5 Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants in Bellingham, Washington to Try

Bellingham, Washington, may be nestled between the Salish Sea and Mt. Baker, but it’s also home to some incredible hidden dining spots.

Here are five hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Bellingham that you must try.

Carnal

Carnal is a downtown gem run by chefs from Brooklyn bringing a fine-dining twist to flame-cooked dishes.

Order the Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs, which are tender and rich, served with bone marrow, black truffle, and confit garlic sauce .

Start with the Pig Head Fritters, featuring crispy, flavorful bites paired with shallot aioli and pickled shishito peppers .

Don’t miss their Fire-Roasted Piña Colada, a cocktail made with Jamaican rum, fire-roasted pineapple, and coconut .

With its seasonal menu and innovative dishes, Carnal offers a distinctive dining experience .

Black Cat Cafe

Black Cat Cafe provides a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere with American bistro favorites and creative cocktails.

Try the Dungeness Crab Cakes, perfectly seasoned and served with a creamy curry remoulade .

The Wild Sockeye Salmon, offered with a spiced rum glaze or serrano aioli, is a flavorful entrée .

Don’t miss their refreshing Spill The Tea Cocktail, made with Jasmine Green Tea-infused gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, lemon, and grapefruit bitters .

Located on the third floor of a historic building, Black Cat Cafe is a charming spot for lunch, dinner, or late-night bites .

Aslan Depot

Aslan Depot is a cozy taproom set in a historic urban railway depot, offering locally brewed organic beer and comfort food.

Start with the Poutine, which combines waffle fries, cheese curds, and roasted mushroom gravy for a comforting starter .

The Hawaiian Bowl, featuring coconut-ginger rice, house-made slaw, shredded cabbage, and grilled pineapple, is a tasty main dish .

Don’t miss the award-winning Batch 15 Hazy IPA, a hoppy, citrusy brew that’s well-balanced and not too bitter .

With live music and a relaxed setting, Aslan Depot is a perfect spot for beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike .

Old Town Cafe

Old Town Cafe is a beloved local spot known for its homemade breakfast and lunch options with organic ingredients.

Start your day with the Sour Cream Coffee Cake, a seasonal favorite usually featuring berry flavors in spring and fall .

The #9 Egg Benedict, topped with a unique cheese sauce and sliced tomatoes on house-made buttermilk biscuits, is a standout brunch dish .

Don’t miss their Mimosas, made with Columbia Gorge juice in flavors like rhubarb ginger or strawberry, varying with the seasons .

With its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to locally sourced ingredients, Old Town Cafe is a go-to for a hearty meal .

Mallard Ice Cream

Mallard Ice Cream offers a fun and vibrant setting with an ever-changing selection of house-made ice cream flavors.

Try the Super Chocolate, a darker, creamier version of their chocolate flavor that’s perfect for chocolate lovers .

Don’t miss their more creative options like Molasses Cheesecake with Antler Baking Company Gingerbread, Turmeric, or Angostura Bitters .

With brightly colored walls and quirky decor, Mallard Ice Cream provides a delightful dessert experience for all ages .