for anyone who is from an underrepresented demographic. Being in Suquamish, and being on Native land is really special, and he is proud to be able to serve the community this way.
The Slab, which offers to-go only, opened in mid-June 2021, but the building was obtained in November of 2020. This is Drew’s second pizza restaurant – the first being Bene Pizza on Bainbridge Island. His background in restaurants began at Agate Pass Cafe, which was located across the street from the Slab, and he has been working with the same crew for almost a decade. He loves working with his great crew, which he says feels just like family. Plus, his daughter Chloe, who has been working with him in restaurants since she was 14, can be found behind the counter most days. Order online or stop by for a slice and an interesting soda!
Yoko Yoko Ramen in Bremerton
Photos by Leo Phillips.
Great ramen starts with a passion for authentic cultural traditions, and James Johnson, the owner of Yoko Yoko Ramen, gained that from his time in Japan. While stationed there for the Navy, he attended the International Ramen School as a hobby, learning everything about ramen, including how to make all of the traditional ingredients, and how to open a restaurant. It wasn’t until he ended up in Kitsap that he put this knowledge to work.
The restaurant opened in April of 2021, with a bar expansion in June. Liz, the bar manager, also spent five years in Japan, and is thrilled to be able to create custom cocktails and bring Japanese ingredients to life in beautiful ways.
Johnson’s vision was to bring something to Kitsap that would fill a void for folks who have lived or spent time in Japan, a place for nostalgia and reminiscing, while also serving those interested in trying authentic dishes.
More recently, they are hoping to bring some of the “San Diego vibe” to Bremerton, to welcome families recently relocated to Kitsap with the arrival of the USS Theodore Roosevelt. Future plans include a traditional-style karaoke lounge, available for private events. They offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, so grab your friends and family for a great lunch, dinner, or Happy Hour meet-up.
We hope you’ll try these wonderful places, and we can’t wait to feature a few more local businesses soon. So, stay tuned for more on our Facebook page, Windermere Sound Living. If you know of a delicious, new place here in Kitsap County, please let us know through our Facebook page and we might feature it.
