Othello (Seattle)
About
Othello is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in South Seattle, centered around the Othello light rail station. Known for its rich cultural mix, Othello is a hub for international cuisine, community events, and accessible urban living. With a strong sense of local pride and ongoing development, the area has become increasingly attractive to homebuyers looking for affordability without sacrificing convenience.
What Locals Love
• Diversity & Culture – Othello is one of Seattle’s most multicultural neighborhoods, with a mix of Asian, African, Latino, and Middle Eastern influences reflected in its food, shops, and festivals.
• Access to Public Transit – The Othello Station on the Link Light Rail connects residents to Downtown Seattle, Sea-Tac Airport, and beyond in minutes.
• Parks & Green Spaces – Othello Park hosts community events, and nearby Seward Park and Rainier Beach offer outdoor recreation.
• Local Markets & Eateries – Residents enjoy a wide range of international grocery stores and restaurants serving authentic global cuisines.
Why Buy a Home Here
Othello offers a mix of older single-family homes, new townhomes, and modern apartment developments. Home prices remain more affordable than central Seattle, making it an appealing choice for first-time buyers and investors. The neighborhood is growing, with new mixed-use developments and improved amenities attracting more interest. Plus, its transit-oriented location makes commuting easy.
Things to Do
• Explore Othello Park – A lively community park with play areas, open green spaces, and annual cultural festivals.
• Shop at Lam’s Seafood Market – A go-to spot for fresh seafood and Asian grocery staples.
• Eat Your Way Around the World – Try Ethiopian food at Bananas Grill, Vietnamese pho at Pho Van, or Filipino dishes at Kusina Filipina.
• Visit Kubota Garden – A stunning 20-acre Japanese garden located just a few minutes away.
• Enjoy Public Art – Murals and community-driven art projects highlight the neighborhood’s cultural vibrancy.
Best Restaurants
• Juba Restaurant & Café – A favorite for Somali cuisine, known for its flavorful goat and rice dishes.
• Bananas Grill – Serving Ethiopian and Mediterranean dishes with bold flavors.
• The Original Philly’s – One of Seattle’s best spots for cheesesteaks.
• Pho Van – A casual eatery with some of the best pho in South Seattle.
• Super Six – Located nearby in Columbia City, this Hawaiian-Korean fusion restaurant is worth the short trip.
Best Coffee Shops & Breweries
• Café Red – A welcoming coffee shop that doubles as a community space for artists and activists.
• Empire Roasters & Records – A unique coffee shop with a vinyl record store inside.
• Flying Lion Brewing – Just a short distance away in Columbia City, a great spot for craft beer lovers.
Insider Tips
• If you’re considering moving here, look into the transit-oriented development projects near Othello Station, which are bringing new housing and retail options.
• Othello Park’s annual International Festival is a must-visit event celebrating the neighborhood’s diverse cultures.
• The nearby Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands offers volunteer opportunities and fresh local produce.
Real Estate Market Data Highlights (As of 2024)
• Median Home Price: ~$575,000
• Median Days on Market: ~20 days
• Walk Score: 75 (Very Walkable)
• Transit Score: 70 (Excellent Transit)
• Nearby Schools: Rainier View Elementary, Aki Kurose Middle School, Rainier Beach High School