Comrade Burger
If you’ve been to Carnal in downtown Bellingham, you know meat is their forte. Now you can enjoy the restaurant’s new burger offshoot, Comrade, located right next door. Created as a destination for casual takeout during the pandemic, Comrade’s menu is short and sweet, featuring elevated burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and fries with house-made dipping sauces.
While the recipes are driven by Carnal chefs and prepared in Carnal’s kitchen, the sandwiches cater to a customer base looking for something quick, casual, and affordable enough to become a regular lunch destination. Comrade also offers an opportunity for young talent to cut their culinary teeth in the kitchen.
“It’s a chance to train some younger chefs…they get a chance to [cook] during the day, when it gets really busy, on the burger side,” explains owner Skip Williamson.
Photo by James Zamory
Not your ordinary fast-food burger, Comrade’s Short Rib Burger ($9) features a hefty patty of grass-fed beef and melty American cheese. All condiments are made in-house, including sweet-and-spicy pickles and a bone-marrow based mayonnaise.
Other options include a Grilled Pork Chop Sandwich ($10) and a Fried Chicken Sandwich ($10). The fried chicken is done two ways: sweet, with chicken bone marrow honey, or spicy, with chili oil. Make it a meal with an order of Fries ($3), and add bone marrow mayo or chicken fat sauce for dipping. Vegan and fish sandwich options are also in the works.
On the drink side, you’ll find an in-house version of an Arnold Palmer, made with peach iced tea, along with beer, wine, and other fun drinks.
Though Comrade began as a strictly-lunch affair, it will be open for dinner starting in June. The restaurant has both indoor and sidewalk seating. 1232 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.306.3587, eatcomrade.com
Underground Burger
If you’re craving a classic burger experience, check out Lynden’s newest burger operation, Underground Burger. The new restaurant offers delicious, affordable burgers made fast.
The restaurant began as a virtual kitchen based out of Jake’s BBQ, but has since expanded into a permanent spot within Jake’s, where you can now dine-in or order to-go.
“The wild popularity led us to create a more traditional format,” says owner Brian Poag.
Photo by Madi Bouma
There’s a reason these burgers are causing a buzz. They’re made from locally-raised, certified Angus beef that will bust your hunger, not your wallet. They’re also just really good.
Keep it classic with an Underground Burger ($6.99) or make it a Double ($9.99). The third-pound patties are served on brioche buns with house-made burger sauce and fresh lettuce, onion, and tomato. Gluten-free buns are also available.
Round out your meal with a side of seasoned Waffle Fries ($2.99). For a sweet drink, grab a Homemade Shake ($4.99) in chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla, all topped with a swirl of whipped cream. 8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, undergroundburgers.com
