📚 Sci-Fi/Fantasy Book Club: Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet

Wednesday night brings a thoughtful bookish meetup with Sci-Fi/Fantasy Book Club on Wednesday, Feb 11 from 6:30–7:30pm. This month’s pick is Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet by Ta-Nehisi Coates, a deeper, more political look at Wakanda that goes well beyond the movie version. The group reads broadly across sci-fi and fantasy and is friendly to new faces. You don’t need to be a comics expert to join in. If you’ve been craving a book club that actually talks ideas, this is a solid one.

🎷 Open Jazz Night at SoulFood CoffeeHouse

Thursday night has a familiar, comforting option with Open Jazz Night on Thursday, Feb 12 from 6–8pm at SoulFood CoffeeHouse, 15748 Redmond Way. This is a casual, all-ages jazz hang where musicians rotate on and off stage and listeners are just as welcome as players. Expect standards, improvisation, and a relaxed room that doesn’t demand anything from you. Grab a drink, settle in, and stay as long as it feels good. If you want a seat, arriving early helps.

🎶 Sweets & Songs at the Redmond Senior & Community Center

Friday afternoon brings Sweets & Songs on Friday, Feb 13 from 1–3pm at the Redmond Senior & Community Center, 8703 160th Ave NE. This 50+ sing-along leans into classic love songs from Sinatra, Whitney Houston, Elvis, The Beatles, and more. Lyric sheets are provided, refreshments are included, and festive pink or red outfits are encouraged but optional. You don’t need to sing well, just loud enough to enjoy yourself. It’s a warm, social way to spend a winter afternoon.

📚 Galentine’s Book Fair at Big Block Brewing

Friday evening starts early with Galentine’s Book Fair: Literary Love & Libations on Friday, Feb 13 from 5–9pm at Big Block Brewing in Redmond, 14950 NE 95th St. Expect books, drinks, and a friendly, low-pressure atmosphere. This overlaps with other Valentine-adjacent plans, but it’s an easy first stop if you want something cozy and social before committing to a full night out. Go earlier if browsing is your goal; it gets louder as the evening goes on.

🏋️ Big News: Old Fred Meyer Is Becoming a Life Time Gym

A long-standing Redmond question finally has an answer. The former Fred Meyer at 17667 NE 76th St has been purchased by Life Time, the national high-end fitness chain known for massive gyms with pools, classes, and spa-style amenities. The sale recently closed, though there’s no opening timeline yet. Expect a long permitting and construction phase. Still, it’s confirmed the building won’t sit empty forever, and this will be a major change for that part of town.

🔮 Rumor Mill

A beloved Portland-based brunch spot may be eyeing the Eastside for expansion, and Redmond is reportedly on the short list. The place is known for long waits, oversized plates, and cinnamon rolls people won’t stop talking about. No lease signed yet, but the chatter suggests they’re scouting high-foot-traffic locations. If this lands, expect weekend lines and lots of opinions. For now, it’s just a whisper, but a tempting one.

If you’ve got a guess or have heard something, head to our Facebook page at facebook.com/BestOfRedmond

and drop it in the “Redmond Rumor Mill Guesses” post.

Your Picks: Best plumber in Redmond

Alright, that’s it for this week.

Before we go, we want to know — who’s the best plumber in Redmond?

Head to facebook.com/BestOfRedmond, find the post called “Your Picks,” and drop your vote in the comments. Shout out your favorite plumber in Redmond so others can find them too.

February 5, 2026

Tweens ages 9–12 can jump into Dungeons & Dragons on Tuesday from 5–7:30pm at Redmond Library. It’s beginner-friendly and focused on collaborative storytelling rather than rules mastery. Staff help guide new players, and kids can try being a player or Dungeon Master. Registration is required, and spots tend to disappear quickly. If your kid loves fantasy, problem-solving, or just pretending to be a hero, this is a solid fit. Even shy kids often open up once the game gets going. Check registration before heading over so you’re not disappointed at the door.

If your morning needs structure, Toddler Story Time happens Thursday at 10:30am at the Redmond Library. It’s designed for kids 18 months to 3 years, with stories, songs, movement, and then 20–30 minutes of play and social time afterward. Registration isn’t required, and caregivers stay with kids the whole time. It’s relaxed and forgiving, meaning no one minds if your toddler wanders or loses interest halfway through. If naps allow, this is a nice way to get out of the house and see familiar faces. Arrive a few minutes early for good floor space.

If you’re looking for a low-stakes night out, there’s live improv at SoulFood CoffeeHouse on Thursday at 6pm. Duvall Improv Social Club takes the stage for two hours of unscripted comedy, all built from audience suggestions and whatever chaos happens in the room. It’s at 15748 Redmond Way, tickets are $5, and the vibe is casual, friendly, and very neighborhood-y. Expect short-form scenes, quick laughs, and plenty of surprises. If you’ve never done improv before, this is an easy entry point. Show up a little early to grab a good seat and a drink.

There’s a Kids Invite Someone Special Valentine’s Dance on Saturday from 6–8pm at 8703 160th Ave NE. It’s for kids ages 4–12, each attending with a chosen adult. Think music, dancing, crafts, photos, and snacks. Semi-formal outfits are encouraged but not required. Everyone attending must register, and kids need to stay with their adult the entire time. If your child has been talking about Valentine’s Day all month, this gives them something tangible to look forward to. Register early so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Saturday night at SoulFood means Community Open Mic, running 6–9pm at SoulFood CoffeeHouse. It’s been a first-Saturday tradition for years and tends to fill up fast. Music, poetry, comedy, half-finished songs, and the occasional surprise all make an appearance. It’s at 15748 Redmond Way, costs $5, and is open to anyone brave enough to sign up or just sit back and listen. Performers usually get a short slot so the night keeps moving. If you want to share something, show up early to get on the list. If not, it’s still a great people-watching night.

If trading card games are your thing, Star Wars: Unlimited takes over Uncle’s Games on Sunday from 12–5pm. There are two formats running: Premier, which costs $8 and includes three rounds with prize packs, and Twin Suns, which is free and more casual. Both formats welcome new players, and staff are around to help explain things. Even if you just want to watch a few matches, it’s a fun atmosphere. If you plan to play Premier, arrive on time so you don’t miss round one.

Word around town is that a dog-focused business is exploring Redmond. Think indoor dog park meets bar, a place where dogs play while humans hang out. If it happens, it would be the Eastside’s first of its kind. No...