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10 Best Restaurants in Bellingham, Washington: A Local's Guide

Looking for some bites in Bellingham, Washington?

This charming small town city vibe boasts a rich culinary landscape, featuring a variety of restaurants that will delight your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.

Whether you're a local looking to explore new dining spots or a visitor eager to sample the best restaurants Bellingham, Washington has to offer, here are the top 10 best restaurants in Bellingham.

 

The Filling Station

Cheeseburger with pickles and crispy onions served alongside curly fries.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.4 (1,294)

  • Cost per Person: $10-$22+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Unique burger experience with a vintage vibe.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 11 AM-9 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham, WA 98225

The Filling Station stands out in Bellingham's dining scene as one of the best burger restaurants in Washington, thanks to its unique gas station theme with vintage decor and locally-sourced, grass-fed beef patties. Combining creative menu options with a selection of local craft beers, it offers a lively and affordable spot that appeals to both families and students. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Black Sheep Bellingham

Colorful chopped salad with tomatoes, radishes, avocado, corn, pickled onions, and herbs in a blue bowl.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.6 (1,128)

  • Cost per Person: $10-$25+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Offers creative Mexican dishes with a lively atmosphere.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 11 AM-11 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 211 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Black Sheep Bellingham, known as one of the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, offers a creative twist on traditional Mexican dishes, blending classic flavors with innovative combinations in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. With an extensive selection of premium tequilas and mezcals, along with unique tacos catering to various dietary needs, it's a go-to spot for a fun night out with friends or a casual dinner. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

D'Anne's Cafe Italiano

Linguine with shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels, garnished with parsley and served with lemon wedges.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.6 (1,398)

  • Cost per Person: $15-$30+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Italian authenticity with a cozy ambiance.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Thur-Mon 4 PM-9 PM, Closed Tue-Wed

  • Restaurant Address: 1319 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225

D'Anne's Cafe Italiano, one of the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, brings Italy to the city with authentic dishes, homemade pasta, and fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cozy ambiance, seasonal menu showcasing local produce, and a curated selection of Italian wines make each visit a new culinary experience, with their tiramisu often hailed as the best in Bellingham. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

The Black Cat

Crispy chicken sandwich with shredded lettuce and roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with glaze

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.6 (1,824)

  • Cost per Person: $12-$28+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Eclectic menu in a historic setting.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 11 AM-11 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 1200 Harris Ave STE 310, Bellingham, WA 98225

The Black Cat, a Bellingham institution and one of the best restaurants in Washington, boasts an eclectic menu and historic charm, set in a beautifully restored Victorian house with intimate and cozy rooms. It offers a diverse array of dishes, from classic American to international cuisines, and supports local farmers by incorporating seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, while its noteworthy cocktail program makes it a favored spot for locals to unwind. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Cafe Rumba

Pulled-meat sandwich held above a tray with side salad, bread, and dipping sauce.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.7 (1,175)

  • Cost per Person: $10-$20+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Authentic Peruvian flavors with a vibrant setting.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sat 11 AM-7-8 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 1140 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cafe Rumba stands out among the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, by bringing the vibrant flavors of Peru to the local dining scene with a menu that delightfully explores traditional Peruvian dishes. Known for its signature Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken and diverse vegetarian and vegan options, this restaurant also offers a selection of refreshing Peruvian beverages, creating a colorful atmosphere that reflects the vibrancy of Peruvian culture. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Storia Cucina

Tomato-sauced pasta with shaved cheese and fresh basil on a restaurant table.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.6 (889)

  • Cost per Person: $15-$30+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Combines Italian tradition with local flavors.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 10 AM-10 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 109 Grand Ave suite 102, Bellingham, WA 98225

Storia Cucina, one of the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, delights with authentic Italian fare made from fresh, local ingredients, combining the best culinary traditions with the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. With a cozy, trattoria-inspired setting, guests can enjoy handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated wine list, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

The Birch Door Cafe

Golden folded crepe topped with strawberries, blueberries, and powdered sugar on a white plate.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.7 (2,807)

  • Cost per Person: $10-$20+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Famous for generous breakfasts and eco-conscious choices.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 7 AM-3 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 4192 Meridian St, Bellingham, WA 98226

The Birch Door Cafe, hailed as one of the best breakfast spots in Bellingham, Washington, offers satisfying meals with generous portions and high-quality ingredients, including their legendary, plate-sized pancakes. Despite its popularity, the cafe maintains a cozy atmosphere while staying committed to using local, organic ingredients, aligning seamlessly with Bellingham's eco-conscious culture. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Kennan's at the Pier

Three browned savory balls with piped cream and dill on a white plate.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.4 (1,203)

  • Cost per Person: $25-$50+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Exquisite waterfront dining and Pacific Northwest cuisine.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 7 AM-10 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 804 10th St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Kennan's at the Pier, among the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, offers a fine dining experience with breathtaking waterfront views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. Specializing in Pacific Northwest cuisine, the restaurant provides an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with an extensive wine list, making it ideal for special occasions and a top choice for those exploring Bellingham’s culinary scene. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Rock & Rye Oyster House

Oysters on ice with dipping sauce, served beside a glass of white wine.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.6 (818)

  • Cost per Person: $15-$35+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Seafood excellence with sustainability focus.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun 3 PM-9 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 1145 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Rock & Rye Oyster House, one of the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, delivers a seafood lover's paradise with its commitment to sustainability and a diverse menu ranging from oysters to innovative seafood dishes. Additionally, the restaurant boasts a noteworthy bar program and an inviting industrial-chic atmosphere, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Explore Bellingham Washington

 

Mambo Italiano Cafe

Shrimp pasta with vegetables, fresh herbs, and a lemon wedge.

  • Restaurant’s Rating: 4.4 (952)

  • Cost per Person: $15-$25+

  • Why it’s a top pick: Hearty Italian-American dishes in a warm setting.

  • Restaurant’s Hours: Mon-Sun, 12-9 PM

  • Restaurant Address: 1303 12th St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Mambo Italiano Cafe, regarded as one of the best restaurants in Bellingham, Washington, offers a cozy, family-friendly dining experience with hearty Italian-American cuisine. Known for its generous portions of classics such as spaghetti and meatballs, this Bellingham favorite uses family recipes and in-house dressings, attracting multiple generations to enjoy a meal together and ending with desserts like cannoli and tiramisu. Explore Bellingham Washington