It may be hyperbole but Elliot Bay Book maybe the best bookstore in the United States. That's…read moresaying a lot but after spending a complete afternoon here, I am comfortable in my decree. EBB is have to visit if you are Seattle. Skip the bubblegum wall and the original Starbucks. If you truly want to see Seattle, visit Elliott Bay Book and you will thank me later. I wish I had more time to visit every section and shelf. I wandered aimelessly at first then found myself in Queer True Crime. I ended up having a fantastic conversation with a lovely human at the information desk. I don't remember their name but they even spoke with my daughter on my iPhone as I was looking for a particular book for my wife. I was also on the hunt for Etna, a novel but it was sold out. I ended up purchasing per a staff recommendation, 'Attempt at Exhausting a Place in Paris' by Georges Perec Reading the first couple of pages instantly transported back to Paris, a place I know extemely well, and I saw every bus, man, woman, child, server worker, and heard every klaxon and shouted obscenity. Do yourself a favor and search out Elliot Bay Book when you visit Seattle, you'll be supporting a local business and feeding your mind and soul.

Elliott Bay Book Company in Capitol Hill is a great spot to check out if you love a solid,…read moreold-school bookshop atmosphere with a trendy modern feel. The place is massive, with high wooden shelves, endless aisles, and a selection that spans just about every genre you can think of. If you remember the golden age of independent brick-and-mortar bookstores, walking in here hits a really nice nostalgic chord while still feeling vibrant and full of energy. The handwritten staff recommendation notes posted along the shelves are a fun touch, and having a cozy cafe tucked inside makes it easy to grab a drink and get lost in browsing for an hour or two. It is definitely a cool, memorable stop in the neighborhood whether you are hunting for a specific read or just soaking in the literary vibes.

I have been a Kinokuniya Bookstore member for many years and recently renewed my membership while…read morepurchasing 10 books. At the time of purchase, I specifically asked about the return policy and was told that returning books would be "no problem" as long as they remained unopened in their original plastic wrapping. When I later returned to exchange or return three of the books 10 days later, I was told that I could not do so because I did not have my receipt. This requirement was never mentioned when I asked about returns. As a longtime member, my purchase is documented through my membership account, so it is disappointing that this record could not be used to verify the transaction. I find this level of customer service unacceptable. If a receipt is required for returns, customers should be clearly informed of that at the time of purchase, especially when they specifically ask about the return policy.

One of the smaller Kinokuniya Bookstores that I've visited (it's a corner shop in Uwajimaya grocery…read morestore), but it still gets the job done! Studio Ghibli merch area right upon entering the shop, of course, of course. Decent selection of pens (I got a couple). The second level is dedicated to English-translated manga books as well as anime/video game art books and knick-knacks (sorta all in random assortment.....gotta do some thorough browsing). Since it is a small shop, the aisles are a little cramped. Kinda stuffy too, especially on the second level. Polite staff!

Quirky bookstore! I feel like if you enjoy browsing you will find something here. Take the left…read morepart seriously - there are some books that intrigued me just because of the cover. Let alone the content. I came in to get some books I found on their website that were about Arab Americans (non fiction), a Persian fiction novel and a special copy of a new book by a Nigerian author. All regular price points which is fine as I am Al about supporting small business. Whoever is curating is doing a good job. The plethora of signs and ways they showcase the books was both stark and comfortable. The person at the desk nice and helpful. Check the website and find a topic of interest. Keep an open mind and come check this place out. We all need learning and even if the views challenge your own - it's worth it. A mind always wants to be challenged and to think!

Absolutely offensive staff who threaten customers if masks aren't worn or if you question their…read morechoice of anarchist, garbage books. I experienced the most uncomfortable encounter when I asked why their books were so anti American and offensive. I was assaulted and asked to leave the store. I didn't mind because the stench from the musty books and their smelly staff wouldn't have kept me there long anyway. Proceed with caution.

I loved this bookstore the best! Used bookstores make my heart happy. Pricing was excellent. The…read moreowner/cashier was super nice, and you could tell he was such a cool guy! Very helpful. I got a sprayed edges copy of a book I've been wanting to read for a great price. Books make the best souvenirs too! Definitely stop in.

What a bookstore!!! Nestled at the bottom of Pike Place Market, this beauty had me mesmerized. I…read morehaven't been in a real deal bookstore in a while, even with being an avid reader. I love how much everything was put together but also how much it wasn't (if that makes sense). Met the owner who was an incredibly nice and sincere guy. Great selection of every book genre, great prices as it a second hand book store ( definitely could've fooled me, by the looks of it). I can't wait to come back to visit Seattle to stop in.

Fun place to come hangout. They have a happy hour as well from 4-6 pm with some decent options…read more There are listening parties too...there was a Pearl Jam event the day we were there. The vinyl record store next door is great ruth lots of options!!

Easy street records and cafe is one of the last standing record shops selling vinyl records and…read moreCDs. This is a very popular breakfast place in West Seattle. Now, Easy Street Records and cafe still has the old style charm of open booth seating with every bit of sitting space used. There's always music playing and the staff has the quirkiness you would expect as they're to hold on to an old record shop that remains a popular place in the area. I am typically on the go in the morning, so I call ahead to get the Dolly Parton. The cafe is always accurate about the prep time of the food and the wait is minimal for pickup. The staff greets you with a smile that is believable and works to keep the tradition of the place going. The Dolly Parton is two pancakes, 2 pieces of bacon, and eggs any style. The pancakes are fully, but slightly spongy. The works with the syrup. I always get the scrambles eggs and typically don't get the bacon. The eggs could be cooked with a twist of salt and pepper. I hope Easy Street Records and cafe remain in West Seattle as part of the history and tradition of an old style cafe the rocks with music.

One of my favorite book stores. These guys are huge and carry a variety of books, stationery,…read moregames, toys, gifts, CDs and many more. Everything in the store is neatly organized, the staff is super helpful. There is a cafe inside. There is some seating inside the store as well. I like that they keep changing some of their book displays to reflect the current trends. I have discovered many new books going inside the store. They often have some clearance section where you get some Pretty good deals. Highly recommend this bookstore!

Claire was amazing. They walked me to the two sections I was looking for, found a couple books for…read moreme to check out, and asked if I needed anything else. Customer service like this is a fading art form. I am happy that it is still practiced. There is another staff member in toys that was very knowledgeable. They were working the check in counter during last nights book event. Super knowledgeable and went above and beyond multiple times I came in. I let Andrew, the store manager know. Truly exceptional service Northgate! Great job.

what a great experience! I walked in thinking they would have console games but they have GAMES…read morelike board games & comics etc. what a great experience even though it wasn't what I was expecting! the staff was supper friendly, amazing layout that didn't feel crowded AT ALL, so many cool options, a spot in the back for people to congregate and all. definitely will be back & hoping to expand my knowledge in this kind of stuff!!

Very spacious inside and many tables to play games. There's a demo shelf for board games that are…read morefree to play. Street parking as per usual since it is in Cap Hill. Overall it's a great place for a group meet up and to causally play some board games.

My new favorite used bookstore! The outside doesn't look like anything special, so I was expecting…read moreyour average used bookstore, but it's so quaint and cute!! The store is very neat and organized, and everything is labeled so clearly. They have a large selection of books and a lot of popular and rare selections to choose from. The books were also all well priced, I didn't find a singular book about $10. Most of them ranged between $8-$10. The books are also really well kept and in good condition. The only downside is that it may be hard to find parking nearby, but otherwise fantastic!

Good selection and peaceful, bright atmosphere! Prices were also quite reasonable. Couldn't ask for…read moremuch more from a used bookstore!

I liked the selection of books here and the blend of new and used copies that were available. There…read morewas a sign advertising a coupon if you signed up for their mailing list, but it seemed to be broken and none of the employees could figure out how to get it to work so that was disappointing.

Wow! So many books!!! And for cheap! This bookstore just kept going and going! I was surprised with…read morethe expansive collection this store has...and for such a good value!! I could've easily spent more time here just searching through these books. I'll make sure to visit the next time I'm down here

Most local authors. Great feel to have a non commercial bookstore in the neighborhood.read more

Mostly a new books spot, with some used sprinkled in small batches for a quick find if you are…read morelucky enough. Their main stock is varied and shows a real care to not be a cookie cutter that you can appreciate. Tons of pull tabs marking local authors, and recommendations from the workers. Gives you a simple callout for attention in busy shelf isles. They have a lot of signed books in select areas and some more nice collectables. Their cafe and food is a real plus for indoor and outdoor space. A great location overall with private parking as if you are lucky on timing.