There’s something uniquely magnetic about a business born on Vashon. It might be the salt air, the ferry ride that sets the mood, or the fact that nearly every storefront here carries a story behind its sign. That’s the spark behind the Spotlight Series — a regular feature on Vashon-Maury.com that gives island businesses more than just a listing. It gives them a voice.
We started this series not to advertise, but to connect. To offer a richer picture of the people who pour their lives into their shops, studios, cafes, and clinics. From the family-run Mexican restaurant with hand-written chalk menus, to the vet clinic that once cared for your grandmother’s barn cat, these profiles are a blend of journalism, storytelling, and a little local sass.
The goal? Simple. Give islanders and visitors alike a reason to look twice. Maybe you’ve passed the same sign for years, never realizing the treasure inside. Or maybe you’re new here, eager to explore more than just the Main Street staples. This series takes you beyond the facade. We walk into the kitchens, talk to the owners, sample the cider, peek into the backrooms, and sit on the porch with the people who make Vashon feel like, well, Vashon.
Here are just a few of the stories we’ve shared so far:
- Fair Isle Animal Clinic, where I returned after a decades-long hiatus to rediscover my love for vet work and where generations of Vashon families have taken their furry companions.
- Snapdragon, a bakery and brunch spot so filled with artistic flair and crusty bread that it feels more like a gallery with a side of scones.
- May Kitchen, where Thai cuisine is served with an eye for detail and a commitment to turning every dinner into a special occasion.
- Island Queen, serving up burgers and nostalgia with ferry lane views.
- The Lodges on Vashon, where minimalist luxury proves you don’t need a spa to find peace of mind.
- Vashon Pharmacy, where you’ll find herbal tinctures, funky toys, and that oddly specific kitchen gadget you didn’t know you needed.
- Dragon’s Head Cider, rooted in agriculture, sustainability, and some of the most refreshingly tart bottles you’ll find this side of the Sound.
- Vashon Eagles, proving that brotherhood, fish fries, and Queen of Hearts drawings still have a place in modern island life.
Every post brings something different — humor, history, surprise. Some are packed with snark and others go straight for the heartstrings. But all of them reflect what’s so special about living here: a deep sense of community, personality, and pride.
So, what can you expect from future features? More food, for sure. More stories of legacy and reinvention. More locals doing things their own way, whether that’s through sustainable wine-making, vegan juice bars, or running a no-wifi organic market because conversation matters more than screen time.
If you haven’t browsed the full series yet, you can dig into all the past posts right here. Whether you’re a longtime islander or planning your first visit, it’s a great way to fall in love with Vashon all over again.
And if you know a local business that deserves a little spotlight magic, send them our way. We’re always looking for the next great story to share.
Author: Vashon Island
Vashon is an Island located between Tacoma and West Seattle. This account manages the vashon-maury.com website full on useful information for residents and visitors of the Island.
