Dine

The Smaller The Bite, The Better The Taste

Imagine this: you’re lying outside on a blanket in the sun on bright green grass. The temperature is warm, but not too warm, and the sounds of birdcalls and smells of freshly blooming flowers are nourishing your soul. Maybe a book is lying by you, and maybe your emotional-support water bottle is as well. Something important is missing in this beautiful moment, and that is some delicious food! We’ve compiled three recipes for sweet and savory finger foods that are…

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Glorious Gluten-Free Goodies | Millet Gluten-Free Bakery

Millet Gluten-Free Bakery is Bellingham’s only 100% gluten-free bakery. Open for less than a year, it’s risen in popularity faster than the owners could ever have imagined….

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Wine Pick of the Month | Long Shadows Poet’s Leap Riesling

LONG SHADOWS POET’S LEAP RIESLING Poet’s Leap is one of my go-to Rieslings! It’s a burst of freshness in a glass. Think white flowers, zesty lime, and a hint of wet stone on the nose, instantly inviting and impossibly easy to sip. On the palate, crisp green apple, juicy peach, and lively citrus mingle with…

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The Camel’s Watering Hole: Burlington’s Newest Speakeasy | Speakeasy Saloon

Maybe it’s something about reentering the ‘20s, but speakeasies have seen a definite resurgence over the past five to 10 years. Thankfully, history isn’t repeating itself entirely, so we aren’t flocking to these hidden bars and restaurants out of necessity—we’re doing it because they’re so much dang fun. The Speakeasy Saloon in Burlington opened in April 2025, and is the latest restaurant to come from the creators of Railroad…

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Cooking with Cannabis

Cooking with Cannabis offers a gentle and customizable way to support relaxation, ease chronic discomfort, and enhance overall well-being. When infused into everyday foods, it allows for steady, predictable effects without smoking—making it an appealing option for those seeking…

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Blackened Halibut with Spring Succotash, Lemon-Herbed Rice, and Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Early spring is one of my favorite moments in the kitchen. Winter cooking starts to loosen its grip, the markets brighten up, and seafood takes center stage again. This dish brings together a Louisiana-inspired blackening technique with Pacific Northwest halibut and fresh spring vegetables….

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The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’s Rapture

CASSANDRA’S RAPTURE Temple Bar | $14 Ingredients: Mezcal, Genepy, lemon juice, Aperol, Firewater bitters This original cocktail is a perfect spring indulgence! Served up in a coupe glass, Cassandra’s Rapture is a cheerful orange color, delightful, cool, and…

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The Nomadic Kitchen Adventures of a Personal Chef | Nourishing Nomad

Not weighed down by restaurant or retainer—a personal chef plans, arrives, cooks, and leaves. Chef Joshua Gatewood, Founder, Owner, and Chef at Nourishing Nomad, has found that it’s the perfect niche for him. Gatewood is a…

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Sometimes You Want To Go Where Everybody Knows Your Pie Order | Pie Dive Bar

Last September, La Conner was the latest PNW town to welcome family business Pie Dive Bar into the community. This bar and restaurant combines two great American traditions, defined right in the name. What could make a perfectly imperfect, come-as-you-are dive bar better than the addition of delicious, fresh-baked pie? This is the third Pie Dive Bar, with previous locations opening in Snohomish in 2022 and Gold Bar in 2024. It’s also the ninth pie-based business opened by Alyssa Kingsbery,…

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8 Great Tastes | March 2026

1. Samosas are fried, savory pastries that are perfect for a light meal or an on-the-go snack. We love Naan & Brew’s delicious Veggie Samosas, served with a flavor-packed chickpea sauce. 2. If you haven’t been to Hey Dumplin’ in Bellingham yet, this is your sign to check it out! Not only do they have options to…

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New Executive Chef at Bellingham’s Elegant Waterfront Dining Destination | Keenan’s at the Pier

Last September, Keenan’s at the Pier restaurant at the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven welcomed new Executive Chef Eli Cobb. Cobb was previously at the Majestic Inn & Spa in Anacortes, and comes to Keenan’s with 25 years of experience in the kitchen. “My approach to cooking is rooted in the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. I was taught to use local ingredients to showcase the uniqueness of our region, and I believe that guests who come to…

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Authentic Tacos and More in Fairhaven | Tacos Guadalajara

A new Mexican restaurant has arrived on the scene in Fairhaven, taking over the space previously occupied by Jalapeños. Tacos Guadalajara opened its doors in November…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot

PEPPER BRIDGE WINERY MERLOT Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot is the kind of wine that feels like a hug in a glass—rich, smooth, and effortlessly inviting. Aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and a hint of cocoa draw you in, while balanced acidity and silky tannins make every sip glide across the palate. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight dinner, yet polished enough to impress at a dinner party or casual gathering with friends. Flavors…

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Corned Beef with Parsley Carrots, Cabbage, and Black-Eyed Peas | Chef Matthew’s Corner

There are few meals more comforting or more closely tied to St. Patrick’s Day than corned beef and cabbage. This version keeps things simple, balanced, and deeply satisfying, with tender brisket, buttery parsley carrots, gently cooked cabbage, and a side of black-eyed peas for warmth and…

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The Mixing Tin | Black & Tan

BLACK & TAN The Den | $10 Ingredients: Pale ale, stout Bellingham has a certain affection for beer cocktails—if you’ve ever enjoyed a night at Cap Hansen’s bar, you probably know what we’re talking about….

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Wake Up! Coffee Culture Refresh to Help Welcome in Spring

By March, the rainy skies of winter have long overstayed their welcome and we’re ready to bid the colder months adieu. To…

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The Return of a Fairhaven Favorite | Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse

After two years of closure due to damage from the devastating Terminal Building fire of December 2023, Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse will soon reopen its doors to the public, ushering in a new era for the beloved and historic Fairhaven institution. Brought back under new management, Co-Owners Steve Marandola and Heather Everett have…

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8 Great Tastes | February 2026

1. For a quick and delicious hot lunch, swing by Leaf & Ladle and get yourself a Seasonal Panini. It’s stuffed with thinly sliced apples, a thick layer of ham, and gooey, melted brie cheese. 2. Banh Mi & Bubble Tea might be Bellingham’s favorite food truck, and though the banh mi is delicious, you’ve got…

Dine

A Taste of the Mediterranean in the Pacific Northwest | Little Ferraro Kitchen

If you came over to my house for dinner, you’d smell the menu before you ever sat down. The sizzle of garlic in olive oil, a handful of freshly chopped…

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Sharing the Tastes of Japan in Bellingham | Iki Izakaya & Bar

A fresh new Japanese dining experience is opening soon in downtown Bellingham courtesy of Bank and Aoi, the husband and wife duo behind the popular Thai Maison…

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Sweetheart Spots | Dining Destinations for Every Kind of Romance

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of discovering and sharing some of the most memorable restaurants across our region—each…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Rombauer Vineyards 2022 Zinfandel

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS 2022 ZINFANDEL The 2022 Rombauer Zinfandel continues the Napa Valley winery’s tradition of bold, fruit-driven reds with broad appeal. This vintage bursts with ripe blackberry, raspberry, and plum, layered with vanilla, licorice, and sweet spice from 10 months of aging in American and French oak. Lush and full-bodied, the wine balances rich fruit with smooth tannins and a hint…

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Steak Oscar | Pan-Seared Filet with Asparagus, Warm Crab, and Béarnaise Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

February may be the shortest month, but it’s easily the sweetest. With Valentine’s Day at the center and the first hints of winter shifting toward spring, it’s the perfect time for a classic timeless steakhouse…

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A Classy Place to Eat Steak With Grace | Cask and Cleaver Steakhouse

I’ve got great news for local bourbon and steak lovers! There’s a new, delicious steakhouse in Mount Vernon—Cask and Cleaver! Bill Constantine, owner of Cask and Cleaver and Il Granaio…

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The Mixing Tin | Love Potion No. 9

LOVE POTION NO. 9 Sip into something seductive this Valentine’s Day with the Love Potion No. 9, a vibrant cocktail blending vodka, peach schnapps, and…

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Green Smoothies for Health and Nutrition

Green smoothies are more than just a health trend—they’re a simple, delicious way to boost daily nutrition. Combining leafy greens like spinach…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc

THOMSON & SCOTT NOUGHTY NON-ALCOHOLIC BLANC Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc is a fresh and easygoing non-alcoholic white that’s perfect for light dinners. Made with organic grapes and crafted to keep its character after dealcoholization, it offers crisp citrus and juicy…

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Becoming Our Best Selves, One Organic Veggie at a Time | Cosmic Veggies

These days, I’ve found that hope and community are more important than ever, especially considering the current state of our world. Luckily, we’ve got access to a healthy resource in Skagit County that is more reliable and comprehensible than ever. This is Cosmic Veggies, a vegan and gluten-free eatery in downtown Anacortes founded by charismatic, passionate boss-woman Elizabeth Weaver. Around 13…

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8 Great Tastes | January 2026

1. It’s not happenstance that Avenue Bread has three separate locations in Bellingham alone. This popular eatery’s Tofu-ggenue breakfast sandwich is a savory…

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Thai Beef Stir Fry | Chef’s Corner

These days, it seems every other news story is talking about the merits (or pitfalls) of the low carb, high fat (LCHF) diet, also commonly referred to as the Keto Diet. So what is it and should you follow it? In a nutshell, the majority of the calories you consume in a day are primarily derived from foods that are low in carbohydrates, which historically…

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Sweet Comforts, Whatever the Weather | Chocolate Necessities

Chocolate Necessities has been handcrafting chocolates and confections for nearly 40 years, but if you haven’t visited their downtown Bellingham location recently, it’s worth a trip! Owners Rose Vogel and Michael Howell purchased the…

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The Mixing Tin | Immune Boost Mule

IMMUNE BOOST MULE Bright, zesty, and brimming with wellness perks, the Immune Boost Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Blending citrus, ginger, and honey, it delivers bold flavor while adding a dose of nutrients perfect for any season. For an alcohol-free version, omit the vodka and add a splash of sparkling water! Ingredients 2 ounces vodka ½ ounce fresh lemon…

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The Local Nonprofit Nourishing our Community | PNW Plateful

PNW Plateful is a Bellingham-based nonprofit that distributes hundreds of handmade, individually-packaged meals to food banks and partner organizations across Whatcom County each week. Over their five-and-a-half years of operation, they’ve distributed more than 124,000 meals. Founder and Executive Director Sarah Chan is also the chef and entrepreneur behind local catering business, Calypso Kitchen. “I always start telling the story of PNW Plateful by starting with Calypso Kitchen, because it really all centers around how I grew up…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Ambassador Wines of Washington 2019 Estate Envoy Red Blend

AMBASSADOR WINES OF WASHINGTON 2019 ESTATE ENVOY RED BLEND Several months ago, I was treated to a wine dinner experience at Copperleaf Restaurant &…

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Meals From the Sea, and the Heart | Tide & Taste

If you walk down cozy Commercial Street in Anacortes, also known as “restaurant row,” you’ll see the happy faces of diners entering and exiting the many cafes and restaurants of the beautiful seaside town. Trees, flowers, and outdoor eating areas surround the sidewalk at Tide & Taste, where you’re greeted with a warm smile. Run by husband and wife Nick and Kami LaLonde, Tide & Taste…

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The Mixing Tin | Mulled Wine

MULLED WINE ‘Tis the season for steaming drinks in front of a fire with your favorite people with a pot of fragrant, cheerful mulled wine a la Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol!” Originating in ancient cultures, this hot boozy beverage was probably stewed for pleasure, medicine, and as a good way to get all the life…

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8 Great Tastes | Winter 2025

1. Fuel up for a big day with the Barnyard Benedict at Sweet Bay Cafe. The poached eggs are served with bacon or ham on an English muffin, covered…

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Shake Up the Season | Winter Cocktails to Try at Home

Looking for some fun winter cocktails to brighten the season? These recipes are easy to shake up at home with just a few simple ingredients. A quick grocery run covers the basics, while many garnishes can be found right in the pantry—perfect for adding a personal twist. From sweet to tangy to bold and cozy, there’s something here for every mood. CRANBERRY MARGARITA…

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Green Bean Casserole and Bourbon Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie | Chef Matthew’s Corner, Recipe

Nothing says “I love you” during the holidays quite like Green Bean Casserole served alongside a Bourbon Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Both dishes carry a sense of nostalgia and comfort, and every time I make them, holiday or not, it feels like a celebration. Chances are you’ve tried some version of these dishes before, but these recipes take the classics up a notch….

Dine

Little Unexpected Journeys at New Tavern | Elk St. Tavern

Elk St. Tavern is the new kid on the block and sibling restaurant to Bellingham’s beloved Redlight Kitchen & Bar. We talked to Elk St.’s head chef, Karla Burcham, to bring you an inside look at this new eatery. “The food at Elk St. is inspired by tavern classics, but updated,” says Burcham, who worked with Redlight’s former kitchen…

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Sweet to Savory

Our home is a bounty of rich, flavorful ingredients. This holiday season, elevate your table with these signature recipes that showcase some of the best locally-sourced ingredients in our region. Whether you enjoy sweet…

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Same Old World, Brand New Ideas | Old World Deli

In May, Bellingham staple Old World Deli re-opened its doors after a month-long renovation. While it may be the same business inside the same building, Owner Chris Adams is determined to bring a new, more refined approach to the shop….

Dine

Farm-Fresh Classic American Eats! | Acme Diner

Located just south of the Mount Baker Highway in the small town of Acme, the Acme Diner is a true American diner. This must-stop location features a full selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options to satiate your hunger at any time of day. The food is sourced fresh from…

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The Mixing Tin | Dark ‘n Stormy

DARK ‘N STORMY The Dark ‘n Stormy is a classic, and the perfect drink to make at home! With only three steps and ingredients including the garnish, it’s also one of the more accessible cocktails to make on a budget. While the exact origin of this cocktail is…

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Boots, Burgers, and Beers: Bringing Community Back | Conway’s Pub and Eatery

After facing some challenging years, an iconic Skagit County staple is making a comeback as a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Under new ownership, Conway’s Pub and Eatery is being refreshed with a focus on revitalizing…

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15 Years of Bliss | Pure Bliss

Walking into Pure Bliss Desserts, it almost feels like you’ve been transported to another world; elegant and classy interior decor…

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8 Great Tastes | October 2025

1. Indulgence is just a sandwich away with Mount Bakery‘s Jambon Buerre! Dijon mustard, cotto ham, smoked prosciutto, triple cream brie, all complemented by a thick layer of Camargue butter—this is a treat and a half. 2. For a casual and filling lunch stop, the Roast Beef on Grilled Focaccia from Caffe Adagio is perfect. Rich focaccia, mozzarella, roast beef, and tomato make this feel both…

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Seared Pork Chop with Parsnip Purée, Roasted Delicata Squash, Brown Butter Pecan Sage, & Spiced Apple Chutney | Chef Matthew’s Corner, Recipe

October is one of my favorite months in the Pacific Northwest, with its shorter days, crisp air, and sudden abundance of earthy roots, winter squash, and apples. It’s the season when food leans into comfort—warm, golden, and a little indulgent. This dish brings it all together: the sweetness of roasted delicata squash, the silkiness of parsnip purée, the savoriness of a perfectly seared pork chop, and the nutty richness of brown butter pecan sage…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Red Schooner Voyage 12

RED SCHOONER VOYAGE 12, Wagner Family of Wine Red Schooner is a distinctive red wine produced by the Wagner family, renowned for…

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Solar Power Meets Traditional Ways on Legoe Bay | Reef Netting Salmon with Lummi Island Wild

Legoe Bay sits on the western side of Lummi Island, the long, low strip of land that Bellinghamsters see when they look across the water from downtown. Being something of an Indoor Girl, I never expected to go anywhere near a commercial salmon fishery, but when Ian Kirouac of Lummi Island Wild invited me on a tour of one of their…

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The Best Banh Mi On the Block | Banh Mi & Bubble Tea

For most, a gas station parking lot may not come to mind when looking for a bite to eat. But Vinny and Ruby La, the owners of Banh Mi & Bubble Tea, are trying to challenge that. They’ve operated their food truck out of the parking lot of a 76 since 2022, and they have no plans to move. By word-of-mouth alone, their…

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The Family-Farmed PNW Crop You Don’t Know About | Holmquist Hazelnut Orchards, Washington Hazelnut

We show a lot of appreciation for our agriculture around here, and everyone knows fall means fresh apples and pumpkins. But there’s another fall crop thriving in the PNW that’s delicious, nutritious, and ready for your holiday recipes: hazelnuts! NUTTY NORTHWEST Hazel trees (which are more like shrubs) pollinate in winter, flower and grow throughout spring and summer, and are ready for harvest in September and October, falling right off the bow. Turkey…

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A New Orleans Monday in the Pacific Northwest | Chef Matthew’s Corner

In New Orleans, Mondays have long carried the scent of simmering red beans and woodsmoke—an aroma woven into the rhythm of the week. Red Beans & Rice isn’t just a dish; it’s tradition, brought to Louisiana in the 1700s by French-speaking Haitian immigrants who blended their Caribbean beans and rice with local ingredients and slow-cooking techniques. The result is a dish full of soul and history. Growing up, it was the backdrop of…

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The Mixing Tin | Sazerac

SAZERAC Let’s venture back to the early 1800s in New Orleans, when Antoine Peychaud invented the Sazerac. Peychaud worked in an apothecary where he was known for selling alcohol, bitters, and peppermint. The Sazerac came about in this exact apothecary, where Peychaud served it to his customers after hours. Named after Peychaud’s favored French cognac, Sazerac-de-Forge et fils, the Sazerac rose in popularity when absinthe was banned in 1912 for causing hallucinations (it was…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Alveare Bee & Barrel 2022

ALVEARE BEE & BARREL 2022 Alveare is a wonderful winery run by a young couple in Carnation, Washington. This Bordeaux-style red blend pays homage to the pollinators they care for on the property. Consisting of 30% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot, 25% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a bold red that has had a couple of years to rest in the bottle so it is…

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A Delicious Meeting of Tradition and Creativity | Hey Dumplin

Is there anything more comforting than a dumpling? They’re literally little pillows of sustenance, bursting with flavor and draped in a blanket of sauce. Or, at least, the ones at Hey Dumplin are. On a recent visit, we were blessed with no fewer than five plates of tender dumplings—a variety of the three options:…

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8 Great Tastes | September 2025

1. Go on, be a little bad! The Sin-namon Roll Blondies from Slice of Heaven Bakery blend cinnamon, frosting, and buttery blondies for a repentance-worthy experience. 2. A homemade feel almost always makes a meal better—hop on over to Netos Market & Bakery for a Quesadilla or Carne Asada that you just can’t put down. 3. For a filling breakfast, head to Greene’s Corner in…

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Find the Fresh in Your Food | Sustainable Connections’ September Eat Local Month

September marks the return of Sustainable Connections’ September Eat Local Month, where local farmers, chefs, and food enthusiasts get the chance to showcase their talents throughout Whatcom County. To encourage the community to get out and explore, there will be events that shine a light on those who grow, harvest, and prepare food all month long. The fan-favorite Whatcom County Farm Tour will be returning to give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite foods. From 10 a.m. to…

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A Beginner’s Guide to Wine: How to get into the world of this historical beverage

Do you prefer a red? Or a white? Perhaps a rosé? Picking out the right wine—even answering that initial question—can seem like quite the chore, but the wine connoisseurs around you are eager to help with any question you could possibly have. Going back centuries, wine has played an integral part in bringing together the community. Back then, the options were limited….

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The Mixing Tin | Rum Punch

RUM PUNCH If you’re in the mood for a fruity, refreshing drink, rum punch is the one for you! Punch is widely considered to be the first cocktail, from which all other cocktail variations stem, and this version is perfect for a late summer day or a tropical vacay. The taste of…

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Shake Up Your Coffee Routine | Ballistic Brew

Ballistic Brew is a travelling coffee trailer with unique drinks, a sense of adventure, and a growing customer base throughout Whatcom County….

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BTC’s Culinary Arts Cafe Is Crushing It | Bellingham Technical College’s Café Culinaire

Twice a year, Bellingham Technical College (BTC) presents the community of Whatcom County with the opportunity to enjoy food made by their own culinary students at Café Culinaire. The cafe was started around…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Brian Carter Cellars’ Oriana

Summer is my favorite time of the year for white wine, and my favorite is from Brian Carter Cellars in Woodinville. This Washington winery is known for its exceptional blending of WA wine and this…

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Tomahawk Steak with Grilled Corn & Peach Salsa | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Long, golden evenings and backyard gatherings are what summer is all about—especially when there’s a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak from Widnor Farms cooking nearby. One of my favorite ways to enjoy the season is cooking outdoors…

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8 Great Tastes | August 2025

1. Red Star Taco Bar’s Philly CheeseSteak and Korean BBQ Beef tacos bring something new to the table! Pair them with a non-alcoholic Afternoon Colada. 2. Recently opened…

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Uniquely Spirited Tasting Room Opens in Ferndale | Doc Swinson’s Barrel Lab

Did you know Ferndale is home to an internationally-acclaimed whiskey brand? If you answered “no” and want to learn more, keep your curiosity about you when you visit Doc Swinson’s new Barrel Lab. Doc Swinson’s was founded in 2017 by four Whatcom County residents, including Master Blender Jesse Parker. After sourcing American whiskies from top…

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You Win Some When You Dim Sum | SOHO Bellingham Asian Kitchen & Bar

Dim sum is one of my favorite foods. I grew up spending weekend mornings with my family at noisy, crowded restaurants where middle-aged ladies pushed steaming carts piled high with baskets through impossibly narrow spaces between huge round tables, pausing to lift lids and offer us piping hot har gao, siu mai, pork buns, and all manner of more…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Ameztoi’s Rubentis Rosé

So rarely does flavor erupt from a glass as with Ameztoi’s Rubentis rosé, a 50/50 blend of Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza. These Basque varietals are co-fermented and bottled with limited carbon dioxide, lifting aromas of crisp apple, lemon verbena, and green bell pepper. On the palate the acid immediately rises to the…

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Going to Battle for the Best Cajun Food in the PNW | Battle’s Kitchen

From the outside, Battle’s Kitchen looks different than one may expect. It comprises a pick-up window, with some public seating in the form of picnic tables arranged outside. There isn’t even a sign, although Ernest Battle, the…

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8 Great Tastes | Summer 2025

1. Looking for something lightly sweet to complement your latte? Caffe Adagio’s famously good coffee pairs perfectly with their Marionberry Scone. 2. With…

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Seared Sockeye Salmon with Rosemary Fingerlings, Summer Squash & Strawberry-Cucumber Arugula Salad | Chef Matthew’s Corner

June & July in the Pacific Northwest is a time when long days and warm evenings inspire colorful, laid-back meals made from ingredients grown right here in the North Sound. This dish brings together everything I love about a summer dinner in Bellingham: wild sockeye…

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Playing Around With Summer’s Favorite Drink | Lemonade Tips & Tricks

Recipe for Simple Perfection Before we talk about anything else, let’s start with the basics: what’s the recipe for lemonade? Start with one part lemon juice, one part sugar, and three parts water, then tweak based on how strong or sweet you like it! Remember to dissolve the sugar into hot water…

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Sweet Relief | Local Ice Cream Spots

As the summer heat kicks in, we all need a little sweet relief. Thankfully for us, the Puget Sound area knows how to do ice cream. From Blaine to La Conner, here are some of our favorite ice cream shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Love from London Downtown Bellingham’s…

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The Beauty of Pastry Making With Passion | Lamination Station LLC

The art of pastry making is the purest form of self expression for Tobey Layne, owner of Lamination Station LLC. After baking for more than 30 years, he finally started his own business. His passion for baking began in college, after picking up The Italian Baker by Carol Field at a thrift store. During times of stress, he would bake. By the end of college the book was stained and burned from use. Layne knew it inside and out….

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The Mixing Tin | Tom Collins

TOM COLLINS Matthew’s Honest Cocktails: $11.50 Ingredients: 2 ounces gin, ¾ ounces lemon juice, ½ ounce simple syrup, and 2 ounces club soda From rickety lemonade stands to hitting the town, some things never change, including our love for a sweet and sour citrus beverage. The Tom Collins is what I like to think of as grown-up lemonade. A mix of gin,…

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New Bistro Opens in Historic Mount Vernon Building | Union Block Bistro

Upon entering the Union Block Bistro, you’re immediately greeted by a friendly face. The Union Block Bistro is homey. The interior boasts a variety of colors, from lime green to black to ‘80s-disco-teal; the painted-over brick walls reflect the stories and age of the 1906 building. Although the features of the room are hard, the lighting is softened by the white linen cloth hanging over the…

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A Worry-Free Way to Wet Your Whistle | Beverages by Boel

“I know we give people the gift of time, because we’re experts in putting together the beverage part of people’s special events,” says Boel Laxfoss, owner and operator of Beverages by Boel. Through her beverage catering company, Boel not only provides custom cocktails and…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Niccolo Coturri’s High Diving Sparkling 2023

PRODUCER: Niccolo Coturri WINE: High Diving Sparkling 2023 GRAPES: Madeleine Angevine and Siegerrbe from Lopez Island Vineyards We love this wine from our friends at Piquenique and Niccolo Coturri Wines—they’re some of the only natural wines being made in Washington state. Nic and Tess farm this organic vineyard themselves on Lopez Island,…

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Mixing Family and Business for Delicious Results | Hedlin’s Family Farm

Farming, specifically on the La Conner land his family has owned for four generations, has always been in Kai Ottesen’s blood. But that doesn’t mean he always planned on being a farmer. “I’d just graduated with a degree in English Literature from the University of Alaska Southeast but had been down here to the farm pretty much…

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Spring Spot Prawn & Asparagus Risotto | Chef Matthew’s Corner

May in the Pacific Northwest is a time of abundance—farmers markets overflow with vibrant produce, and the Salish Sea offers some of the freshest seafood imaginable. One of the reasons…

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8 Great Tastes | May 2025

The Black Cat is known for its vintage, classy atmosphere and it’s delicious Mexican Street Corn Dip. From red brick walls to stained-glass Tiffany lamps, this is the perfect restaurant for fancy dining in historic Fairhaven. Who knows, maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the ghost who reportedly roams the halls of the building! Get the night started right with JUXT Taphouse’s Cocktail Flight! Pick any four of their pre-mixed house cocktails, like the Bees Markie…

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Small But Mighty: Local Seafood Truck on Lummi Island | Legoe Bay Reefnetter

Legoe Bay Reefnetter has been operating for around two years and is a one-man operation run by Kevin Castellanos. Though the menu is short, it will not fall short of your expectations. Coming from Guayaquil, Ecuador, where the salmon had to be imported, Castellanos says, “I think maybe one…

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The Mixing Tin | Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita

BLACKBERRY JALAPEÑO MARGARITA Red Star Taco Bar: $12 Ingredients: Jalapeño-infused blanco tequila, blackberry jam, lime, and a salt and Tajín-rimmed glass A cold winter’s night, a warm summer’s day, tequila and blackberry have come to say hey. The Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita from Red Star Taco Bar is clean, refreshing, and sharp. In a short crystal glass over ice, the cool, light-purple color…

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The Salmon Is Just So Good | Lummi Island Wild

Confession time: I didn’t always like fish. Being born in cattle country, I didn’t consider fish to be much worth eating and couldn’t understand the residents of the PNW’s obsession with eating seafood—most notably salmon. But after 38 years in Washington State I get it. Salmon is amazing. It feeds everyone from hungry teenagers to orca. It truly is the buffalo of the sea….

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8 Great Tastes | April 2025

We love Fairhaven’s Skylark’s Cafe for brunch, but this dinner item blew us away: Flat Iron Certified Angus Steak, marinated and sliced to order, with Yukon Gold garlic mashed potatoes, whiskey cream sauce, and…

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Tequila and Tacos | Red Star Taco Bar

Padraic Markle, co-owner of Sweet Bay Cafe and Red Star Taco Bar, is serious about tequila. Behind the bar sits a selection of over 50 tequilas, all made with three essential ingredients: water, yeast, and matured agave. They also have a wide selection of mezcal and agave spirits available. “Six to eight years of Mexican sunshine in a glass,” Markle says, describing the time it takes for agave to mature. The spark…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Abeja “Beekeeper’s Blend”

ABEJA “BEEKEEPER’S BLEND” | COLUMBIA VALLEY, WASHINGTON Drinking this wine in April makes perfect sense—spring is in full bloom. A perfect day for me is bringing this wine out to the Semiahmoo Spit right before sunset. The breeze and the colors of the sky complement the wine’s fruitiness and smooth structure. This is the perfect wine for any occasion; bring it…

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Portuguese Orange Carrot Cake | Recipe

Two and a half years ago in June, I had my first surf camp experience in Sagres, Portugal, a petite surf town that comes to life in the summer months. I spent the week learning how…

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Breakfast of Champions | Sweet Bay Cafe

“I’m not gonna try to revolutionize breakfast,” begins Troy Krajewski, full-time chef and co-owner of Sweet Bay Cafe. “I don’t know that you truly can.” Krajewski wrote the menu for Sweet Bay Cafe with simplicity and quality in mind. Everything on the menu is made from scratch apart from the bread, which is brought in from local Bellingham bakery Avenue Bread. Krajewski explains that when people go out to breakfast,…

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Water You Waiting For? | Waterfront restaurants you’ll want to dive into!

The Pacific Northwest has some of the best restaurants that serve up some of the most breathtaking views of the Salish Sea. Each city and town…

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The Mixing Tin | Penicillin Cocktail

THE PENICILLIN COCKTAIL Though getting the sniffles often results in forcing down cherry cough syrup, other natural ingredients are known to have healing properties—such as honey, lemon, and ginger. Enter: the Penicillin Cocktail, a sweet, sour, and smoky alcoholic beverage composed of these enticing herbal flavors! While penicillin was discovered in the late 1920s, the cocktail version wasn’t…

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Take a Gamble, Just For the Halibut | Tunnies Fish & Chips

Tunnies Fish & Chips is a great stop for all seafood lovers! Located at the entrance to downtown La Conner, this restaurant offers crispy and tasty snacks for anyone looking for a quick bite. At Tunnies, they serve seafood in a quick-service style: customers order at the walk-up window and get their meal made ready-to-go. The restaurant itself is fairly small, being inside…

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Led by Love | Storia Cucina Chef de Cuisine Helen Lofton + Recipe

Storia Cucina has been serving downtown Bellingham with delicious Italian staples since opening in 2020. The restaurant is known for many things, including its house-made pasta and bread, locally sourced ingredients, and the open-kitchen design that invites customers to witness the hard work behind every dish. If you time your visit right, you may even get to meet the…

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The Mixing Tin | Irish Coffee

THE IRISH COFFEE In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, try an Irish coffee (at Uisce, if you’re in Bellingham)! This warm, comforting drink pays homage to its namesake through its rich flavor and Irish whiskey. Irish…

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8 Great Tastes | March 2025

Greene’s Corner is a great spot to grab some food and enjoy local events, from live music to open mics—whatever the entertainment, the Korean Fried Chicken Slider is one thing you don’t want to miss out on! The…

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A Scrappy Small Business Becomes a Bellingham Institution | Saltadena Bakery

Whatcom residents have been calling on Nancy Stuart for creative celebration cakes and delicious piles of scraps and frosting—the beloved Lil’ Scrappies—since December 2016, when she started Saltadena…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Kevin White 2023 “Blue Label”

KEVIN WHITE 2023 “BLUE LABEL” YAKIMA RED, $20.99 Big Blue is back and we’re so happy! We have been enamored with this Woodinville producer since its inception. Kevin brings the true sense of Rhone Valley-style wines to Washington. This is an annual spring release and we sign on for as much as we can fit into this tiny shop because it sells out from both the winery and…

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Colombian Coffee, Homemade at Bellis Fair | Tinto Coffee

The Spanish word tinto can mean a deep red color, and is often used in reference to red wine (vino tinto). But in Colombia, everyone knows that tinto…

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“Real Spices. Global Flavors. Endless Possibilities.” | Mr. Frank’s Kitchen at Cayman Cookout

CEO & founder of Mr. Frank’s Kitchen Lisa Postl Russell has always known the value of her products. She’s proud of the legacy she’s built and the six seasoning blends that have sprung from her recreation of the Original Seasoning her father, Frank Postl, came up with—all of Mr. Frank’s Seasonings prioritize flavor and joy right alongside health. “We’re…

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8 Great Tastes | February 2025

We all know Redlight for their friendly bartenders and great cocktails, but the food is also excellent. Whether you’re in the mood for slippery, spicy wontons or a crunchy Fried Chicken Bao, they’ve got what you’re craving. While Burgermaster in Mount Vernon…

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“Bringing Joyful Bites to Lynden” | Graze and Gather Charcuterie and Bistro

Among the new businesses Lynden Commons has brought to town is Graze and Gather Charcuterie and Bistro, run by local mother-daughter team Lydia Faber and Kristina Wendt. Faber always enjoyed cooking, especially gravitating toward ‘graze tables’—essentially a giant charcuterie board—which she made for friends and family. Wendt encouraged her mother to turn her passion into a business, and Graze…

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The Mixing Tin | Pomegranate Mimosa

POMEGRANATE MIMOSA (Based on recipes by Sonja Overhiser and The Chunky Chef.) Mimosas originated as Buck’s Fizz, a 50/50 combination of champagne and orange juice invented in 1921 at Buck’s Club in London. The cocktail has a wonderful fizzy taste and is infinitely adaptable—this version combines the citrusy notes of orange juice with tangy pomegranate for a fun spin on the classic! …

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A Foodie’s Guide | 2025

It’s here! Check out our February 2025 feature: A Foodie’s Guide.

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Cottage Bakeries Throughout the North Sound

Did you know that you could have a bakery right down the street from you and not even know it? Nestled in neighborhoods across Whatcom and Skagit Counties are some unique culinary gems known as cottage bakeries. Cottage bakeries are run by people who follow the specific guidelines to acquire a Washington State Cottage Food Permit. Currently administered by the Washington State Department of Agriculture,…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Comeluna Rosso

COMELUNA ROSSO New all-time favorite! Deep cherry notes come through on the nose, joined by notes of dried bark, earth and…

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Creative Seafood Spot Has its Hooks in Bellingham | Roe

Owner-operator Izzi Rehbein and Chef-Owner Dan Rehbein opened Roe last November with their own capital and concept, hoping to give Bellingham the answer to the question, “Where do you go to get seafood?” The restaurant is all about being neighborly, accessible, and offering relaxed excellence. Seasonal, regional ingredients and seafood are prepared with European techniques and home kitchen creativity. You’ll find caviar/roe all over the menu, possibly…

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Super Bowl Snacks, With a Twist!

Take your game global this Super Bowl Sunday with a line-up filled with crowd pleasers. These Italian-rooted, Asian inspired, and Hawaiian-style appetizers are sure to score major points with…

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Behind the Scenes at Water Tank Bakery

Flour poofs into the air, rich with the smell of baking bread. Three people stand around a table of thick wooden butcher block, quickly shaping dough into loaves of bread. Behind them, amassive…

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Fairhaven’s New Bloom | Bloomhaven Bottle Shop Opens in Fairhaven

Colorful bottles, locally grown plants, and beautiful artwork line the walls of a welcoming new shop in Fairhaven. It might look like any of the bottle shops in Bellingham, but this one is unique; the beverages are non-alcoholic! Bloomhaven is focused on providing non-alcoholic beverages to people in the Bellingham area. The shop is queer-owned and woman-owned, founded by Molly Flynn, a leader in the local non-alcoholic community, and Brandon Paul Weaver, owner…

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New Leadership at Semiahmoo Resort | Packer’s Kitchen & Bar and Great Blue Heron Grill

For many Whatcom residents and visitors, the restaurants at Semiahmoo have been longtime favorites. Now the resort is building on that strong foundation with the addition of three new team members. On a recent visit to Packer’s Kitchen & Bar, we sat down with Executive Chef Debbie Vance, General Manager Andrew Tenis, and Food and Beverage Director John Reagan. All three of them joined the property…

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The Mixing Tin | The Classic Manhattan

THE CLASSIC MANHATTAN The Manhattan dates back to the latter half of the 1800’s, first making an appearance at the Manhattan Club in New York City, although many have claimed that this recipe has been around…

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Winter Harvest Healthy Meals

Weather you’re harvesting from your own garden or buying at the store, winter-time produce makes for delicious dishes! And there are more options than you might think. For instance, did you know that certain varieties of pears are…

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8 Great Tastes | January 2025

The perfect breakfast to accompany a morning meet-up with a friend? The Soft Boiled Egg on Toast and a Cardamom Latte at Cafe Blue! It’s just filling and indulgent enough without being too heavy and…

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Wine Pick of the Month | Sonder x Sage Rat Carbonic Nebbiolo

SONDER X SAGE RAT CARBONIC NEBBIOLO Keep the winter celebrations going with this rose-colored stunner! Winemakers Sonder and Sage Rat made their Carbonic Nebbiolo in collaboration here in Washington State, from 100% Nebbiolo…

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Going for Gold on a New Stage | Chef Doug Elliott

From step stools at the kitchen counter with his mom to a resume full of Executive Chef positions, Doug Elliott has made a name for himself up and down the Pacific Northwest. This two-time Best of the Northwest Gold Winner brings his passion for food to a new setting, the Peace Arch City Café & Bar in Blaine. Originally from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Elliott developed some tasty skills…

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Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Electric Slow Cookers

About the appliance Before you start cooking, make sure you get comfortable with your specific model of electric slow cooker or Crock-Pot. The three main components of these appliances are the lid, the inner container (or the crock), and the base. The base produces heat that travels through the crock, trapping steam, which allows for an even cook. Cooking in your sleep Using a Crock-Pot is so…

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From Rustic Diners to Italian Cuisine and Everything in Between | Great Eats Along Mt. Baker Highway

It’s no secret that Mt. Baker has something to offer to everyone no matter who you are, where you come from, or what you do. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking trips, and stunning, scenic views of snowy mountaintops are what Kulshan is all about. But what could make a great day on Mt. Baker even better? Maybe a steaming bowl of Alfredo Linguini from Rifugio’s? A tonkotsu…

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Mixing Tin

Peppermint Mocha Martini Ingredients: Vodka, cooled Espresso, Baileys Chocolate, Kahlua, Peppermint Extract, Chocolate Syrup, and crushed peppermint Ingredients: 2 ounce Vodka 2 ounce fresh espresso (cooled) You can also leave out. 1 ounce Baileys Chocolate 1/2 ounce Kahlua or other coffee liqueur 1/8 teaspoon Peppermint Extract Rim a glass with chocolate syrup and crushed peppermint. Freeze glass until ready to use. Mix ingredients all together in shaker, shake 30-35 times, strain into…

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Wine Pick Of The Month

November Van Vino Vineyards 2021 GRENACHE As a writer who represents the wine industry in our region, I must crumple and toss out the complaint of, “Oh, you’re covering too much…

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Your New Favorite Evening Hangout | Starla’s

Jordan Koplowitz and Christy Wyble found success in the Seattle food scene with Blotto, a popular pizza joint named by the New York Times as one of Seattle’s 25 best restaurants. But when the landlord told them…

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8 Great Tastes

We recently picked up a box of treats from New Whatcom Pastries for the office – we had the Almond Bear Claw, Raspberry Diamond, Butter Braid, Cherry Turnover, Rhubarb Boat, and Chocolate Streusel, and they were all delicious! Looking for something to warm you up? With its thick bone broth and filling BBQ pork, the Tonkotsu Ramen…

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Raise a Glass to Excellence at Bayernmoor Cellars | Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Nestled amidst the vibrant wine country of Woodinville, Washington, Bayernmoor Cellars Tasting Room offers a unique and immersive experience for those seeking a taste of excellence. This charming establishment, founded by passionate husband-and-wife duo Kim and Larry Harris, is dedicated to crafting exceptional…

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Cider Donuts | The Revolution Will Be Well Fed: Recipes for Creating Community

From Skagit-based publisher Raspberry Bow Press, The Revolution Will Be Well Fed features baking recipes for breakfast, snacks, and desserts, as well as essays and history exploring the connections between food, community, and social movements. Author Corrie Locke-Hardy’s recipes are all intended to be scalable and packable, making them easy to bring along to your next potluck or community organizing meeting. For more…

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Wine-Tasting Within an Hour’s Drive

A Day Trip to Langley, B.C. Our little corner of the world seems to have everything: mountains, lakes, and coastline; a fabulous arts scene and unparalleled outdoor…

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A Feathered Nest for Wine Lovers | Blackbird Wine Bar and Charcuterie

Blackbird Wine Bar and Charcuterie in Anacortes is a haven for wine and cheese lovers seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The bar invites patrons to unwind and savor the moment with its warm lighting, tasteful decor, and cozy interior. Owner Bryan Holmes has infused the space…

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Mongolian Beef with Oostema Farmstead Wagyu

Tender, sweet, and spicy, this recipe stars Oostema Farmstead ground Wagyu beef, from cows that are born and raised right here in beautiful Whatcom County! Celebrate the local ingredients that we have access to here in the North Sound by adding…

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Screamin’ for Fruit Ice Cream | Scream

Give a shout for Bellingham’s only New Zealand-style ice cream spot! Scream, nestled near the waterfront, offers a taste of the Oceania Islands to the Pacific Northwest, showcasing a dessert bursting with…

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A Deliciously Creative Pairing | Sweet Art

Down on Railroad Avenue in Bellingham, there’s an unassuming little shop—so little you might miss it if you blink while driving by. But Sweet Art, a chocolate shop and art gallery owned by Vivian and Jerry Hruska, doesn’t rely on high visibility. “We have a good customer [base],” Vivian says. “We don’t advertise—[it’s] all word…

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Prost! Oktoberfest is here! | Yes, it starts in September

Picture it: you’re on a game show and made it to the last round. The final question asks you when Oktoberfest, the German folk festival, is celebrated. Your hands start to sweat. You have no more lifelines. You slam your buzzer and answer: “October!” It’s time to dust off that good…

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Ragù Napoletano al Forno

As Summer fades and the evenings turn chilly, fall is a great time to get back to cooking recipes that take time, encouraging us to slow down, and produce rich, indulgent, comforting results. This recipe for Ragù Napoletano from…

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A Place for Everybody | Gruff Brewing

Gruff Brewing opened in 2016 to the delight of beer enthusiasts all over Whatcom County. The lively taproom and straightforward space have won the hearts of many since then, their focus on brewing a wide variety of brews and beers, while food flowed on the side via local food trucks & eateries. Now, though, Gruff has expanded their craft to the kitchen….

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Imperial Swine

Jeremiah Leighton grew up in Friday Harbor. He has always been motivated to cook, even from his earliest days getting his first easy bake oven for Christmas when he was three. Outdoor life was always…

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Sunny Day Dining | Alfresco Restaurants

When grabbing a bite to eat, sometimes all you’re really craving is a place where you can sit outside to enjoy the midsummer heat and smell the faint sea breeze merging with the scents of delicious food emanating from a nearby kitchen. If this is what you’re looking for, then trust me when I say you definitely do not have to venture far! One of my favorite outdoor spots in Bellingham is…

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A Community Cornerstone | ROAM Coffee + Beer

Jutting out at an acute angle on the corner of Broadway and Elm Street, where Bellingham’s Columbia, Lettered Streets, and Cornwall Park neighborhoods meet, is a charming, pitch-roofed…

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Radicchio Caesar Salad | Leah Brooks from “Genuine Skagit Cooking,” Published by Raspberry Bow Press

Leah Brooks is a cooking enthusiast, cookbook author, and former director of a children’s cooking school in San Francisco. By making cooking fun, approachable, and healthy, Leah is changing the way kids (and adults!) see food by weaving seasonal ingredients into flavorful, memorable meals. Leah looks forward to helping the community create delicious meals from the bounty of Skagit Valley farm stands. Radicchio Caesar Salad (Makes 4 to 6 servings) Ingredients For the dressing:…

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Staff Picks: Summer Salads

Invited to a picnic or potluck and unsure what to make? Our team put together some of our top picks for crunchy, refreshing, and shareable salads that’ll win over any group of friends! Thai Chicken Salad…

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Burgers and Brews

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Shepherd’s Pie

SHEPHERD’S PIE IS a classic comfort dish, perfect for exploring new combinations of traditional and modern flavors. Made with your choice of lamb, steak, pork, or turkey (if you are looking for a way to lower your intake of red meats) this dish will surely make you the executive chef of your home. Meet the Chef Incorporating his expertise in Italian and French cuisine, Chef Marcello Mazzoleni…

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Exciting New Spaces Opening at Chuckanut Bay Distillery

The Chuckanut Bay Distillery has become a Bellingham institution, a great place to go for a tasting, a tour, or a fantastic meal at their restaurant, Penny Farthing. But it’s about to become even more of…

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Mexican Cuisine Galore | Find your new favorite margarita, taco, and birria places

Whatcom and Skagit counties are known for their abundance of delicious Mexican food restaurants. So much so that even our friends from Canada cross the border to experience our local…

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A Playful Revolution Rooted in Time, Place, and Memory | Matia Kitchen

Matia Kitchen, reopened in March 2023 after the sudden closure of its previous location that January, is the latest evolution of a culinary project that Co-Owners Chef Avery Adams and Operating Manager Drew Downing have been working on together since 2016. Now in a new location with an adopted sister restaurant, Monti, under the same roof, Matia is “more…

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Hot Ones is Getting Funky(‘s)!

If you’re a fan of the sauces coming out of Bellingham business Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory, you might want to stock up now, because their sales are about to heat up! Extremely popular YouTube show “Hot Ones” is including Funky’s “Stellar…

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Chef’s Corner with Chef Kelly Stanley | The Great Blue Heron Bar & Grill

Kelly Stanley, Chef de Cuisine at The Great Blue Heron Bar & Grill at Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, blends her culinary artistry with a commitment to community and sustainability. After receiving training at Bellingham Technical College, she served several years as Sous Chef at Semiahmoo Resort, Golf & Spa. Stanley’s expertise encompasses a diverse range of cuisines, from the delicate intricacies of pastry and desserts to the precise techniques of meat and fish butchery. Meet…

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The Skagit Valley Dumpling Queen

ACROSS CULTURES, BORDERS, languages, and histories, there are certain food traditions that seem universal. One such tradition—broadly that of a cooked dough wrapped around a filling—can be found everywhere from Nepal (momo) to Turkey (manti), from India…

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Set Sail for a Fresh Experience

OVERLOOKING BELLINGHAM BAY inside Hotel Bellwether, Lighthouse Pub delivers an elevated pub experience in an approachable environment. With its casual vibe and friendly staff, the pub provides a cozy space to enjoy happy hour with an excellent view. Lighthouse Pub recently unveiled its new pub fare and happy hour menu, developed by Executive Chef Marcello Mazzoleni. With this menu, Mazzoleni…

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Irish Pubs of the PNW

GETTING READY TO don your brightest green and honor Irish culture? Join the merriment this St. Patrick’s Day by trying out one of the region’s favored local pubs to get a taste of what a true Irish celebration feels like! Whether you’re looking for a good drink, mouthwatering dishes, or a little something extra to go along with them, these picks…

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Bayernmoor Cellars Blanc de Pinot Noir Estate Sparkling Wine | 2020 Puget Sound AVA, WA

Stanwood, a burgeoning town west of Interstate 5 and south of Bellingham, is home to the picturesque estate vineyards of Bayernmoor Cellars, an up-and-coming Puget Sound winery. Bringing honor to Washington State’s fourth oldest and second-largest AVA (American Viticultural Area), Bayernmoor Cellars is a humble, family-owned operation producing…

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The Foodie Language of Love | Bry’s Filipino Cuisine & It’s The Sweet Things

Neither Jennifer Worthley nor Bryan Matamorosa set out to be a chef; it just sort of happened. Coming from different corners of…

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THE MIXING TIN | REVIVAL LOUNGE

On a chilly winter night, what better way to spend the evening getting cozy than with a drink? Revival Lounge serves up a Lion’s Tail that is the perfect concoction of bourbon, refreshing citrus, and smooth spice, and will have you savoring every sip. The bourbon in this aromatic drink is full, but not too overpowering….

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White Miso and Sake Salmon Cakes: Chef Leon Scott of Northwater

Meet the Chef With a background in a variety of cuisines under his belt, as well as experience with hotel banquets, Banquet Executive Chef and Manager Leon Scott was drawn to Northwater’s culinary program and has…

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Restaurants that Go Above and Beyond

I think we can all agree that going out for coffee or food is already a treat, especially in these times of ever-increasing inflation. But sometimes, we need a little something extra—whether that’s a small freebie, a creative presentation, or even just a kind word. That’s why we’ve polled everyone…

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Coffee, Donuts, and Vibes: Maple.Bar

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk into Maple. Bar, in Bellingham’s Cordata neighborhood, is the color palette. It’s decidedly groovy, with muted taupes and browns swirling around mellow yellows and pinks, offering a notably different feel from the usual PNW coffee shop. Owner Adam Foy says that’s intentional. “I wanted to be just really different. Different than Woods, different than Starbucks, different than even a downtown…

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Keenans at the Pier: Bananagram

Ingredients: Novo Fogo Silver Cachaca, creme de banane, fresh lime, pineapple Price: $13 In the deep winter months, everyone reaches for warming spices and roasty flavors for their food and drink alike. But after all those holiday meals and hot cocoas, you might start feeling a little over it. If you’re thoroughly done with cinnamon for the season, we’ve got a refreshing drink recommendation for you. The Bananagram is a cold cocktail served…

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A New Chapter in Culinary Arts: Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine

When Rifugio’s first opened, it was a reflection of a traditional Italian cafe and only served one family-style meal a day. Along with their Sunday brunch, Rifugio’s now offers more of a unique…

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Hot Sauces and Heritage Journeys with Buu Chan

Beyond the grocery store aisles, discerning shoppers can find a rotating selection of fresh kimchi (a popular traditional Korean side dish made with salted and fermented vegetables) from Buu Chan— a local food business that specializes in authentic and fusion Asian sauces, seasonings, and side dishes— produced and sold right here in Bellingham. Rika Wong, owner and operator of Buu Chan, LLC, has been working professionally in the food industry since she graduated from Western Washington…

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Wine Pick of the Month: Shepherds Mark by Alexandria Nicole Cellars

France’s Rhone Valley produces some of the most highly coveted (and consequently expensive) wines in the world, so it’s no wonder Washington winemakers have looked to this area for inspiration and to follow the steps of tradition, at times with great success. Alexandria Nicole’s Shephards Mark is one such example, having recently earned the most prestigious (in my opinion) Platinum Award from Great Northwest Wine’s Platinum Wine Competition, wherein…

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How a Dry January Will Set You Up for Success in 2024

The New Year is all about rebirth, fresh starts, and setting attainable goals. The key word there is “attainable.” Vision-boarding is all well and good, but every successful plan has a first step and a finish line. If one of your resolutions this year is to drink less alcohol, you’re in luck! You can join people all over the world in tackling Dry January….

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Sexy Pad Thai | Wanida Thai

Since opening its doors in 2015, Wanida Thai has quickly become a go-to bastion of faraway flavor, gaining a loyal customer base and making a name for itself in the local restaurant scene. To feed the cravings of its foodie fandom even more, the popular…

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Baer Winery | ‘Star’ 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley

Baer Winery was founded in 2000 by father-son team Lance and Les Baer with the intention of producing exceptional quality Bordeaux-style wines. The veteran…

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The Story Behind the North Sound’s Finest Confections | Forté Chocolate

Experiencing gourmet chocolate can be a life changing experience. Just ask Karen Neugebauer, the founder and master chocolatier behind Forté Chocolate. When she first enrolled in a culinary arts program, she was just out to prove that she could learn to cook– but she found a new passion in the least expected…

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Review: The Bistro at Shuksan

I am not a golfer. It’s not that golf doesn’t appeal to me; I just could never quite summon the gumption to take a “swing” at it. Therefore, the Bistro at Shuksan might never have appeared on my radar, if it weren’t for writing this review. Now, I believe it should be on everybody’s. The entrance at Bistro at Shuksan boasts high ceilings and classic white tablecloth settings. Beyond the doorway…

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Blending American Tradition with Old World Technique: Doc Swinson’s

It’s no secret that whiskey holds an iconic place in the heart of American libations culture. But have you ever wondered what actually goes into the process of creating that silky smooth, perfectly balanced sip? According to the team behind…

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Valuing People Always: Hilda’s Farm

One of the first things people often ask Hilda Sandoval when they find out that she is a farmer is why she, as a woman with a college degree, would choose to do such a difficult and physically demanding job. Her answer is always the same: “Because I like it.” Of course, like the roots of her own produce, Hilda’s story goes deeper than that. On her table at…

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Dynasty Cellars 2022 Sauvignon Blanc | Walla Walla Valley

Sometimes we forget about our very own backyard, living in Washington with such abundant, delicious, vibrant, and varied wine options. But, lest…

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Wholesome Meals from the Heart of the Valley | The Skagit Table

We all want to eat food that makes us feel our best— but finding the time to prepare nutritious meals is easier said than done. Luckily folks in Mount Vernon can rely on the Skagit Table for fresh, seasonal cooking, whether it be for a catered event or a simple yet nourishing weeknight dinner. “We had a child that had cancer, and for those two years, we were so busy and overwhelmed,…

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A Vegan Family Kitchen Keeping Inclusive Food in Downtown Bham | The Fat Beet

When Talia Sorinsin-Allen and her eldest daughter, Melissa Sorinsin, were looking for a place to have lunch in Bellingham, they faced…

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Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Home-Cooked Halloween

Iconic Candy You Can Make Together Halloween doesn’t have to start and end with trick-or-treating. It can be a time…

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Meet the Winemakers of Walla Walla’s Airport Incubators

Kelsey Albro Itämeri of itä wines itawinery.com What are your main goals when it comes to itä, and how would you describe the style of wine you make? At itä wines, I focus entirely on grapes from the eastern side of the…

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There’s No Home Cooking Like Yun’s Home Cooking

Tucked away in a cozy nook in the middle of downtown, Bellingham’s only Korean family restaurant offers something that you would otherwise have to head down to Seattle or up to Vancouver to find authentic home-style Korean cooking. Although most popularly associated with tabletop barbecue grilling, Korean cuisine is hugely varied and includes many soups, stews, noodle, and rice dishes along…

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Wine Pick of the Month: Van Vino Vineyards 2021 Cabernet Franc

I had the tremendous honor of judging Whatcom Beer and Wine Foundation’s 8th Annual Pacific Northwest Wine Competition (formerly Bellingham Northwest Wine Competition) this past July in its new location: Walla Walla. The weather was warm and welcoming as I arrived to judge an astounding 557 wines over four days among reputable palates of winemakers and industry professionals. Palate…

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Honey Gels: Chef Kenny Florczak of The Vault Wine Bar

Among Blaine’s intimate community of distinct businesses and restaurants, The Vault Wine Bar is a stand-out for their focus on charcuterie, locally sourced fine dining, and wine. Their wine list has been described as “a novel,” offering 30 pages of carefully sourced selections (including hard to find regional varieties) at the time of writing. (That’s not even considering their beer, cider, and spirits!) To complement your experience sipping new wines or reveling in old favorites, Chef Kenny Florczak…

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Games and Good Company at Fairhaven’s Newest Taproom: Corner Taphouse

Whether you’re catching the big game or catching up with friends, you’ll feel right at home at Corner Taphouse. Open since March 2023, its laid-back, friendly atmosphere has made it a quick favorite among folks looking to spend a casual evening on the…

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Meet Your Mushrooms!

We get it– mushrooms aren’t the easiest niche to break into. There’s no fungi food group in that familiar pyramid, and no, they shouldn’t be lumped in with the veggies! When you…

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A New Slice of the Sweet Life: Sugar Mama Cafe

Sugar Mama Cafe might be brand new to Downtown Anacortes, but Owners Natalie and Wendy Clark are aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like coming home. I sat down with Natalie at Sugar Mama to chat about her hopes for the cafe and try selections from their multifaceted menu. Wendy was in the kitchen that day, and the whole team helped make the visit fantastic. As we started chatting I was sipping a chilled…

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Seared Sea Scallops with Snap Pea Risotto and Infused Olive Oil: Chef Eduardo Diego of Infusion Cuisine

For nearly a decade, Infusion Cuisine has brought deliciously classic dishes from Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisine to Lynden. It’s a family-run restaurant with high-end experience behind it, which shines through in Chef Eduardo Diego’s dedication to finely crafting authentic recipes from each region. The menu is full of approachable dishes, so diners can order confidently and always leave satisfied. If you’re not sure where to bring the family, Infusion Cuisine’s recently expanded dining…

Dine

A Taste of Japan in Downtown Bellingham: Ramen + Bowl

Tucked into a cozy downtown storefront, red paper lanterns line the windows to greet customers at the recently opened Ramen & Bowl. The small space utilizes a mix of single and shared seating, echoing the ramen shops of Japan that inspired it. Likewise, the menu is streamlined, offering tempting variations on two staple dishes: ramen and donburi (Japanese rice bowls). This latest culinary venture by Paul Han and his team joins eight other…

Dine

A Bubbly Beverage for an Outdoor Lifestyle: Bellingham Seltzer Company

It’s no secret that when summer finally arrives in the Pacific Northwest, Bellingham locals hit the outdoors. It’s what we do. Whether it’s going for evening rides at Galbraith Mountain or paddleboarding in Bellingham Bay, getting active outside is a pillar of Bellingham culture. And what better way to enjoy fun in the sun than with a refreshing beverage in hand? In addition to the outdoors, Bellingham…

Dine

Get Fired Up for Summer Cookouts

SUMMERTIME IS HERE—don’t miss it, break out the brisket! Jokes aside, there’s no denying that summer is prime time for BBQ chefs and appreciators alike. While you can grab delicious barbecue from restaurants all around the North Sound, these warmer months are…

Dine

Meet the Family Behind Whatcom’s Most Exciting New Winery

PERCHED ON A steep, four-acre hillside just south of Canada is a vineyard that’s both family-owned and community-minded. The Delooff and Van Wingerden families transformed what was once a dairy farm into a full-fledged winery, even renovating an old milking parlor into a…

Dine

A Culinary Paradise on Lopez Island: Haven Kitchen and Bar

THE WORD “HAVEN” brings about feelings of safety, comfort, and respite—and it’s an apt descriptor for Lopez Island’s Haven Kitchen & Bar. This tranquil, nautical-themed restaurant specializes in cuisine both comforting and gourmet, and patrons enjoy their meals alongsidean unparalleled view of the Salish Sea. Haven was established a decade ago by Owners JK and Mariah Honeywell,…

Dine

High-Quality Ice Cream All Rolled Up

“WHATEVER YOU ARE thinking about right now, just do it,” was the text Izaiah Ellis got as he sat on his couch contemplating his plan to start a business. After getting laid off from his job in 2020, Ellis was…

Dine

Manila Clams Simmered in White Wine and Harissa

NOTHING SAYS SUMMER quite like fresh seafood, and if you’re craving the flavors of Orcas Island, give this recipe from New Leaf Cafe a go. Chef Andrew Martin’s spin on Manila clams utilizes many of the usual suspects in Italian cooking—white wine, garlic, butter, bread—but the addition…

Dine

8 GREAT TASTES

The Chicken Ramen at Setsunai Noodle Bar on Lopez Island is some of the North Sound’s best food. Featuring local ingredients, house-made noodles, and a deeply flavorful broth, this is a meal you won’t want to miss. 2. The Vegan Crunchwrap at L&L Libations is late-night food done right. This plantbased take on Taco Bell is stuffed…

Dine

A21 Flatbread | Chef Rey Galang of Amendment 21

Not sure what to serve at happy hour? Take a cue from the folks at Amendment 21, one of our favorite Bellingham cocktail bars, and give this Italian-inspired flatbread a try. It’s refined enough to impress dinner party guests, yet simple enough…

Dine

Logan Cider

The Beer Drinker’s Cider Debuts in Bellingham Written and photographed by Cocoa Laney If you’re a beer aficionado, you might think you don’t like cider– but chances are high that Dry Humor will change your mind. This crisp, approachable brew is the flagship flavor from Logan Cider, and it’s already causing a buzz in the Bellingham brewing scene. Logan Cider is the brainchild of Founder and Co-owners Ryan and Emma Trude, who also happen…

Dine

Living the Dream: Tamales, Brews, and Community | Frelard Tamales and El Sueñito Brewing Company

Frelard Tamales began in 2015 at pop-ups and markets, then opened a walk-up window in 2018, sharing authentic Mexican meals with hungry Seattle crowds. Now, Owners Osbaldo Hernandez and Dennis Ramey are continuing their journey in Bellingham. Their new place in Sunnyland is the first sit-down location of…

Dine

That Coffee Guy | Alexarc Mastema of Maniac Coffee Roasting

When I asked Alexarc Mastema to describe himself he simply said, “I’m just that coffee guy around town,” as if he’d never owned two businesses or been a United States Barista Championship judge infamously known as “Bend Over Intensity” for putting his face right down on the counter next to the cup while judging. When I met him, though, he’d yet to become any of those things…

Dine

Mexican Tortilla Soup | Chef Azizi Tookas of Brandywine Kitchen

Not sure what to make for dinner this spring? We suggest whipping up this Mexican tortilla soup, courtesy of Chef Azizi Tookas of…

Dine

A Fresh Philosophy on Farm-to-Table | Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar

Sitting on the Swinomish Channel, Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar is a must-visit in La Conner. This cozy, sophisticated eatery is co-owned by General Manager Albie Bjornberg and Chef James Donohue, who both have an undeniable passion for locally-sourced, artisan crafted, and supremely fresh ingredients. Photo by Cocoa Laney “Everything just has a special vibrancy about it, because it’s so hyperlocal and hyperfresh—that translates…

Dine

A Sea-to-Plate Love Story | Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon

Salmon – and the ocean that they make their home in—run deep in Tele Aadsen’s blood. Aadsen and her partner, Joel BradyPower, own and operate Nerka SeaFrozen Salmon as fisherfolks who sustainably…

Dine

Food, Family, and Fresh Tortillas | Mariposa Taqueria

The small elbow that makes up Bow-Edison can seem ethereal to the uninitiated. This rural community contains a bevy of artisanal businesses delivering incredible experiences: Have a…

Dine

Hot Pot is Good for the Soul | Soy House

You’d be forgiven for walking into the main entrance of Soy House—a Vietnamese restaurant that’s been a staple in town for almost a decade— instead of the side entrance specifically reserved for hot pot seatings. But once you’re inside, it’s impossible to miss the vibrant decor, warm atmosphere, and enticing aromas of the bubbling dishes. The original Soy House location was opened in 2008 on Bakerview by…

Dine

The Mixing Tin | Jack’s Morning Don

Jack’s Morning Don Ingredients: Mezcal, Génépi liqueur, pear brandy, St-Germaine $12 Photo by Cocoa Laney With its delicate color and crisp finish, the Morning Don is a springtime spin on the classic Negroni. Sweet pear notes combine with a smoky undertone from the Mezcal, resulting in a drink that’s fragrant, lightly…

Dine

The Return of Gourmet Pizza That Outshines the Herd | Goat Mountain Pizza

After several years of hiatus, a community favorite for upscale pizza has returned to Holly Street in Downtown Bellingham. Goat…

Dine

Not Just IPAs: Bellingham’s New Home for Farmhouse Style Brews | Darach Brewing Company

If you stop into State Street’s newest brewery expecting West Coast classics, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for—but IPAs are just the tip of the iceberg at Darach Brewing Company. Their…

Dine

The North Sound’s Most Iconic Eats

Breakfast What: Biscuits and Gravy Where: Old Town Cafe Why: As far as cafes go, Old Town Cafe is basically a church—and breakfast is their religion. Any of their dishes would start your day off right, but the Biscuits and Gravy ($12.75) in particular could tempt us out…

Dine

Steaks, Sips, and Seafood: Friday Harbor House

Friday Harbor House restaurant spotlight.

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Storybook Tea Parties and a Real Life Wonderland

White Branches

Dine

Elevate Your Charcuterie by Serving It with the Proper Wine

WHAT’S NOT TO like about a selection of meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables on a charcuterie tray? It’s easy to prepare, offers great variety, looks beautiful, and is meant to be shared in the company of others. With so many wonderful foods to choose from, selecting a wine or two to serve along with it should be a relatively easy task, right? Three words: proceed with caution. The variety of items on a charcuterie tray can, in fact, be…

Dine

Mixing Tin: B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar

B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar

Dine

Inside the Weekly Wine Tastings at Semiahmoo Resort

Semiahmoo Sips

Dine

STEAKS, SEAFOOD, AND SIPS

When selected with care, drink pairings have the potential to exchange and extend the flavors of an already-delicious meal.

Dine

Embracing the Everyday Magic of Chocolate

Charmed Chocolat

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Italy in Five Courses

Leader Block Trattoria & Bar

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Craft Beer and Community at Ferndale’s Newest Brewery

District Brewing Comes to Whatcom County

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Fermented Food with a Focus

Junebug Ferments

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Mixing Tin: Lorikeet

Lorikeet Bar

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Recipes for a Balanced Breakfast

Three recipes for healthy breakfasts!

Dine

The Flavors of Peru

Cafe Rumba

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Classic Christmas: Recipes

Recipes for holiday gatherings.

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Classic Christmas: Farm-to-Table Holiday Feasts

Local farms, producers, and merchants that have everything you need for a locally sourced feast.

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Mixing Tin: Red Velvet Margarita

The Black Cat

Dine

Beet Wellington

Chef Cinnamon Berg of Cosmos Bistro

Dine

Chewy Treats Made with Love

Anytime Toffee

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Shareable Bites and House-Made Spirits in Downtown Bellingham

The Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant

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Your Holiday Bird How-To

Q&A with Anna Martin of Osprey Hill Farm

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Skagitonian Sourdough from PNW-Grown Grains

Water Tank Bakery

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Cozy Winter Restaurants: A Regional Round-Up

When it comes to staving off the PNW winter blues, good food is a great antidote– especially when it’s enjoyed somewhere warm, welcoming, and intimate. Imagine it now: The weather outside is frightful, but you’re snuggled up with your sweetie and sharing a delicious meal by the light of a roaring fire. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? If the season begins to take its toll, we recommend looking to our local restaurants to keep spirits merry. The North Sound has…

Dine

Take a Step into Thailand

Maikham Lao and Thai

Dine

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Storia Cucina

Dine

Meet the Queen of Cakes and King of Cookies

Slice of Heaven Cafe & Bakery

Dine

Elegance, Innovation, and Honesty: A Visit to Bellingham’s Newest Bar

Matthew’s Honest Cocktails

Dine

I Don’t Like It, I Love It!

That’s What I Like! Island Grill

Dine

Wild Mushroom Ragout

Chef Kristopher Arndt of Snowy River Cocktail Co.

Dine

Lovely Liqueurs

If liquors are the backbone of the cocktail world, then liqueurs could be thought of as their sweeter, more playful sibling. Unlike standard liquor, these spirits are high in sugar and often (but not always!) lower in alcohol content as a…

Dine

Learning the Power of Food Preservation with Chef Ona Lee

Clara’s Canning Co.

Dine

Sampling the Seasons on San Juan Island

Duck Soup

Dine

European-Style Sips on San Juan Island

Madrone Cellars

Dine

Lonestar Queso

Chef Stew Navarre of Jack’s BBQ

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The Mixing Tin: Kiwi Bloom Cooler

Mixing Tin

Dine

Bridging the Gap Between the Farm and Your Food

Widnor Farms

Dine

The Cheekiest Happy Hour in Town

Banter After Hours

Dine

A Culinary Oasis in Edison

Slough Food

Dine

Backdoor Bellingham

Mixing Tin

Dine

Blackened Halibut Cheeks

Chef Marcello Mazzoleni of Lighthouse Bar & Grill

Dine

8 Great Tastes: June/July 2022

June/July 8 Great Tastes 2022

Dine

Exploring the World, One Glass at a Time

Nomad Charcuterie and Wine

Dine

The Scoop on Bellingham’s Waterfront Ice Creamery

The Selkie Scoop

Dine

Cheese, Please!

A Guide to the Local Cheese Scene

Dine

A Tradesman’s Tavern

Time & Materials Taphouse

Dine

Plants and Paninis

Purple Flamingo Cafe

Dine

8 Great Tastes

8 Great Tastes May 2022

Dine

Home Grown

May 2022 Feature

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Spice It Up: Six International Blends To Try

Spice Blends

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Renovations and Distillations

Chuckanut Bay Distillery Expansion

Dine

A Family-Run Dairy Farmstead in Bow

Golden Glen Creamery

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The Mixing Tin: The Blue Moon Paloma

The Mixing Tin May 2022

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Generous in Portions and Spirit

Magdalena’s Bistro and Creperie

Dine

Skagit Valley Chopped Salad

Mark Schultz of Chuckanut Manor Seafood and Grill

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The Mixing Tin: Captain’s Grog

Mixing Tin April 2022

Dine

Flavors So Bold, It’s Criminal

Accomplice Burgers

Dine

8 Great Tastes

Dine

At Lake Chelan’s Succession Wines

Your Tasting Experience Means Everything

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Asian Fusion with Family-Owned Spirit

Oishii Teriyaki & Rolls

Dine

A Taste of Colombian Coffee Culture

COF&

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Southwest Flavors, Made with Love

New Mexico Tamale Company

Dine

Bringing Gourmet Doughnuts to Bellingham

Jo Joe’s Doughnuts

Dine

8 Great Tastes: March 2022

8 Great Tastes

Dine

Downtown Bellingham’s Ode to the Outdoors

Bar 542

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Apple Cider Vinegar Margarita

The Mixing Tin March 2022

Dine

Sourdough Starter

Recipe

Dine

Making a Difference Through Wine

Eagle Haven Winery

Dine

A New Chapter for the Fairhaven Village Bus

Fairhaven Village Tacos

Dine

Your Guide to Fine Dining

In honor of our annual restaurant issue, we’ve put together a guide to some of the region’s best fine dining establishments. Their offerings may be diverse, but local ingredients and seasonality are common themes across the board. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just hoping to sample something new, we encourage you to pay each one a visit. Bon appetit!

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Speedy Gonzales

The Mixing Tin

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8 Great Tastes

8 Great Tastes February 2022

Dine

A Once-In-A-Lifetime Dinner in Woodinville

The Herbfarm

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15 Winning Appetizers for Game Day

From updated classics to gluten-free goodies, all of these Super bowl snacks are a touchdown!

Dine

A Welcome Addition to Bellingham’s Laid-Back Wine Scene

Welcome Road Winery

Dine

Multicultural Recipes

I created my recipe blog, The Little Ferraro Kitchen, nearly 10 years ago to share my love for world cuisine and to share my diverse cultural background. All of the places I’ve lived constantly inspire me in the kitchen…

Dine

The Art and Science of Gourmet Mushrooms

Skagit Gourmet Mushrooms

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8 Great Tastes

8 Great Tastes January 2022

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Gluten-Free + Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles

Recipe

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Meals That Honor Togetherness and Tradition

Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine

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The Mixing Tin: Jade Maiden

If you need an antidote to the winter blues, the Jade Maiden is just what the doctor ordered.

Dine

Bringing Turkish Coffee and Goods to Bellingham

Ashuri Baklava and Cafe

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The Power of Plant-Based Foods

Plants 2 Plates

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8 Great Tastes: November/December 2021

8 Great Tastes

Dine

Chickens Raised With Knowledge, Care, and Fresh Air

Spring Creek Heritage Farms

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Wines to Make Your Holiday Season Even More Memorable

The holiday season means it’s time for special gatherings with family and friends, so why not celebrate with an extra-special bottle (or two) of wine? Variety is the key, and Washington and Oregon wineries have you covered with an incredible range of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines that are perfect for the holidays.

Dine

Pumpkin Tea Cake

Try this seasonal and elegant treat

Dine

Art You Can Eat

Yeah Baby Boards

Dine

12 Turkey Leftovers

If turkey is on the menu this holiday season, you might find yourself saddled with more leftovers than you know what to do with. In fact, I’m convinced it’s impossible not to end up with (at least) a day’s worth of extra meat. So what’s the best way to use up your bird in the days following Thanksgiving or Christmas?

Dine

Food and Wine from the Land and Sea

Located at the crossroads of Chuckanut Drive and Bow Hill Road stands Cob + Cork, a quaint, small-town restaurant “inspired by the harvest of local soil and water.” After opening its doors in August of this year, Cob + Cork has quickly become a community gem thanks to the work of owners Lisa and Terry Thomson.

Dine

The Gift of Good Spirits

Infused spirits are the best kind of holiday gift: Simple, homemade, and delicious. You can whip them up in batches for everyone on your Christmas list, but we wouldn’t blame you if you kept a jar (or two) as a present to yourself as well. Best of all, they couldn’t be easier to put together. All you need are Mason jars, ingredients of choice, and a little bit of patience.

Dine

Bringing the Farmers Market to Your Doorstep

With our lives becoming busier every day, the relentless question of “what’s for dinner” is, for many of us, a headache. If you’re like me, that question is answered by a trip to the grocery store in search of something quick and easy. But quick and easy isn’t always what’s best for our health, or the health of the planet. In 2011, Joy Rubey observed…

Dine

Holiday Cocktails

When I think of holiday punches, there is a lot to choose from. Traditional Moscow mules are simple and fun, while fruit-based rum and gin punches are also popular. Other…

Dine

Baking Your Dreams Come True

If you have ever visited downtown Anacortes, you may have sampled one of the 50+ delicious varieties of Fidalgo Fudge Co. From creamy classics like the choco-late walnut to unique creations such as the dark chocolate ginger or habanero, there’s something for every sweet tooth.

Dine

The Perfect Martini Bar

He was a real estate agent and she was an accountant. Neither had any intentions to buy a martini bar, but a decade ago, Becky and JD Merris did exactly that.

Dine

A One-Stop Vegan Shop

If you’re a vegan or an avid food truck lover in Bellingham, you’re bound to have sampled food from Sage Against the Machine. This beloved food truck features diverse menu items, all of which are two important things: Vegan and delicious.

Dine

Bellingham’s Judged Wine Competition Gives Northwest Wineries Reason To Celebrate

The 2021 Bellingham Northwest Wine Festival Judged Competition was one for the record books. It featured a record number of entries, participating wineries, and Gold and Double Gold medalists. It was also capped with a pleasant surprise: the Best in Show award for the top point-receiving wine ended in a tie. The sixth annual event, organized by the Whatcom Beer and Wine Foundation, took place at the Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham Hotel and…

Dine

A Delicious Dream Seven Years in the Making

Sweet As Waffles officially opened to the public at Stemma Brewing Company in June of 2021. For the owners, Nate Brown and Graham Berkwitt, the grand opening was the culmination of a vision several years in the making.

Dine

Italian, and Mexican, and Chinese, Oh My!

Having worked in the restaurant industry for years, Diego noticed that the three most popular types of cuisine were Italian, Chinese, and Mexican. All the dishes on Infusion Cuisine’s menu fit into one of these categories.

Dine

Mixing Tin: Butterbeer

Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, this rich and boozy take on Hogsmeade’s brew of choice is a must-try for Halloween.

Dine

Maui Mule

The Maui Mule is a fun, tropical version of the Moscow Mule with a bright and slightly spicy taste thanks to our Ginger and Hawaiian Chili Shrub. The shrub’s flavor is enhanced by adding sparkling water and fresh lime juice, and the raw apple cider vinegar and ginger offer additional health benefits.

Dine

When in Downtown Bellingham, Do as the Italians Do

When considering how best to use an empty space in the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building, restaurateur Jonathan Cicotti took inspiration from the bars he visits with his family in Cento, Italy.

Dine

A Year in Cocktails

Dine

8 Great Tastes: September 2021

8 Great Tastes

Dine

How Garden Path Fermentation’s Unique Process Exceeds Expectations

Created and operated by Amber Watts and Ron Extract, Garden Path Fermentation (GPF) is located in Burlington near the Skagit Regional Airport.

Dine

Garlic Shrimp with Paprika and Lemon

Inspired by the popular Spanish tapa called Gambas al Ajillo, this recipe is a breeze to put together and perfect to pair with cocktails.

Dine

Whatcom Wines

A Look at 5 Whatcom Wineries

Dine

The Mixing Tin: The Black Mirror

The Black Mirror is a combination of spicy and sweet, an uncommon flavor profile for cocktails, and schezuan ghost pepper simple syrup makes the drink really stand out.

Dine

Sandwiches Savory and Sweet

The Fairhaven

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Black Fern 

There’s a new coffee shop/wine bar in town. Black Fern is located in the Granary Building, in easy reach of downtown, Waypoint Park, and the new Wednesday Bellingham Farmers Market. 

Dine

Pizza is Back on the Menu

Westside Pizza

Dine

SERVING WINES AT YOUR NEXT BARBEQUE IS AS SIMPLE AS RED, WHITE, AND ROSÉ

Find your perfect wine pairing for an end of summer BBQ

Dine

8 Great Tastes: August 2021

8 Great Tastes

Dine

Vegan Scone Shop Comes to the Granary Building

SconeGrown

Dine

Dukkah: A Versatile Taste of Egypt

Recipe

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Concrete Jungle

Locus Concrete Jungle Ingredients: Stout, Irish cream, cold brew, heavy cream $11 In honor of National Coffee Month — I know, there’s a month for everything, but everyone loves coffee so why not embrace it? — we’re highlighting this creamy…

Dine

Zeeks Pizza Comes to the Fountain District

Zeeks Pizza

Dine

Meet Your New Favorite Restaurant: Salted Grape Bistro

Salted Grape Bistro

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The Mixing Tin: When Doves Cry

Temple Bar

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Eight Great Tastes: July/August 2021

8 Great Tastes

Dine

Outstanding Wines Earn Mellisoni Vineyards Winery of the Year Honors

Mellisoni Vineyards Winery

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Easy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Recipe

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Brave New Burgers

Two Local Restaurants Launch Burger Offshoots

Dine

Cocktails That Glitter and Shine

Snowy River Cocktail Co.

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Spice Things Up with Mr. Frank’s Kitchen

Love, legacy, and integrity. These three ingredients may not show up on the nutrition label on Mr. Frank’s Kitchen spices, but they are at the heart of each and every product. For Lisa Campbell, opening Mr. Frank’s Kitchen in 2016 was all about carrying on her father’s legacy. Mr. Frank Postl — Lisa’s father — immigrated…

Dine

At Wit Cellars, “We’re In It Together” Carries a Special Meaning

Wit Cellars’ award-winning wines are flavorful, thoughtfully crafted, and deserve to be on your ‘must-try’ list.

Dine

Grilled Cheese, Skagit Valley Style

The herbed vache and the brined sweetness of the pickled blueberries come together in a grilled cheese that is light, fresh, and delicious.

Dine

The Mixing Tin : Portofino

According to Storia Cucina’s beverage director, Matthew Boudousquie, this drink is like if a gin and tonic got a PhD.

Dine

Let’s Taco Bout It

There are few foods more versatile and satisfying than the taco. Corn tortillas make for a great gluten-free entrée, veggie-based fillings mean delicious vegetarian options abound, and toppings create the potential for infinite flavor combinations. Here in the North Sound, we may be far from the southern border, but we’re lucky to have plenty of delicious taco options within easy reach. Check our list of favorite destinations, or browse through local hot sauces, salsas, and recipes to create your…

Dine

The Rustic Fork

The Rustic Fork is an ideal location for comfortable outdoor dining, with a back patio that seats up to 38 people.

Dine

Charred Salmon with Lemon Herb Israeli Couscous and Fava Beans

This healthy, flavor-packed meal features charred wild salmon served over Israeli couscous with fava beans and sweet corn, all tossed with a bright lemon vinaigrette.

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The Mixing Tin: Lavender Fields Forever

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar Lavender Fields Forever Ingredients Empress gin Giffard creme de mure house-made lavender syrup organic lemon egg white…

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Buck Bay Shellfish Farm

Since the early 1940s, Buck Bay Shellfish Farm has been the go-to spot for shellfish on Orcas Island.

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7 Spice Café

Mediterranean cafe delivers big flavor at affordable prices

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Temperate Habits Brewing

Mount Vernon Gets a New Brewery

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Living Pantry Refillery Marketplace

Living Sustainably

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Cafe Crawl

According to Encyclopædia Britannica, the first cafe opened in Constantinople in the year 1550. The rise of coffee drinking meant caffeine-lovers needed a place where they could gather in public and enjoy the new buzzy beverage. Over the next decades, cafes spread throughout Europe,…

Dine

The Perfect Winter Salad

This winter salad is full of bright colors to cheer you up on a gloomy day.

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The Mixing Tin: The Bishop

Storia Cucina Bishop Ingredients: mastika mezcal creme de cassis green chartreuse $11 This drink may look fruity, but don’t let the rosy color fool you. The mezcal creates a smoke-forward elixir layered with…

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Monolo Eats Food Truck

Good food makes good people

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Milano’s Comes to Fairhaven

The beloved Italian restaurant now has a new location in downtown Fairhaven, just a few doors down from Village Books, making it Bellingham’s newest destination for fine Italian dining and seafood.

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A Tropical Escape on Holly Street

Lorikeet

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Massaged Kale Salad with Roasted Maple Almonds

This massaged kale salad is a great way to get in your daily serving of cruciferous greens without the usual digestive side effects.

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The Reach of Red Mountain Extends Well Beyond Its Vineyards

Tucked away on a hillside about 15 miles west of the Tri-Cities, the Red Mountain American Viticultural Area (AVA) is one of Washington’s most prominent wine grape growing regions.

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New Brewpub Offers a Cozy, European-Inspired Escape

Otherlands Beer

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The Mixing Tin: Hot Buttered Rum

The holidays may be over, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate the season with a warm winter cocktail.

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Not Juxt Another Taphouse

JUXT Taphouse serves up cocktail flights, crowlers, and more

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B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Blanket)

A Guide to Heated, Outdoor Dining in Bellingham

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Holiday Stuffing

Roasted Chestnuts & Delicata Squash

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Don’t Put a Cork In It

Wine preservers keep your wine fresher, longer; decanters aerate it for better taste

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Mixing Tin

This issue’s Mixing Tin is the Bosco Fresco from Storia Cucina. With hints of rosemary, honey, and cranberry, this cocktail is like Thanksgiving in a glass! Keep the holidays with you all year long with this drink.

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Artivem Mead Co.

Artivem Mead Co., located in the Granary Building on Bellingham’s waterfront, is the newest addition to the North Sound’s beverage scene.

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Carnal

New York chefs bring big flavor to downtown Bellingham

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In a Year Many of Us Would Like to Forget, Washington Wines Were Truly Memorable

Take your taste buds on a tour of the state with these select Washington wines.

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Confection Perfection

This issue’s feature is “Confection Perfection,” a delectable look at some of the tasty creations from local bakeries and restaurants. Find your favorite and make it at home!

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Serving Wine with Dessert? Keep It Sweet and Simple.

Find the perfect pairing without sacrificing sweetness.

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Not Your Run-of-the-Mill Flour Mill

Fairhaven Mill

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Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Porridge with Fall Fruit

This oatmeal recipe combines cacao powder, cacao nibs, and hazelnuts with delicious fall fruit.

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Locus Brings Unique Drinks, Urban Vibe to Downtown Bellingham

Find classic and curious offerings of coffee, wine, beer, and food at Bellingham’s Locus.

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Blaine’s Finest Beans and Brews

Barnyard Coffee Roasters

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Tips & Tricks for Perfect Homemade Pretzels

Homemade pretzels entered my life when my in-laws gifted me a class at the King Arthur Baking School, at the Bread Lab in Skagit Valley. When it was time to decide which exact class, the choice to enroll in the pretzel making course was a no–brainer. The hands–on experience was fun and informative, but best of all it made me realize that making pretzels at home…

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The In-Cider’s Guide

A closer look at Bellingham’s budding cider scene

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Steamed Clams with Corn and Tomatoes 

These sautéed clams with corn and tomatoes are the perfect end-of-summer recipe.

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The Mixing Tin: A Stone in the Woods

This month’s Mixing Tin is A Stone in the Woods from Galloway’s Cocktail Bar.

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Revival Cocktail Lounge

Mount Vernon’s Newest, Oldest-Feeling Bar

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Storia Cucina

Bellingham’s newest Italian restaurant weaves European, Lopez Island, and Bay Area connections

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Guud Bowls Delivers Guud Eats

Guud Bowls serves up fresh, hand-made, hand-delivered meals.

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SAUK FARM BUCKWHEAT APPLE PANCAKES 

Hands down, these are the best gluten-free pancakes around.

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Refresh your taste buds, go Nude

Looking to drink healthier? Go Nude with Nude Beverages.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Katie’s Killer Mimosa

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe Katie’s Killer Mimosa Ingredients: Fresh muddled orange orange vodka peach schnapps pineapple juice orange juice champagne $9 This delightful cocktail, named after a former employee, is the perfect addition to a Sunday brunch. While it may just taste like orange juice at first sip, don’t let it fool you — it packs a tropical twist. Splashes of peach schnapps and pineapple juice launch this breakfast beverage to a whole other level,…

Dine

122 West Brewing Co. on the Rise

122 West Brewing Co. brings good food and solid brews to the Bellingham Craft Beer scene.

Dine

New Location, Same Great Smoothies

Electric Beet Juice Co. settles into a new location.

Dine

A Day in the Life of a Farmstead Cheesemaker

Think there’s nothing betta than feta? Nothing more good than gouda? If you’ve ever wondered about the people behind the cheese, here’s a look at the day-in-the-life of a Farmstead Cheesemaker.

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Blueberry Cantaloupe Panzanella

Put your stale bread to good use with this sweet and savory Italian bread salad recipe.

Dine

Bellingham’s Tesoro Escondido

From butcher and grocer to beloved Bellingham restaurant — Mi Rancho Meat Market brings delicious tacos and more to the Birchwood neighborhood.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Aviation

This edition’s Mixing Tin is the Aviation from L&L Libations, an elegant classic cocktail with a floral twist.

Dine

Your Health in the Time of COVID-19

Improve your metabolic health during quarantine with this Cajun shrimp recipe and list of helpful tips.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: L’italienne

April’s Mixing Tin is the L’italienne from Gainsbarre, a classy wine-and-champagne-based cocktail that’s both simple and sophisticated.

Dine

Preserving Blue-Throated Macaws is the Goal at Dynasty Cellars

What do malbec, merlot, and macaws have in common? They’re all likely to come up in a conversation with Peter and Olga Osvaldik, husband-and-wife owners/winemakers at Bellingham’s Dynasty Cellars.

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Galos Flame Grilled Chicken

Galos Flame Grilled Chicken offers Portuguese Dining at its finest.

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A Spring Weekend Cleanse

Start your weekend cleanse with these nutritious and delicious recipes.

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Local Focused

Chef Christy & Shannon Fox use local ingredients, art to make Evolve Chocolate + Cafe truly unique.

Dine

Terramar Brewing Takes Locally Sourced to a Tasty New Level

Terramar Brewing, which opened in Edison this past summer, is the area’s newest brewery, pizzeria, and soon-to-be distillery.

Dine

Hanger Steak with Sorrel Chimichurri and Red Potato Smashers

The Skagit Challenge – how many Skagit Valley growers and producers are making up your meal? This recipe counts three farmers, one rancher, and one brewer.

Dine

Gluten, a Real Gut-Buster

This delectable gluten-free cereal is a treat for your tongue and your gut.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Southside Bar

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Irish Coffee from Southside Bar — a delicious take on a classic beverage, perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

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International Eats

February’s feature is International Eats! We’ve provided a list of our favorite international cuisine from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. Discover your favorites now.

Dine

Pacific Rim Winery: Dedicated to Riesling 365 Days a Year

Bring on the Riesling! Pacific Rim Winery offers a variety of choices to meet every taste preference and budget, no matter the wine or the season.

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Where Everybody’s Welcome

CrossRoads Brings BBQ and fun to Barkley Neighborhood. Check out some of their delicious dishes.

Dine

Have a Happy Gut with Apple Cider Vinegar

As winter winds down and spring approaches, it’s time to seek out energizing food and drink options. That’s where this elixir comes in. Raw apple cider vinegar is a golden gift to the digestive system.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Jack’s

This month’s Mixing Tin is The Cablegram from Jack’s. This classic cocktail offers doesn’t pull its punches (flavor or alcohol), and is sure to leave you wanting more.

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In a Galaxy Not So Far Away

Bellingham Cocktail Week Introduces a new way to Happy Hour — Read more about the competition and which bars to hit.

Dine

Freshly Tapped

Thousand Acre Cider House expands Bellingham’s cider scene. Read more about its owners as well as more about what makes this cider so awesome.

Dine

More Than Just Poke

This new poke restaurant downtown appeals to the masses, with colorful bowls and delicious treats.

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Balance & Bowls

This Deconstructed Spring Roll Bowl is nourishing, full of nutrients and flavor, and is ready in less than 30 minutes.

Dine

Western Professor Pens Book on Wise Eating

Western Professor’s book offers recipes and guidance on how to select wholesome, nutritious foods, but it is NOT a traditional dieting book.

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Galloway’s Cocktail Bar

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Winter Cardinal from Galloway’s Cocktail Bar—a fruity and smokey winter twist on a classic summer drink.

Dine

Chuckanut Manor: A Historic Culinary Roadhouse Tradition

Originally built as a residence, Chuckanut Manor has welcomed diners for more than 50 years. Visitors savor Pacific Northwest fare as well as views from one of the most scenic drives in Western Washington.

Dine

For Some Wineries, the Freshest New Releases Are in the Can

CAN you handle this new drink trend? Many of the season’s winning wines are coming in a can! Find your local favorites and see how these beverages stack up.

Dine

Bellingham Burger Roundup

Craving a burger? We’ve got you covered. This roundup features six Bellingham burgers that’ll definitely leave you wanting more than a bite.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Run Run Rudolph from Swim Club Wet Bar—a warm winter cocktail that will give you all the holiday feels.

Dine

Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar Comes to Bellingham Waterfront

Lombardi’s founder Diane Symms brings more than 30 years of delicious, authentic Italian cuisine to Bellingham.

Dine

Calypso Kitchen Brings Caribbean Flavors to Bellingham

Chef Sarah Chan uses her love of cooking to teach others and spread awareness about human trafficking, domestic violence, and food insecurity.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Perfect Pear Martini from Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse—a fall cocktail reminiscent of the most perfectly ripe Bartlett Pear.

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Ancore, Per Favore

Chef Giovanni “Gianni” Saffioti and partner Devon Drake opened Scampi Osteria—an Italian restaurant in Birch Bay—in July 2019.

Dine

Giving Thanks More Thought

Nutrition blogger, Cassie Elliott, invites readers to try this easy-to-prepare Pumpkin Custard, which is grain free, dairy-free, and free of refined sugar.

Dine

Holiday Travel Beer Guide

Nationally-ranked beer judge, Neal Tognazzini, is here to help you prep your holiday wish list—for beer that is—with his guide to the best beers in the U.S.

Dine

Bellingham Rock Star Opens Herb’s Cider

How Bellingham rock star, Tim “Herb” Alexander—the celebrated drummer for the alt-rock band Primus—came to co-own Herb’s Cider with his wife, Shama.

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From Ice Cream to Fried Chicken

After years of toying with the idea of starting another local business, Ben Scholtz—owner of Bellingham’s beloved Mallard Ice Cream—opened Bantam 46 in May.

Dine

Wine Judging Requires Sniffing, Swirling, and Tasting Your Way Through a Lot of Wine

Wine enthusiast Dan Radil shares the importance of tasting, not drinking, when wine judging—sniffing, swirling, and sipping your way to the best wine.

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The Mixing Tin

For this month’s Mixing Tin we indulged in the Hogwarts House Cocktails offered at Rook & Rogue Board Game Pub—Which house are you?

Dine

The Bounty and Culture of the San Juan Islands

Savor the San Juans—a seven-week event featuring farm tours, wine tastings, wine dinners, a beer festival, and two film festivals.

Dine

Autumn’s Comforting Bounty

Nutrition blogger and food photographer, Cassie Elliott, utilizes the fresh foods of the season to create this flavorful, gluten-free dish.

Dine

Stemma Brewing Co. Joins Our Beer Family

Stemma Brewing Company, owned by Jason and Kim Harper, has officially joined the Bellingham brewery scene—opening a taproom at 2039 Moore Street in June.

Dine

Miracles on the 11th Hour

At 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar, owned by Bridget Gallaghur, customers come to relax and enjoy a variety of teas, golden milks, lattes, and espresso items.

Dine

No Reservations

Mark Seymour, owner of the booming Drayton Harbor Oyster Company in Blaine, recently re-opened his oyster bar in a bigger space, just next-door.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Bramble from Swim Club Wet Bar—a rich, spiced cocktail to defend against the early fall chill.

Dine

Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris

Wine enthusiast Dan Radil talks tasty white wines for the warmer summer months, with a wide range of flavors, styles, and sweetness levels.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Summertime Blue from Fireside Martini & Wine Bar—a refresher that changes from sapphire blue to fuchsia in seconds.

Dine

Ten Years of Delicious Eats

Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon in Anacortes—treasured for its fresh and local seafood—is approaching it’s 10-year anniversary, with some changes in store.

Dine

I Scream, You Scream

We take a look at three of Fairhaven’s top-notch options for ice cream: Edaleen Dairy, Acme Ice Cream, and Sirena Gelato.

Dine

Something Delicious

This month’s online exclusive covers one more traveling eatery—not a food truck, but a mobile food tent serving up some cheesy goodness.

Dine

Five Faves

This month’s Five Faves is all about some of the tastiest local hot dogs—from gourmet to classic, summer wouldn’t be complete without them.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Salish Sea Daiquiri from Saltine—a fruity twist on the original Cuban cocktail recipe.

Dine

Grain to Glass in Skagit County

Farmstrong Brewing Co. in Mount Vernon is making use of local grain—All of their beers contain some percentage of barley that was grown and malted locally.

Dine

New Spot in Fairhaven

John Enright is the chef and owner of the new Cobalt Grill and Lounge in Fairhaven—serving traditional American fare with an emphasis on local seafood, natural products, and abundant bar selections.

Dine

Summertime Seating

Discover new summertime spots near you with our list of the area’s most outdoor-friendly restaurants.

Dine

Straightforward, Delicious, Fast Food

Step into this Orcas Island restaurant for breakfast or lunch—fit with homestyle cooking, large portions, bottomless coffee, and a friendly atmosphere.

Dine

Polarizing and Popular

Wine enthusiast Dan Radil gives readers the inside scoop on Pinot Noir: common perceptions, best practices, and some budget-friendly recommendations.

Dine

The Almighty Breakfast Salad

Sara Southerland invites readers to try out a nutritional breakfast that’s versatile, full of greens, and topped off with a delicious lemon garlic aioli.

Dine

A Place for All Seasons

For those craving some artisan pizza and local beer, drop by Railroad Pub & Pizza—a cozy and cabin-like restaurant in downtown Burlington.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is Strawberry Fizz from Valley Shine Distillery. The perfect cocktail to leave winter behind and get in that summertime mood.

Dine

Lime Time

This month’s online exclusive is a sneak peek at our summer barbecue feature — a grilled margarita shrimp recipe that is sure to wow your guests.

Dine

Historic Icon, Classic Diner

When Tom and Barb Kilpatrick moved to Bellingham in 2001, a historic café became a classic Bellingham diner. Hilltop Restaurant brings more than just great atmosphere with its longtime Chef, Steven Herzog.

Dine

Smoothie, To Go

Arlené Mantha, professional chef from Los Angeles, shares her favorite green smoothie so you can take a nutritional breakfast on the go.

Dine

In Spring, Get Radishes for Pickling

With the coming of Spring, you’ll want to try this recipe for pickling watermelon radishes. They are nutritious and can be preserved for months.

Dine

What the Heck is a Drink Called Shrub?

Josh and Tomo Kramer are the founders of Cascade Shrub Farm, bringing you a healthy, refreshing, locally infused cocktail and soda mix.

Dine

IPAS, Hazy and Otherwise

Why are IPAS so popular? Nationally-ranked beer judge, Neal Tognazzini, tells all about the history and variety behind brewing IPAS.

Dine

Cinco de Mayo Hot Spots

Celebrate the Mexican army’s win over France at the Battle of Pueblo with the best Mexican dishes around the North Sound this Cinco de Mayo.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is El Beso de Virginia from Northwater. This tequila-based drink is not a margarita, but a delicious way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Dine

Woodinville Wine Country Matures

Woodinville Wine Country is being put on the map as a true destination location. Wine lovers will find a large selection of wineries and restaurants to try.

Dine

Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin features The Temple Vesper from The Temple Bar in Bellingham. Try pairing this cocktail with the “Everything Plate.”

Dine

Seasoned Generously with Love

Cassie Elliot remembers cooking with her grandmother, Ella Gutknecht and shares a recipe for Cauliflower and Bacon Chowder, part of her 20-Day Sugar Detox.

Dine

Changing the World Through Food

Sage Against the Machine is a vegan food truck run by Tara and Nate Johnson in Bellingham. The menu has homemade items and locally sourced ingredients.

Dine

Easter Eats

We’ve found the best places if you’re planning to take your family out this Easter. Enjoy a brunch, buffet, or dinner menu at these local spots.

Dine

Fork, Yeah!

The Fork at Agate Bay restaurant is under new ownership. David Kas and Paul Lawrence run the restaurant, while Chef Nora Kas oversees the menu.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is a Lemon-Rosemary Champagne Cocktail brought to you by Brandywine Kitchen in downtown Bellingham.

Dine

Why the Emerald Isle Makes Black Beer

Neal Tognazzini shares his insights on black beer. Looking for a traditional way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish beer? Try Meance Brewing.

Dine

‘Water of Life’

In Ireland, whiskey is known as the ‘water of life.’ Here is a list of a few local spots to find a good Irish whiskey and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day right.

Dine

Sips of the Season

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar hosted our Sips of the Season event. Manager Alli Sutherland and talented mixologists taught guests how to make winter cocktails.

Dine

Historic, Destination Dining on Whidbey Island

Captain Whidbey Inn on Whidbey Island is under new ownership and is expected to open in April, with Jeff Towery as general manager and Chef Eric Truglas.

Dine

Spectacular Seafood

Salmon and shrimp and crab, oh my! February features some of the restaurants and eateries in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan where you can find the best fresh, local seafood.

Dine

For Valentine’s Day, Try Something Crisp, Pink or Bubbly

Dan Radil brings you a guide to non-traditional drinks to help you celebrate Valentine’s Day. Try something bubbly, pink, or cool and crisp for a change.

Dine

Catch Plenty of Omega 3 With Your Salmon

Barlean’s Fishery Inc. in Ferndale provides fresh seafood for healthy eating. The company also manufactures and distributes Omega 3 supplements.

Dine

Skewered Salmon & Calamari

Here’s a recipe from Chef Willie McWatters of Guemes Island for his Skewered Salmon & Calamari, which he makes using locally sourced ingredients.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin features True Love by Pink, an exotic cocktail using lychee made by Studio B. The perfect romantic drink for Valentine’s Day.

Dine

A Toast to Ferndale’s Past

Robert Pinkley, Brett Wiltse, and Amberleigh Brownson of Leader Block Wine Co. and Eatery brings Ferndale wines and an Italian menu with PNW influence.

Dine

Coffee, Healthy Food, and A Comfy Place to Wait for the Ferry

Andrea Hampton is the owner of Salty Fox Coffee – a Friday Harbor cafe with baked goods, Twisp coffee, art, and a comfy place to wait for the ferry.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin features the G, a cocktail created by managing mixologist Dakota Etley at Miller’s Back Door, next to Rumors Cabaret.

Dine

Get Fueled with Fresh Flavor

Big Love Juice has two Bellingham locations, offering cold press juices made from local ingredients in addition to healthy, fresh snacks.

Dine

Fit Plan for Life

Jenn Bachtel shares a few favorite recipes, like cold Asian salad and protein bread, as well as substitutions to keep your meals varied and nutritious.

Dine

Winter Comfort

Cassie Elliot shares her recipe for a delicious butternut squash soup with toasted pumpkin seeds. It is low carb and fits within her 20 day Sugar Detox.

Dine

Dark Beers for Dark Days

Neal Tognazzini reminds us not to forget about dark beers during these long, dark winter months. Selections from Wander Brewing Co. are among the favorites.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

December’s Mixing Tin brings you the toasted bourban mocha from the 13moons restaurant at the Swinomish Casino in Anacortes.

Dine

Big Views, Bigger Portions

Head down to Squalicum Harbor for some classic fish and chips or a burger and fries from Nicki’s Bella Marina, which overlooks Bellingham Bay.

Dine

A Feast for the Senses, Seaside

For a seaside retreat and an exceptional dining experience, try the Whidbey Island Inn at Langley with executive chef Matt Costello and chef Emily Bell.

Dine

At Home on Whidbey Island

These two wine bars on Whidbey Island are ideal for tasting: The Terrace Wine Bar and Bistro in Oak Harbor and Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room in Coupeville.

Dine

Get Out for Thanksgiving Dinner

If you’re looking for a night out for Thanksgiving dinner, we have a list of local restaurants open next Thursday in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties!

Dine

Brussels Sprout Salad

This Brussels sprout salad from Samantha Ferraro of The Little Ferraro Kitchen will add Thanksgiving Flair if you’re looking for unconventional recipes.

Dine

Lau Lau

The Lau Lau is a Hawaiian BBQ dish that may be an unconventional Thanksgiving recipe for many, but it could be the start of a new tradition!

Dine

Ginataang Kalabasa

A Filipino cuisine, Ginataang kalabasa is a squash and coconut milk is an unconventional Thanksgiving recipe that will add a splash of color to your table.

Dine

Duck!

Instead of turkey, try duck this Thanksgiving! Peter McWilliams of Doe Bay Cafe shares his unconventional Thanksgiving recipe for duck.

Dine

The Great Turkey Debate

There’s always debate over how to cook a turkey. Whether it’s injecting vs. bringing, frozen vs. fresh, or roasted vs. fried, we have the pros and cons to help you make a great Thanksgiving meal.

Dine

Thanksgiving Flair

Our Thanksgiving Flair Feature this month can help you deign a fall tablescape and decorate your home with pumpkins and more from Pier 1 Imports.

Dine

Risk and Reward

Richard Kauffman of Riverhaven Farm is raising high-quality, free-range Thanksgiving turkeys. These small-farm birds are expensive, but certainly worth it.

Dine

For Thanksgiving, ‘Tis the Saison

How are you going to wash your traditional starch-and-fat lover’s delight of a meal down this Thanksgiving? The answer: Saison.

Dine

Fuel for Winter’s Fun

Here is a list of the best dishes on the Mount Baker Highway in Glacier and Deming. Stop in for a bite after a day of fun on Mount Baker this winter!

Dine

The Mixing Tin

Cocktail consultant Mike Rothmeyer has developed three versions of the classic Mai Tai for The Union Tavern in Anacortes.

Dine

Getting on Island Time

San Juan Island Brewing Co., run by brothers Tim and Sean Alyward and stepfather Verne Howard, offers tasty brews and wood stone pizzas on Friday Harbor.

Dine

Looking to Bounce Back

Dan Radil gives an inside look into the current downturn of Whatcom County Wineries and which wineries were distinguished at the Northwest Wine Festival.

Dine

Sense of Place, With Plates

Off Chuckanut Drive in Bow lies The Rhododendron Café, run by Lisa Cooney and Jim Kowalski, who use fresh, local Washington ingredients.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

The Mixing Tin this month is showcasing a drink called Charlie, created by Karly Steffen, bar manager at Fairhaven’s Övn.

Dine

A Daily Dose of Trendy Tacos in Bellingham

Goat Mountain Pizza owners opened a new restaurant last fall, this time a bar with tacos called Black Sheep. You can find them in downtown Bellingham.

Dine

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin showcases a cocktail called The Bullfighter, which can be found at The 202 in Downtown Bellingham.

Dine

Swinomish Casino Scores

The Sports Bar & Grill at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge has upgraded their menu. Chef O’Neil is responsible for the new delicious additions.

Dine

In Wine Versus Beer Debate, Wine Has Summertime Edge

Both beer and wine have a wide variety of flavors perfect for the season. Summer is the ideal time for a cold beer, flavorful white, or bold red.

Dine

Baking School and Bread Lab Rise Together in Burlington

The Skagit Bread Lab is offering classes in their new King Arthur Flour Baking School to educate locals and give back to the community.

Dine

Comfort Food Warming Up Downtown Bellingham

Saltine is the newest addition to Bellingham’s food scene. Located downtown in the arts district, Saltine is providing locals with warm comfort foods.

Dine

Finding Sunshine in a (Beer) Can | Sip

Only the most radical (and misguided) beer snob would insist on a glass for every beer-drinking occasion. Smart drinking requires an appreciation of context.

Dine

A Love for Food

Seeds honors the area’s culinary traditions not just by curating from local farmers and producers, but by preparing the ingredients in a manner that showcases their flavors.

Dine

Mixing Tin

Maple and brown sugar? These flavors were made for each other, we all know that. But if you thought they existed only in your morning oatmeal, think again.

Dine

Oooh-La-La: Swimming in Cocktails

The Swim Club cocktail bar in Fairhaven transports customers into a different world and a different time with their unique and authentic atmosphere.

Dine

Looking Back: Seafood Story Earns Award

Magazine Won 2016 ‘Maggie’ for ‘Best Editorial Layout’ It’s always great to hear when our readers in the North Sound like what we’re doing here at Bellingham Alive, and other publications like Couture Weddings and NSL Guestbook. It’s also nice to get a pat on the back from people who…

Dine

More Than Great Beer

In downtown Anacortes, the 105-year old building at 902 Commercial Ave. has been home to a flooring company, an antique store, a hair salon, and, since January 2016, it’s housed The Union Tavern, the town’s beer-centric bar. Owner Joseph…

Dine

Passion Plates

Thanks to renowned chef Sabrina Tinsley, cuisine from the Emilia-Romagna region of northeastern Italy can be found right in Seattle. Tinsley and her husband, Pietro Borghesi, co-founded their restaurant, Osteria la Spiga, in 1998. Due to their hardworking staff and supportive customers, Osteria la Spiga is known for…

Dine

Chef With Sense of Place

Chef Jason Wilson is renowned in the Seattle area. His three local restaurants, Miller’s Guild, The Lakehouse, and Civility & Unrest, keep the locals satisfied and the tourists coming back for more. He will soon be adding another restaurant to his ever- expanding Seattle presence with a  Pike Place Market addition, with a menu inspired by the market itself. Wilson took…

Dine

A Taste of the Mediterranean

From her stove in Bellingham, Samantha Ferraro has cooked up a gourmet selection of Mediterranean dishes highlighting world cuisine and cultural favors. Her recipes…

Dine

Tri-Cities and Prosser Areas: A Haven for Washington Wine Lovers

Western Washington wine lovers in search of a wine-related getaway should look no further than the eastern side of the state. The Tri-Cities and Prosser areas boast plentiful sunshine, a dry climate year-round, and scores of wineries that feature some of the best food and wine the state has to offer. THE TRI-CITIES According to Visit Tri-Cities.com there are more than 200 wineries within a 50-mile…

Dine

Red Rum Tiki Bar | Mixing Tin

Heeeere’s Johnny! (With Your Cocktail) Are you ready to be transported to an island oasis? Take one step into Red Rum, the new tiki bar in downtown Bellingham, and you’re greeted with bamboo huts, tiki torches, and no visible windows hinting at what the outside world holds. You can’t tell day from night, only that this may…

Dine

Bellingham’s Drinking Scene Grows Up

Most of the watering holes in Bellingham glow with youthful exuberance and do-it-yourself charm. This is one of the things I love about the breweries in town: their unpretentiousness and aura of simple fun. But every now and then a grownup needs a grownup place to drink: a place to be reminded that fermented…

Dine

More Than Just Coffee

At any given time, Mount Vernon’s Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar is abuzz with activity. An entrepreneur works intently on her laptop, two students discuss a project, old friends catch up on the cafe’s plush leather couch. A patron spends a few minutes chatting with owner Jenny Daley before rushing out the door, steaming cup of coffee and fresh veggie wrap in hand….

Dine

The Mixing Tin – The Five Joaquins

This drink was named after the tale of the Five Joaquins. The Five Joaquins were, well, five guys named Joaquin. Between 1850 and 1853 it was reported that the Five Joaquins and a man they called “Three-Fingered Jack” were responsible for a majority of the robberies, murders, and cattle thefts in the Sierra Nevada. Joaquin Murrieta, the leader, was supposedly killed by the newly formed California Rangers, but who knows? What we do know is…

Dine

Hidden Gem

Bellingham Cider Company Bellingham Cider Company’s head chef Dirul Shamsid-Deen has been a chef for more than 17 years, cooking in culinary meccas like New York, L.A., and Chicago. Far from the bustle of those big cities, Shamsid-Deen is making some noise at the new Bellingham Cider Company, tucked away in a downtown location that has quietly become the talk of the culinary community. A couple doors down from the Whatcom Museum’s old city…

Dine

Fried and Unapologetic Fat Shack

Between the name and the marketing slogan: “Fat Shack—Late Night Done Right” there’s little question to whom this new restaurant, open as late as 3 a.m., is targeted. Popular items are burgers, wings, and their densely packed…

Dine

French Fundamentals in an English-Style Pub

Off La Conner’s main drag and up a hill sits The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant & Pub. Originally a hotel and restaurant (and for a year a barbershop), it was designed in 1976 by architect Glen Bartlett in an English country theme. Going for authenticity, Bartlett salvaged stained glass…

Dine

Vinostrology Shines As Downtown Bellingham Wine Bar And Lounge

Wine Bar Extraordinaire Bellingham native Katie Bechkowiak had plenty of experience in the restaurant and wine industries when she began toying with the idea of opening up her own wine bar. Then, while wrapping up a visit to the city’s Bloedel…

Dine

The Mixing Tin – The Brandied Cherry Collins

When you walk into The Blue Abode Bar in Barkley Village, it feels like you are home —even though it’s new to the neighborhood. A cozy spot for cocktails, it has a wood bar, tables are…

Dine

Meet the Chef

Chef Todd Alan Martin of Hundred North hosted his German-inspired dinner on Thursday, February 22 at Judd & Black Appliance in Mount Vernon. The four-course meal was full of comfort foods from parsnip soup to chocolate cake, each with its own flair and elegance. Martin’s attitude was laid-back,…

Dine

Marking the End of the (Traditional) Brewing Season

From Spring, Lager Awaits Its Day The older I get, the more I appreciate the seasons. Our lives are always emerging from somewhere, always headed somewhere. We always have something to remember and something to anticipate. And it all goes in a circle, so that we can say farewell to one season in the confidence that it will always come back around in about nine months. Modern technology can make the seasons somewhat invisible to…

Dine

8 Great Tastes

If you’re looking to spice up your life a bit, look no further than On Rice Thai Cuisine. Their green curry is a creamy concoction of coconut, green curry paste, and basil. Who doesn’t wish they were on a tropical beach eating some fresh pork tacos? Aslan Brewing Co. offers vibrant and delectable Hawaiian…

Dine

Redefine Health Food

Shambala Bakery and Bistro If someone offered you a slice of non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan bread, what would you expect it to taste like? You might…

Dine

The Mixing Tin: Pina Mas Macho

Redlight- Pina Mas Macho If you’re looking for a tropical treat to steal you away from the cold Bellingham weather, look no further than the Pina…

Dine

Muto Ramen and Izakaya

Ramen, Revisited With the closing of the Japanese restaurant, Wasabee Sushi, last spring, it felt as though downtown Bellingham had been hit with a huge loss. Thankfully, Muto Ramen and…

Dine

Vagabond Station

Different and Delicious Imagine a crispy fried-chicken breast atop a fluffy biscuit, covered with melted cheddar cheese, and smothered with gravy. The Yard Bird sandwich is everything you didn’t know you were missing and it’s available at Vagabond Station in Anacortes. Until recently, Vagabond Station was a food truck specializing in Southern-style food: chicken and waffles, fried pork…

Dine

Mixing Tin

EAT Restaurant and Bar The Mon Dieu (My god) Ingredients: Captain Morgan’s rum, maple, lime, topped with BelleWood Acres Cider, $11 Tucked on the corner of East Chestnut and Cornwall in downtown Bellingham, EAT Restaurant and Bar is surprisingly upscale for its unassuming location. The cuisine…

Dine

Five Faves

Cinnamon Rolls MOUNT BAKERY CAFÉ & BAKERY Definitely a mountaintop experience. Revel in this devilishly sticky unraveling of a treat nicknamed “cinnamon snail” in Danish pastry. Mount Bakery’s spiral-layered roll recipe originated with a Belgian grandmother from a family of master bakers. The uniqueness: hand-formed, laminated croissant dough — a switch from challah — and baked in a large-cup muffin pan. Slathered…

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Best Breakfasts

All of us do it. Some before dawn cracks a new day, while others prefer to wait until mid-morning. There are even those who do it almost at lunchtime. Doesn’t matter what time you do it, breakfast is traditionally the first meal of the day. Croissants in France, Poha in Southern India, Ngwaci in Kenya, Shashukah in Saudi Arabia, Bangers and Mash in England, Medialunas in Argentina, or oatmeal in America: it’s all breakfast food. For some folks, breakfast…

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Walla Walla Wines Become a Growth Industry

The explosion of wineries in the Walla Walla Valley mirrors the impressive growth of wineries in Washington state. How impressive? Consider this: According to the Washington Wine Commission, there were 163 wineries statewide in the year 2000. Today the state boasts over 900 total wineries… and nearly 125 of those are located in the Walla Walla Valley. The Walla Walla Valley has a rich agricultural history, but today’s wine…

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BeachCastle Sweets

Something Sweet for Your Sweet Rule number one when making chocolate treats is to use good quality chocolate. “You can really…

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Butcher Shop Bringing the Craft Back to Bellingham

Four years ago, Shaun Almassy wasn’t sure that he even wanted to become a butcher. After some convincing from a friend, he decided to try his hand at butchery. Almassy now finds himself up, at times as early as 6 a.m., prepping for the day ahead.

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Lynden Dutch Bakery

Beyond inviting visitors in for an afternoon treat or as a stop on their morning commute, Lynden Dutch Bakery caters for events, weddings, and company parties at a reasonable cost.

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A’Town Bistro…Your New Go-To Restaurant

A’Town Bistro Owner of A’Town Bistro in Anacortes, Timothy Moffitt, spent most of his life working in restaurants so he knew what he’d do differently when he got the chance to run things. For starters, A’Town Bistro sources ingredients from local food…

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This Year, Resolve to Drink Smarter

Several years ago, shortly after the onset of my craft beer fanaticism, I made a New Year’s resolution: this year, I vowed, I would drink more beer. That resolution is one of a very small handful of resolutions that I have…

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The Mixing Tin: Uisce Irish Pub

The Sidecar INGREDIENTS Christian Brothers Brandy, Orange Cointreau, house made sours mix, lemon twist, sugar on the rim, $10 Walking in, first impressions bring me back to an Ireland trip…

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The Vault Wine Bar

Bank on Blaine’s Rich New Wine Bar The Vault Wine Bar, in Blaine, is a restaurant in a unique venue: a former bank building. Teller cages and desks have been replaced with a sleek marble bar top and custom made tables. One wouldn’t exaggerate to say that no expense was spared to…

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The Mixing Tin: The Cabin Tavern

The Classic INGREDIENTS: Brandy, triple sec, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, Luxardo cherry, $8 Being new to Bellingham, I’ve been looking for places that speak to me. The Cabin Tavern…

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Meticulously Made Food in a Casual Eatery

Dad’s Diner a-Go-Go Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative selecting and layering of flavors and textures on a plate. Add in the superior customer service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, and it’s no wonder so many locals eat here weekly. Best friends Fletcher McLean and…

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A Hip Dining Experience

There is something about a busy coffee shop that feels welcoming. Voices struggle to be heard over the sound of the espresso machine pushing hot water through fresh ground coffee. Cups clink when they are placed back on their saucers as customers slowly sip the decadent liquid. At Camber Coffee in downtown…

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The Mixing Tin: 5th Street Bistro

The Naughty Schoolgirl INGREDIENTS Pama, 360 Raspberry Vodka, lemon juice and splash of Sprite, $7.50 Although the name may make you blush, the Naughty Schoolgirl from Anacortes’s 5th Street Bistro in the Majestic Inn & Spa is perfect for when you’re feeling, well, naughty. The vodka-based raspberry lemon drink is slightly tart and conjures a pleasant pucker after each sip. It’s a pretty pink drink garnished with a lime slice and orchid, making it a must for special occasions and…

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Modern Cabin Atmosphere Meets Country Cuisine

The Birch Door Cafe The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Once you open the massive birch door and…

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The Original Farm-to-Table

Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar La Conner’s Nell Thorn has been serving locally sourced food before it was trendy. It is one of the original farm-to-table restaurants in the area, thanks to forward-thinking owners, Casey and Susan Schanen. The husband-wife team are natives of Skagit Valley and have extensive food and wine backgrounds. The couple met about 25 years ago at the Wild Iris Inn, where…

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The Mixing Tin: Bayou on Bay

The Refresher INGREDIENTS Choice of housemade infusion, muddled citrus, Sierra Mist and club soda, $9 The bar at Bayou on Bay has the comforting feel of…

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A Scratch Kitchen Playing With Flavors

Third Street Cafe Earlier this summer, chef Maryna Frederiksen took over the kitchen at Mount Vernon’s Third Street Cafe. The Skagit Co-op off-shoot eatery has flourished under Frederiksen’s leadership and it doesn’t take more than a…

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Husband and Wife Team Up at Winery

Structure Cellars Owning and operating your own winery might seem like a pretty cool occupation, but behind-the-scenes challenges requiring time, money, and sweat equity can make getting there a daunting task. The husband-and-wife team…

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Sedro-Woolley Eatery’s Hefty Sandwiches a Meal

The Bullpen Sports Bar & Grill Sedro-Woolley, located just 74 miles north of Seattle, has become a bedroom-community of commuters who travel the I-5 corridor to careers in larger cities. Sedro- Woolley’s rather isolated rural setting and evolving demographics have kept home prices affordable while, around the region, they increased. On downtown’s Metcalf Street, new restaurants such as Coconut Kenny’s pizzeria or revitalized…

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Salt & Vine

A Charcuterie Lover’s Paradise When a new artisan cheese, wine and charcuterie shop opens in your neighborhood, you say “Yes!” and go there immediately. Located…

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The Mixing Tin: The Black Cat

Sangria in the Rain INGREDIENTS Clear Creek Pear Brandy, Rene Barbier Catalunya Red Blend, lime, orange, pineapple, Sierra Mist, $8 Perhaps the most appealing part of choosing The Black Cat (or Le Chat Noir if you’re feeling French) for an after work drink or two is the view from upstairs. Set of the…

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Looking Beyond Just Flavor: Farm to Table in Fairhaven

Lovitt Restaurant The atmosphere of the Lovitt restaurant welcomes you with dim lighting, large farm style furniture, and the smells of fresh…

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Bellingham Gets Hip with Beer

Melvin Brewpub Melvin Brewpub opened June 3 with an estimated 300 people lined up outside the door. Even with an abundance of microbreweries already in Bellingham, the community could barely contain its…

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Brews and Bicycles Bring Community

Cafe Velo In January, Kim Strang and husband Andrew Francis opened Cafe Velo, a European-inspired cafe with a twist — in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe houses a bike shop. While Strang serves up beer, wine, espresso, and cold sandwiches, Francis operates the in-house bike shop. The couple were…

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The Mixing Tin: Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill

The Waterside Citrus INGREDIENTS Hedge Trimmer gin, fresh lime, fresh grapefruit, a sprig of mint, with soda water, over ice, $8.75 With the summer…

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West Coast Dominates Domestic Scene

What would happen to the wine industry in the United States if, by some crazy chance, Washington, Oregon, and California were hit by a devastating plague that wiped out every vineyard in the three-state area? Would it be the “end of the world,” so to speak, for domestic wine drinkers? Without a doubt, the answer to that highly unlikely scenario is a resounding “yes.” Certainly, California is far and away the biggest producer of premium wines in the United…

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Tank to Table

Goat Mountain Pizza Goat Mountain Pizza just might be the first living restaurant in Bellingham. To sustain local produce year-round, Goat Mountain has…

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The Mixing Tin

Mambo Italiano Mambo Rosemary Margarita Mambo Italiano’s bar sits above the regular dining seating in the front of the café. Up the stairs and to the left you find the quaint bar. A small yet cozy atmosphere — not the…

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Beer in One Hand, A Ball in the Other

Paws for a Beer If there are two things the people of Bellingham adore, it’s their beer and their dogs, not necessarily in that order. That was what Rylan Schoen was counting on when he opened his one-of-a-kind beer garden last November. Paws for…

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Reds for BBQ

Have you been ignoring red wines altogether during the summer months? Then it’s time to reconsider. Yes, a chilled white wine or rosé…

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Bright New Light on Seafood

B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar at Four Points by Sheraton is an inspiration of architecture, interior design, and culinary imagination. Early this year, the hotel closed its previous restaurant, Poppe’s 360, and set about construction of this bright new and more…

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The Mixing Tin: The Temple Bar

The Illuminati INGREDIENTS: Jameson, Elderflower liqueur, Drambuie, Genepy des Alpes, Angostura bitters, orange flower water, lemon peel garnish. Served on ice. $11 This month’s cocktail will have you raving…

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Once Maligned, Rosés Are Here to Stay

As little as 20 years ago, rosé wines from Washington wineries were, more often than not, likely to be a novelty instead of a tasting room standard. But since that…

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Polish Food, PNW Style

Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage If you’re looking for a cozy restaurant with live music serving up European food with a Pacific Northwest flair, look no further than Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage in La Conner. Jennifer Ferry grew up in Pittsburgh cooking alongside her Polish grandmother, Anelia. Babcia Anelia taught Ferry how to prepare traditional Polish dishes from scratch. She’s the reason Ferry’s potato and cheese pierogies are perfectly crisp on…

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A Tasty Part of the Territory

Northwater Comfortable soft blue leather chairs, Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie” playing in the background, a classy atmosphere, light entrees, and vast choices of cocktails and mocktails—that’s what’s to be expected at Northwater. Northwater, a modern restaurant and bar which opened in late March, is part of the Holiday Inn and Suites hotel, across from the Bellingham airport. From I-5, take the Bakerview Road and Bellingham International Airport exit (exit 258) and follow the signs…

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8 Great Tastes | June

Dine

Redlight Bar: Vanilla Bean Whiskey and MexiCoke

It is almost a cliché to describe whiskey as having a “smoky” flavor. But with the advent of infusion drinks, many different spirits seem to be getting new twists, and whiskey…

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Top-Tier Winery

Goose Ridge Vineyard Since opening in 1999, Richland-based Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery has quietly and steadily become a major player in the state’s wine industry. Twenty-two hundred vineyard acres, four statewide tasting rooms, and four distinct labels—with a combined annual production of nearly 75,000 cases—easily place Goose…

Dine

Soy House

When Soy House opened a few years ago, you could count the number of Vietnamese restaurants in the area on one hand. Since it opened, it has amassed a reputation for being a solid low-to-mid-price Vietnamese restaurant. Perhaps Vietnamese-fusion would be more accurate. Of course, one can order pho, the Vietnamese staple that involves dipping noodles in soup. There are several varieties of soup, gluten-free noodles, and even a smaller kids’ option. But again, pho…

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The Bastion of Brewing

Tucked behind a Shell gas station, right before Highway 20 splits south towards Whidbey Island, is Bastion Brewing Company. Weekday lunchtimes draw the local working crowds. Visit in the evening and you’ll find the barstools filled with patrons sipping well-deserved beers after long days or refilling their growler jugs to take home. The weekends can be a bit louder with bands performing, casual parties thrown by…

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8 Great Mother’s Day Brunches

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Spring Bouquet

Celebrate fickle season with a versatile wine menu There’s an old saying around the Pacific Northwest this time of year: “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute.” April is one of those crazy, capricious months where…

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Sips of the Season

Cosmos Bistro and Portteus Winery On March 4, a sold-out crowd at Cosmos Bistro experienced a range of wines from Portteus Winery, paired with out-of-this-world small plates created by Cosmos owner Cinnamon Berg, during Bellingham Alive magazine’s Spring Sips of the Season. Dan “The Wine Guy” Radil explained to attendees why certain wine pairings are successful, what to do if you’ve made the wrong choice, and how Portteus became one of the state’s…

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A Prime Dining Experience

Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House In 1951 Max and Pauline Dale wanted to open a burger place within a sophisticated setting. Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House began serving exceptional burgers in a dining room of white-clothed tables and chandeliers overhead. In 1976 the restaurant experienced a severe fire. The insurance claims adjuster, Tony Pickering helped the…

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Hearty Pasty Fills the Soul

Good to Go Meat Pies At Good to Go Meat Pies in Everson, you get some history baked in with the shop’s hearty pasties. Owner and…

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8 Great Tastes | April

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Wine Festivals Set for State, Vancouver

One of the many great things about living in Bellingham and the Whatcom County area is the “small-town feel” the region carries despite its close proximity to two major metropolitan areas. With Vancouver, B.C. to the north and Seattle to the south, Bellinghamsters have a wealth of recreational and cultural choices at their disposal for those wishing to venture…

Dine

Aged Filet Mignon with Rogue River Blue and Bordeaux Demi-Glace – 13moons

INGREDIENTS: • 7 oz filet mignon (USDA prime, aged, center cut) • 1 oz Rogue River blue cheese • 2 oz Bordeaux demi-glace • 1 ea. orange zest • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • ½ ea. shallot (minced) • 2 ea. garlic (sliced • 3 ea. asparagus (peeled/trimmed) • 1 ea. parsley • 1 tsp butter • 1 tsp sage butter • 2 oz duck fat • Bulls blood micro herb • Yukon Gold potatoes (steamed/sliced)…

Dine

Truffle Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese – 13moons

INGREDIENTS: • 2 oz fresh Dungeness crab meat • 4 oz macaroni pasta • 6 oz heavy cream • 1 oz parmesan cheese • 1 oz Stilton cheese • 1 oz crimini mushrooms • 1 ea. shallots (minced) • 2 ea. garlic (sliced) • 1 tsp butter • 2 Tbsp white…

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Meet the Chef – 13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino and Lodge

On February 9, guests braved the slushy roads to attend our Meet the Chef event. Held in the test kitchen of Mount Vernon’s Judd & Black, we nibbled, sipped, and learned a thing or two about choosing the ideal steak and why chocolate needs to be melted in a double boiler. Chef Dan Van Norman of 13moons from the Swinomish Casino & Lodge presented plate after plate of delicious tastes. As attendees arrived, they were greeted with plates…

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Small Plates, Big Taste, New Place

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar Galloway’s Cocktail Bar has taken over the space Daphne’s once held in Fairhaven, across from the village green. The new bar has retained much of Daphne’s old-fashioned feel but without the feminine vibe. The small space is dark and romantic with intimate booths perfect for a date night with that special someone. Soft lighting illuminates the charcoal walls and creates a pretty glow behind the well-stocked bar. The cozy setting lends…

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New Bonefish Grill

Tasty Break for Shoppers, Travelers on I-5 Drive As the upscale, fish-scale version of popular partner Outback Steakhouse, the Bonefish Grill is well-positioned to meet the appetites of shop-…

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White Chocolate Mousse – 13moons

INGREDIENTS: 20 oz white chocolate chips 2 cup heavy cream 2 Tbsp granulated sugar 10 oz fresh cherries, pitted 1 cup sugar 1 cup water…

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8 Great Tastes | March

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Sally’s Secret: Saigon Sally’s

From the outside of the shop on the corner of 11th and McKenzie, you might miss the gem that is Saigon Sally’s. Formerly known as Jimmy’s Vietnamese Sandwich Shop, the restaurant, off the beaten path as it is,…

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Sipping Local Spirits: Valley Shine Distillery

During Prohibition, Ben Lazowski’s grandfather worked as a bootlegger for infamous gangster Al Capone. Young Ben grew up hearing stories of his grandfather’s adventures (with certainly a few misadventures) and exploring secret passageways in this grandfather’s Chicago home. It’s ironic that years of alcohol prohibition could spark a fascination with the stuff decades later. Ben teamed up with his wife Stacey to begin distilling as a hobby in 2010. The couple spent two- and-half years developing…

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Treveri Cellars

Like a fine bottle of sparkling wine, Treveri Cellars, located just east of Yakima, has burst onto the Washington wine scene with style, character, and an understated air of elegance that have made it a Champagne-inspired favorite of many area…

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8 Great Tastes | February

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Budget Wines

With the holidays a distant memory in the rearview mirror, it’s time to focus on a new year, new beginnings, and, unfortunately for many of us, a fresh new set of credit card bills from the past season. The reality of our…

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Arlis’s Restaurant

Arlis’s Restaurant has been open at the same location for decades. Make no mistake, Arlis’s is quite clearly a diner in the American tradition. Booths and chairs are upholstered in Naugahyde, and there is enough diner-kitsch…

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8 Great Tastes | January

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Splurge Wines

Whether it be gift-giving, party-hosting, or just plain old everyday shopping, this is the time of year when many of us pull out all the stops. Holiday gatherings with good friends, good food, and of course, good wines, seem to make the season just a little more special, and if that means going over our anticipated budget, why not? Certainly there are plenty of solid, value-priced wines…

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Digging Up Something Unique

On a warm autumn day, I found myself on the sunny outdoor patio of Artifacts Cafe & Wine Bar. The small space inside the Lightcatcher opened its doors in November 2015. Though small, it is chockfull of wine of every kind. The museum had approached the owner of The Real McCoy asking if he’d like to open another location adjacent to the museum. He declined,…

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8 Great Tastes | December

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8 Great Tastes Oct | Nov

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Dine

Artisan Eats at The Mill

Enter The Mill Bistro and Lounge in Lynden and let the warm atmosphere wash over you as the scents of housemade desserts fill your…

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Thanksgiving and Harvest Wines

The fall and harvest season is upon us, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and big, indoor feasts will soon be the order of the day. Trying to pull off a near-flawless menu, especially while coping with family and out-of-town guests, can be a thankless…

Dine

Nutty’s Junkyard Grill

Hand formed burgers hot off the grill, fresh cut fries, and old-fashioned hand dipped milkshakes are served up in style at Nutty’s Junkyard Grill in Arlington. Modeled after an old-school service station, this counter-serve burger joint delivers tasty food with a side of nostalgia. Enter through the door plastered with street signs and you’ll be transported to a wonderland of vintage garage decor inside—license plates, hubcaps, gas station signs, trucker hats, antique…

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History, Brews, and Food at the Diamond Knot Brewpub @ MLT

In Mountlake Terrace there is a strip mall best described as a foodie’s paradise. There’s Snohomish Pie Company, Romio’s Pizza,…

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The Mixing Tin – Epulo Bistro’s Apple Pie

Ingredients: Dry County Small Batch Apple Pie Liquor, Fresh Lemon and Orange Juice, Maple Syrup, All Spice | $10 This time of year it’s hard to resist the enticements of Edmonds’ Epulo Bistro on a cold, wet evening. Bright warmth radiates from the bistro’s windows, drawing in passersby in hooded jackets, shoulders hunched against the wind and rain. Should you…

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Hawaii Comes to Fairhaven

The word “aloha” holds a variety of meanings in Hawaiian culture. Aloha could mean “hello,” “goodbye,”or “love.” For the owners of Aloha Poke, this commonly used word defines their way of life as they bring a part of Hawaii to Historic Fairhaven District. When you enter the environment of Aloha Poke, there’s nothing that resembles a tacky Waikiki tourist…

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Meet the Chef

K & L Media teamed up again with the great crew at Judd & Black for our Meet the Chef demonstration dinner on September 8. Chef Matthew Romeo from Lombardi’s Restaurant of Everett and Mill Creek prepared and presented a four-course Italian extravaganza. Whole Foods provided appetizers presented by Olivia Yates, their…

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The Mixing Tin – The Redlight’s Elk Street

This beautiful bar with dark wood tones and exposed brick is the perfect place to cozy up with a friend and a perfectly balanced cocktail and enjoy the State Street life passing outside the large,…

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Piedmontese Flat Iron Steak – Lombardi’s

Enjoy with Castello Banfi’s Belnero, Rosso, IGT Ingredients 1 each Flat Iron Loin or 4 each 8oz Piedmontese Flat Iron (can be purchased at piedmontese.com) 4 each Kumato Tomatoes 4 springs Fresh Oregano 4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 tbsp Gray Salt Salt and pepper to coat the steak Process Season the outside of the entire flat iron or each steak until well coated Grill on a hot grill until the desired temperature is…

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Honey Mascarpone Semi Freddo – Lombardi’s

Ingredients 4 cups cream 1 cup mascarpone 1 cups sugar 1 cup honey 12 egg yolks 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract Process In a mixer with a…

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Roasted Yellow Pepper Carbonara – Lombardi’s

Enjoy with Banfi’s Chianti Classico, DOCG Ingredients 1 lb Fettuccine 4 ea Yellow Bell Peppers 1 qt Heavy Cream 4 oz Pancetta Salt and pepper to taste Canola Oil or Pomace Olive Oil for coating the…

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Seared Ahi Carpaccio – Lombardi’s

Enjoy with Banfi’s Pinot Grigio, San Angelo Ingredients lb Ahi Tuna 1 tbsp Kosher Salt 1 tsp Black Pepper 2 oz Arugula Zest from…

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Italian Eclairs – Lombardi’s

Enjoy with Banfi’s Florus, Moscadello di Montalcino DOC Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted 1/8 tsp salt 1 Tbsp sugar, if used for a dessert 4 eggs at room temperature – very important 1 cup water or milk or ½ and ½ 1/2 cup butter cut into cubes Process Preheat oven to 400 Sift dry ingredients and whisk to blend well In a heavy sauce pan, heat water/milk and butter until…

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The Mixing Tin – Beardslee Public House’s The Abyss

Beardslee Public House’s The Abyss Ingredients: Läka Gin, maraschino, lemon juice, créme de violette, soda | $11 In December 2015, Distiller and Sommelier Erik Liedholm and Chef John Howie opened…

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Frost

Three friends opened a small doughnut shop in Mill Creek Town Center in 2009. Fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit and the recipe for a killer…

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Moontree Asian Tapas

Moontree Asian Tapas boasts an impressive five-star rating average on Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Facebook, so my expectations were reasonably high for my first visit. I’m happy to say that Moontree Asian Tapas doesn’t disappoint. Make a reservation, and expect all you want. Chef Moon Hee and his wife, Jin Hee, opened the restaurant about a year ago. Jin works the front of the house while Chef Moon puts to use almost twenty years of culinary experience. He…

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Chow Wagon: The Rusty Wagon

Located just outside Lynden, the Rusty Wagon is a novelty stop for the whole family. Customers will be transported back in time right there in the parking lot, which greets hungry patrons with wooden horses, an old stockade, and a carved wooden cowboy settin’ a spell on a bench. Once inside, you’ll find large dining areas and a sports bar. The walls…

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The Mixing Tin

The Loft at Latitude Forty-Eight Five’s Strawberry Gin Fizz Ingredients: Gin, strawberry puree, soda water, lemon juice | $6 A sunny summer afternoon calls for two things: a seat with a view and a cold drink. The Loft at latitude Forty Eight Five delivers on both accounts. With indoor seating encompassed with large windows and a wrap around deck outside, there isn’t a bad seat in the house….

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Sips of the Season–Poppe’s 360

Poppe’s 360 in the Four Points Sheraton was a great location for our summer Sips of the Season event on July 9. Guests enjoyed exceptional food and handcrafted cocktails. Under the direction of Doug Metzger, the kitchen at Chinuk whipped up delicious featured small bites like deviled eggs, steak sandwiches, and rice paper salmon rolls. Guests…

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Wines for Grilling Out

Remember the “good old days” of outdoor barbequing? Assemble a stack of charcoal briquettes in the grill, saturate them with lighter fluid, set it aflame, and, more often than not, burn the food to a crisp. Then serve with your favorite six-pack of domestic beer and Kool-Aid for the kids. Today’s barbequing and outdoor grilling routine is often a major undertaking with glistening, stainless-steel, multi-burner propane and…

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Adventurous Brewing

On a perfect Fairhaven Saturday, a group of cyclists walked into Stones Throw Brewery. It was only noon, but the taproom was abuzz with activity. Owner Tony Luciano reached above the bar to pull a handle, TOOOOT TOOOT! The cyclists cheered at the sound, an old train whistle…

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London Bridge 9 – Keenan’s at the Pier

London Bridge 9 – Keenan’s at the Pier • 1.5 oz Bellewood Honey Crisp Vodka • .5 oz St. Germain • ¾ oz Cranberry • .5 oz Lemon juice • Few dashes of grapefruit bitters • Top off with Cock and Bull ginger beer Can’t get to London this season? No need to cry a river, just treat yourself to…

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Lavender Collins – Keenan’s at the Pier

Lavender Collins, by Keenan’s at the Pier • 1.5 oz BelleWood Gin • .5 oz Lavender Syrup • .5 oz Lemon juice Top off with cold soda and garnish with fresh lavender sprigs. Measure into an ice filled martini shaker then shake vigorously. The frothy libation is poured into a tall glass and served with cocktail straws.

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Final Say – Keenan’s at the Pier

Final Say by Keenan’s at the Pier • Wild Turkey Rye • Yellow Chartreuse • Maraschino Cherry Liqueur • Lemon…

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Raspberry Tartlets – Crave Catering

Raspberry Tartlets from Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering FOR THE FILLING: • 3/4 cup raspberry juice (about 2 cups of fresh berries) • 1 tablespoon water • 1 cup sugar • 2 eggs • 1/4 cup butter…

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Braised Pork Shanks with Apple Mirepoix – Crave Catering

Braised Pork Shanks with Apple Mirepoix, by Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering • 6 skinless pork shanks, trimmed osso buco style • Flour for dredging • Vegetable oil, as needed • 1 lb. each: diced red…

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Nuestra Paloma – Keenan’s at the Pier

Nuestra Paloma by Keenan’s at the Pier • 1.5 oz El Jimador tequila • .5 oz Cynar • ¾ oz Triple Sec • .5 oz Fresh squeezed lime juice • 3…

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Creamy Polenta – Crave Catering

Creamy Polenta by Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering • 3/4 cup dry polenta (golden corn grits) • 2 cups milk • 2 cups chicken stock • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese • Salt and pepper, to…

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Garden Variety – Keenan’s at the Pier

Garden Variety by Keenan’s at the Pier • 1.5 oz BelleWood Gin • 3 or 4 fresh basil leaves • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice • ½ fresh lime juice • ¾ oz Green tea syrup • cold soda water The Garden Variety soothes that urge to muddle something. Drop three or four fresh basil leaves into a…

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Northwest Oyster Stew – Crave Catering

Northwest Oyster Stew by Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering 3 dozen cleaned Pacific oysters (ideally fresh and in-shell) 1/4…

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Frisee Salad with Gin Vinaigrette – Crave Catering

Recipe from Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering • Mixed greens with frisée • Finely shredded green apple and/or cucumber • Slivered almonds • Zest and juice from…

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Churros – Acme Farms + Kitchen

Sour orange gelato, spiced dipping chocolate, and dulce-de-leche.

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Cochinita Pibil – Acme Farms + Kitchen

Banana leaf-braised Burk Ridge Farms pork shoulder, achiote-orange sauce, Samish Bay Queso Fresco, avocado, grilled orange, sopes, spiced Haricot Farms beans.

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The Mixing Tin

Bluewater Organic Distilling’s The Salish Sea Ingredients: Bluewater Vodka, housemade elderflower, lime juice, simple syrup, cardamom bitters, basil leaf | $11 Bluewater Organic Distilling’s tasting room and cocktail bar offers refreshing libations to both seafaring adventurers and landlubbers. It is a prime spot to observe the hustle and bustle at the Port of Everett Marina — the largest public marina on the West Coast. You’ll find lots…

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Spot Prawn Ceviche – Acme Farms + Kitchen

Try pairing this with Saison Du Kulshan: Farmhouse style Saison has a soft lemon and white pepper scent, light fruit flavor.

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Meet Chef Andrew Clarke

Judd & Black Appliance, Acme Farms + Kitchen, and Kulshan Brewing came together with North Sound Life for this installment of Meet the Chef, featuring Chef Andrew Clarke and his assistant Miguel Ryan. Cinco de Mayo isn’t really Mexican Independence Day, but it…

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Blackball Taiwanese Desserts

A line of excited customers winds around the tables and chairs to the door. It’s a Saturday afternoon at one of Edmonds’ newest additions, BlackBall Taiwanese Desserts, where patrons eagerly await a tasty treat of boba and sweet potato balls, crushed ice, and dessert soups. Located on the corner of Hwy 99 and 220th St. SW,…

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Beardslee Public House

Before the the Beardslee Crossing development broke ground in Bothell, a sequoia tree towered over the property. When Chef John Howie…

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Sea To Storefront

Birch Bay, Chuckanut Bay, Semiahmoo, Drayton Harbor, Larrabee State Park, Point Roberts, and South Birch Point are all public oyster and clam beaches.

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Meet the Chef Recipes

Acme Farms + Kitchen Meet The Chef featuring Andrew Clarke:

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Chinuk

It’s high time the folks in Bellingham discover what guests at the Four Points Sheraton already know—Chinuk Restaurant is well worth a visit. The executive chef Juao “Gio” d’Aquino is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and has been in the restaurant…

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Sips of the Season

On March 12, guests gathered—many of them North Sound Life event regulars—at The Loft for an afternoon of wine and small plates. Dan “The Wine Guy” Radil presented wines from Lost River Winery located in Winthrop and Chef Steven Engels of The Loft created small plates to pair with the wines. Bellingham transplants John Morgan and Barbara House own Lost River Winery. Barb’s son Liam Doyle assists with marketing. Lost River self-distributes and specializes in European-style wines. May |…

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Chanterelle Hometown Bistro

At home on Main Street in the quaint waterfront town of Edmonds, the Chanterelle Hometown Bistro is nestled in an historic building that was once the first hardware store in town. Owned and managed by husband and wife Randy and Brooke Baker since 1997, Chanterelle offers a cozy atmosphere, helpful and courteous staff members, and an eclectic variety of international dishes that make this small eatery worth the stop. This bistro…

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Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar

Executive Chef Matthew Romeo crafts signature, seasonal menus that succeed on presentation, quality, technique, and, most importantly, taste.

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EATing Well

EAT owner Eric Truglas pointed to the little chalkboard to which the bill was clipped. “L’ardoise,” he said. “The bill is called ‘l’ardoise’ in France, because the order and the check were written on little chalkboards or slates. Truglas greets his customers with a friendly handshake and a wide smile, the satisfied smile of someone who knows he’s onto something big….

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A to Z Lunch Guide: J is for Jake’s Western Grill

J is for Jake’s Western Grill Barbecue doesn’t get better than Jake’s — smoky, delicious pulled pork or tender brisket — whatever you choose, be sure to make it here. Not up for a sandwich at lunch? Then grab…

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A to Z Lunch Guide: Z is for Zen Sushi

Z is for Zen Sushi Conveniently located right next to the Regal Barkley Village 16, Zen is a great place for a movie date. Sushi rides right to you on a conveyor belt. The house saki is good, and there’s a full cocktail menu that is worth a…

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A to Z Lunch Guide: R is for Rifugio’s

R is for Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine Deming is the gateway to Mount Baker. It’s also a lovely setting for a great restaurant, Rifugio’s. Brunch and lunch specialties include frittata, a breakfast carbonara, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and a burger. A nice stop on the way up to the mountain. 5415 Mount…

Dine

A to Z Lunch Guide : R is for Rifugio’s

R is for Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine Deming is the gateway to Mount Baker. It’s also a lovely setting for a great…

Dine

Top it Yogurt Shoppe

You can see Top It Yogurt Shoppe’s swirled logo from pretty much everywhere in Snohomish’s historic downtown. It calls out to shoppers looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, and it does not disappoint. Once inside, it’s so bright and breezy that you’ll be feeling sunny regardless of the weather. Owner…

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Meet the Chef

On February 11, K&L Media and Judd & Black Appliance teamed up for Meet the Chef at Judd & Black Appliance’s test kitchen in Mount Vernon. Our special guests were Chef Justin Hawkinson of Crave Catering and Distiller John Belisle of BelleWood Acres. Located just…

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Salt and Iron, Revisited

One year ago, Edmonds welcomed its first ever oyster bar and steak house. Before Salt & Iron’s grand opening, we reported on its development and…

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DiSaronno Sour

next time your work week gets the best of you, head to the Lighthouse and try the DiSarrono Sour.

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Red Wine Body Styles

You see it all the time when sifting through the wine section in search of the perfect bottle to serve with tonight’s meal: “body style.” But what does it mean?

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Via Birch Bay Cafe

Oh is a humble man, but he clearly takes pride in this lovely place that he’s had to build twice. May the waves stay at bay, because this seaside café deserves to stand the test of time.

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The Filling Station

The minds behind Avenue Bread are at it again but are taking a more retro approach to their second venture, The Filling Station.

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Kama’aina Grindz

The food may attract you, but you’ll stay for the atmosphere. Whether it’s your first time venturing into the eatery, or it’s your regular Friday night date spot, you’ll be greeted like family at Kama’aina Grindz.

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The Mixing Tin – The Hollywood Tavern’s Woodin Sidecar

The Woodin Sidecar served up at The Hollywood Tavern — an historic tavern adjacent to Woodinville Whiskey Co.’s production facility and tasting room — is a fantastic cocktail to sip this winter.

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The Hollywood Tavern

Located in Woodinville’s Hollywood District on a curved stretch of road in view of the iconic, tree-lined driveway to Chateau Ste. Michelle’s estate and across the street from the geometric concrete and slatted-wood walls of Novelty Hill – Januik Winery’s tasting room and production facilities, is a well-loved local treasure: The Hollywood Tavern. The Hollywood…

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Graham Cracker Crumble: 1.5 Cups graham cracker crumb 1/3 Cup of melted butter 1/4 Cup of white sugar In a metal bowl mix the graham and sugar together, slowly add the melted butter and mix thoroughly. Spread the graham mixture out on a lined cookie sheet…

Dine

Sips of the Season featuring Signature Cocktails by Keenan’s at the Pier

Keenan ’s at the Pier and The Chrysalis Inn hosted the inaugural Bellingham Alive Sips of the Season event on the restaurant’s open air patio. Gentle ocean breezes, fun people, and remarkable hors d’ oeuvres and fantastic cocktails made for an unforgettable afternoon. Keenan’s staff members presented appetizers paired with each hand -crafted cocktail. They also demonstrated how to make each cocktail, advising guests to, “Shake it like you mean it” and thoroughly blend cocktail ingredients before pouring the libation into a prepared glass. Bellewood Distilling sponsored the event. Lavender Collins…

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Omega Pizza & Pasta

Since opening its doors in 1996, Omega Pizza & Pasta has filled the bellies and warmed the hearts of Granite Falls regulars as well as customers from throughout the Seattle metro area. A small town, family-friendly restaurant with a down-to-earth atmosphere, this Greek food hub is a hidden gem far off the beaten path. It offers warm, welcoming service and a surprising piece of celebrity charm. For nearly twenty years, owner Barb Petrakopoulos and her close-knit…

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The Table’s Herb Dumpling Recipe

Check out this Web Exclusive- The following recipe was omitted from Chef Dave Reera’s Pot Roast at the Meet the Chef event on September 10th, 2015. This is a great Fall or Winter dish to try! Herb Dumplings all purpose flour, 2 cups 1 1/2 tsp…

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Cosmos Bistro

Cosmos Bistro, located in the Herald Building, is destined to become one of Bellingham’s iconic restaurants. Recently opened by Cinnamon Berg, Cosmos Bistro offers guests a relaxing venue filled with…

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Wine From Washington State

Reds Trust 2012 Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla- trustcellars.com If you like light red wines like Merlot and Pinot Noir, you might enjoy a dive into the deeper, bolder flavor of a Cabernet Franc. The makers of Trust Cabernet Franc describe it as having “refined tannins, spicy aromas, vanilla with peppery accents, violet nuances and an understated elegance of some serious red and black berry, blueberry,…

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The Lodge Sports Grille

Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner in which to settle down and watch the game with a beer in hand, or are in search of a lively hub to gather with friends, look no further than The Lodge Sports Grille. Serving patrons throughout the greater Seattle area since 2010, its five locations offer unique experiences to each local community, while also offering commonalities from the grub and the brew to the comfortable ambiance. A…

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Amaro Bistro

If you enjoy the familiar Italian flavors of Il Bistro, a long-time Pike Place Market staple, try the owner’s new restaurant in Bothell—Amaro Bistro. When the owner, Nick Wiltz, and the Il Bistro team celebrated their fortieth anniversary last year, he also revealed details about the new restaurant, which was set to open in November 2014. Though Bothell…

Dine

Salt & Iron

An Edmonds woman exclaims, “Oh yum, an oyster bar is coming!” while walking past the paper-covered windows at 321 Main Street. A poster on the door simply states “Salt & Iron. Oysters. Steaks.” Enough said, really. Edmonds has been without an oyster bar and steak house for as long as…

Dine

Fat Pie Pizza

Bellingham has a few great spots that serve up their particular delicious version of the cheese-laden pie. New to the mix, however, is Fat Pie Pizza, a bustling joint that specializes in the infamous Chicago-style crust, as well as the lesser-known Detroit crust. Owner James Swift dreamed up Fat Pie Pizza after holding a few pizza parties for friends at his…

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Five Faves: Spring Rolls

This issue we take on a journey to discover our favorite places to get spring rolls.

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Remarkable Vartanyan Winery

Siberia is, by extremes, a far cry from Whatcom County. It’s a chin-scratcher that a Siberian winemaker by way of Armenia would settle down in this part of the world….

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Beach Store Café

Changes Ownership,Goes Local To visitors who don’t head to Lummi Island often, the changes to the Beach Store Café will seem subtle. At first glance, the restaurant looks the same with its cozy…

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Tablas Woodstone Taverna

Adorned with orange accents and black leather, Tablas Woodstone Taverna greatly contrasts with the surrounding shopping center. The burning fire situated in the middle of the dining room foreshadows the food to come. The restaurant features Mediterranean-style foods that come straight from the wood-fired oven. The tapas dishes are designed for sharing, which allows groups of diners to…

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Green Smoothie Recipes

Green smoothies and juices are an optimal way to get those necessary servings of vegetables. Simple cold drinks like these can provide plenty of vitamins, minerals, good fats and fiber.

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Recipe: Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks

Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks (Vegan) Serves 8+ Soup Ingredients: • 1/2 cup almond oil • 3 onions peeled and cut into large dice • 5 lbs Parsnips • 3.5 quarts of water • 1 tsp nutmeg, ground • 1/2 cup coconut milk • sea salt and pepper Heat the almond oil in…

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Pierside Kitchen

There are places we dine because the ambience is lovely, even though the food is questionable. There are restaurants we frequent because the food is great, but the décor is as comfortable and inviting as a carnival ride. And then there is Pierside Kitchen at Semiahmoo Resort — a fine dining restaurant that ought to be on everyone’s list of top five favorite…

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The Beauty of Bergevin

Riddled with many wonderful wineries, Walla Walla is one of those places where one couldn’t swing a cat without hitting an award-winning wine maker. Annette Bergevin, co-owner of Bergevin Lane Vineyards, is one of those winemakers.

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Pepper Sisters

What better way to escape the Pacific Northwest rain than to visit an eatery with Southwest flair? Situated on North State Street is Susan Albert’s restaurant, Pepper Sisters.

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Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Chuckanut Bay Distillery owners Matt Howell and Kelly Andrews aim to make the highest quality spirits using as many regional ingredients as possible. So far, the pair have created a gluten-free potato vodka and a wheat vodka. Soon, their gin and coffee liqueur will hit the shelves of…

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Ciao Thyme

Warm interior. Friendly staff. Wholesome food. Ciao Thyme. After catering in the community for years, Jessica and Mataio Gillis opened their café, Ciao Thyme, in September of 2012….

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THE REPP

The full-meal deal — starting with apps, is worth the calories you’ll put down with a visit to The Repp in Snohomish. Pay special attention to the Beer Battered Mushrooms, nearly free at $3, or an 8-ounce Top Sirloin dinner for a ludicrous $9. The bracing, balsamic Caprese Salad, with basil and mozzarella is light and fresh at $7. The succulent Kobe Burger meets basic saturated fat requirements;…

Dine

DIAMOND KNOT BREWERY AND ALEHOUSE

When in Rome, don’t forget to bring a good brew. Otherwise, you may as well visit the Diamond Knot Brewery and Alehouse, where the only thing…

Dine

CAFÉ SOLEIL

Built on a foundation of French-inspired flavors fused with Japanese classics, the original creations of Café Soleil promise to satisfy. Café Soleil’s reasonably priced menu succeeds in offering a balance of inspiring taste and…

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SOCKEYE’S RESTAURANT AND BAR

The sunsets, suds and salmon at Sockeye’s Restaurant & Bar located on the north end of Lake Tye will reassure even the most greenminded patrons that something good can come from converting a vibrant swamp into a cookie-cutter lake. This romantic, casual dining spot is perfect for a relaxing glass of wine on the patio or celebrating a special occasion. Amid the happy hour frenzy of $3.50 draught…

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JANBO CAFÉ

Experience what may be Everett’s most authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Janbo Café. Don’t be fooled by its modest interior; one taste of the house specials will convince you that Janbo Café knows delicious food. Find a wide selection of chilled, fried, grilled or steamed appetizers, including fried meat or vegetable egg rolls. A word of wisdom: The egg rolls are massive and can easily deter your appetite;…

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EMORY’S ON SILVER LAKE

Enjoy pristine views of Silver Lake and fine American cuisine with global influences at Emory’s on Silver Lake. Featuring a vast, varied menu of house favorites, even the most…

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ANTHONY’S WOODFIRE GRILL

Anthony’s Woodfire Grill serves the same quality food we’ve come to expect and love from Anthony’s Homeport. The Woodfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just special occasions. Seasonal items, like peaches or huckleberries in…

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MYKONOS

Pita bread is pita bread, right? Not at Mykonos. If you order a starter of hummus, prepare your tastebuds for slices of pita bread heaven. If you consider yourself to be a connoisseur of Greek cuisine, try the traditional Greek salad as a litmus test. You won’t be disappointed. It is delightfully fresh and light and a meal by itself, with perhaps the best feta dressing west of Athens. Should you still be hungry, your main course options include the…

Dine

DIRTY DAN HARRIS

The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides warm, friendly waitstaff, quaint historic surroundings and superb food. Perhaps the best reflection on the restaurant is owner Kathy Papadakis’ waitstaff. Most have worked here for years — and it shows in their enthusiasm for your dining experience. The Filet Mignon is Dirty Dan’s signature entree. You won’t be disappointed. Leave room for dessert, however, because the selections are dangerously good. 1211 11th St.,…

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ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL

Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill serves the same quality food we’ve come to expect and love from Anthony’s other restaurants. The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, like peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees and drinks. Steaks, seafood…

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CALLE

Newly opened, this eatery is already getting attention with a write up in Sunset magazine. Known for their take on Street Tacos — with six meat fillings to choose from and handmade corn tortillas — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. Try the Carne Asada, Posole or Tortas to name just a few menu options. The Spicy Mango Margarita, made with fresh mango and jalepeno, is fast becoming a customer favorite. With 60+ tequilas and mescals to sample,…

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PRIMA BISTRO

A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. Fried Spanish Marcona Almonds arrive steaming hot, glisteningly crisp and in a glory of flavor — and just in time a glass of Pinot Grigio. The selection of reds and…

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Baicha Tea Room

Mind, Body and Soul Therapy with Tea The moment you walk in to Baicha Tea Room in Edmonds, the demands of the outside world give way to the deliciously blooming aromatic heaven enveloping you. “I can say tea equals aroma,” Narumol Budharaksa, owner of Baicha says with a smile. “You…

Dine

Recipe: Malbec Pots De Creme

Malbec Pots de Crème 2 C Malbec 6 oz Semisweet chocolate 2 C Hazelnut butter 12 Egg yolks ½ C Sugar 3 C Milk 2 C Cream 1 tsp Salt 1 tsp Vanilla 1 tsp Espresso powder Place Malbec in saucepan, reduce at slow simmer until only 2 Tbsp remain Place hazelnut butter, and chocolate in blender cup Heat sugar, milk, and cream to scald, then temper with egg yolk…

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Recipe: Wagyu Ribeye The Steak

Wagyu Ribeye The Steak 8 oz Wagyu rib steak per person Pinch salt and pepper The Garlic Mash 5 Yukon gold potatoes 2 Tbsp Minced garlic 3 Tbsp Butter 2 C Heavy cream 1 C Shredded Asiago To taste Kosher salt In a heavy saucepan, add cream, butter, and garlic Reduce to heavy paste Boil potatoes until fork tender Drain, and mash with cream…

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Recipe: Dungeness Crab Cakes

Dungeness Crab Cakes 2 Red bell peppers (diced) 6 Stalks scallions 1 Pinch Garlic 1 Tbsp Butter 15 Table crackers 1 Tbsp Mayo 1 Tbsp Old Bay Spice 1 Egg 1 lb Dungeness crab Sauté bell pepper and scallions with garlic in butter until soft Process crackers to consistency of kosher salt Place cooked peppers, scallions in mixing bowl, add cracker crumbs and…

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Recipe: Seared Scallops and Pear Salad

Seared Scallops and Pear Salad 20-30 Sea Scallops 20-30 strips Hickory bacon 1 Asian pear (julienne) 30 oz Organic greens 1 Grapefruit 2 Tbsp Honey 2 Tbsp Mayo 4 Tbsp Rice wine vinegar 4 Tbsp Pear puree Wrap scallops with bacon and spear with toothpick Pan sear scallops, then put in oven at…

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Meet Chef Michael Buholz

On Nov. 13, K & L Media partnered with Judd & Black Appliance to host Executive Chef Michael Buholz from The Loft at Latitude 48.5. Buholz welcomed the small audience gathered in the showroom’s test kitchen and shared his philosophy on sourcing the best ingredients and serving…

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Nok’s Thai Cuisine

If you haven’t had the opportunity to try the delectable dishes that Nok’s Thai Cuisine has to offer, then your poor taste buds are being neglected. Reward them by diving into a fanfare of exquisite and well-priced traditional Thai appetizers and entrees, from Tom Yum — a lemongrass and lime leaf broth, perfect for a bitterly cold day, to chewy wide rice noodle…

Dine

Bertelsen Winery

Regular I-5 commuters through Mount Vernon have likely seen the “Winery Coming Soon” sign along the northbound highway. It was an attention grabber for years, promising the imminent arrival of…

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TASTE OF INDIA

At Taste of India all the dishes are rich, delicious and truly feel authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite…

Dine

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR

Fireside is out to make a name for itself. By using fresh, local ingredients and a menu that changes on an almost daily basis (based on what’s fresh at the market that day), the Fireside has a lot to offer the casual diner and those more focused on detail. The Fireside claims to have the largest “by the glass” wine selection in Bellingham, none…

Dine

VINNY’S

Owner Becky Day welcomes diners to Vinny’s Ristorante in Friday Harbor, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire of Chef Daniel Van Hamsersfeld to serve simple, everyday…

Dine

TOBY’S TAVERN

Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambiance with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Their famous bowls of Penn Cove mussels — served by the pound! — come fresh from the adjacent cove, and keep shellfish connoisseurs clamoring for a regular…

Dine

MAGDALENAS

Paris, London, New York, Vancouver and Bellingham have them. Little shops where the aromas of sweet and savory crêpes, custom sandwiches and hot soup du jour fill the air. With a formidable selection of crêpes, it’ll take more than one trip to decide…

Dine

KURU KURU SUSHI

Kuru Kuru Sushi, which translates to “go around Sushi,” offers not only a good meal, but a good experience. Some of the offerings, like the Dynamite roll, are lightly tempura fried before being put on the conveyor belt to travel around the restaurant to hungry patrons. More traditional, classic sushi, like the raw…

Dine

INDIAN FLAVORS RESTAURANT

At Flavor of India all the dishes are rich, delicious and truly feel authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Flavor of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. There’s also a variety of flavors of naan,…

Dine

HOMESKILLET

Owners Tina and Kirby named their restaurant after one of their favorite lines in the movie “Juno,” when the main character calls a store clerk “homeskillet.” The skillets on their menu came afterward, but are now one of the eatery’s most popular items. A small skillet is…

Dine

THE FORK AT AGATE BAY

As unassuming as they come, The Fork at Agate Bay is a quiet retreat of fine food and wine only…

Dine

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO

If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special. 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com

Dine

CIAO THYME ON THE SIDE CAFE

For those who have experienced Ciao Thyme’s gourmet dinners and cooking classes, the new Ciao Thyme on the Side Café is a welcome addition to the delicious work of Jessica and Mataio Gillis, owners of Ciao…

Dine

BLUE FIN SUSHI

At Blue Fin Sushi, fresh sushi is used to create a variety of tasty options like the Tekka roll, which is seaweed, rice and tuna. The waitstaff is friendly and it’s always entertaining to watch the chefs at work. Blue Fin also offers a full menu of non-sushi food items. Its version of fish and chips, for example, is a must-try: tempura fried salmon pieces served with sweet potato fries with a creamy…

Dine

BLACK PEARL

Bellingham has an abundance of Vietnamese restaurants; the trick is to find ones that stand out — like the Black Pearl. With all the available extras, it is almost impossible to get the same flavor twice. The pho is clean and refreshing with a variety of sauces to add as extra seasoning. It comes with a variety of types of meat,…

Dine

BLACK FOREST STEAKHOUSE

Black Forest Steak house offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special occasions, anniversaries and graduation celebrations, but it’s also…

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BAYOU ON BAY

Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal. 1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com

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SEED’S BISTRO

Seeds Bistro in La Conner is a celebration of the fresh bounty of food offered in Skagit County. It offers simple dishes that highlight the fresh, exciting ingredients found throughout the Pacific Northwest. The menu features local selections rotated with the seasons. The macaroni and cheese features Northwest-favorite Cougar Gold cheese with a butter-crumb crust. Burgers…

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SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

Professional Teppan Yaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before…

Dine

Sweets of the Season

Regardless of religion or tradition, so many of us have memories of a special treat at the holidays. From ancient ritual to cookie swaps, treats have been a part of celebrations in just about every culture you can name. The holidays are the perfect time to dust off some recipes and engage in a centuries’ old practice of making something sweet for the sweet ones in your life. Caramel & Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods Ingredients 1…

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RUSTY PELICAN CAFE

The Rusty Pelican Cafe is just what Mill Creek needs- surrounded by chain breakfast options– it’s a welcomed departure with their great menu options reminiscent of Maltby Cafe. This breakfast and lunch cafe may be located inside a strip mall off-shot from the bustle of Bothell-Everett Highway, but once inside locals can cozy up…

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MCMENAMIN’S MILL CREEK

The northernmost outpost of the McMenamin’s family of brewpubs based in Portland, McMenamin’s Mill Creek has been a neighborhood mainstay for years. Craft beers are brewed on site, including the popular Hammerhead Pale Ale and Terminator Stout, which are deliciously accompanied by hearty, fresh pub fare. The house-made Baked Mac & Cheese is…

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TOKYO HOUSE

Tokyo House’s perfection-driven cuisine provides patrons a joyful balance of fine quality ingredients and prompt, attentive service (and without Emerald City…

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DEMETRIS WOODSTONE TAVERNA

The fifth location for tapas restaurateur Sofeea Huffman, Demetris WoodStone Taverna along the Edmonds waterfront is Kafe Neo’s newest Greek inspired gastro-installation. You can tell they saved the best for last. With immaculate attention to interior detail, the granite slab bar and contemporary lighting make this a “who’s who” hangout for late night and happy hour specials. The menu is Greek-Mediterranean fusion evidenced by cold tapas like Aged Goat Cheese served with Black Mission Figs or hot tapas of…

Dine

BAR DOJO

When longtime friends Andrew Leckie and Shubert Ho decided to open a restaurant, they wanted to create a culinary blend of cultures that would result in a new kind of dining experience in the Edmonds area. Executive Chef Ho incorporated his Chinese-American background and Leckie brought influences from…

Dine

ARNIES

If you’re on the hunt for regional fare served with a beautiful view, look no further than this Snohomish County classic. Arnie’s Restaurant in Edmonds, Wash. is known for its Pacific Northwest seafood and sweeping panoramas of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. The Edmonds restaurant, along with its Mukilteo location, has served local patrons for nearly 25 years. The Seasonal Features menu serves up seasonal fish and vegetables from the Pacific Northwest. While Arnies is well-known for its…

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SIAM THAI CUISINE

The North End option for those familiar with Siam’s Eastlake location, the food at Siam can satiate even the pickiest of Thai food fanatics. With a sleek, modern interior and excellent customer service, lunch meetings will flourish over fresh spring rolls paired perfectly with Tom Yum soup. For dinner, the Pad Thai is anything but pedestrian. However, the Siam Special Noodles is truly special. Overflowing with thick rice noodles and topped with a…

Dine

WATERSHED RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

The Watershed Restaurant & Lounge features a wide variety of tasty appetizers, soups, salads, breakfast anytime, entrees, steaks, burgers and sandwiches. Or enjoy daily, all-you-can-eat specials from 4 to 10 p.m. The restaurant even offers Iron Skillet Pizzas, which are made from fresh dough, topped with the finest ingredients and cooked on blazingly hot skillets, which creates a crisp, flavorful crust. Angel of the Winds Casino 3438 Stoluckquamish Ln.,…

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BRANDYWINE KITCHEN

Named for the decadent heirloom tomatoes grown on their farm, the owners source much of their ingredients locally and hold the “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and…

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THE OYSTER BAR

The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. The cozy restaurant is housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations. According to owner Guy Colbert, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. The restaurant’s namesake is the…

Dine

NELL THORN

This small-town gem located in the heart of La Conner brings in tourists and locals alike. They boast well-prepared and locally sourced fresh seafood as well as an extensive wine and beer list. The charming and cozy pub atmosphere, homemade soups and generous portions make for a great special occasion or romantic evening. Try the polenta…

Dine

Sea to Storefront

Catch, Cook and Chow Down in the North Sound Northwest natives know that our regional treasure isn’t gold, it’s pink. We’re talking salmon, and are we ever…

Dine

TABLAS WOODSTONE TAVERNA

Upon entering Tablas in the Mill Creek Town Center, a friendly staff and circular fire welcome your arrival. This Mediterranean- Spanish fusion restaurant features some of the best tapas around, whether it’s for lunch, dinner or happy hour. Reflective of the restaurant’s name, the kitchen boasts a wood stone oven to cook dishes like Baked Brie, a sweet combination of apple confit, hazelnut and honey glaze, and Diamond Knot IPA mussels, made with chorizo and Mukilteo’s Diamond Knot…

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TULALIP BAY

If you are looking for fine dining in Marysville, look no further. This award-winning restaurant strives for perfection in every way. The menu has a Pacific Northwest flair, offering a variety of steak and seafood. The wait staff is impeccable, portions are generous, food well-prepared and the suggested wine…

Dine

ADRIATICA

Adriatica (formerly Neapolis) is located in old Lake Stevens, away from the hustle of Pioneer Square. Owner George Petropolis is eager to share his food, and he and his staff have created an inviting…

Dine

WASABEE SUSHI

WasaBee Sushi is a dining experience not soon to be forgotten. Deliciously fresh and succulent slices of fish resting atop carefully handsculpted pillows of rice are a sushi lover’s dream come true. Delicately…

Dine

TEMPLE BAR

Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. Begin with the classic Temple Bar cheese plate, a collection of three rotating…

Dine

THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF HOTEL CASINO SPA

This award-winning restaurant offers elegant white glove dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. The menu offers such variations as Chateaubriand, Steak Diane and Steak au Poivre. In…

Dine

NEW YORK PIZZA & BAR

If you love pizza, then you’re going to love New York Pizza and Bar. Not just because of the crispy, handmade dough (made fresh daily) or because of the fresh, high-quality ingredients or the amount of them that top each slice. But because New York Pizza is the master of pizza diversity. Anything you want on a pizza you’re likely to find here. Regardless of what you order, expect to be more than…

Dine

THE COPPER HOG

Gastropubs are known for having pub fare with high-class style and high-class food, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at The Copper Hog. You can also find classic pub favorites like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and poutine, as well a less-routine pub grub such as Ramen soup or ahi prepared a variety of ways. The Copper Hog also…

Dine

9 Restaurant

Nick Moss — the award winning executive chef at 9 Restaurant at the North Bellingham Golf Course — has definitely raised the culinary standard for golf course fare. Under Nick’s guidance, this made-from-scratch restaurant serves the most diverse menu in Whatcom County. The restaurant emphasizes fresh affordable cuisine that appeals to a large, culturally diverse customer base. Consumer-focused menu planning requires frequent and thoughtful product-sourcing from Whatcom County farms, wineries,…

Dine

Samson Estates Winery- Samson and Delilah

Samson Estates is nestled among the berry farms and pastures of rural Whatcom County, with the Mount Baker foothills in the distance. The tasting room staff is very friendly, and Samson’s wines are definitely worth the drive. As with most local vineyards, they source for their veritals (the Samson line) from Yakima and Columbia Valley. The Seven Horse Hills Merlot…

Dine

A’TOWN BISTRO

Colorful photographs of farm scenes dot the walls of A’Town Bistro, summing up all this restaurant stands for: Fresh, local, seasonal food. Even the inside of this Anacortes restaurant feels farm-like, with simple wooden tables and flooring and no unnecessary flourishes. The kitchen is open, and sends out entrees such as Smoked Salmon Cakes (which contain nothing but king salmon and breadcrumbs and come…

Dine

ADAM’S NORTHWEST BISTRO AND BREWERY

Adam’s Northwest Bistro distributes taste and dazzle through a broad menu from which a “Your Burger” — a real ground steak with caramelized onions — gets as much chef-time as a duck breast. The preparation of your Salmon or Butter-poached Halibut are remarkable for their their well-built sauces — restrained and crafty. Pork chops stuffed with onions, mushrooms and sage, pair off nicely with sweet apple gel cubes. The scallops appetizer with creamed leeks, bacon and applesauce might…

Dine

TASTE OF PHO

Enthusiasts of Vietnamese cuisine will not be disappointed by the extensive menu of soups, noodles and rice dishes offered at Taste of Pho. Specializing in Vietnam’s…

Dine

24 STAR THAI

Beautifully presented, flavorfully prepared and generously proportioned, the traditional cuisine at 24 Star Thai is an undeniably pleasant dining option for families on budgets, lovers of Thai spice or anyone on a neighborhood lunch rush. Their signature Pad Thai comes well-cooked with a fine balance of fish sauce and fresh garnish, spiced kindly to your liking. An order of the Swimming Rama fried…

Dine

PROHIBITION GASTROPUB

When Chef Gordon Ramsay first visited Prohibition Gastropub (previously Grille) for an episode of “Kitchen Nightmares”, his first cuts involved their now-nixed belly…

Dine

PIROSHKY & CREPES: EUROPEAN BAKERY AND CAFE

Treat yourself to a sweet or savory treat at Piroshky & Crepes: European Bakery and Café near Silver Lake in Everett. A piroshky is a Russian baked bun stuffed with…

Dine

WALNUT STREET COFFEE

Owner Pam Stuller has turned this former garage into a vibrant, modern space. Situated just off the main drag in Edmonds, Walnut Street Coffee is a true neighborhood coffee shop with a multi-generational clientele that include retirees, families with young children…

Dine

THE CHEESEMONGER’S TABLE

As its name indicates, The Cheesemonger’s Table is all about cheese. Enjoy the vast selection of more than 100 cheeses from around the world on a sandwich, platter or as a complementary addition to a house special. Cheese enthusiasts should visit the new location at the Old Milltown Plaza in Edmonds. The Table hosts a cheese sampling…

Dine

THE CAMANO ISLAND INN BISTRO

The Camano Island Inn Bistro on Camano Island is a destination worth the drive or ferry ride. Consider it for a romantic getaway, and reserve a room at Camano Island Inn to make a weekend out of it. A buffet-style breakfast is complimentary for inn guests every morning, serving up an assortment of pastries, seasonal…

Dine

TANDEM WINE AND CHEESE BAR

Tandem Wine and Cheese Bar owner Lisa Havens often greets her customers with a hug. Her welcome makes it seem like she invited them to her home for dinner. Her husband Brad Havens is tucked away, cooking in the cozy…

Dine

RUSSELL’S RESTAURANT & LOFT

Tucked away in a beautifully restored barn, Russell’s Dining Room offers a rare culinary experience in the Canyon Park area of Bothell. With renowned Chef Russell Lowell at its helm, frequenters flock here from…

Dine

PRESERVATION KITCHEN

Preservation Kitchen is located in the historic 1916 Kaysner home built for the mayor of Bothell and once was a French cuisine kitchen ran by Parisian, Chef Gerard Parrat in the 1970s. With such grandeur hidden in the bricks, it’s astounding…

Dine

BONEFISH

By combining fresh seafood, a relaxed, romantic atmosphere and pleasant waitstaff, this Mill Creek restaurant has evolved into a favorite among Snohomish and North King County residents. Top choices include the succulent, spicy Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, an assortment of grilled fish with your choice of signature sauce and, if you’re not in the mood for fish, the Fontina Chop is one of our favorites….

Dine

BISTRO SAN MARTIN

Chef Martin Estrada-Perez presents a menu that offers regional cuisine from Escargot with Garlic Butter to Tiger Prawns and Flat Iron Steak that is mouthwatering and cooked to perfection….

Dine

Five Faves: Washington Rosé Wines

1. Syncline | $19 The winemaker’s tasting notes describe the 2011 Syncline rosé: “Our creation of this wine is in direct response to our love of crisp, dry Rosé. The color is a striking pale rose with aromas of strawberry, stone fruit and melon. Each grape lends unique attributes…

Dine

Hoosoonyi

“Fresh, authentic and delicious.” That’s a pretty standard sentiment from the regulars at Hoosoonyi. Located in one of the many unassuming strip malls along Highway 99, Hoosoonyi has been serving the community Korean food since 1996. The number one menu recommendation — soon-doo-boo, a soft tofu soup. The dining experience is simple and friendly, and everything is translated to make ordering a…

Dine

Than Brothers

Imagine a blustery, cold day with the dark settling in early. Now think about taking a detour to get a bowl of perfectly spiced, warm pho. Than Brothers has been a Seattle…

Dine

Dumpling Generation

Dumplings seem to be all the rage these days. Several restaurants have opened throughout the greater Puget Sound metropolitan area. Edmonds is one of the fortuitous recipients — and with arguably the best of the bunch. The menu at Dumpling Generation is straightforward, not vast by any means. What it is though, is absolutely delicious. Popular dishes are the Chinese…

Dine

GROUCHY CHEF

Let the stern chef on the Grouchy Chef’s logo be a warning to you. When Chef Masumoto arrives to take his diners’ orders, he emphasizes the importance of his rules. He collects the bill in cash, without tips, before the meal…

Dine

TAQUERIA LA RAZA

One visit to Taqueria La Raza, and you’ll be coming back for more. The menu is simple, and the food is overwhelmingly flavorful; the large portions will leave you plenty to save after the first few satisfying bites. An order of four tacos come artfully…

Dine

PETITE SWEET BAKERY & CAFE

Recently relocated from Arlington and now in the former Pave Bakery location, this hometown bakery and café is too good to pass up! Inspired by European and American culinary style they source quality ingredients with a focus on local. Offering pastries, cakes and pies call which all call to your inner sweet tooth. Fresh-baked bread is the foundation for delicious sandwiches like the Smokin’ Granny, grilled with turkey, smoked gouda and thinly sliced Granny Smith apple….

Dine

LANA THAI

Stepping through the doors of this Central- Everett favorite is truly like stepping into a Thai palace. The opulent décor matches the colorful, flavorful food that brings diners…

Dine

STONE POT

Stone Pot isn’t just a clever name, but the clever little pots and skillets many of the meals are served in. The Stone Pot Bibimbap is a medley of vegetables with choice of meat or tofu that sits atop a sizzling pot of…

Dine

SCOTTY BROWNS

Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular alternative during warmer weather. The selection of beer, wine…

Dine

MI MEXICO

Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. And from there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with…

Dine

IL CAFFE RIFUGIO

Richard Balogh has brought fine dining to the “wilderness.” Fifteen miles out on Mount Baker Highway, just past Deming, is a funky old café that has been transformed into an oasis for people who enjoy good food and coffee. Menu items befit their Italian name with panninis and frittatas for Saturday/ Sunday brunches; Cioppino is…

Dine

FIAMMA BURGER

One word speaks volumes about Fiamma Burger: variety. With six different patty types (including homemade veggie, bison and salmon) and more than 17 menu options, there are endless possibilities for a burger masterpiece. You can…

Dine

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE

high-end, fine dining and English pub variety. Try traditional pub selections like shephard’s pie, fish and chips, or more unique choices like pork tenderloin complimented with an apricot honey glaze or crab mac and cheese with a creamy Gruyere sauce and wild-caught crab. Additionally, the Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes, and the option to make any dish gluten free. Of course, a gastropub isn’t complete without…

Dine

CONWAY PUB & EATERY

Don’t let tiny Conway fool you — this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard day’s work as well…

Dine

THE FREELAND CAFE

For more than 35 years, The Freeland Cafe’s been serving Whidbey Island locals a dawn-till-dinner menu of American breakfast classics with a mix of Hawaiian flavors. A stack of three savory pancakes stuffed with delicious, sweet blueberries marks a signature favorite among the carb-craving regulars, while a hearty egg breakfast with crisp, sizzling bacon charms away the hunger of nostalgic hometown diners; add Hawaiian-style rice with Spam…

Dine

DUCK SOUP INN

Sitting on the border of the woods at Duck Soup Inn is one of the most delightful dining experiences you’ll likely experience. The outside eating area of…

Dine

Constructing A Cheeseboard

The beloved and always appropriate cheeseboard. Most likely, you will encounter the time and place where you will have the desire or necessity to construct one. I certainly have, and never — not once — have two boards been the same. It is versatile and adaptable, self-sustaining and a good choice for an evening of savoring alone or for a potluck. Let’s classy it up! Before…

Dine

Snohomish Wine Journey

Washington Wine Country—it’s a descriptor that has become as much a part of our state as apples, evergreens and rain. Although we might not have joined the ranks of Napa yet, we’ve certainly earned some recognition. With many wineries, small and large, growing in popularity and earning awards—and areas that have capitalized on…

Dine

Compass Wines

A mecca for hard-to-find Washington wines! The Shop Compass Wines opened its door 11 years ago on Commercial Avenue in Anacortes. The owners have about 16,000 bottles of wine in stock and constantly taste wines to find others they would like to carry. If the shop doesn’t have a particular wine a customer is looking for, they can get it, owner Will Parks…

Dine

La Conner Channel Grill

La Conner Channel Grill is the place to refresh yourself after wine tasting at Silver Bell Winery, meandering through art galleries or lingering on La Conner’s waterfront. La Conner Channel Grill is a cheerful little restaurant with both indoor and outdoor dining. The days of yore décor and the dark interior lighting help make the dining room a…

Dine

Lullaby Winery

Virginie Bourgue completed her migration to Port Townsend, Washington in 2010. In June of this year, she celebrated the opening of Lullaby Winery tasting room. This seaside community reminded her of her old stomping grounds in the South of France. “Everything is in place here, balanced: Port Townsend reminds me of my childhood home,” she said. Her appreciation of the partnership between food and wine provides context to these fabulous European style…

Dine

Working the Gate: Kate Gerwin and Russell Davis take Poppe’s 360 pro

The team at Poppe’s 360 have always been known for their extensive martini list, making Poppe’s a favorite among area cocktailistas. But what had been a reliable bar before is now becoming craft cocktail central for our area. Their secret sauce is the consulting team of Unlimited Liabilities,…

Dine

Apples & Oranges- Pairing Wine, Beer & Spirits

Ten strangers met on a warm summer evening in Bellingham, WA for a night of wine, beer and cocktail pairings at The Real McCoy, which is owned and operated by in-house mixologist, Brandon Wickland. Oh sure, it would have been easier for one person to write all the comparisons, organize all the details and forego the planning. But this cozy roundtable had a great…

Dine

The Cork, The Tap & The Cask- A guide to drinking locally

1. North Fork Brewery 6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming northforkbrewery.com The home of the Beer Shrine, North Fork was established in 1997 by Sandy and Vicki Savage. Sandy is the former head brewer at Triple Rock Brewery in Berkeley, CA. He brews in very small batches, so the beer menu is in regular rotation. The North Fork is known for more than beer, though. Not only is there great pizza, there is a wedding chapel on-site. Just in…

Dine

TRAILS END TAPHOUSE

A homespun, casual dining experience that offers excellent cuisine and an ‘everybody knows your name’ atmosphere, Trails End Taphouse is for comfort food aficionados. Featuring home-cooked entrees and 28 craft brews on tap, diners can sit fireside for a date night or belly up to the bar with their buddies, respectively. Menu standouts include the…

Dine

JOHN’S GRILL

Consider John’s Grill on the corner of Fifth Street and Lincoln Avenue in Mukilteo for your next special occasion. John’s offers some of the…

Dine

AZUL TEQUILA LOUNGE & RESTAURANT

Azul Tequila Lounge & Restaurant provides a warm, upscale atmosphere and a fresh take on Latin-inspired dishes. Mexican favorites, such as the Enchilada Verde or Carne Asada, are paired with Caribbean specialties, including St. Thomas Coconut Prawns and Jamaican Jerk Pork Chops. Southwestern flavors also make an appearance in dishes such as the Poblano Artichoke Dip and the Blackened Chicken Pasta. The menu also includes multiple hardy salads, sandwiches (many…

Dine

HUNAN PALACE

Authentic Chinese dishes with fresh ingredients make for one of the best Chinese dining experiences in the county and beyond. Not to-be missed dishes include the Hunan Special Beef Beef, Sizzling Scallops, Sauteed Broccoli with Tangy Sauce (and tender strips of pork) and the Wok Wonton Soup. A full bar is also available. 2821 Pacific Ave., Everett 425.339.3390

Dine

CURRY BISTRO

Downtown Everett’s Indian cuisine finds its nest in the ever-popular Curry Bistro restaurant. The prompt servers stay busy filling flavorful orders of tender Lamb Vindaloo,…

Dine

CAROUSEL CAFÉ AND ICE CREAM

Carousel Café and Ice Cream, nestled off Bothell-Everett Highway, serves delicious lunch and dessert items. Best known for homemade ice cream that can be mixed with specialty toppings on a stone slab, the café is a well-kept local secret. Not only is the ice cream homemade, but also its breads, donuts and pastries. For diners seeking more than just a sweet treat, try the Reuben, which is…

Dine

SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO

Conveniently located right on Meridian Street, Slo-Pitch is known for their mouth watering hamburgers and wide variety of chicken wings. Offering a large menu and serving breakfast all day long they are the perfect place to catch the game and grab a beer. Good food and great service with Happy Hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere. 3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com

Dine

BRASATO

Enjoy European-inspired cuisine in historic downtown Snohomish at Brasato. This modern Euro-American bistro with a view of the Snohomish River is open for dinner seven days a week. Start your meal with one of the shareables, like a plate of risotto croquettes made with an array of fresh vegetables and roasted red pepper aioli. Follow your appetizer with a bowl of sundried tomato soup, a creamy concoction that will warm you up. Dinner entrée options…

Dine

IVAR’S MUKILTEO LANDING AND FISH BAR

Whether you’re waiting for the ferry to South Whidbey, or taking a scenic stroll along the lighthouse boardwalk, Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing and Fish Bar stays open late to satisfy your seafood needs. A weary-eyed winter commuter will perk right up to a delicious serving of Ivar’s famous, fresh Clam Chowder — a consistently creamy perfection, to be…

Dine

SUPER MARIO’S

Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The house specialty Carne Asada is perfectly seasoned and…

Dine

KEENAN’S AT THE PIER

Keenan’s at the Pier is located inside Fairhaven’s Chrysalis Inn & Spa. With stunning panoramic views of Bellingham Bay, any seat in the restaurant…

Dine

Il Granaio

A nice helping of freshly made linguine twirls in a pool of light, sweet tomato broth. Mussels, clams, scallops, sumptuous shrimp and calamari peak out from the heap. The bright…

Dine

San Juan Vineyards

Established in 1996, San Juan Vineyards is a Puget Sound American Viticultural Area winery destination for locals and tourists alike. The wine room, a renovated schoolhouse that was built in 1896, is an easy 10-minute drive from downtown Friday Harbor. The pastoral setting makes this winery…

Dine

Recipe: Waygu Beef Tenderloin with Smoked Pear and Truffle Demi-Glace

Waygu Beef Tenderloin with Smoked Pear and Truffle Demi-Glace Wagyu Beef tenderloin is a Japanese style of beef, and the most…

Dine

Recipe: Pan Seared Halibut with Pork Rillon and Stoneground Fennel Toss

Pan-Seared Halibut with Pork Rillon and Stoneground Fennel Toss Peppery without being too much so, this second course was both substantial enough to be an entrée, and yet delicate enough to be a small plate. Fresh halibut makes a huge difference in quality. The fennel toss was tangy and complemented the flaky halibut nicely. Pork rillon gave the dish a subtle meaty texture. • 1 lb pork belly, 1 piece • ½…

Dine

Recipe: Warm and Cold Lamb Caprese Lamb Tenderloin

Warm and Cold Lamb Carpaccio Caprese Lamb Tenderloin This appetizer combines the delicacy of shaved lamb with the fresh flavors of a traditional caprese. Heirloom tomatoes add flavor and texture, as does hand-made mozzarella. The saffron is a quiet undertone. This dish is perfect for a summer patio dinner. • ½ cup Kosher salt • ½ cup medium course black pepper • ½ cup chili powder • 3 Tbsp…

Dine

Meet the Chef: Chef Perry Mascitti from Tulalip Resort Casino

On May 15th, Bellingham Alive and Judd & Black Appliance hosted Chef Perry Mascitti, who created a beautiful threecourse meal that drew on the seafood, meat and produce of our area. Perry is the Executive Chef at Tulalip Resort Casino. After his education at the Culinary Art Institute, he spent many years in resort and hotel kitchens before taking the helm…

Dine

Honeymoon

Mead, also known as honey wine, is said to have been the first alcoholic beverage, coming before both wine and…

Dine

MUKILTEO LODGE

Mukilteo Lodge exceeds expectations with its warm, rustic and inviting ambiance. The Lodge features wide, cavernous, wood-beam ceilings, polished log walls, and thoughtfully designed lighting and sports decor. With 35 beers on tap, a wide selection of wine, and an impressive dinner menu, patrons won’t want for the company of good spirits. The menu…

Dine

KAFE NEO

Kafe Neo might be a delightfully surprise offering its extensive menu of rich and delicious Greek food. The ever-popular gyros come in dozens of combinations, with lunchtime prices below the border of $7. The lamb gyro — served in less than five — is…

Dine

TAMPICO

A North-Everett neighborhood favorite, Tampico is the quintessential family Mexican restaurant. Warm greetings welcome diners, followed by fresh tortilla chips and…

Dine

EVVIVA WOODFIRED PIZZA

If you like authentic Neapolitan pizza, look no further than Evviva Woodfired Pizza in Edmonds, where pizza is created with pure, simple, fresh ingredients and baked on the floor of an apple wood fired stone oven. You’ll find favorites like the Combo Pizza, featuring chorizo, fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and San Marzano tomato sauce, but the menu also features innovative items like the Blueberry Goat Cheese Pizza,…

Dine

CABBAGE PATCH

From fine dining to home cooking, the Cabbage Patch has been serving up delicious meals to patrons of this downtown Snohomish restaurant for more than 30 years. Traditional favorites such as a Prime Rib or Turkey dinner, Meatloaf and Chicken Pot Pie share the menu with contemporary favorites such as Coconut Prawns and Artichoke & Mushroom Penne. Don’t forget dessert — the Cabbage…

Dine

LOMBARDI’S

The original Lombardi’s was a Ballard favorite, and the Everett Marina location has been inundating diners with a heavenly blast of roasted garlic that is Lombardi’s hallmark since 1998. Lombardi’s pays homage to the seven honored…

Dine

MALTBY CAFÉ

Maltby’s famed Cinnamon Rolls — roughly the size of your head — are the prime draw to this country-quaint café, but are just the start of a menu filled with home-style cooking and grandiose portions. Choose from breakfast all day, with menu items such as Northwest Potatoes & Eggs or the…

Dine

LUCKY DRAGON PHO

Lucky Dragon Pho, a Vietnamese noodle house, located in Frontier Village next door to Albertsons, is a great place for a simple, inexpensive meal. The Pho, a soup of rice noodles with vegetables, and your choice of meat in a unique and flavorful broth, is sure to become a…

Dine

LUCA’S PIZZERIA & RISTORANTE

Enjoy distinguished Italian dishes and ambiance at Luca’s Pizzeria and Ristorante in Lake Stevens. Luca’s is an award-winning, family-owned establishment that has been delivering authentic Italian cuisine to Snohomish County residents since 2003. Luca’s offers a variety of hot Panini sandwiches, pasta and salads with fresh, local ingredients for the lunch crowd, Monday through…

Dine

FRED’S RIVERTOWN ALEHOUSE

Located in historic downtown Snohomish, Fred’s has been bringing great beer and great food to the community since 1994. Who could pass up the Mick Jagger Fries — sweet potato fries tossed with butter and brown sugar, or the Black Porter Gumbo made with Deschute’s Black Butte Porter. The Alehouse Burger is topped with…

Dine

GIUSEPPE’S AL PORTO

Giuseppe’s Al Porto Ristorante Italiano provides an enhanced dining experience to its customers, including outside seating that provides diners with the joy of eating by the water and taking in the sights of beautiful Bellingham Bay. The classic Italian dining that earned Giuseppe’s the reputation as the…

Dine

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE

Located within the casino 13moons is sure to catch your attention. Situated on the waterfront offering a lodge atmosphere which is warm and inviting. The menu offers a wide variety including First Plates, Entree Salads, Seafood and Beef. We started our meal with generous pours of wine. Then moved on to the Roasted Beet Salad, I am always skeptical of this as it needs to be just…

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VINNY’S Ristorante

Owner Becky Day welcomes diners to Vinny’s Ristorante in Friday Harbor, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and…

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ON RICE

Ask any local or college student: On Rice is the place to go in Bellingham. With its affordable lunch specials and three locations around town, it’s easy to enjoy one of On Rice’s many flavorful Thai dishes. A…

Dine

INDIGO KITCHEN & ALEHOUSE

Although Indigo is located in a busy shopping center, its surroundings are nearly forgotten when you enter the warm ambience of this Lynnwood alehouse. The rich wood furnishings of…

Dine

CHRISTIANO’S PIZZA

This casual, come-as-you-are restaurant is a hit among the locals. Best known for its pizza and pasta, diner are sure to be pleased with the excellent food, generous portions and affordable prices. If you are in the mood for a salad, try Christiano’s version of Spinach Salad — it is our favorite and pairs nicely with the Garden Delight Pizza….

Dine

THE TABLE

Folks who have enjoyed the fresh, handmade pastas of the Bellingham Pasta Co. from their local market can now experience them served with a helping of marinara, alfredo or pesto…

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SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE

Syklark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items such as Eggs Benedict and house specialty Banana Bread French Toast with…

Dine

ROCKET DONUTS

With two locations, Rocket Donuts is an icon in Bellingham for its delectable donuts and sci-fi themed storefronts. The donuts are made fresh daily, giving them their fluffy, soft texture. Try the classic glazed or spice up your morning with maple-bacon bar. Rocket donuts is unique by offering…

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Doe Bay Cafe

Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular…

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Bacchus Bistro

Delight in the flavors of Bacchus Bistro Langley, B.C., restaurant promises intriguing combinations.

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Holiday Entertaining – 7 Stress-Less Tips

I love to entertain. In fact, I do it for a living, which means I also understand the stress entertaining at home can bring. But you can throw a party sans the stress. Here are some of my tips to have a fabulous event and entertain with style.

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Savor the San Juans

For the entire month of October, the San Juan Islands host the annual “Savor the San Juans,” a self proclaimed medley of food, art and culture.

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Elizabeth Station

Just west of downtown, nestled alongside All About Flowers, awaits Elizabeth Station, a convenience store opened in early March 2012.

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TORRE CAFFE

If you want an excellent early morning espresso or a taste of old Italy for lunch or just a mid-afternoon break, Torre Caffe is the…

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PEL’MENI

Step off busy State Street after your late night festivities for an inexpensive and satisfying fill of plump dumplings. Stuffed with either meat or potatoes, these dumplings…

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JAKE’S WESTERN GRILL

True country ambiance paired with outstanding barbecue makes Jake’s a must. The ribs are fall off the bone yummy and did we mention the cornbread! Jake’s also features a full line of fresh-cut salads, burgers, Southern sandwiches and a full-service bar….

Dine

Jalapeños

Fresh, flavorful and family-friendly, diners will want to make a return visit.

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North Fork Brewery

Mount Baker Highway is home to a plethora of dining options, but at the North Fork Brewery you can get beer, pizza, tie the knot and visit the beer shrine all under the same roof.

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Happy Hour Hot Spots

My Mission: Comb Whatcom and Skagit counties for the happiest of happy hours and challenge my discriminating palate for the best these two counties have to offer in the form of inexpensive food and drinks.

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Scotty Brown at Bellingham International Airport

Scotty Browns, a favorite Whatcom County dining destination, opened a new location behind the security line in the new terminal at Bellingham International Airport.

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Toast the Winemakers

Meet the men and women behind the craft of wine making at six Washington wineries…

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The Mixing Tin | Casino

City Filter

Cuisine Filter

Recipe Filter

Dine

The Smaller The Bite, The Better The Taste

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Glorious Gluten-Free Goodies | Millet Gluten-Free Bakery

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Wine Pick of the Month | Long Shadows Poet’s Leap Riesling

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The Camel’s Watering Hole: Burlington’s Newest Speakeasy | Speakeasy Saloon

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Cooking with Cannabis

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Blackened Halibut with Spring Succotash, Lemon-Herbed Rice, and Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

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The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’s Rapture

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The Nomadic Kitchen Adventures of a Personal Chef | Nourishing Nomad

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Sometimes You Want To Go Where Everybody Knows Your Pie Order | Pie Dive Bar

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8 Great Tastes | March 2026

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New Executive Chef at Bellingham’s Elegant Waterfront Dining Destination | Keenan’s at the Pier

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Authentic Tacos and More in Fairhaven | Tacos Guadalajara

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Wine Pick of the Month | Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot

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Corned Beef with Parsley Carrots, Cabbage, and Black-Eyed Peas | Chef Matthew’s Corner

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The Mixing Tin | Black & Tan

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Wake Up! Coffee Culture Refresh to Help Welcome in Spring

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The Return of a Fairhaven Favorite | Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse

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8 Great Tastes | February 2026

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A Taste of the Mediterranean in the Pacific Northwest | Little Ferraro Kitchen

Dine

Sharing the Tastes of Japan in Bellingham | Iki Izakaya & Bar

Dine

Sweetheart Spots | Dining Destinations for Every Kind of Romance

Dine

Wine Pick of the Month | Rombauer Vineyards 2022 Zinfandel

Dine

Steak Oscar | Pan-Seared Filet with Asparagus, Warm Crab, and Béarnaise Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Dine

A Classy Place to Eat Steak With Grace | Cask and Cleaver Steakhouse

Dine

The Mixing Tin | Love Potion No. 9

Dine

Green Smoothies for Health and Nutrition

Dine

Wine Pick of the Month | Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc

Dine

Becoming Our Best Selves, One Organic Veggie at a Time | Cosmic Veggies

Dine

8 Great Tastes | January 2026

Dine

Thai Beef Stir Fry | Chef’s Corner

Dine

Sweet Comforts, Whatever the Weather | Chocolate Necessities

Dine

The Mixing Tin | Immune Boost Mule

Dine

The Local Nonprofit Nourishing our Community | PNW Plateful

Dine

Wine Pick of the Month | Ambassador Wines of Washington 2019 Estate Envoy Red Blend

Dine

Meals From the Sea, and the Heart | Tide & Taste

Dine

The Mixing Tin | Mulled Wine

Dine

8 Great Tastes | Winter 2025

Dine