The summer is when the best parts of Washington come out to play. There’s nothing quite like rooftop dining during the warmer months. Maybe it’s the skyline views or the general fancy ambiance. Maybe it’s the above-it-all feeling you get as you enjoy food and drink. Or maybe it’s because food has been known to taste better when you’re high. Whatever the case may be, rooftop dining is fun, classy, and a little bit magical. Here are some highlights around the area for enjoying life on the roof.
Bellingham
Jalapeños at Fairhaven
The only thing better than margaritas is margaritas on the roof. Jalapeños in Fairhaven has both. The upper deck overlooks the tops of historic shops and cobblestone streets, as well as the Fairhaven Village Green. There are two levels of outdoor seating, and both come equipped with covers in case of inevitable rain. When the Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema is running their slate of movies, the roof is a great spot for listening to soundtracks of classics while enjoying chips and guacamole.
1007 Harris Ave., Fairhaven
360.656.6600 | jalapenos-wa.com
The Green Frog
The Green Frog in downtown Bellingham is a hub for live comedy and music, but it also boasts a lovely outdoor seating patio. The upstairs deck is adorned with twinkly lights, long picnic tables, and a wooden staircase down to the street. The Green Frog is rarely too overcrowded or boisterous, making for a peaceful experience in the sky. This is the perfect place to stargaze while enjoying a mixed drink paired with one of the Frog’s delicious grilled cheese sandwiches.
1015 N. State St., Bellingham
360.306.8273 | acoustictavern.com
Fat Pie
With a view of the hillsides of Bellingham on one side and the bay on the other, Fat Pie in Fairhaven is a must-try. It’s almost hard to tell from the outside that Fat Pie boasts one of the fanciest outdoor dining spots in the city. The rooftop comes packed with amenities: heaters for chilly nights, various plants and foliage, an outdoor bar, and a wide array of pizza options. What else do you need?
1015 Harris Ave., Bellingham
360.366.8090 | fatpiepizza.com
Anacortes
5th Street Bistro
It’s all about the pampering at 5th Street Bistro, a restaurant on top of a spa. The menu includes everything from small bites like salmon lox and charcuterie, to heartier options like burgers and oysters. Happy hour is attractive for its garlic fries, or stuffed mushrooms, or calamari, or fish and chips. Featuring beautiful views over the water, cozy outdoor furniture and a fireplace, all you need to add is good drinks and good friends to make this a treat on any day.
419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes
360.299.1400 | majesticinnandspa.com
Friday Harbor
Friday’s Crabhouse
Friday’s Crabhouse in Friday Harbor lets you catch the boats sailing on the marina while you enjoy a plate of fish-and-chips and a cold beer. Pretty classic Washington. The menu features both sea and land fare, and the burgers have a good rep as well. The view is the main draw here, and it’s hard to beat. The top of this joint doesn’t just overlook the harbor, but also the colorful textures and textiles of the rooftops below. Plus, it’s dog friendly.
65 Front St., Friday Harbor
360.378.8801 | fridayscrabhouse.com
