Food + Beverage

Sit, Stay, Dine

The Island’s Best Pet Friendly Patios Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle 1. The Crawlspace Gastropub Dogs are welcome to lounge on the lively patio at The Crawlspace Gastropub, featuring creative pub fare, craft cocktails, and a laid-back vibe. 2. Pagliacci’s Pizza Grab a slice and settle in with your pup at Pagliacci’s Pizza. Enjoy signature pies, salads, and seasonal specials next to an outdoor fireplace. 3. Allister’s Allister’s heated sidewalk...

Life + Culture

Happy Summer Market Season!

A Fresh Dishing of Delicious at Mercer Island Farmers Market  Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle Every Sunday through September 28, 2025, the Mercer Island Farmers Market showcases local produce, arts, community organizations and live music at Mercerdale Park—from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—with all the charm market shoppers love, plus some game-changing upgrades aimed at families, foodies, and fan favorites. Rolling in Style: Mini Shopping Carts for Kids One of...

Health + Wellness

Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know Article by Dr. Blanchette Medical Director | Photography by Island Animal Hospital As pet owners, we cherish our furry companions and do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. However, emergencies can happen when we least expect them. Know the Location of Emergency Veterinary Clinics: One of the most important aspects of emergency preparedness for pets is knowing where to go in case of an emergency. At Island Animal Hospital, we are always...

Education

Back to School

Islander Spirit Style Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by J Garner Photography Island pride is in full swing as West Mercer, Island Park, Northwood, and Lakeridge Elementary Schools, Islander Middle School, and Mercer Island High School gear up for an exciting new year! The 2025 school year begins August 27—get ready for fresh starts, new friendships, and unforgettable Islander memories. Go MI!  

Health + Wellness

Tools, Tears, Triumph

How Therapy Is Helping Kids Build Emotional Strength Article by Chris Ishii | Photography by Therapy Lab When a child starts melting down at preschool, refuses to go to school, or explodes into tears in the cereal aisle, parents are often left wondering: Is this just a phase, or something more? Dr. Chandler Chang, clinical psychologist and founder of Therapy Lab, hears this question often—and believes that families don’t need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. “Usually it’s one of two...

Sports + Recreation

Mercerwood Shore Club

Where Community, Recreation and Family Thrive Since 1953 Article by Paul Von Destinon, Ferguson Neale | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle 1.  A Foundation Built on Family and Recreation Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Washington, Mercerwood Shore Club has been a cornerstone of community life on Mercer Island for generations. Built on a foundation of family and recreation, the Club offers year-round opportunities for connection and fun—from social gatherings and beach days to...

Travel

Exploring Morocco

A Journey Through Harmony, Heritage, and Hospitality Article by Brenda El-Ghazzawy | Photography by LUXXE Travel Some places don't just leave an impression, they shift your perspective. Morocco is one of them. My recent journey through this North African country was a study in contrast and connections: from the vibrant energy of Marrakech to the stillness of the Sahara, the historic medina of Fes to the serene luxury of Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains. Morocco is more than just a...

Food + Beverage

Classic Chicken Katsu

Chef Jason Farrish of The Crawlspace Gastropub Shares a Taste of Hawaii Article by Jason Farrish | Photography by The Crawlspace Gastropub Chef Jason Farrish, co-owner of The Crawlspace Gastropub on Mercer Island, brings a rich tapestry of cultural influences to his culinary creations. Born and raised in Hawaii, Jason’s upbringing was steeped in diverse culinary traditions. His family established the renowned Yummy Korean BBQ in 1986, a legacy that deeply influenced his palate and cooking...

Travel

Explore: A Life Set to the Wind

By nature and by trade, Captain Ari Sheer is an explorer. Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by J Garner Photography For Mercer Island yacht broker Ari Sheer, the spirit of exploration began at seven years old—and it’s still charting his course today. Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Ari Sheer’s love of the water came naturally. He grew up racing dinghies and ocean yachts along the Australian coast, developing a fierce passion for the sea and a hunger for adventure. By his teens...

Travel

Mercer Islanders In the Wild

Curated Journeys. Mercer Island Style. Article by Brenda El-Ghazzawy | Photography by LUXXE Travel Inspired in India The Atkinsons explored India over the 2024 holidays, from sunrise at the Taj Mahal to rolling chapatis in Delhi, visiting ancient caves in Mumbai, and celebrating the New Year by the sea in Goa. Swiss Peaks & Scenic Rails Mercer Island friends explored the Swiss Alps in style. Skiing in Zermatt, viewing the Matterhorn, and breathtaking scenery aboard the Glacier and...