41 Best American Restaurants in Bellingham

“The Rock and Rye Oyster House offers an excellent dining experience, with some of the best oysters and fresh, high-quality ingredients. The happy hour menu is a popular draw, but customers recommend arriving early to take advantage of the deals. The restaurant is better suited for adults, as the menu has limited options for children. Overall, the great food, good selection of local brews, and attentive service make the Rock and Rye Oyster House a recommended destination for a date night or a group gathering.“

“Holly's Meat Pies is a restaurant known for its super friendly staff and delicious pasties. They offer a variety of flavors, and if they don't have the specific flavor you're looking for, they can heat one up in a few minutes. The pasties are made with local ingredients and you can see the production area from the shop. The pasties can be purchased frozen and reheated at home, with a yummy crust and fresh-tasting fillings. Holly's Meat Pies are a great value for the money, and they offer vegetarian options. While there is no in-store eating area, you can get a to-go pie heated up. Customers highly recommend Holly's Meat Pies for a quick and tasty meal.“

“Arlis's Restaurant offers a cozy and personal dining experience, featuring beautiful local art on its walls. This wonderful breakfast spot serves delicious food, including eggs benedict with perfectly seasoned hollandaise sauce, and large portions. The service is top-notch and the atmosphere is laid-back. While gluten-free options are limited, vegetarian and vegan dishes are available, including a tasty vegetarian option praised by a vegan customer.“

“Carnal offers a consistently inventive menu with dishes like garlic fried potatoes, hanger steak, and snap pea salad. The restaurant is known for its delicious food, including wings, ribs, and halibut, as well as creative cocktails like the Jade Somethingorother. The service is top-notch, and the owners, Marlena and Fletcher, ensure a flavorful dining experience. With recommendations from locals and a cozy atmosphere, Carnal is a must-visit spot for a delightful meal that will leave you wanting to return soon.“

“Located on the third floor of a historic building, The Black Cat offers a unique dining experience with great views of Fairhaven and the ocean. The friendly and helpful staff provide excellent service, making it a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a variety of options, including vegetarian choices like Cali tots and tempura green beans. Popular dishes include the grilled cheese, halibut fish and chips, and the highly-recommended dungeness crab mac n cheese. With quick service and reasonable prices, The Black Cat is a great spot for a delicious meal.“

“Fresh Grill is a restaurant known for its friendly service and customizable options. They offer a variety of fresh ingredients, including multiple gluten-free choices and vegetarian options such as tofu, peanuts, or eggs. Kids can also choose their own meals. The lady who works there is known for her kindness and excellent stir-fry skills, using a generous amount of sauce that can be customized upon request. The little sesame balls are highly recommended.“

“Fat Shack is a favorite spot for many due to its affordable prices, generous portions, and quality food. Customers appreciate the friendly and efficient service, even accommodating special requests. The burgers are highly recommended, with options to customize just how you like it. The staff is praised for their efforts in ensuring a positive dining experience. Despite limited parking, the wheelchair-friendly restaurant remains a top choice for many.“

“Horseshoe Cafe in Bellingham is a go-to spot for hangover breakfast or brunch. The bar is friendly, with a laid-back vibe, and a simple menu. Customers love the breakfast burrito with jalapeños and hot sauce. The smash burger is a must-try, with great customer service and value for money. The restaurant offers a family-friendly environment with free coffee and soda refills, reminiscent of the good old days. A variety of mimosas and fun activities like pool and dart boards add to the experience.“

“Luna's Bistro is a charming restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The staff is praised for their exceptional service, with friendly and knowledgeable waitresses like Lillyanna and Carolyn who go the extra mile to accommodate customer needs. The food is described as delicious, with highlights such as the full French dip, chicken bacon ranch wrap, steak bites, French onion soup, and the special lasagna roll-ups. While the portion sizes may be considered small for the price, the overall quality and ambiance of the establishment, including the comfortable indoor setting and the al fresco dining option, make it a wonderful gem worth visiting, especially for those in the vicinity of the nearby movie theater.“

“Our Diner serves delicious breakfast options, including their famous chicken and waffles and huge biscuits and gravy. This kid-friendly diner offers a family fun atmosphere, large portions, and affordable prices. The staff is nice, down-to-earth, and accommodating to dietary restrictions, making it a great destination spot for families and road trippers alike.“

“Northwater Restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with a casual PNW vibe. The eclectic menu features pub fare standards, current trend favorites, and unique chef offerings. They are known for serving perfect coffee in the tradition of the "Golden Age of Diners". Guests praise the delicious food, from chicken tacos to a French dip, and the friendly bartender, Janell, who makes amazing cocktails like the best Bloody Mary in town. Located in Bellingham, this restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking a delightful dining experience with excellent food and drinks.“

“Brandywine Kitchen is a charming eatery with a cozy interior. The menu boasts a standout dish, the Korean Chicken Burger, which has impressed even the most discerning palates. For those with dietary restrictions, the restaurant offers a range of gluten-free options, making it an accommodating choice. While the service is counter-based and self-serve, the staff is commendable in their efforts to resolve any issues that may arise. Despite some minor missteps, Brandywine Kitchen's delicious food and welcoming atmosphere make it a great spot to visit.“

“Extremes Sports Grill & Pizzeria offers an exceptional dining experience. The staff, led by attentive hosts like Kevin, provide top-notch service. The menu features a range of delicious options, including Gluten-Free wings, Bacon Wrapped Sweet Pickles, and the Mac Daddy Burger with Shoestring Fries. While some dishes may need a bit of enhancement, the chefs' commitment to quality is evident. The atmosphere is kid-friendly, with a great space to watch sports and enjoy good food and company. The restaurant also offers wheelchair accessibility. With its excellent service, food, and atmosphere, Extremes Sports Grill & Pizzeria is a great spot for a night out or special occasion.“

“Hilltop Restaurant & Catering consistently delivers high-quality food and attentive service. The menu features favorites like chicken fried steak, accompanied by a great selection of pies and pastries. The fries and tartar sauce are particularly popular. With friendly staff, ample parking, and a welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a pleasure to visit, offering a great dining experience at reasonable prices.“

“Anthony's Hearthfire Grill offers great service, views, and food, making it a perfect place for special events or family gatherings. Enjoy a delicious Cobb salad with poppyseed vinaigrette, followed by the BEST crème brûlée in town. The location is beautiful, especially during sunset over the water. Whether you're looking for a quiet early dinner or a celebratory meal, this restaurant is sure to impress with its tasty dishes and wonderful atmosphere.“

“JUXT Taphouse offers a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating and a extensive selection of beers, including Russian River on tap. The menu features nicely prepared dishes, including tacos and sandwiches, made with good ingredients. The restaurant has a full bar with creative cocktails and a menu that caters to various tastes. Staff are friendly and eclectic, making for interesting conversations. The venue is suitable for business meetings, with a quiet atmosphere and good service. With its unique offerings and pleasant ambiance, JUXT Taphouse is a great choice for a meal or gathering.“

“Applebee's Grill + Bar offers great service, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff work hard to provide an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and child-friendly, with tablet games and crayons available. Parking is shared with other businesses, which can be busy at times.“

“Bellingham Cider Company is a great spot for lunch with stunning water views. They offer a variety of ciders, including a flight with five flavors to share. Their menu features delicious dishes, including the popular Chicken and Waffles with the option to "Add Spicy", which is a must-try. Other options include pork tenderloin, burgers, chowder, and a chicken kale salad. The atmosphere is cool, with TVs in the bar for sports and a full bar with plenty of drink options. The servers are polite and professional, making for a nice overall experience.“

“Nicki's Bella Marina is a well-designed restaurant with beautiful harbor views. It offers great food, service, and a casual atmosphere without being expensive. The menu includes options such as loaded baked potatoes, fish, shrimp skewers, and an assortment of kid-friendly meals. The staff is friendly, engaging, and accommodating, making the dining experience special for both adults and children. Standout dishes include their burgers, fries, and onion rings.“

“Nelson's Market is a charming neighborhood diner that serves up fantastic food in a great environment. With its old-timey charm, this corner grocer-style restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious meal at a great price. The breakfast menu is particularly impressive, with options like Benedict eggs, pancakes, and coffee. The restaurant also has a lovely terrasse perfect for enjoying the sun. With parking available on site and in the neighborhood, this cozy diner is a great spot to grab a bite and take in the local architecture and community.“

“Old Town Cafe is a charming small town cafe that serves great food and offers excellent service. With its open and welcoming atmosphere, it's a popular spot that still retains its hippy vibe. The cafe is great for breakfast, with popular dishes like biscuits and tahini gravy, black beans, and home fries. The lumber Jane omelette and egg tacos with bacon are also highly recommended. Additionally, the cafe offers a big salad packed with veggies, with a variety of add-ons and homemade dressings to choose from.“

“Fireside Martini and Wine Bar is a classy and cozy spot to relax with a craft cocktail. The eclectic drink menu features unique options, including absinthe-infused drinks. The attentive and friendly bartenders provide excellent service, making it a great place to grab a Manhattan or other cocktail. The warm atmosphere, complete with a gas stove, offers comfortable seating, including spots around a fire, perfect for a drink and conversation.“

“El Capitan's is a beloved neighborhood spot with delicious food and quick service. The pretzels are a must-try, and the dairy-free cheese options are appreciated. The staff is friendly and the owner is very nice. The restaurant has a great selection of free toppings and has excellent decorations. It's a perfect place for a late-night snack after the club or anytime you're craving good food.“

“Scotty Browns BLI, the sole restaurant located within the small Bellingham International Airport, offers a selection of airport fare. Customers note the friendly staff and tasty dishes, such as the cauliflower appetizer, chicken salad, and Hollywood cheeseburgers, though the prices are on the higher side. The limited seating area and occasional equipment issues, like the credit card machine being down, can present minor inconveniences. Overall, Scotty Browns BLI provides a satisfactory dining experience for weary travelers passing through the airport.“

“The Fork at Agate Bay offers a wide variety of options for breakfast and dinner, with a good-sized dining area and excellent acoustics. The restaurant serves well-seasoned entrees with good portions, and the service is quick and accommodating. Brunch is a highlight, with the Pork Belly Benedict being a fan favorite. The shrimp and grits are also a must-try, and the staff are always friendly and attentive.“

“Archer Ale House is a unique establishment that offers a northern European pub atmosphere with a speakeasy twist, complete with a hidden basement entrance. The restaurant serves high-quality food that is a cut above the usual fare, with dishes like Irish nachos, clams, mac and cheese, shepherd's pie, elk burger, sausage roll, and belly bangers. The chefs at Archer Ale House are skilled at layering flavors, resulting in sublime dishes that delight the palate. The drink selection is also impressive, with a variety of single malt whiskeys and bourbons at reasonable prices. The service is friendly and attentive, making for a great overall dining experience. With its cozy atmosphere, excellent food, and impressive drink selection, Archer Ale House is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable night out.“

“Estelle is a restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, with some reviews praising the 5-star quality of the food and the creative cocktail menu. The gem lettuce salad and steak and frites are among the recommended dishes. However, there have been comments about overcooked eggplant and a need for more toast points with the rillettes. The service is described as attentive and helpful, with great descriptions of the menu. The restaurant is suitable for celebrations and family dinners. The portions are reported to be generous, with garlic fries being particularly craveable. While some critics suggest that Estelle's sister restaurant, Carnal, may be a better choice, overall, Estelle is a recommended dining option in Bellingham.“

“B-Town Kitchen And Raw Bar offers an exceptional dining experience with exceptional service. The restaurant's staff, led by Olivia, provide professional and kind attention, ensuring a remarkable experience. The culinary experience is top-notch, with appetizers and drinks always on point. The outdoor area is cozy and perfect for catching a game, and the atmosphere is never disappointing.“

“The Temple Bar is a fun and comfortable lounge with a friendly service and a very cool vibe. Guests can enjoy delicious and refreshing cocktails, including beauty school dropout and dark matter, as well as non-alcoholic options like the nonalcoholic negroni. The menu offers tasty starters like blue cheese dip with chips, and main dishes such as the BLT salad and hot stuffed dates. The restaurant has some gluten-free options, though they warn about possible cross-contamination. Overall, The Temple Bar provides an excellent dining and drinking experience, making it a great choice for both casual gatherings and dates.“

“Greene's Corner is a hidden gem in Bellingham's Sunnyland Neighborhood, offering a wide range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant serves great pizza and delicious breakfast and brunch options, including popular dishes like Biscuts & Gravy, Breakfast Burrito, and Chicken & Waffles. With a menu that's a hit, quick service, and a relaxed atmosphere, Greene's Corner is a great spot to visit.“

“Alger Bar & Grille serves delicious Thai food, with must-try crispy garlic chicken. Despite being off the beaten path, it's worth the drive for the tasty meals. The fried chicken is a quick and easy option, and the service, though sometimes slow when busy, is always friendly. The tater tots, fries, and onion rings are quick and tasty. The overall value is great, with reasonable prices that haven't been inflated. The atmosphere can be a bit chilly, but the service and food make up for it.“

“The Daisy Cafe is a cozy spot in Bellingham, perfect for a lunch stop. The atmosphere is comfortable, and the portions are generous, leaving no one hungry. The Thursday Night Special and pancakes were tasty, as was The Veggie Sandwich made with local Avenue Bread. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the experience enjoyable. For breakfast, the menu offers amazing options, and the pancakes are a highlight. While service might need a little improvement in terms of speed, the overall experience and delicious food make The Daisy Cafe a great choice for a meal downtown.“

“Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro is a well-known establishment in Bellingham, known for its community feel and excellent events. The menu offers a variety of satisfying options such as the harvest salad, beef burger, and reuben sandwich. The corned beef in the reuben is generously thick cut. For beer lovers, their nitro ESB is a must-try. Additionally, Boundary Bay is a popular music venue, frequently hosting all-ages dance parties during summer. The lively atmosphere ensures a joyful dining experience.“

“Cabin Tavern is a welcoming bar with a family-like atmosphere, wooden booths, and dim lighting. It's a great spot for burgers, described as greasy smash burgers, and fast drinks. The kitchen is efficient, and the staff is friendly. The bar can get loud, but in a good way, making it a top choice in Bellingham.“

“Slo Pitch Sports Grill & Casino offers great customer service and a friendly atmosphere. The bar has an amazing selection of drinks and the food is quick and delicious. With multiple TV's to watch sports, it's a local hangout where you can enjoy drinks, play Pull Tabs, and watch NFL Sunday ticket with friends. Perfect for group gatherings with attentive service.“

“Bellingham Bar and Grill offers fantastic food at reasonable prices in a laid-back, sports bar atmosphere. The menu features dishes like Scallops Bruschetta, Melbourne Chicken, fish and chips, and fish tacos, all of which are well-prepared and delicious. The service is kind and accommodating, with attentive servers who keep refreshments coming. While it can get a bit boisterous on weeknights, the vibe is upbeat and reminiscent of the 80s. Overall, it's a great choice for those looking for a casual dining experience with solid food and a fun atmosphere.“

“The Filling Station offers a mix of experiences. While the restaurant had a slight greasy meat smell, the service was excellent, with a very friendly and knowledgeable wait staff. The grilled cheese and fries were highlights, with the fries being particularly crispy and fluffy. The menu features options like the Wrangler, El Camino, and Chuckwagon burgers, as well as unique starters like grilled cheese sandwich strips with a spicy marinara sauce. The atmosphere is a strong point, creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience.“

“ATM Machine at HORSESHOE CAFÉ is a beloved diner that serves excellent food and drinks in a nostalgic setting. The restaurant is steeped in history, with a unique atmosphere that transports customers to a different time period. The menu offers a wide range of options, available at any time of day, and the wait staff is pleasant and friendly. Standout dishes include the chicken fried chicken with amazing sausage gravy, chicken and waffles with generous sausage and bacon chunks, and addictive biscuits. The bar serves great drinks, including the signature blueberry lemonade mimosa, which is a must-try. With its warm atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food and drinks, ATM Machine at HORSESHOE CAFÉ is a fantastic spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.“

“If you enjoy delicious food 9 restaurant delivers perfection! You will not be disappointed with the exceptional service, quality and brilliance served here! I highly recommend this restaurant!! I would like to send 9 restaurant my gratitude and appreciation, for hiring incredible chefs! Outstanding!!!“

“Shari's Cafe and Pies is a popular breakfast spot for visitors from Vancouver and locals alike. Known for its great quality food, service, and delicious pies, it offers decent prices and good portions. The menu includes kid-friendly options and the restaurant is praised for its polite and expedient waitstaff. Shari's is often compared to Bob Evans in the Midwest for its comfort food and big portions. On Wednesdays, customers can enjoy a bonus - free pie! The cafe also stands out for its high-quality bacon and friendly atmosphere.“

“The Loft Restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere and top-notch service. While the food quality can be hit-or-miss, the menu features classic options like burgers and fish and chips that are generally well-received. The restaurant is also known for its kid-friendly offerings, including a pirate ship-themed children's menu. Guests can enjoy scenic harbor views while savoring fresh, strong coffee and delightful desserts, making it a popular choice for brunch and special occasions.“