Multicultural Bellevue: Chinese and Taiwanese Community 

The Chinese and Taiwanese community has made substantial contributions to the cultural fabric of Bellevue. Chinese immigration to the area dates back to the mid-19th century when Chinese and Taiwanese workers played an important role in the building of the transcontinental railroad. Today, the Chinese and Taiwanese community in Bellevue is a vibrant and growing part of the city, with a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated and preserved through a variety of events and activities. 

One of the most notable positive impacts of the Chinese and Taiwanese communities in Bellevue is their contribution to the city's economy. Chinese-owned businesses, both large and small, have created jobs and boosted the local economy. Additionally, the influx of Chinese and Taiwanese residents has contributed to the growth of the city's housing market, as many Chinese and Taiwanese families have moved to Bellevue and invested in the community. 

Asian Owned Businesses to Explore in Bellevue 

Bellevue’s economy has greatly benefited from the amazing businesses the Asian Community has started. Although these are not the only Asian-owned businesses in Bellevue, here is a list of some that can enrich your visitor experience. For a more in depth list of Asian-Owned businesses in Bellevue, please visit the Intentionalist’s Business Finder page. 

Baron's Sino Kitchen and Bar: is a modern Chinese restaurant located in Bellevue, Washington. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine with craft cocktails. Baron's Sino Kitchen and Bar is particularly famous for their Peking Duck, which is served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce. Alongside their signature dish, the restaurant also serves a variety of modern Chinese cuisine, including delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts. 

Bellden Cafe is an Asian-owned cafe that focuses on community and quality coffee. Their passion for creating a comfortable and welcoming space for all people is evident in their locally sourced, handcrafted beverages and food. They prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, and their coffee is roasted on site to ensure the highest quality and freshness. Bellden Cafe also provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work, contributing to the diverse and vibrant community in Bellevue. 

Yuan Spa, an Asian-owned business in Bellevue, offers a relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience that is inspired by ancient Asian wellness traditions. Their services include massage therapy, facial treatments, hydrotherapy, and more. With an emphasis on natural, organic, and eco-friendly products, Yuan Spa provides a sanctuary for those looking to unwind and nourish their body and soul. 

Din Tai Fung is a world-renowned Taiwanese restaurant chain with a location in Bellevue, Washington. The restaurant is famous for its xiao long bao, or soup dumplings, which are made fresh to order and filled with flavorful pork and broth. Other popular dishes at Din Tai Fung include the steamed buns, the spicy noodles, and the fried rice. 

FogRose Atelier is a dessert-forward restaurant in Bellevue that specializes in serving beautiful and delicious culinary creations to inspire curiosity and ignite wonder. In addition to their desserts, FogRose Atelier also offers Afternoon Tea, making it a unique spot in the city. It's an intimate and creative space where you can take a moment to be present and joyful, surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere that encourages gentle reflection. Consider it a secret you keep, a special place to enjoy high tea and experience a unique blend of urban life and creativity. 

Forum Social House is an Asian-owned business in downtown Bellevue that offers a unique combination of food, drinks, and entertainment. They have multiple forms of entertainment, each with a different theme and atmosphere, including a top golf lounge, dance floor, and miniature golf course. They serve a variety of food and drinks, including Asian-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. They also have games like billiards, ping pong, and shuffleboard, making it a fun place to hang out with friends and family. 

Dough Zone is a local favorite for Chinese cuisine in Bellevue, Washington. The restaurant is known for its hand-made dumplings and noodles, which are made fresh daily. Some of the most popular dishes at Dough Zone include the juicy pork dumplings, the pan-fried buns, and the spicy beef noodles. 

The Dolar Shop is a hot pot restaurant located in Bellevue, Washington. The restaurant serves a variety of hot pot dishes, including beef, pork, seafood, and vegetarian options. Dolar Shop is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique soup bases, such as the tomato and pork bone soup. 

Facing East is a Taiwanese-style restaurant located in Bellevue, Washington. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Taiwanese dishes, including beef noodle soup, scallion pancakes, and braised pork rice. Facing East is known for its flavorful, authentic dishes and its casual, welcoming atmosphere. 

Museums 

The Wing Luke Museum in Seattle and the Seattle Asian Art Museum are two great places to explore Asian heritage while visiting Bellevue. The Wing Luke Museum tells the stories of Asian Pacific American communities in the United States and is named after Wing Luke, Seattle's first Asian American City Council member. The museum offers exhibits and programs that showcase the experiences and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can explore galleries filled with artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that tell the stories of immigrants, pioneers, and community leaders who shaped the region. 

The Seattle Asian Art Museum is located in Volunteer Park and features a diverse collection of Asian art from China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia. The museum has a collection of over 23,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. The museum's exhibits offer insights into the artistic traditions and cultures of Asia and celebrate the beauty and diversity of the continent's art. In addition to the museum's permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions, lectures, and workshops that explore various aspects of Asian art and culture. 

Festivals 

The Chinese and Taiwanese community in Bellevue is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Chinese and Taiwanese culture. This can be seen in the annual Lunar New Year celebrations, where the community comes together to showcase Chinese and Taiwanese traditions and share them with the wider community. The Chinese and Taiwanese community has also established cultural and language schools to help pass on their heritage to the next generation. The Bellevue Collection hosts a Lunar New Year annually with dance performances, activities, and cultural heritage displays. 

In the community 

Bellevue is also home to a number of Chinese and Taiwanese cultural organizations and community groups, such as the Seattle Chinese Culture and Arts Association and the Chinese information and Service Center. These amazing organizations help preserve and promote Chinese and Taiwanese culture in the community. They also provide important resources and programs for the community. 

Overall, the Chinese and Taiwanese community in Bellevue has played a vital role in the city's growth and success. Their contributions to the local economy, cultural diversity, and community involvement have enriched the city in countless ways. Bellevue, WA, proudly shares a sister city bond with Hualien, Taiwan, a testament to the harmonious connection between these two diverse cities. A beautiful symbol of this friendship stands tall in front of Bellevue City Hall—the majestic Gua Yen statue, a generous gift from the people of Hualien. This exquisite piece of art not only represents the cultural ties between Bellevue and Hualien but also serves as a beacon of unity and goodwill between the two cities. As you admire the Gua Yen statue, allow yourself to be inspired by the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that it embodies. This remarkable sculpture is yet another example of Bellevue's rich cultural landscape, embracing the fusion of diverse traditions and communities that call this city home.