We may not be New York City or even Seattle, but Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties have their fair share of international cuisine. Whether you’re craving sushi, teriyaki, schnitzel, or pupusas, there’s likely a restaurant nearby that’s eager to whip up an authentic dish.
In the following pages, we’ve collected a variety of global flavors you can find right here at home. Our list of restaurants is far from exhaustive — we know there are many delicious eateries we’ve yet to discover —but we hope you’ll find something new worth trying.
Mediterranean, European, & African
Greek
Arni Psito
Mykonos Greek Restaurant
Mykonos serves up a wide variety of classic Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including Arni Psito, which is traditionally eaten at Easter. This mouthwatering entree features a roasted lamb shoulder flavored with lemon sauce and mustard, with meat that’s braised slowly until tender. 1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.715.3071, mykonosbellingham.com
Greek Platter for Two
Cafe Akroteri
Located in downtown Bellingham, Cafe Akroteri has been serving up classic Greek fare since 1986. For your next date night, order the Greek Platter. It comes with a Greek salad, spanakopita, dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves), and your choice of either pastiche and souvlaki or moussaka. The feast starts off with feta and kalamata olives. 1219 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.5554, cafeakroteri.com.
Souvlakia
Five Columns Greek Restaurant
A mainstay of Greek cuisine, the Souvlakia at Five Columns comes with a Greek salad and rice pilaf. The meat is marinated in a blend of Greek herbs and spices and then served on a skewer. Pair it with an Eleniki Salata (Greek Salad) for an unforgettable Mediterranean meal. 1301 E. Maple St., Bellingham, 360.676.9900, fivecolumns.com
Moussaka
Greek Islands
Those who truly love Greek food will be in heaven at Greek Islands in Anacortes. Their Moussaka—essentially an eggplant lasagna—is made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, zucchini, and perfectly seasoned ground sirloin. The dish is topped with bechamel sauce and cheese and then baked until crispy and golden. 2001 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.6911, greekislandsrestaurant.shop
Italian
Pappardelle Bolognese
Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
Although new to Bellingham, Lombardi’s has been serving up Italian cuisine in Washington for more than 30 years. In this dish, pappardelle pasta is served with ground veal and pork mixed with pancetta, celery, carrots, and the classic Italian flavor trio of onion, garlic, and tomato. The best part? All pasta dishes come with a basket of fresh bread. 21 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.714.8412, lombardisitalian.com
Lasagna Al Forno
Il Granaio
Italian Chef Alberto Candivi brings authentic Italian food to the Old Town Granary building in Mount Vernon. His lasagna layers Bolognese sauce with mozzarella and parmigiana cheese resulting in baked, crispy goodness. If you get there before 6 p.m., take advantage of the fixed-price Sunset Special, which comes with four courses. 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110, Mount Vernon, 360.419.0674, granaio.com
Fettuccine Ai Frutti Di Mare
Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery
In addition to an award-winning wine program, Leader Block also offers an impressive selection of traditional Italian cuisine. This fettuccine dish is a seafood lover’s dream, served with prawns, calamari, and Manila clams all tossed with a creamy garlic-herb sauce. Finish it off with an Affogato for a truly Italian treat. 2026 Main St., Ferndale, 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com
Pasta from Hell
Vinny’s Ristorante
Fresh ingredients combine with homestyle Italian goodness to create every dish at Vinny’s Ristorante. Far from evil, this yummy pasta dish features penne noodles served with mushrooms, peppers, pine nuts, and raisins—just beware, the sauce is extra spicy. For an added seafood flare, get it with prawns. 165 West St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com
Parma Cotto
Old World Deli
At this European-inspired deli in downtown Bellingham, you’ll find plenty of classic Italian sandwiches. The Parma Cotto features Italian cooked ham and fresh mozzarella, flavored with delicious house hot mustard. Even better? It comes grilled on ciabatta from Breadfarm. 1228 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.738.2090, oldworldbellingham.com
Austrian
Chicken Schnitzel
Chuckanut Brewery and Kitchen
This classic Austrian dish is made of chicken breast that’s pounded until it’s extra-thin. The meat is then breaded and fried so it takes on a delicious, crisp exterior. At Chuckanut Brewery, it comes with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, and tasty house gravy. You can also order it as a sandwich. 601 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.752.3377, chuckanutbreweryandkitchen.com
English
Shepherd’s Pie
Cosmos Bistro
You can find all sorts of comfort food at Cosmos Bistro, from burgers to meatloaf to mac-n-cheese, but if you’re looking for extra-hearty fare, go for the Shepherd’s Pie. Ground lamb and beef are combined with veggies and herbs and paired with mashed potatoes. 1151 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.255.0244, bellinghamcosmosbistro.com
French
French Onion Soup
The Black Cat
The Black Cat has several French items on the menu, including a fondue appetizer, but you can’t go wrong with a bowl of oven-broiled French Onion Soup, especially on a chilly February night. Topped with gruyere cheese and served with a crostini, this soup is the epitome of winter-time comfort food. 1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 310, Bellingham, 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com
Crème Brulee
Skylark’s Hidden Cafe
This quaint cafe in Fairhaven feels Parisian, with plenty of outdoor seating in the front and along the back alley. Their classic French Crème Brulee consists of scratch-made vanilla cream custard that’s lightly sweetened. To get to the cream, you first have to break through a decadent crust of caramelized sugar. 1308 11th St., Bellingham, 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com
Baked Burgundian Escargots
The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant & Pub
This charming restaurant in La Conner serves up several French-inspired delicacies, and what’s more French than escargot? You’ll find this dish among the restaurant’s many small plates, the majority of which feature local, sustainable seafood. These baked snails are cooked with garlic, parsley, and butter. Bon appetit! 205 Washington St., La Conner, 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com
German
Cheddarwurst
Schweinhaus Biergarten
Choose from numerous German-style drafts at this beer garden in downtown Bellingham. It’s never good to drink on an empty stomach, so pair your pint with a signature sausage plate. The
Cheddarwurst is made with beef and ham, then filled with smoked Wisconsin cheddar. It comes with sauerkraut, three types of mustard, and a Bavarian pretzel. 1330 N. State St., Bellingham,
360.671.0206, schweinhaus.com
Irish
Bangers & Mash
Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro
Craving meat and potatoes? Enjoy a bite of Irish pub fare at Boundary Bay in downtown Bellingham. The dish features a pair of plump Irish sausages nestled into mashed potatoes and pea puree, all flavored with Dry Irish Stout gravy. 1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.647.5593, bbaybrewery.com
Polish
Halupki
Anelia’s Kitchen and Stage
This restaurant has so many authentic Polish dishes you might not know where to start—but you have to start somewhere, and the Halupki is a great option. This specialty features two cabbage rolls stuffed with flavorful beef, pork, and rice, all stewed in a sauerkraut tomato broth and served over smashed potatoes. Can you say warm and hearty? 513 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.399.1805, aneliaskitchenandstage.com
Sweet Polish-Style Crepes
Magdalena’s Bistro & Creperie
The crepes at Magdalena’s are made with low-gluten flour, but if you’re feeling decadent, you can also order chocolate batter on request. Choose from a variety of fillings including jam, Nutella and
bananas, fresh fruit, and ricotta cheese. In addition to crepes, the menu also boasts everyone’s Polish favorite: pierogis. 1200 10th St., 103, Bellingham, 360.483.8569, magdalenascreperie.com
Russian
Russian Dumplings
Pel’meni
This beloved Russian dumpling shop is open until 2:30 a.m., making it a favorite late-night stop among Western students. That said, it’s also great place for a quick afternoon pick-me-up when you’re in a hurry or on a budget. Diners can choose from potato or beef dumplings, or a combination of the two. Top with sour cream and hot sauce for the full experience. 1211 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.715.8324.
Doro Wat
Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine
For those who grieved when Bellingham’s Everyday Public Market closed, taking Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine with it, we’ve got good news: The restaurant is back in a new location. You can find Ambo on State Street, where its owner, Mulu Belay, serves up traditional Ethiopian dishes like this popular chicken stew. The chicken is simmered with onion, garlic, ginger, and various spices, then served with a boiled egg. All main dishes come with injera bread and a side dish of your choice. 902 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.756.1627, amboethiopiancuisine.wordpress.com
Asian & Indian
Thai
Tom Kha
Wanida Thai Cuisine
Wanida might be a favorite for take-out, but the cozy space is also great for eating in. Head there on a cold day for this mouth-watering soup. The rich coconut milk base is flavored with kaffir lime
leaves, galangal, and lemongrass. In the broth you’ll find mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, and the protein of your choice. Add noodles or rice for a tasty, filling meal. 1213 Dupont St., Bellingham, 360.746.8642, wanidathai.com
Gauy Teaw Nam
Rachawadee Thai Cafe
For more than 10 years, Rachawadee has been serving up some of the tastiest and spiciest Thai food in Skagit. Although the restaurant itself is tiny, the food packs huge flavor. If you love a meat medley, the Gauy Teaw Nam noodle soup comes with chicken, fish balls, and ground pork. The broth is flavored with green onion and bean sprouts while the rice noodles add texture and heft. 410 W. Gates St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.6699, rachawadeethai.com
Chicken Avocado Curry
Maikham
Chef Usanee Klimo grew up in Thailand, near the Lao border, and was raised on the flavors of the region. She brings these flavors, and her expertise, to everything on the Fairhaven restaurant’s menu. Avocado lovers will especially love this green curry, flavored with fresh basil and herbs. It can also be made vegetarian. 1125 Finnegan Way, Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.746.8098, maikham.com
Stir Fried Pineapple & Prawns
Luxe Thai
This dish is a favorite among Luxe Thai customers, and for good reason. Juicy pineapple pieces are mixed with prawns, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers to create a sweet, savory, and colorful dish. The owner and her two sisters created the menu based on recipes handed down from their mother, so you know every bite is authentically Thai and made with love. 5685 3rd Ave., Ferndale, 360.312.9433, luxethai.com
Massaman Curry
Bangkok Bistro
A classic Thai go-to, the Massaman Curry at Bangkok Bistro is truly delicious, and is extra-affordable when you order it as part of the restaurant’s under-$10 lunch special. Tender chicken is served in a mild, slightly sweet curry sauce. The dish comes on rice with the option to add pad thai noodles. 104 Lila Ln., Burlington, 360.757.3778
Street Pad See-Ew
Taste of Thai by Wipa
At Taste of Thai by Wipa in Burlington, this classic Thai street food is recreated to taste just like what you’d order from vendors in Thailand. Wide rice noodles are stir-fried with Chinese broccoli and seasoned with vinegar and stir-fry sauce. The result is a sweet, smoky, and savory dish. 1038 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington, 360.899.5823, tasteofthaibywipa.com
Fresh Spring Rolls
Chada Thai
A staple before any Thai meal, these spring rolls are made with tofu and crisp lettuce all wrapped in chewy rice paper. Dip them in a light peanut sauce flavored with a touch of chili pepper for an added kick. Follow these refreshing rolls with one of Chada Thai’s authentic noodle or wok dishes. 825 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, 360.332.3267, chadathaiusa.com
Japanese
Sukiyaki
Kyoto Kitchen
This entree, served in a stone hot pot, features thinly sliced rib eye, veggies, and tofu all simmered to perfection in a sweet soy sauce. The dish comes served with steamed rice. 2001 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.428.3699
Pork Udon
Setsunai Noodle Bar
Next time you visit Lopez Island, stop by this noodle bar in the village for a piping hot bowl of Pork Udon. The smoked pork is local and served with a marinated egg, scallions, daikon, pickled
shitake, greens, and your choice of two other fermented foods all submerged in a delicious dashi broth. These tasty noodles are extra popular during the busy summer months, so come early to
avoid a long line or reserve a spot for dinner. 45 Eads Ln., Village Lopez Island, 360.298.9052, setsunainoodles.com
Tarantula Roll
Muto Ramen & Sushi
This popular, fierce-looking roll is filled with soft-shell crab, imitation crab salad, and refreshing cucumber that balances out the spice from jalapenos. The roll is topped with avocado, tobiko, eel sauce, and spicy mayo for a memorable sushi experience. 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.3530, mutoramen.com
Korean
Bulgogi Bibimbap
Yun Ga Ne Korean Restaurant
For an authentic Korean experience, head to Yun Ga Ne in downtown Bellingham. This relatively new restaurant (it opened in July of last year) serves up traditional dishes like Bulgogi Bibimbap. Marinated beef barbecue is served in a sizzling bowl of rice topped with various veggies and kimchi, all topped with a fried egg. 1204 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.392.8658, yungane.business.site
Spicy Chicken Bul-Gogi
Pyung Chang Korean Restaurant & BBQ
This restaurant in Mount Vernon offers a unique Korean BBQ experience—couples, groups, and families can order from a number of different combos, which serve groups of 2–5 and come with a sampler of various marinated meats. If you feel like going rogue, try the Spicy Chicken Bul-Gogi. Bites of chicken are marinated in spicy sauce. 521 S. 2nd St., Mount Vernon, 360.450.3333, pyungchangbbq.com
Chinese
Chicken Dumplings
Dumpling Girls
Typically parked at Goods Local Brews on Northwest Avenue, this food truck is worth a special trip. Their dumplings are served piping hot with delicious dipping sauce. Order them with your
choice of chicken or beef filling. Make it a meal with spring rolls on the side. 2620 Northwest Ave., Bellingham
Moo Shu Pork
Hong Kong Restaurant
Specializing in Szechuan and Chinese cuisine, this restaurant offers plenty of options for lunch, dinner, and take-out. The Moo Shu Pork comes with delicious stir-fried pork and veggies, served with four pancakes and rice on the side. You can also order it with chicken, shrimp, or beef. 1300 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.424.7776, hongkongrestaurantmv.com
Vietnamese
Pho Tai, Chin
Pho 99
Pronounced “fuh,” this delicious and fortifying Vietnamese noodle soup is like nothing else. At Pho 99, the menu is separated into categories for beginners, regulars, and adventurers. This dish is
from the beginner’s menu, and features eye round steak and brisket that’s cooked well-done. The savory broth—which you’ll want to drink down to the last drop—is flavored with onions and cilantro. 3503 Byron St., Bellingham, 360.647.8471, pho99.us
Indian
Chicken Tikka Masala
Tandoori Bites
A tandoor is a cylindrical, drum-like clay oven used for cooking in many parts of India. Not only does the oven cook meats and vegetables, but it’s also what gives naan its delicious char flavor,
blackening the outside while leaving the inside soft. The Chicken Tikka Masala at Tandoori Bites is a great example of what this oven can do. The chicken is baked in the tandoor before being diced and cooked in a creamy sauce flavored with tomatoes and herbs. 505 32nd St., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.746.8582, tandooribites.us
Shahi Paneer
Taste of India—Bellingham
If you’re looking for something different, this Indian dish is sure to satisfy. Pieces of homemade cheese (paneer) are cooked with cashews, creating a rich and creamy dish. Enjoy with rice and naan for a filling meal. 3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.778.1262, tasteofindiabellinghamwa.com
Biryani
Taste of India—Mount Vernon
For authentic Northern Indian food, Taste of India offers a variety of scratchmade dishes right in downtown Mount Vernon. The Biryani features saffron rice cooked with cashews, raisins, peas, and a special spice blend. Order it with your choice of chicken, lamb, or prawns, or keep it vegetarian with veggies sourced from Skagit Valley. 420 W. Gates St., Mount Vernon, 360.428.2866, tasteofindiaskagit.com
Peshwari Naan
Naan & Brew
This family-owned restaurant has been crafting authentic Indian food in Bellingham since 2015. Although the menu features multiple savory naan options, including meat-stuffed and veggie-stuffed, the Peshwari Naan approaches dessert-status. It’s cooked in a clay oven and then filled with cherries, cashews, almonds, pistachios, raisins, and coconut. Are you drooling yet? 200 E. Maple, Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.389.5493, naanandbrew.com
Butter Chicken
Punjabi Junction
The name says it all. Who doesn’t love butter? This soon-to-be-your-favorite dish features boneless pieces of marinated chicken cooked in tomatoes with a rich, creamy butter sauce. Order it with rice and naan and then wash it all down with a Mango Lassi. Delivery is free, so make it your next stay-at-home meal. 4370 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.656.6025
Latin American
Costa Rican
Gallo Pinto
El Rey Latino Restaurant
On top of a large menu of Mexican dishes, El Rey also serves up homestyle dishes from countries all across Latin America. The Costa Rican section features this classic breakfast dish of scrambled eggs, beans, rice, and diced steak all served with tortillas and bananas—pura vida! 2527 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.922.0342, elreylatinorestaurant.com
Guatemalan
Pepián
La Chapina
This restaurant on Meridian Street serves up dishes from across Latin America, but the Pepián is a traditionally Guatemalan dish. In addition to chicken, you’ll find tomatoes, peppers, tomatillos, and seasonal veggies in this spicy, flavorful stew. 4285 Meridian St., Ste., D102, Bellingham, 360.738.6056
Mexican
Carne Asada
COA Mexican Eatery
Serving artisan, scratch-made food in La Conner and Mount Vernon, COA is your go-to for authentic Mexican cuisine in Skagit. The delicious Carne Asada features sliced skirt steak grilled
to perfection and served with mango pico, sour cream, and guacamole. Grilled veggies and tortillas come on the side. 214 Maple Ave., La Conner, 360.466.0267; 102 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon, 360.840.1938, coaeatery.com
Chile Relleno
Netos Market and Bakery
Despite its name, Netos is more than just a market and a bakery. In addition to everyday grocery items and a large display case filled with freshly baked Pan Dulce (sweet breads), Netos also
boasts a menu of authentic Mexican dishes, as well as a cozy eating area and patio where you can enjoy your food. The generously portioned Chile Relleno is not-too-spicy and served with rice
and beans. 2612 W. Maplewood Ave., Bellingham, 360.594.6504, netosmarket.com
Sour Cream Enchiladas
Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine
This cheerful, family-run cantina has an extensive menu of Mexican dishes and drinks. The Sour Cream Enchiladas are stuffed with chicken and come coated in a rich, tasty sauce made of
sour cream and mushrooms. Beans and rice come on the side, and on top you’ll find guacamole and pico de gallo. 190 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.527.3181, liliasmexicancuisine.com
Sizzling Fajitas
Paso Del Norte
Who doesn’t love a sizzling skillet? At this family-owned restaurant in Blaine, the fajitas come with your choice of steak or chicken, served straight from the kitchen on a bed of green peppers
and onions. Top everything with cheese, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. 758 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, 360.332.4045, pasodelnorte.net
Chile Verde
El Gitano
The owner of El Gitano, Adrian, moved from Durango, Mexico when he was 19 years old. Once in Washington, he began working for his family’s restaurant in Burlington. Flash forward to now, when Adrian operates four El Gitano locations in Burlington, La Conner, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham. El Gitano’s Chile Verde features pieces of tasty pork cooked in a light tomatillo salsa. Make sure not to fill up on free chips! Multiple locations, elgitano.net
Authentic Pork Carnitas
Jalapeños
A local favorite, Jalepeños is familyowned by Jesse Cantu and offers locations in Fairhaven, Barkley Village, and downtown Bellingham. The Authentic Pork Carnitas are a favorite among Bellinghamsters, with chunks of pork tenderloin cooked to perfection and paired with rice, beans, salsa, and tortillas. Multiple locations, jalapenos-wa.com
Salvadorian
Wonder Burrito
Super Mario’s
This beloved eatery has a restaurant and a food truck, offering two ways to try their delicious Salvadoran food. The Wonder Burrito is a customer favorite. A flour tortilla is packed with beans, rice,
cheese, onions, cabbage, sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, and your choice of chicken, pork, or asada. For a meatless option, the Veggie Wonder Burrito is just as wonderful, but with mixed veggies in lieu of meat. 3008 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.4637
Pupusas
Restaurante Morazan
Tucked into the corner of Bakerview Square, you’ll find Morazan. This unassuming restaurant has a simple menu of mouth-watering Salvadoran dishes like pastelitos, empanadas, and tamales. The pupusas are made fresh and served hot. Inside each corn tortilla flatbread, you’ll find melty cheese and your choice of meat or beans. 410 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 108, Bellingham, 360.656.6533
Peruvian
Butifarra Royal
Cafe Rumba
Founded by Marco Mellet and Antonio Diaz, both food-lovers from Lima, this Peruvian deli in downtown Bellingham offers a menu bursting with flavor. The Butifarra Royal comes with houseroasted pork, bacon, shoestring potatoes, romaine lettuce, house spicy chimichurri, caramelized onion, and a fried egg. It’s all served on a Peruvian French roll with your choice of roasted potatoes or a side salad. 1140 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.746.8280, caferumbabham.com
For more intel into delectable local cuisine, check out our Dine section here.
