Bellingham’s food scene has grown right alongside its craft beer, coffee, and outdoor‑obsessed culture.
In addition to long‑time diners and waterfront classics, newer spots are leaning into local farms, coastal ingredients, and casual‑cool spaces that feel very Pacific Northwest.
These five restaurants show off what modern Bellingham dining is all about.
1. Aslan Brewing Company – Depot & Brewpub
Aslan’s flagship brewpub has become a cornerstone of Bellingham’s modern food and drink culture.
The space is airy and industrial with plenty of wood, big windows, and a lively, community‑minded atmosphere.
The menu focuses on elevated pub food with Pacific Northwest sensibilities: grass‑fed burgers, grain bowls, seasonal salads, and shareable plates built around fresh, often organic ingredients.
Vegan and vegetarian options are particularly strong, from plant‑based burgers to colorful veggie platters.
On the drinks side, Aslan’s certified organic beers are the main attraction, with rotating taps that explore everything from crisp lagers to hazy IPAs and barrel‑aged specialties.
2. Carnal
Carnal is a carnivore’s dream with a fine‑dining brain—yet the atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming.
The cozy, brick‑lined interior and open kitchen create a slightly moody, urban vibe that stands out in downtown Bellingham.
The menu centers on wood‑fired and slow‑cooked meats: think beautifully charred beef, pork, and lamb, often paired with bright, vegetable‑driven sides and bold sauces.
Plates are designed to share, making it easy to sample multiple preparations and flavor combinations.
Cocktails, craft beer, and a focused wine list round out the experience, making Carnal a go‑to for special nights out and lingering dinners.
3. Black Sheep
Black Sheep brings a creative, late‑night‑friendly taco and cocktail concept to downtown.
The space is energetic and a bit edgy, with dim lighting, music, and a bar that’s almost always buzzing.
Tacos are the heart of the menu, but they’re far from basic: inventive fillings, house‑made tortillas, pickles, salsas, and sauces turn each one into a carefully composed bite.
Expect everything from slow‑braised meats to seafood and vegetarian options, often with unexpected flavor twists.
The bar program is tequila‑ and mezcal‑forward, with classic and modern margaritas, agave‑based cocktails, and a solid list of local beers.
4. Keenan’s at the Pier
Keenan’s at the Pier combines a sweeping waterfront view with a menu that feels upscale yet unfussy.
The dining room and patio overlook Bellingham Bay, giving the whole experience a laid‑back, coastal‑getaway feel.
The kitchen leans heavily into Pacific Northwest ingredients: fresh local seafood, seasonal vegetables, and regional meats. You might find salmon with bright citrus‑herb sauces, chowders, composed salads, or satisfying brunch plates with a Northwest twist.
Thoughtful cocktails and a strong wine list make it a favorite for sunset dinners and weekend brunches alike.
5. D’Anna’s Café Italiano
D’Anna’s is a long‑time favorite that still feels fresh thanks to its consistently satisfying, made‑from‑scratch Italian cooking. The setting is casual and homey, with heaping plates and red‑sauce‑joint comfort at the forefront.
The menu covers the Italian‑American classics in generous fashion: handmade pastas, hearty meat sauces, baked dishes loaded with cheese, and simple but well‑executed appetizers like garlic bread and antipasto. Specials often highlight seasonal ingredients or more traditional Italian dishes.
It’s the kind of place where you leave full, happy, and likely with leftovers in hand.
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