Our Story

Basecamp Books & Bites began with a simple idea: create a place where everyone feels welcome.

When Chris Martin opened Basecamp in November 2015, he envisioned more than a bookstore, café, or restaurant. He wanted to build the spot in Roslyn a comfortable gathering place where people could catch up with old friends, meet new ones, share a meal, linger over a drink, or plan their next adventure in the mountains.

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In April 2018, Stephen and Audrey Malek became the owners of Basecamp. They carried that original vision forward while continuing to grow the business in new and creative ways. At its heart, Basecamp remains what it has always been: a community gathering place rooted in the character of historic Roslyn.

A Place to Gather

Community has always been at the center of Basecamp.

Every Wednesday evening, more than 50 trivia players regularly gather for a little friendly competition, good food, and plenty of laughs. The weekly tradition has been going strong for more than eight years.

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During the summer, the Roslyn Summer Nights Movie Series brings families together for kid-friendly movies under the stars. Throughout the year, Basecamp also hosts seasonal celebrations, community events, and experiences designed to give people another reason to gather, connect, and stay awhile.

Dinners With a Story

Over the years, the Basecamp kitchen has continued to evolve, shaped by the talented chefs who have shared their creativity with us.

What began as wine-paired dinners. Drawing on Audrey's background as a sommelier, grew into fully themed evenings inspired by books, music, and storytelling. Past dinners have transported guests into the worlds of The Lord of the Rings, The Hunger Games, The Phantom of the Opera, and A Court of Thorns and Roses, among others.

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Each dinner is designed as an experience rather than simply a meal, with thoughtful menus, creative details, and an atmosphere that brings the theme to life. These special evenings often sell out quickly and have become some of our favorite traditions.

A Bookstore Built for Discovery

Growing the bookstore has been one of Audrey's favorite parts of the Basecamp journey.

The shelves are thoughtfully curated with books for readers of every age and interest: new releases, timeless favorites, children's books, local authors, gifts, and unexpected discoveries. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find a carefully selected collection of Washington hiking guides, regional maps, and books focused on the nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness and the trails surrounding Roslyn.

 

In 2024, Basecamp's bookstore received a special spotlight in the Fall issue of Magnolia Journal. It was a meaningful recognition for a small independent bookstore built around the joy of helping people discover their next great read.

Cocktails, Wine, and Hidden Gems

Downstairs, the Basecamp speakeasy offers a different kind of discovery.

Our bar program has grown through collaboration, curiosity, and a shared love of creating something memorable. Audrey's background as a sommelier and former spirits representative brings depth to the Wine Library, which features thoughtfully selected bottles and a few hidden gems. Stephen has built a whiskey collection that includes harder-to-find bottles worth slowing down to appreciate.

 

With the addition of Carlena Bern, a mixologist with more than 20 years of experience, the speakeasy cocktail menu has become one of the most creative and playful in the area. Whether you are exploring a new wine, enjoying a familiar whiskey, or trying an unexpected cocktail, the goal is always the same: make the evening feel special without making it feel complicated.

Rooted in Adventure

The Malek family has always loved the outdoors. Audrey rowed at the University of Washington, and Stephen was one of the founding members of the club ice hockey team at Texas A&M. Today, hiking and mountain biking throughout the Pacific Northwest continue to be a big part of family life.

 

Their two children can often be found around Basecamp, goofing off, making friends, and adding a little extra energy to the room.

That mix of community, curiosity, and adventure is what Basecamp is all about.

 

Whether you stop in for coffee, browse the bookstore, gather for lunch, settle in for dinner, discover a new cocktail, or join us for an event, we hope Basecamp feels like a place you want to return to.

Come in, explore, and stay awhile.