Living in Fremont, Seattle

exterior of Fremont brewing company with lots of green plants and flowers bursting around the patio and outdoor seating

What Sets Fremont Apart?

Fremont is located in in north-central Seattle, just north of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and about 4 miles from downtown. Ballard is to the west, Wallingford is to the east, and Phinney Ridge is to the north.

Affectionately nicknamed The Center of the Universe, Fremont is known for having a whimsical, arty vibe. It's home to fabulous restaurants, superb local boutiques, quaint cafes, tech companies, tree-lined streets, charming parks, and there's even a troll under the bridge (a famous public sculpture, that is).

The Center of the Universe

In the 1970s, Fremont residents jokingly declared their neighborhood the “Center of the Universe” - partly inspired by the belief that if the universe is infinite, then technically any point could be its center. They put up a signpost at Fremont Ave N and N 35th St pointing to places like the Milky Way and Venus. The motto “De Libertas Quirkas” (Freedom to be Peculiar) perfectly sums up the vibe. This playful claim continues to draw free spirits, artists, and curious visitors to this popular neighborhood.

So Many Great Places to Eat

It's hard to list them all, but here are some stand-out faves:

Meesha – 127 N 36th St Modern Indian fare that started as a pop-up. Try the rarah keema pao or Amritsari fish.
Old Salt – 1326 N 40th St
Neighborhood spot for seafood, burgers, and craft cocktails. Cozy and casual.
Local Tide – 401 N 36th St Suite 103
Go-to spot for seafood lovers. The fish sandwiches, like the salmon BLT, are a hit.
Manolin – 3621 Stone Way N
Seafood with a tropical twist. Don’t miss the ceviche and creative cocktails.
Kamonegi – 1054 N 39th St
Handmade soba noodles and crispy tempura. A must for Japanese food fans.
Joule – 3506 Stone Way N
Korean-inspired steakhouse with creative dishes like spicy rice cakes and kalbi short ribs.
The Whale Wins – 3506 Stone Way N
Cozy spot for wood-fired veggies, meats, and seafood. Perfect for a laid-back meal.
Stone Way Cafe – 3510 Stone Way N
Chill, cozy brunch spot offering classics like biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and vegetarian faves.
Frelard Tamales – 6412 Latona Ave NE
Family-run tamale shop serving up authentic Mexican tamales with a variety of fillings.
Westward – 2501 N Northlake Way
Waterfront dining with Mediterranean-inspired seafood and stunning Lake Union views.
Paseo Caribbean Food – 4225 Fremont Ave N
Famous for their messy, mouth-watering Caribbean roast sandwiches. Worth the wait!
Sea Wolf Bakers – 3621 Stone Way N
Beloved bakery known for amazing sourdough bread, pastries, and coffee. Get there early!
Revel – 513 N 36th St Casual, satisfying Korean comfort food like dumplings, noodles, and rice bowls.
Eve Fremont – 704 N 34th St Health-conscious eats with bowls, salads, and smoothies. Light and delicious.
Brouwer's Cafe – 400 N 35th St
Belgian-inspired beer hall with an epic beer list and hearty pub grub.
El Camino – 607 N 35th St Colorful Mexican spot with traditional dishes and strong margaritas.
Livbud – 3627 Stone Way N
Healthy, plant-forward dishes with global flavors. Fresh, tasty, and full of good vibes.
Le Coin – 4201 Fremont Ave N
French-American dishes with a Pacific Northwest twist. Great for brunch or date night.

Local Shops & Boutiques

Les Amis – 3420 Evanston Ave N
A dreamy boutique featuring thoughtfully curated women's clothing and accessories.
Show Pony – 3501 Fremont Ave N
A cozy boutique with locally-made clothing, jewelry, and gifts. Style meets sustainability.
Pipe and Row – 611 N 35th St Trendy and minimalist fashion.
Fremont Vintage Mall – 3419 Fremont Pl N
Treasure trove of vintage clothing, furniture, and collectibles. A must for thrifting fans.
Peace, Love, and Happiness Club – 420 N 35th St Plant shop paradise with rare houseplants, succulents, and all the plant care goodies you need.
Book Larder – 4252 Fremont Ave N
A cookbook store and community kitchen in one.
Daybreak Records – 4308 Fremont Ave N
Vinyl haven with a killer selection of new and used records.
Blue Owl Workshop – 3625 Interlake Ave N
Premium denim and menswear boutique specializing in high-quality, Japanese selvedge denim.
Ophelia's Books – 3504 Fremont Ave N
Charming used bookstore with creaky floors and shelves packed with literary gems. Cozy vibes guaranteed.
Sfingiday – 513 N 36th St Cute boutique filled with handmade goods, plants, candles, and unique gifts. Artsy and adorable.
Portage Bay Goods – 621 N 35th St
Fremont’s go-to for quirky gifts, cards, and fun stationery. Perfect for last-minute presents.
Outsider Comics and Geek Boutique – 223 N 36th St Comic book store with a focus on diversity and inclusivity. Also carries nerdy gifts and apparel.