03/04/08

This traditional bookstore looks huge, but stays intimate by giving equal attention to local readers and international writers.

by Contributor

In Short
The creak of wood floors, worn by more than 25 years of traffic, greets shoppers at Elliott Bay. This is a quintessential Northwest bookstore and hangout, celebrated for its extensive fiction selection. The shop carries every book imaginable, antique editions, calendars, greeting cards, high-brow magazines--sometimes you'll find autographed books by your favorite author. Elliott Bay marks down fewer books than chain stores, so if you're looking for a steal, you might walk away empty-handed.

Photo by Chris Daniel

04/19/05

Fine Bookstore

by starcat1971

I love this bookstore. They have a great selection of artbooks and, well, every other kind of book too. The atmosphere is big and open and airy with creaky wood floors and staircases. As mentioned before, this is not a real comfortable place, but the quality of the book selection and featured titles is worth having to stand or kneel and read a little. My only significant complaint about this place is the staff. I found them to be a little pretentious and unfriendly. And when I made the mistake of asking if they offered discounts to Husky card (UW staff/student) holders, the cashier was incredibly snotty. Sorry I asked!

Nonetheless, it's my favorite bookstore. I just don't count on the employees for any enthusiasm or warmth.

• Pros: book selection, atmosphere, speakers
• Cons: staff, a little cramped

08/15/02

Browser's delight

by slceravolo

This is a great place to find a book when you're not sure what you want. And the used book section is almost like a second store.

• Pros: Huge, Extensive selection, coffee shop
• Cons: Not enough chairs

05/29/02

Browse for Hours

by mstampley_citysearch

The wonderful atmosphere combined with the fine selection and book bargains make this a must-stop shop. Creaky wood floors and stacks of great books beg you to spend hours browsing around. Well-stocked bargain tables are an added bonus. Once you shop here, you may never visit a mega-bookstore chain again.

• Pros: atmosphere, selection
• Cons: not in my city

05/21/02

Always have what I need

by JasonEsplin_Citysearch

Elliott Bay Book Company is one of those bookstores you can only be lucky enough to find in a few cities. Aside from the overwhelming inventory, Elliot Bay's employees are knowledgeable and helpful. Many of the displays are perfect for picking a book out when you just don't know what to buy--from recommended to the "If you like this, try this" display. Also--I love the cards all over the shelves with mini-book reviews by employees.

• Pros: great selection, helpful staff, good recommendations
• Cons: parking