Mercer Island is well known for its stellar views, volunteer filled schools, safety, its beautiful trees and parks, and of course the convenient location between Bellevue and Seattle. The north end of Mercer Island is considered the “downtown.” Like all downtowns, it offers a little bit of everything, most of the time.
However, what if you cannot find what you need on the north end? Would you rather jump on the freeway, sit in traffic, only to support someone else’s city, OR drive approximately 8 minutes south to support your own city’s "mom and pop" shops and restaurants? Without Islanders shopping and eating with local small businesses, commercial spaces will continue to stay vacant and turn over.
Additionally, other businesses will shy away from putting down roots on the prize island. Consequently, Mercer Island suffers negative commerce growth and will lack goods, services and essentials needed for Islander’s day-to-day lives.
(That is not to say that smart city planning, attentive business owners and motivated building landlords do not play an equal role in building commerce success, but that is for another article.)
This article aims to shine a light on the lifestyle shopping center at the south end of Mercer Island, not just as an alternative, but an essential.
Mark O’Shea, owner of the south end shopping center buildings says, “We are a community-oriented and locally focused neighborhood shopping center. Many of our businesses have been here for over a decade and we are passionate about having a diverse mix of businesses that serve the daily needs of the local community. We are also excited to announce our newest business Oh! Chocolate, who is planning to open in late summer. Oh! Chocolate has been on Mercer Island for over 30 years and we are thrilled to welcome them to the south end!”
The south end is home to two clubs, off leash dog walking parks, two schools, many residential neighborhoods, and one of the Island’s most used ball fields. Just north of these frequented destinations, sits the shopping center.
Here are the advantages to hitting the one-stop location. First, you can gas up and/or drop your car for service while you take care of your day’s checklist. Once parked, all the shops, services and eateries are steps from your car. You only have to park one time and there is ample parking for all. Next, drop your dry cleaning and lean into local businesses! Take care of your health and wellness by grabbing a workout at MI Fit, or get your spa needs met at Salon 106, Mercer Nail and Spa, Eurobody of Mercer Island and/or Seattle Skin and Laser. Finished with self-care? Hungry yet? Knock out your appetite and social visits at one time. The south end offers an array of restaurants. Join your friends and pick between Riviera Maya Mexican Restaurant or Yuzen Japanese Restaurant for a sit-down meal. Or, grab a sub sandwich, pizza, coffee with a snack or teriyaki and enjoy your meal at the outdoor seating areas. Next on your to-do list, run those everyday living errands. Drop by The Boutique Lounge for gifts and essentials for him, for her, for baby and of course your MI spirit wear. Last, you pop into the QFC. Walk your groceries to your car and head home. While you are at home, think about how much you got done without leaving the island. Pat yourself on the back for supporting your local community. Local business owners are grateful.
The south end, reported by their vendors, is actively working at filling their empty commercial spaces, including the former Rite Aid. While the Storage Court occupies the east end of the parking lot, there is more for the taking. So, if you have a new or existing business idea, if you like the idea of reasonable rent considering MI’s average price per square foot, call on an available south end space. Help grow Mercer Island commerce and work just a few miles from home.
As a patron, you can help save local businesses by staying on the Island to shop, eat, and take care of your health and wellness.
If you don’t see what you want at MI’s local businesses, make suggestions to owners and managers. You cannot get what you don’t ask for.
“We are a community-oriented and locally focused neighborhood shopping center." - Mark O' Shea, Azose Commercial Properties