Readers' Choice: Bow to Aikido Eastside

gets a mighty Hi-yah!, Aiyah! or Eeee-yah!, the traditional martial arts battle cry.

The Bellevue Aikido school, founded in 1989, was the winner of this week's Readers' Choice poll for best place in Bellevue for kids to learn martial arts. 

Aikido Eastside was the first Aikido Dojo in Bellevue and on the Eastside. Several of the members have gone on to start their own schools in Lynnwood and BC, and are still closely affiliated. Throughout the years, the dojo members have continually improved and upgraded the dojo, making it an inspiring place to practice Aikido.  Aikido Eastside provides group or private classes for both children and adults. 

There was also love in our comments for . One reader wrote:

Sensei Jerriel at Z-Ultimate Bellevue is fantastic. He's always friendly, pushes me harder than anyone while still having fun, and is an amazing instructor. He takes the time to get to know students, feels like a good friend or one of the family, is always down for a laugh, and is absolutely dedicated to what he does. Jerriel IS Z-Ultimate Bellevue, and I can't imagine a better dojo (for kids OR adults).

A story announcing the new poll will post here on Monday. We've already begun compiling our list for the poll, but would gladly accept and appreciate suggestions and nominations. Please reply here with a comment, email the editor, venice.buhain@patch.com, or let us know on Facebook.

Thanks to all who have participated so far! As you know, Patch is not a one-way street. We expect and encourage everyone to comment, review your favorite places in our directory, and post announcements, as well as post events on our calendar.

Please join the conversation!