Bellingham Alive | February 2021

Cafe Crawl Milano’s Comes to Fairhaven The Year of Unusual: Homeschooling in Whatcom Men Like to Be Pampered Too

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Contents

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If the Pacific Northwest knows anything, it’s coffee. This beloved miracle drink helps us power through the soggy winter months, while cafes and coffee shops become cozy sanctuaries away from home. Cafes also serve as venues for local artists to display and sell their art, and create “third spaces” where people can work, collaborate, or just relax. This month, we celebrate our local cafes with a regional cafe crawl. See what coffee shops stand out in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties. Mark the one’s you’ve been to, and then step out to find a new favorite.

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Photo courtesy of Camber

Cafe Crawl

Photos: Left top to bottom: Courtesy of Bellingham Family Partnership Program, Brett Baunton. Middle top to bottom: Lorraine Wilde, Steve Johnston of ExposureLeak, Suzanne Rothmeyer Photography. Right top to bottom: Dean Davidson, Alina Simone

FEBRUARY 2021 LIFE

TASTE

24

Game Changer Turning Land Into Opportunity

16

Community The Year of Unusual 18

Spotlight Andrea Joyce Heimer

19

Book Notes Reviews and Virtual Events

19

Who Knew? Oceans

20

Heard Around the Sound

25

52

Review Milano’s Italian Seafood

Wellness Afresh Way to Care

STYLE

New Protections at

Bellingham Airport Dick’s Drive-In Food Truck

30

What to Plant in February

Savvy Shopper Martini Metal Craft

22

31

Beauty Q&A Kenna Balvanz

32

Necessities Stay Golden

Dining Guide

57

Food Trucks to Love

58

Local Find Monolo Eats Food Truck

Beauty Men Like to Be Pampered Too 35

Special Advertising Shop Local

62

Mixing Tin Bishop

63

8 Great Tastes

64

Five Faves Chocolate Shops

66

Special Advertising Menus

NOTES

34

Apps We Love Wellness

55

Sip Tropical Escape on Holly Street

Local Valentine’s Day Specials

23

Recipe The Perfect Winter Salad

60

Tiny Desks, Huge Impact

Community Undammed

54

4

Online Exclusive 20 Gifts Under $20

6

Editor’s Letter

8

Contributors

11

Letters to the Editor

12

Meet the Team Thomas Hughes

72

Lasting Image

February 2021 3

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

INSTAGRAM

Once you’ve tasted soft pretzels straight from your own oven there is no going back. With Oktoberfest upon us, what better way to celebrate than with homemade German-style pretzels? ...

20 GIFTS UNDER $20

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to show some love to the people around you, whether that’s your partner, your parents, or your best friend. While flowers and chocolate are tried-and-true standbys, we’ve compiled a list of locally sourced gifts that’ll impress your sweetie without hurting your wallet. From earrings and yarn to wine and beard tonic, there’s something for anyone who might need some extra love. The best part? Nothing is over $20.

This month’s online exclusive is a soft pretzel recipe that comes from King Arthur, pairing perfectly with Kerrygold’s Best-Ever Beer Cheese Sauce. Learn how to make them yourself, in the full article

by Stephanie Hoogestraat. Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography, link in bio!

EVENTS CALENDAR Be sure to check out our events calendar. If you have an event that you would like our readers to know about, bellinghamalive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city.

Go to bellinghamalive.com/events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved by our editorial staff, it is live.

BE IN THE KNOW Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com

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“It seems so odd in our society that everything is so gender-specific. As soon as I started making the shirts and doing all the cuts, I would let [my son] pick out the colors, and he really gravitates towards purple and even used notes of pink. We really wanted to make something that doesn’t need to be either boy or girl.” ...

Pip Squeak’s online store offers sensory, organic, gender-neutral children’s clothing. Read more about it in the full article by Chelsea Consolacion, photos courtesy of Pip Squeak. Link in bio!

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Notes Editor’s Letter

A

PRIL MAY BE THE CRUELEST MONTH, but February is

definitely the most boring.

With the excitement of the holidays behind us, and months of dreary weather ahead of us, it can be hard to feel hopeful.

If the pandemic has taught me anything, however, it’s that hope does not always occur organically.

Sometimes, we have to work for it, sculpting it like a mosaic from whatever we can find: scraps of good news, simple pleasures, memories of easier times. To help you feel hopeful, here are a few things (some more fanciful than others) to look forward to this month:

or friends. Your dog might appreciate a heart-shaped cookie, too. (For some fun ideas, check out our list of local business specials on p.20)

February 16 Mardi Gras is sure to look different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate at home with a Sazerac and a king cake, or drop by Bayou on Bay for a true Cajun meal.

February 17 Random Acts of Kindness Day. I don’t think we’ve ever needed this day more.

Pick up litter on your street, leave a flower on your neighbor’s porch, or pay someone’s parking meter.

February 2

February 27

Groundhog’s Day. What’s more fun than relying on a large ground squirrel to predict the winter ahead? Unless you’re Bill Murray, this is just free fun.

Weather permitting, look up to the sky to see the Snow Moon, named because of the snowy season. Other names include Hunger Moon and Storm Moon. (Okay, maybe these particular nicknames aren’t so hopeful, but the moon will still look pretty.)

February 4 Remember all those holiday packages your mailman delivered? Today’s your day to say thank you. Thank a Mailman Day is easy to celebrate, and your neighborhood postal employee will appreciate the gesture.

February 12 The Chinese New Year happens on this day, and this year is the year of the ox.

See? February isn’t all bad. At the very least, there’s only 28 days of it.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for somewhere to bide the time with a hot beverage and maybe a pastry or two, this month’s Cafe Crawl feature will give you plenty of ideas.

Sincerely,

February 14 Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romantic love. Take the day to celebrate everyone you care about — parents, children, siblings,

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BECKY MANDELBAUM Editor In Chief

Lightning. Powered by electricity.

The leaders of sports car innovation strike again. Introducing the all-electric Taycan. With up to 670 hp and a 0 to 60 time of 3.0 seconds. Packed with cuttingedge technology that helps you get more out of your drive. And iconic Porsche design DNA in every detail. The future of sports car soul looks electrifyingly bright.

Experience true electrified performance.

The Taycan Turbo.

Porsche Bellingham 2200 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Tel: (360) 734-5230 www.porschebellingham.com Š2021 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

Notes Contributors Tina L. Kies Tina is the owner of Chikara PR, LLC, a comprehensive public relations and content marketing agency. She is a nationally recognized and award-winning communicator with more than 20 years of professional industry experience.

For more information, visit chikarapr.com or call 360.630.9300.  p. 34

Are your estate planning documents in order?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and head out on your next adventure with peace of mind.

Genissa Sygitowicz Richardson, Attorney

PO Box 934, Bellingham WA 98227 360.392.2863, TrueNorthLegalServices.com Genissa@ TrueNorthLegalServices.com

Rena Kingery Rena Kingery is a student of the MA in Science Writing program at Johns Hopkins University.

Through her stories, she asks readers to re-examine their ideas of what science is, who scientists are, and what it means to do science. She lives in Bellingham, and when she is not reading or writing, she can be found playing folk music with her friends, riding her bike, or hiking in the mountains.  p. 22

Catherine Madera Catherine Madera is an award-winning writer of nonfiction, a former magazine editor, and author of three novels. She has lived in the beautiful Southfork Valley for 20 years with her husband, two children, and a menagerie of animals. She is a lover of outdoor places and especially enjoys Whatcom County on horseback, or hiking with two Great Danes. Catherine is available for freelance work and specializes in inspirational nonfiction and co-authoring. Contact her at maderacatherine72@gmail.com.  p. 25

Lorraine Wilde

The Kenoyers sell twice as many homes over $800,000 than their next closest competitor.

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Lorraine Wilde owns the public relations and content creation company, Wilde World Communications. She has published more than 250 articles and blogs on a range of subjects over the past two decades while living in beautiful Bellingham. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find her outside with her twin sons, gardening or walking her dogs, hiking and paddling in the amazing Pacific Northwest.  p. 24

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PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Couture Weddings MENU Seattle

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg EDITOR IN CHIEF Becky Mandelbaum ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Devan Ballard | Kristy Gessner Mia Sperandeo

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CONTRIBUTORS

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EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Noah Harper | Thomas Hughes Alina Simone | Mysti Willmon

OFFICE MANAGEMENT

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Mackenzie Epler, PA-C

Jenn Miranda

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Letters to the Editor Notes

Work It Out

A guide to local gyms

Saving Your Smile During COVID-19

JANUARY 2021

Outdoor Dining Guide

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Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Editor section.

We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact our editor at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

I absolutely loved seeing so many recipes in your magazine for the holiday issue. I’ve tried several so far and they are so good! I love that they are from local chefs, I can’t wait to come up again and try out their restaurants. Keep up the wonderful work!

LOVED the breakdown of local area gyms and activities. Learned about resources I didn’t know existed in the area…I just subscribed to your magazine 4 months ago and have taken away something great every issue.

— Leah M., Bellingham

— Marilyn H., Vancouver, WA I buy gift subscriptions every year for my family and friends using your holiday get one give one special. Such a wonderful local gift and what a deal.

Thank you!

Bellingham Alive is my go to magazine for our area, I especially enjoy the Taste section. Every issue I find a new restaurant to try and have started making the recipes you include. So far each one has been really tasty.

— Jessica V., Blaine, WA

— Kim P., Bellingham, WA

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February 2021 11

Notes Meet the Team

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Thomas Hughes

(360) 746 - 2288 1200 HARRIS AVE

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media?

I have been working as a photography intern for K & L Media for just about two weeks now, and for the past couple weeks I have been taking pictures for feature stories in the January and February issues. I plan to continue my role as a photo intern as well as taking up some writing responsibilities in the coming months.

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I am a visual journalism major at Western Washington University with a number of years of concert photography experience before that. I didn’t shoot much else until I started the journalism program in college, which dramatically diversified my portfolio.

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine?

The best experiences, of the times I have gone out to shoot, are being able to meet and interact with people I wouldn’t normally have more than a small conversation with. Especially in restaurant or cafe settings that I have shot, the owners have been great to me, and I often get to hear stories or tangents about their livelihoods.

In the current environment we live in, it’s refreshing to get to talk to someone like that through work.

What are some of your hobbies?

Call Belle Flora 360.734.8454 2408 Yew St., Bellingham

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A passion of mine outside of photography is music, which is the main reason I got into concert photography in the first place.

I play a number of instruments (mainly bass, guitar, and cello) and I write and perform music with a local band in Bellingham.

To get out of the house and stay active, I’m an avid hiker and kayaker and in the warmer months I play Quidditch with the Western Washington Wyverns (the college team, I know it sounds wacky but it exists). 

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The Year of Unusual 16 Undammed 22 Kulshan Community Land Trust 24

Life

People Waiting by Andrea Joyce Heimer

Spotlight

Andrea Joyce Heimer

18 February 2021 15

Life Community

The Year of Unusual Bellingham Family Partnership Program Helps Kids Learn from Home

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

F

OR THE MANY LOCAL FAMILIES who choose to homeschool their children, the Bellingham Family Partnership Program (BFPP) is there to help. The program emphasizes learning over schooling, honoring that education often occurs outside the realms of traditional academia. Another one of the program’s core ideas is that families are a child’s primary educators, and schools exist to support families.

The program works with homeschooled students from kindergarten through eighth grade, although the program prefers to group students by grade bands rather than hard grade levels.

Families may seek out homeschooling for a variety of reasons, whether a philosophical view of education, a family emergency, or because the students weren’t thriving in a traditional classroom setting. Whatever the reason, BFPP offers support and guidance during the homeschooling process.

Dr. Kate Baehr, formerly principal of Larrabee Elementary, began developing the program seven years ago. She and a committee began by visiting family partnership programs across Washington state, gleaning information about what made them successful. She noticed an emphasis on matching the program to the community’s specific needs, which is why the BFPP held, and still holds, surveys and information nights to determine what area families are seeking in terms of support. As a result, the program has evolved over the years, changing to meet the needs of local families.

The program is governed by Washington state and is part of the Bellingham school district, but operates under different laws. All teachers hold certifications, and while teachers help develop the learning plan, all lessons and coursework are delivered at home, by the parent.

The program has three core requirements: Create a learning plan. Each learning plan is tailored and paced for the individual learner. No two students have the same learning plan, since no two students learn in the same way — not even siblings. The plan covers curriculum, activities, goals, and timelines, and is developed jointly between the parent, child, and teacher.

• Make weekly contact. Although there’s no daily attendance, parents and students make weekly contact with the program either through a phone call, email, or Zoom.

•

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Photos courtesy of Bellingham Family Partnership Program

Catering to Community Needs

Since the pandemic, these meetings have often focused on social-emotional support.

• Hold a monthly review. Each month, students, parents, and teachers discuss the student’s progress. Families might review what books the student read and what concepts they covered in core subjects like math, science, and language arts.

Homeschooling During COVID-19 Surprisingly little has changed since the pandemic, in terms of BFPP’s mission and operations. Students still learn at home, relying on their learning plan, making weekly contact, and undergoing monthly reviews.

“For the most part, we are doing just what we have been,” says. Dr. Baehr.

One aspect has changed, however: enrollment numbers.

During the program’s first spring, it had 16 families, and grew to 60 families the next fall. Last March, when schools went virtual, the partnership expanded to 240 students. Now, the roster hovers above 500 students. Most of these families are from Whatcom County, but around 30% live outside of the Bellingham School District.

“It’s the year of unusual, so why not try something you’re not expecting to try?” says. Dr. Baehr.

While the surge in enrollment is the result of the pandemic, Dr. Baehr expects to retain some of these new families even once restrictions lift.

“I expect some of the families will get a taste of it and stay for a little longer,” she says.

Another difference is that enrichment classes — formerly a setting where kids could learn in a group environment — are

now held over Zoom rather than in-person. These enrichment classes, always optional, focus on extracurricular or supplemental skills such as drama or a foreign language.

Other online resources include workshops to support families, such as Homeschool 101, Making Math Manageable, and How to Organize Your Day and Week.

There’s also Circles of Care, which focuses on social and emotional wellbeing. The first topic was on hope.

An Opportunity for Lasting Change “How we approach the current situation really does affect the outcome,” says Dr. Baehr. “I truly believe that there isn’t learning loss with this, that there’s an opportunity to learn different things in different ways.”

She views this moment as an opportunity to amplify the role of families in education, and for school systems to explore how to partner with families in meaningful and authentic ways, including those related to racial and social justice.

“It doesn’t have to be homeschool,” says. Dr. Baehr of the emphasis on family participation in learning. “It feels like magic…it truly does…but everything we do can be done in other schools.”

Although unique, BFPP is not the only alternative learning program in the area. There’s also Mount Baker Academy, Meridian Family Partnership Program (MP3), Lynden Academy, and Home Connections in Blaine. Each one is distinct, with a slightly different delivery model, but they all work together and are reciprocal. 1409 18th St., Bellingham, 360, 676, 6424, bellinghamschools.org 

February 2021 17

Life Spotlight

Processing Through Painting A window into Andrea Joyce Heimer’s paintings

BY NOAH HARPER

F

OR ANDREA JOYCE HEIMER, art is not just

an outlet for creativity and stress relief, it’s also a way to record her life. Heimer is a local Ferndale painter with a unique style that often looks like it’s made of precision-cut construction paper but is in fact painstakingly painted. Heimer’s art is full of interesting characters with geometric bodies placed carefully into scenes bursting with color and texture. These scenes draw heavily from Heimer’s life and childhood.

“Most of my work is autobiographical, and a lot of it is dealing with feelings and things surrounding my adolescence and growing up. And that all took place in Montana,” Heimer says. “In my paintings, my work, Montana shows up much more prominently than the landscape of the Northwest.”

Heimer never planned on being an artist, but in 2012, after a depressive episode, her therapist suggested painting as a way to process unresolved parts of her childhood.

“I took it seriously and I made four paintings kind of based on our conversation. And then it snowballed after that because I found that kind of painting about this, like a really deep-seated, depressive kind of loneliness that I was carrying around with me, was a way to process it,” Heimer explains.

Heimer’s paintings also reference current events like the Black Lives Matter protests from this past summer. The painting “June Clash With Clubs, Smoke, And Flash Grenades With Mount Rainier Still Snowy From Winter” depicts the protests in Seattle, featuring colorful flames and geometric protesters.

Clash With Clubs, Smoke, And Flash Grenades With Mount Rainier Still Snowy From Winter

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BellinghamAlive.com

People Escaping To The Woods

The way Heimer crafts her paintings involves a long process. The first step is underpainting, where the straight lines come into play. Heimer employs the use of scotch tape to get the crisp edges her paintings are known for. She then goes in with an over-layer, adding more freehand details to the painting. It takes a long time, but the results, Heimer says, are worth it.

Heimer grew up in Great Falls, Montana before attending the New Hampshire Institute of Art, where she earned her Master’s in Fine Art in 2017. Heimer ended up in Ferndale after her husband toured the Pacific Northwest with his band and fell in love with the area.

When Heimer is not painting, she’s teaching. Heimer has taught at schools all over, including the Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver. She also teaches at Western Washington University and Whatcom Community College. At Western, Heimer instructs illustration classes; at Whatcom, she teaches painting, drawing, and 3D design.

While the circumstances of COVID make teaching harder, forcing classes online, Heimer powers through and plans to continue teaching at Western this winter. andrea-joyce.com 

Book Notes Life

Book Reviews

Virtual Literary Events

BY EMMA RADOSEVICH

February 20, 4:00 P.M.

The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices

by Casper ter Kuile

THIS PAST YEAR has left many of us feeling disconnected

Virtual Reading with author David Allen Sibley

from our communities, though as Casper ter Kuile reports, that’s nothing new. Americans have been trending away from organized religion for decades, but we still crave spiritual connection: with ourselves, with others, and with nature.

Ter Kuile is a graduate of the Harvard Divinity School and hosts a podcast called Harry Potter and the Sacred Text. “The Power of Ritual” explores the idea that some practices we associate with religion — observing the Sabbath, pilgrimage, prayer — can be meaningful even to the non-religious. He invites us to recognize and embrace the parts of our everyday lives that feel sacred.

“The Power of Ritual” is breezy and highly readable. Ter Kuile’s tone is chatty and not academic, though he’s clearly done his research. Highly recommended for fans of “The Art of Gathering” and “For Small Creatures Such as We.”

Birders and non-birders alike, mark your calendars for this virtual event, brought to you by a partnership between Village Books, North Cascades Audubon Society, and Whatcom READS. Author and artist David Alley Sibley will discuss his latest book, “What It’s Like to Be a Bird,” sharing insight into the secret life of birds alongside detailed illustrations from the book.

Register to learn whether birds can smell or if robins can ‘hear’ worms.

February 21, 4:00 P.M.

Virtual Group Poetry Reading

“AMBOY” IS A COOKBOOK THAT READS LIKE A MEMOIR, or vice versa. It’s not organized like a typical

Amboy: Recipes from the FilipinoAmerican Dream

by Alvin Cailan with Alexandra Cuerdo

Hosted by Village Books Register at: crowdcast.io/e/davidallen-sibley-village/register

cookbook. Instead, each chapter introduces us to a time in Chef Alvin Cailan’s life: the people, the places, and the dishes he ate and made. Early chapters include family recipes from summers spent in the Philippines and his first experiments with Filipino-American food (see: cheeseburger lumpia). Later, when Cailan enrolls in culinary school, the recipes tend toward French sauces and comfort food.

Between chapters, filmmaker Alexandra Cuerdo interviews Cailan about his life and recipes. Cailan has an infectious enthusiasm for food that makes these conversations easy and fun to read. Even if you don’t plan on building an outdoor oven for a hog roast (lechón) or a bench for grating coconuts (Cailan includes DIY instructions for both!), this book has plenty for foodies of all levels to appreciate.

Hosted by Village Books Register at: crowdcast.io/e/gigot-millerfueston/register

At this virtual event, three poets will share work from their most recent books. Local Bow-based poet, farmer, teacher, and musician Jessica Gigot will read from her latest book, “Feeding Hour.” She’s joined by Washington D.C.-based poet Chloe Yelena Miller, who will be reading from her new book, “Viable,” and writer Jen Stewart Fueston, who will be reading from “Madonna, Complex.” All three books focus on themes of motherhood.

Who Knew? Oceans The Sun Makes it Blue That signature blue ocean we all know and love is actually caused by the sun.

Blue wavelengths from the sun penetrate further down into the water than others, giving the sea its blue tint.

The lower you go, the bluer the water will look.

Oceans Make Oxygen Forget trees, oceans and their plantlife provide 70% of the oxygen in our atmosphere.

Marine plants like phytoplankton release oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

It is estimated that phytoplankton are responsible for the oxygen in one out of every five breaths a human takes.

The Waterfall that’s Underwater Denmark Strait is the same size as 2,000 of the world’s largest waterfalls put together, but it’s under the Atlantic Ocean. As cold water from the east meets warm water from the west, the denser cold water sinks down, causing the waterfall.

Rivers and Lakes Can Be Found in Oceans Water from the sea floor dissolves salt, making depressions. Because water by the depression is so dense with salt, it sinks into it, creating rivers and lakes at the bottom of the ocean.

MYSTI WILLMON

February 2021 19

Life Heard Around the Sound

S 11,907 K-12 STUDENTS IN BELLINGHAM GRIND AWAY AT THEIR STUDIES this school

year, some have a harder time than others when it comes to finding a comfortable workplace at home.

Shawn Serdahl of A1DesignBuild in Bellingham recognized this issue for his own kids and promptly ordered desks for both of his daughters.

“When my family was getting our two girls set up at home for remote learning, we realized that our youngest did not have a great place for online learning without the distraction of the other goingson in the house,” Serdahl explains.

Serdahl recognized that other families were not as fortunate as his, and were not able to purchase desks for their children’s remote learning.

Serdahl showed his colleagues at A1DesginBuild an Instagram post in which a construction worker donated desks to students participating in remote learning; by the end of the day, project manager Patrick Martin had created a prototype.

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ALINA SIMONE

What Veggies to Plant in February UR GROWING SEASON is pretty

short in Western Washington, so if you want to get your garden growing early, February is a great time to start some of your veggie seeds indoors, or

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A1 contract manager Justus Peterson connected with Bellingham Millwork Supply Co. about costs and donations of supplies. By the next week, A1 had 25 sheets of plywood — 10 donated and the other 15 at a significantly reduced cost — and were ready to start building. The project went from idea to delivery in just four weeks.

Construction began in early November and the desks were delivered in early December. In total, more than 60 desks were delivered around the community.

Instructions and plans for the desks will soon be available on the A1DesginBuild website for free.

“We try to be open to all opportunities to use our skills and resources to help those around us,” says Martin. “I think we all feel that it is our responsibility to help those less-fortunate in our community, it is a founding principle for our co-op.”

BellinghamAlive.com

in a greenhouse if you have one. At City Spouts Farm, an urban vegetable farm in the Birchwood neighborhood, we start all our alliums (onions, leeks, etc.) in February. ELLIE DUNCAN

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What are some local Valentine’s Day specials?

OR A FUN mixology night

at home with your person, order the Hotel Sex Cider Cocktail Kit from Thousand Acre Cider House. You get a bottle of cava, 32 oz. berry cider, and assorted fruit to soak in the flavors.

Get your sweetie something sweet from Pure Bliss Desserts, which will be open on February 14. Specialty offerings include Pink Champagne Cake, a Be My Valentine Cupcake Box, and a Belgian Chocolate Tart for Two. While you’re there, pick up a bottle of champagne or sparkling cider.

Semiahmoo Resort is hosting a King Estate Winery Valentine’s Day Special Event. Enjoy five gourmet courses, each paired with a glass of wine. Participants who wish to stay at the resort will receive a special rate. The resort’s on-site restaurant, Packers Kitchen + Bar, will also offer a more casual dining option.

BECKY MANDELBAUM

KALE Kale is a wonderful staple to have in your garden that grows all year round.

You can start kale seeds inside now, and then transplant the small plants into your garden in March.

Left: Photos by Patrick Martin, Right: Photo courtesy of Pure Bliss

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Tiny Desks, Huge Impact

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New Protections at Bellingham International Airport

HE TUMULTUOUS YEAR OF 2020 left many industries scrambling to adapt. Amid government restrictions and worry over the spread of COVID-19, the travel industry had to institute quick and effective measures to protect employees and patrons.

Locally, The Port of Bellingham turned their focus to the Bellingham International Airport (BLI), which remained open as an essential critical service. The airport was recently upgraded to touchless bathrooms, with contact-free sink faucets, toilets, paper towel dispensers, and soap dispensers.

One of the biggest challenges, the closure of the Canadian border, continues to present issues for BLI. Over the summer, airlines saw passenger rates decline by as much as 69%. However, due to low operational costs and various cutbacks, the airport remained cash positive.

Another challenge involved maintaining the health of the airport’s rescue fire fighters, who are specifically trained to respond to aircraft emergencies. Schedules and shifts were adjusted so that a positive covid test among the fire fighters wouldn’t require the whole team to quarantine, leaving the airport unprotected.

Since March, the Port has also implemented procedures requiring gloves and face coverings for employees, enhanced cleaning procedures, remote working, and social distancing across Whatcom transportation terminals. Shuttle services were also suspended.

“Protecting the health of Port employees and community members while preserving jobs and the health of our regional economy has been a priority during these challenging times,” says Mike Hogan, Public Affairs Administrator for Port of Bellingham.

Although flights out of Bellingham have been drastically reduced, direct trips are still available to destinations like Las Vegas, San Diego, Kona, and Tucson. ANELYSE MORRIS

ONIONS Since onions have more days to maturity, it’s a good idea to start your onion seeds early! Use one large pot or box to start your onions, then divide them up to transplant later in the spring, when the plants are roughly as thick as a chopstick.

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ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

ACH MONTH, we give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day on bellinghamalive.com. A winner will be chosen by random draw, and notified via email and/or phone. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local.

Below is the Enter-To-Win prize for this month.

Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse

$50 Gift Card

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Dick’s Drive-in Food Truck Coming to Bellingham EATTLE’S FAMOUS DICK’S DRIVE-IN BURGERS is

coming to Bellingham in the form of a food truck.

After a contest that was held in September to decide where the trucks will go first, more than 40,000 votes were cast and Bellingham was selected along with Bellevue, Everett, Renton, and West Seattle. The trucks will feature Dick’s famous burgers, consistently voted among the best burgers in Seattle. Sadly, they will not offer Dick’s signature fries.

An official date and location has not yet been revealed for the Bellingham truck, but more details are to be released soon. NOAH HARPER

MUSTARD GREENS AND LETTUCE If you’re eager for some greenery to add to your meals, you can try your luck growing mustard greens and lettuce outdoors. These hardy greens are cold-tolerant and can be directly seeded into your garden year-round.

LOOKING AHEAD If you get a late start on planting, check out the City Sprouts Farm plant sale in May! We will have a wide variety of vegetable and flower starts ready for transplant into your garden. See details at citysproutsfarm.com.

February 2021 21

Life Community

River Before Removal

River After Removal

Undammed Restoration Project on Nooksack Merges Indigenous and Western Knowledge

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HE MIDDLE FORK NOOKSACK RIVER IS COLD AND MURKY,

cascading through cedar and hemlock forests typical of northwest Washington. Moss-covered boulders, sword ferns, and willows dot its banks.

Its icy waters trickle from glaciers atop Mount Baker. Follow the river downstream and it meets the main channel, snaking through farmland and towns until it empties into the bay.

The Middle Fork flowed in this way for millennia. But when the city of Bellingham built a diversion dam on the Middle Fork in 1961 to supplement the city’s water supply, the river’s natural course was disrupted, cutting off salmon spawning habitat and devaluing the river in the eyes of the Indigenous people who have always lived there.

Decades of negotiations finally brought the dam down in late summer 2020, restoring fish passage to the river and providing an example of a growing 22

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trend in which Indigenous groups, scientists, and city officials work together to address species loss caused by human impacts and climate change.

More Than a River The Nooksack River and its three tributaries, the North, Middle, and South forks, have been home to the Nooksack people for thousands of years. The Middle Fork is called Nuxwt’ìqw’em in the Nooksack language, which means “always murky.” Unlike the other two forks of the Nooksack, which were shared with other area tribes, the Middle Fork was exclusively Nooksack territory, giving it immense cultural significance for the tribe.

Before Bellingham constructed the diversion dam on the Middle Fork, the river had been “unchanged for time immemorial,” says Trevor Delgado, the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Nooksack Indian Tribe. Delgado

works to educate the community, both tribal and non-tribal members, on the rich history of the Nooksack people.

He also reviews city, state, and federal projects that could impact Nooksack cultural resources.

“We as the Nooksack people always lived according to how the river was,” he says. “We never had to do anything [to change it.]”

In addition to serving as a valuable fishing and gathering grounds for the Nooksack community, the river also holds spiritual significance.

“It was a place of meditation; it was a place of gathering yourself,” Delgado explains.

The dam changed all that. Its design did not incorporate fish passage, even though state law at the time required it, and over the decades, fish populations plummeted. The river’s Chinook salmon, steelhead, and bull trout were listed as Federally Threatened Species under the Endangered Species Act

Photos by Brett Baunton

BY RENA KINGERY

(ESA). Beloved Southern resident killer whales of nearby Puget Sound, for which Chinook is an important food source, also declined. And the spiritual power of the Middle Fork Nooksack River diminished in the eyes of the Nooksack people.

The Nooksack Tribe was not federally recognized in 1961, so they were not consulted before the dam was constructed, (though even federally recognized tribes rarely had a say in government projects on their land). But the tribe surely could have predicted the far-reaching ecological consequences that ensued after the dam was built. They had lived on the river for thousands of years, and intimate knowledge of the area and its resources had been passed down over generations.

Working Together to Protect Our Waters Recently, Indigenous communities have begun working alongside scientists and local governments to implement strategies based on Indigenous knowledge for adapting to and reversing these rapid environmental changes.

Delgado, among other Nooksack members, worked closely with the city during the dam removal process.

Another key player was Ned Currence, who serves as the Fisheries and Resource Program Manager for the Nooksack Tribe. Since beginning work as a biologist for the tribe in 1998, he has brought together government and local organizations to protect salmon and trout in the Nooksack waterways.

“The tribes and tribal staff jointly manage the fisheries and shellfish resources with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife,” Currence says. “We share the goal of recovering ESA-listed species, like Chinook.”

With his extensive knowledge of fisheries and water resources, Currence has been essential in advancing a restoration plan for the Middle Fork that worked for all parties.

According to Currence, discussions that began in the 1990s led to

additional partnerships in the early 2000s between the Nooksack Tribe, Lummi Nation (another local tribe with ties to the Nooksack river), and city and government organizations.

Yet years of failed design proposals followed, impeded by prohibitively high costs of restructuring the dam and the city’s water diversion system. Finally, in 2019, American Rivers and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation joined the team and provided additional funding and support, in part because controversies were resolved among all parties in advance.

“When jurisdictions work together, funding agencies take notice and that increases one’s odds [of receiving support],” says Currence.

The new design called for partial removal of the dam and reconstruction of the diversion system further upstream. The innovative solution includes a fish screen inside the new diversion tunnel and an additional offshoot that trapped fish can use to return to the river.

A Small Way of Healing Work is now complete, and the Middle Fork flows freely. Miles of previously inaccessible habitat are once again open to native salmon and trout, which have not been seen in the upper regions of the river since before the dam was built. Analyses predict that, over time, this habitat expansion will allow fish populations to recover; and more Chinook means more food for the endangered Southern resident killer whales, of which fewer than 80 remain.

Though so much has changed on the Middle Fork in the last two centuries, since the arrival of European settlers, Delgado says the dam removal has offered a small way of healing.

“Things are going in the right direction,” he says.

He hopes the city of Bellingham will place a cultural significance marker at the site of the former dam which would include the Nooksack name for the river and communicate a message to future generations: “Let it serve as a reminder [that] today it takes multiple parties to get this work done.” 

APPS WE L VE Calm Calm.com, Inc. After a year like 2020, keeping calm isn’t the easiest thing to do. If you’re looking for something to help, Calm lets you select up to seven goals, from reducing stress and anxiety to building self-esteem and getting better sleep. All you have to do is fill out a questionnaire to unlock meditation guides, sleep stories, and soothing music.

Centr, by Chris Hemsworth Centr Find your Centr with Chris Hemsworth’s all-around fitness app.

Choose from various six-week workout programs to train with world-class trainers, at home or at the gym. Eat convenient, healthy, and wholesome meals approved by dietitians and renowned chefs. Live life to the fullest with guided meditations, confidence boosters, and community support. Memberships start at $10/month.

Loóna Loóna Inc. Voted Google Play’s “Best App of 2020,” Loóna is revolutionizing bedtime stories. If you’re someone who can’t put their phone down at night, use this app to your advantage. Loóna offers interactive guided sleep scapes, 3D scenes, and stories that work to lull you to sleep in a stress-reducing, fun way. Don’t want to keep your eyes open? Try Loóna’s original music and sound journeys.

OfferUp OfferUp Inc. One person’s trash is another’s treasure, and with OfferUp you can dig through and find your own treasure, locally. From clothing and appliances to furniture and cars, you can buy and sell through a secure platform, now combined with Letgo. Get one-of-a-kind finds from people in your community at a negotiable price. ANELYSE MORRIS

February 2021 23

Life Game Changer

Turning Land Into Opportunity Kulshan Community Land Trust Pushes Forward in 2021

BY LORRAINE WILDE

and especially during a tumultuous 2020, Kulshan Community Land Trust (KulshanCLT) has tenaciously pursued their mission. They strengthen community by holding land in trust for permanently affordable homeownership and other community needs, and by offering financial and educational services to low- to moderate-income working families in Whatcom County.

They are scaling up to meet the ever growing need for affordable housing. Multiple community partners are helping them move their mission forward.

Telegraph Townhomes In Fall 2020, KulshanCLT, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Whatcom County and Whatcom Community Foundation, completed the first phase of construction at Telegraph Townhomes. Eight low- to moderateincome working families became permanently affordable homeowners! KulshanCLT will enter the next phase of construction, building four more townhomes at the site in mid-2021.

Urban Farming Feeds the Birchwood Neighborhood and Beyond City Sprouts Farm is entering its fourth successful season of urban farming on a half-acre of KulshanCLT’s Birchwood Neighborhood property. The farm’s organicallygrown produce is sold from June through October at the Birchwood Farmers Market and a number of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares. They also grow 1,000 pounds of beets and 300 pounds of tomatillos on contract for the Bellingham Food Bank’s “Food Bank Fresh” program each year.

On the remainder of the three-acre Birchwood property, KulshanCLT is working with architect Dan Welch of [bundle]

design studio and the City of Bellingham to further predevelopment site planning for nine or more new homes.

New Texas Street ADA-Accessible Home Bellingham City Council approved the transfer of a surplus residential parcel (611 Texas Street) to KulshanCLT for affordable housing. KulshanCLT will build an ADAaccessible, permanently affordable single-family residence there. A potential family has been identified for the home, one with a disabled child with a progressive illness.

The project was not possible without the city transfer because lots in that area are selling on the open market in excess of $160,000.

World-renowned, Bellingham-based architect Greg Robinson has developed a beautiful cottage design for the home. Cascade Joinery is very excited to build the home.

Construction will continue through early 2021.

New Millworks Co-op Housing KulshanCLT is also hoping to participate in a new community housing development on the waterfront at the base of Cornwall Avenue, land currently owned by the Port of Bellingham. KulshanCLT Executive Director Dean Fearing and representatives from Millworks have been meeting with Whatcom Community Foundation to solidify KulshanCLT’s role in facilitating the project’s homeownership component.

They hope to use a co-op model where families buy shares of the building, owning either condominiums or co-op style homes. A seven- or eight-story building is planned with a ground-floor commercial processing kitchen and both affordable rentals and permanently affordable homes for purchase. This project will be the first to honor the Port’s commitment to include at least 10% affordable homes in the development. They’ll ambitiously begin construction in early 2021. Kulshan Community Land Trust, 1303 Commercial St., Ste. 6, Bellingham, 360.671.5600, kulshanclt.org 

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Photos: Left by Lorraine Wilde, Right courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Whatcom County

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HROUGHOUT ITS NEARLY 20-YEAR HISTORY,

Wellness Life

AFresh Way to Care AFresh Respiratory Therapy Services & Equipment

BY CATHERINE MADERA

Photos by Catherine Madera

W

HAT MOST OF US WANT in 2021 is a fresh start.

Local respiratory therapists Kelly Maycumber and Amrit Kaur are no exception, though these courageous entrepreneurs were not content to wait for a new year. Instead, they began planning the launch of their new respiratory care business in mid-2020, despite the global epidemic ravaging the very system they work to protect.

For both women, respiratory care has always been personal. For Kaur it began with watching her grandmother suffer from severe, undiagnosed COPD while living in central California. Maycumber’s commitment to quality patient care started with her own son, who suffered from childhood asthma while growing up in Fort Riley, Kansas.

Maycumber moved to the Bellingham area in 2003, after being recruited by a local company to start a sleep equipment division. She met Kaur several years later, and the two quickly became friends, connected by a passion for patient care and a frustration with corporate health care models. “(Over the years) I had countless patients call or walk-in on the verge of tears over the issues they were dealing with,” Kaur says.

Those issues included things like outsourced billing and a low priority for follow-up care. Maycumber also observed the growing emphasis on numbers, not patients.

Though Maycumber and Kaur have a combined work experience of over 40 years, the two women never imagined they would go into business together. It took an exodus from

Maycumber’s corporate job, and the offer of big money to work with COVID-19 patients in New York City, for her to ponder her professional calling. She discussed it all with Kaur.

“I told Amrit, I think I’ll start a company fresh, one that will listen to the patient and be able to impact our community regardless of the crisis that comes our way,” says Maycumber.

Kaur’s response was immediate and enthusiastic. Soon after, AFresh Respiratory Therapy Services & Equipment was born.

There is nothing easy about launching a medical business, but both Kaur and Maycumber are committed to their fledgling company and its mission statement: “Providing compassion and hope, with unmatched respiratory care, to each and every patient.”

Both respiratory therapists specialize in sleep and noninvasive therapies and prioritize relationship-building with patients, ensuring everyone receives the best equipment and follow-up care possible. The company provides many types of sleep therapy machines, nebulizers, and offers services such as in-home/office education and instruction on mask fitting with the latest technology for COVID-19 prevention.

While they are prepared and trained to help all ages, both have an affinity for seniors.

“I dearly love helping the elderly, and I have a heart for this population,” says Maycumber. “We will all be there one day.” 1501 Fraser St., Bldg. M, Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.946.2828, afreshcares.com  February 2021 25

Life Special Advertisement

Bringing new cardiovascular technology to Whatcom County

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HE PEACEHEALTH ST. JOSEPH CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER

is continually at the forefront of leading-edge technologies in cardiac imaging and cardiovascular procedures and surgeries; it is committed to bringing new treatment options with improved outcomes to Whatcom County patients. Such is the case for the WATCHMAN™ and Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (or TCAR) procedures.

WATCHMAN™ Implant Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a form of irregular heartbeat that causes rapid but ineffective beating of the upper chambers of the heart (the atria).

Twenty percent of all strokes occur in patients with AFib. Traditional stroke-prevention treatment for AFib has included blood-thinning medication, which is not well-tolerated by some patients and carries a significant risk for bleeding complications.

WATCHMAN™ offers a groundbreaking alternative to blood thinners for people with AFib. The WATCHMAN implant itself is shaped like a jellyfish, and is a selfexpanding device made from a nickeltitanium alloy. It stops blood from

John MacGregor, MD Associate Medical Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at PeaceHealth

entering the left atrial appendage of the heart, significantly decreasing the chance of the formation of stroke-causing blood clots. The procedure is usually completed within an hour.

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cardiovascular Center was the first to perform the procedure in northern Washington in 2017 and recently expanded its treatable patient population with a more versatile version of the device, known as WATCHMAN FLX™.

John MacGregor, MD, associate medical director of cardiac electrophysiology, is one of the physicians who performs the procedure. “I have many personal and professional stories of people with AFib who suffered from the side effects of blood thinners because this treatment wasn’t available to them,” Dr. MacGregor said. “It’s an honor to offer this option to my patients.”

Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)

WATCHMAN™ Implant

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BellinghamAlive.com

Vascular Surgeon Connie Zastrow, MD, is also pleased to offer her patients a new stroke-preventing technology: Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR). TCAR is a safe, less invasive option to treat carotid disease, a

Connie Zastrow, MD PeaceHealth Vascular Surgeon

narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck due to plaque build-up that can cause stroke.

“TCAR combines the best features of both surgical treatment and stenting,” Dr. Zastrow explained. “It’s a way of placing a stent that reduces the risk of stroke, and it provides a new way of protecting the brain during a stent procedure.”

The TCAR procedure begins with a small incision made just above the collarbone to allow access to the carotid artery. A sheath (a short hollow tube) is then placed in the carotid artery. To protect the brain from debris during the procedure, a circuit outside the body directs the blood flow away from the brain and safely back into a vein in the leg. This is called “reverse flow” and allows Dr. Zastrow to place a stent (an expandable mesh tube) at the site of the disease for long-term plaque stabilization and stroke prevention.

“The patients that we’ve seen have felt pretty much back to normal within a couple of days, in line with the usual recovery time for this procedure,” Dr. Zastrow shared. “It’s exciting to have this kind of technology and be able to offer it to patients in our community.” 

Martini Metal Craft 30 Beauty Q&A Kenna Balvanz 31

Photo by Suzanne Rothmeyer Photography

Necessities: Stay Golden 32

Style

Men Like to Be Pampered Too

34 February 2021 29

Style Savvy Shopper

Pedal to the Metal Martini Metal Craft

BY ANELYSE MORRIS

The Studio You can find Martini Metal Craft Studio in Fairhaven’s historic Morgan Block Building, where it first opened in 2011. Owner Marijo Martini says the history of the space and its surrounding community inspired the direction of her business and brand identity.

“This community I get to work in fills me with so much love and joy,” Martini says. “Stellar people are doing phenomenally creative things, and I am lucky to be surrounded by it.”

While many things are cancelled due to COVID-19, Martini usually hosts in-person events in the studio to showcase her product lines. She says the pandemic has challenged her to step out of her comfort zone and revamp customers’ online experience.

“We all are learning how to adapt, but I dearly miss the experience of a brick-and-mortar shop,” Martini says.

“There is nothing that replaces that feeling of shopping in a physical store.”

While the studio has been open for a decade, Martini started making jewelry more than 20 years ago. Although a high school aptitude test predicted a career in the arts, it wasn’t until she got engaged two decades later that she decided to make her own wedding rings, and started calling herself an artist.

Martini still works full-time as a tradeshow logistics coordinator for a local manufacturing corporation, growing her metal making business over time, all as a one-woman team.

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Photos by Steve Johnston of ExposureLeak

Key People

Beauty Q&A Style

Beauty Q&A with Kenna Balvanz Winter means spending lots of time indoors, where heaters can dry out our skin. What are some products you recommend for revamping lackluster skin?

First off, you need to be exfoliating off all that dry, dead skin! I recommend Skin Script Retinol 2% Exfoliating Scrub (available for purchase at my salon, Symmetrie!) After exfoliating, you can go in and add all the great products to make your skin glow!

A personal favorite of mine is the IT Cosmetics’ Confidence in a Gel Lotion. It’s super light, great before you put makeup on, and hydrates your skin.

Also don’t forget your lips this time of year! I have been loving the LUX Lip Oil from ColourPop. It feels soooo nice on the lips and adds so much hydration.

“I’ve been creating jewelry since 1998, and I have so much more to learn,” she says. “Running a business and striving to make it better each year teaches me about my limits.”

What You’ll Find Martini Metal Craft offers a variety of “simply elegant” jewelry, from earrings and necklaces to cuffs and custom creations for both men and women. Most pieces are made from sterling silver, sometimes mixed with copper or brass.

“I try to balance my style eye with clean-lined detail that does not overpower, yet beckons to be worn every day,” Martini says. “Pacific Northwest style is about ease, and my jewelry fits that style standard.”

Customers can shop online or make appointments to shop at the studio. You can also purchase Martini Metal Craft products through local retailers like Ideal, Museum of Northwest Art, and Pacific Northwest Shop.

Favorites The most popular collection, the Mozzafiato Collection, launched in November 2019. Each piece is hand-fabricated from raw materials and texturized through a rolling mill with a topographic map pattern plate, resulting in a stunning mixed metal aesthetic.

Going forward, Martini looks forward to building her skill set and integrating gold into her work in 2021, something that was previously an obstacle due to expense.

“I am a firm believer in following the ‘just keep moving’ philosophy,” she says. “No matter how defeated you might feel or how overwhelmed your life can get, if you have a passion you want to pursue, keep taking baby steps to make it happen.”

1000 Harris Ave., Studio 9, Bellingham, martinimetalcraft.com 

We’ve all been spending a lot of time at home. What’s your daily at-home beauty routine, from skincare to makeup? Has this changed at all since before the pandemic?

I would say the main thing that has changed is I do more at-home spa nights, because who doesn’t want a little extra pampering, especially in a pandemic? Let me share a few of my favorite home spa products. The Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask is great for clearing out your pores. If you want to feel extra fancy, the Baggage Claim Eye Masks from Wander Beauty are amazing! They help depuff and smooth out the under-eye area. A Jade Roller is also so fun to give yourself a little facial massage to increase blood flow. The roller also helps products soak in more.

What do you recommend for people who want to feel pretty at home?

I would recommend finding a beauty routine that works for you and makes you feel put together. For me, using some tinted moisturizer, brow gel, mascara, and lip balm makes me feel pretty, even when I’m just at home. Now is also a great time to play around, maybe try a makeup trend you’ve been wanting to try but aren’t quite ready to wear out!

If you could only bring one beauty product with you to a desert island, what would it be?

Oh man this is hard! I’m going to cheat and give you one skincare product and one makeup product.

For skincare it would have to be face wash. I just love the feeling of having a clean face and can’t go without it! For makeup it would be a tinted moisturizer.  February 2021 31

Style Necessities

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Penny Pinchers

Stay Golden

ESTATE CLEARANCE

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

F

8500 sq ft shopping destination.

Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, tools and home furnishings. Look for us on Facebook for New Inventory & Weekly Sales!

EBRUARY CAN OFTEN FEEL

like the gloomiest time of the year. Add some muchneeded light to your look with these gold-toned finds sourced from local businesses and makers. From a functional, honey-colored leather tote to a 14-karat gold locket that supports the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, there are plenty of ways to feel golden while shopping local. 

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Moss Bags Crossbody in Honey $145, Moss Bags, mossbags.com

360.927.7570, 4894 Guide Meridian Bellingham, WA

WITH OVER 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE, I WORK TO ENSURE MY CLIENTS SUCCESS. WWW.KARENTIMMER.COM KAREN@KARENTIMMER.COM | 360.410.0848

Aster Earrings $32, Megan Lee Designs, meganlynnlee.com

HYFVE Back Detail Cardigan $42, Fringe Boutique, shop.wearfringe.com

14K Goldfilled Kindred Locket $88, apse, apse.us

Gold Leaf Hemisphere Necklace in Lichen/Willow $86, Alisha Merrick, alishamerrickart.com

Fairhaven Barkley Bakerview Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay

• • • • • • •

Orthopaedics Work Injuries Hand Therapy Sports Injuries Auto Injuries Post Surgical Pelvic Health

Best of the NW Winner 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

www.capstonept.com

February 2021 33

Style Beauty

Men Like to Be Pampered Too PURE Skin + Wellness offers waxings, lash lifts, and more

BY TINA L. KIES

might mean having a beer, catching a game on the TV, or, perhaps, getting a Brazilian wax treatment, also known as a “manzillion.”

Yes, you read that right.

In 2012, owner and esthetician Melissa Harris founded PURE Skin + Wellness, a luxury spa and wellness center located in historic downtown Mount Vernon. In addition to utilizing organic, vegan, and cruelty-free products, Melissa has carved out a niche of spa treatments specifically designed for men.

“Men like to be pampered but, for a lot of them, walking into a salon can be intimidating,” says Harris. “The environment is unfamiliar to them, and the idea of receiving a wax or lash lift can feel unsettling or even embarrassing.”

To combat this stigma, PURE offers men a safe place to get pampered, receive much-needed services, and do it in a way that maintains their privacy and elevates their well-being.

Treatments That May Raise a (Uni)Brow PURE has always focused on advanced organic skincare, massages, and facial services like eyelash enhancements and eyebrow artistry. In fall of 2020, PURE expanded its services to include sugaring, special event makeup, hair, bikini facials, and male waxing services.

Today, PURE is one of only a few spas in the region to offer male waxing services that go beyond the traditional back and chest wax.

Leading the male services at PURE is Hawaii-native Jazzy Adams, a Washington State Board certified esthetician.

As dynamic as her name suggests, Adams brings to PURE a professionalism, charisma, and calming confidence necessary for performing treatments as intimate as a Brazilian wax.

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“Men want to be pampered and cleaned up the same way as women,” Adams says. “As an esthetician, I want to be able to cater to everyone. Brazilian waxing is a service that I provide for men and women. It’s just a body part to me, so I’m going to wax it!”

Creating an atmosphere that allows men to come into PURE and not feel awkward is vital for return business.

“If I, as the esthetician, am confident, professional, and honest about the procedure, the experience will be comfortable for the client,” Adams says.

More Than Just Manzillions The trend for spa treatments that cater to men is rising.

The International Spa Association reported in its 2017 Consumer Snapshot that 49% of spa customers are men, up from 29% in 2005.

At PURE, men come in for a wide variety of treatments.

Eyebrow waxing is quite common, as is waxing of the back and chest areas. Facial artistry is seeing growing popularity, including lash lifts and tints, as well as full Brazilian waxing.

In addition to men’s waxing, PURE recently introduced another unorthodox treatment to its repertoire, something they call “Bikini Facials.” The new skin treatment helps reduce and treat ingrown hairs, inflammation, and dark spots post-wax. This is done through a streamlined process of double cleansing, an enzyme exfoliation scrub, two masque varieties, traditional extraction, and moisturizing.

This service is available for both female and male clientele.

“We’d love for men to get over the hurdle of saying, ‘that’s just not what men do,’ and come see us,” Harris says. “Self-care is not just for women. There is a universal desire to feel good about ourselves. We can help get you there!” 419 South 1st St., Ste. A, Mount Vernon, 360.336.6161, pureskinwellnessspa.com 

Photo by Suzanne Rothmeyer Photography

F

OR MANY MEN, relaxing after a stressful week

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8115 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine 360.332.3647 bowwowwoofs.com

3. 100% Custom Wood Glasses Frames “Heidi” in Navy, White and Natural | $520 Binyon Vision 411 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.647.2020, binyonvision.com

4. Cannabis Infused Lubricant

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Premier Recreational Cannabis 5200 172nd St. NE, Ste. F101, Arlington 360.550.9333, prcwa.com

5. Residential Portraits!

Starting at $650 Ben Mann Studio & Gallery 1000 Harris Ave., Ste. 18, Bellingham (By Appointment) 360.920.4022, ben-mann.com

6. A Heart For Animals Tee | $39 Statement Apparel

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2945 Newmarket St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com

7. Raw Local Honey Pot Club $69.99 Marie’s Bees 360.224.2387, mariesbees.com

8. Exclusive 18k Gold & Moissanite by Local Artist, Sally Poorman | $1,000 Whimsey 1001 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.5568, shopwhimsey.com

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8 February 2021 35

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM, ANELYSE MORRIS, NOAH HARPER, AND ALINA SIMONE

A

CCORDING 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, becoming nexuses for political discourse, culture, and art.

Fast forward a few hundred years, and not much has changed. Cafes still serve as gathering points where people can exchange ideas, meet friends, and display art. They’re where we can relax with a cup of coffee — or maybe, circa 2021, a lavender matcha latte with soy milk and vegan whipped cream — but also where we can quietly read a book, work remotely from our laptop, or catch up with a friend. In the age of coronavirus, cafes allow us to enjoy a quick refresher, either on an outdoor patio or on-the-go.

To celebrate the beloved cafe culture of the Pacific Northwest, we’ve compiled a list of mustvisit cafes throughout Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. Whether you like your cafes modern and brightly lit, with boho decor and eclectic drinks, or prefer something a little more homey, with no-fuss food, unlimited black coffee, and friendly faces, we’ve got something for everyone.

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BellinghamAlive.com

Cafe Cafe Crawl Crawl

BELLINGHAM

ANMLY Cafe

ANMLY Cafe Situated on the ground floor of the Bellingham Towers, across from the historic Mount Baker Theatre, ANMLY Cafe offers a sustainable, nutritious, and friendly destination for coffee, breakfast, and lunch. They’re constantly working toward becoming a zero-waste cafe. As part of this effort, they’ve forgone single-use items and curb food waste whenever possible.

The cafe prides itself on offering nutrient-dense food items. The menu is constantly evolving, but one reliable staple is the Breakfast Burrito ($9.50), featuring hashbrowns, brown rice, salsa, and chipotle-lime aioli. Add scrambled eggs or chorizo for some extra oomph. The Crunchwrap Daydream ($12) is a crispy hexagonal tortilla packed with tons of flavorful goodies: chorizo, avocado, shredded cabbage, and a blend of mozzarella and cotija cheese.

On the drink menu are various signature drinks, like the Lavender Latte ($4) and Matcha Tonic ($5). Pumpkin-spice lovers will be pleased to find the *I Can’t Even* PSL ($4.25), perfect as a warm pick-me-up during the cold winter months.

ANMLY also makes a mean smoothie. The Daily Greens Smoothie ($7) is packed with superfoods like kale, ginger, pineapple, banana, and avocado.

The Strawberry Rose Smoothie ($6.50) is a unique blend of strawberries, rose blossom water, dates, pineapple, ginger, and banana.

ANMLY is open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 130, Bellingham, 360.922.3660, anmlycafe.com

Drop on by...

11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar

Lettered Streets Coffeehouse

Old Town Cafe

833 N. State St., Bellingham 360.788.4229, 11thhourteaandcoffeebar.com

1001 Dupont St., Bellingham 360.933.4689, letteredstreetscoffee.com

316 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.4431, theoldtowncafe.com

Avellino Coffeehouse

Locus

The Daisy Cafe

120 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.306.8556, locusofbellingham.com

114 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.733.8996, thedaisycafe.com

Makeworth Market

The Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe

1201 N. State St., Bellingham 360.933.1678, makeworthmarket.com

1305 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.647.1344, wildoatcafe.com

Mount Bakery Cafe

Trove Coffee

308 W. Champion St. Ste. C, Bellingham 360.715.2195, mountbakery.com

228 N. Samish Way, Bellingham 360.393.4953, trovecoffee.com

NEKO: A Cat Cafe

The Union Coffee Shop

1130 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.656.6217, nekocatcafe.com

114 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.733.8996, theunioncoffee.com

1329 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.715.1005, avellinocoffeehouse.com

Cafe Adagio 1435 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.671.1198, caffeadagio.netwaiter.com

Photo by Georgi Shillington

Cafe Velo 120 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.0930, cafe-velo.cc

Horseshoe Cafe 113 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.933.4301, horseshoecafe.com

February 2021 37

Black Drop Coffeehouse

Black Drop Coffeehouse

Camber What began as a local roastery became a full breakfast/lunch restaurant and cafe in 2017. While Camber still supplies beans to locations near and far — including Lummi Island’s famous Willows Inn — their brick-and-mortar cafe has risen to a fame of its own.

In 2019, Food and Wine magazine named Camber among the best coffee shops in Washington State. The cafe has also been recognized for its brunch offerings, and is continually listed as one of the best coffee shops in Bellingham. With delicious, locally roasted coffee and beautifully plated food items, it’s no surprise Camber continues to earn accolades.

Although their kitchen is temporarily closed, they plan to reopen it once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

At Camber, even the drip coffee is brewed to impress, but if you’re wanting something special try their seasonal classic, On a Passing Cloud ($6), featuring espresso and oat milk, and flavored with maple, orange and cinnamon. Other good options include the Matcha Latte ($6) and London Fog, made with in-house chai. This season, pair your drink with one of Camber’s new house-made baked goods, including a pocket tart in rotating flavors.

While the interior is bright and cheerful, the covered outdoor patio is great for a socially distanced cup of coffee with a friend or an afternoon out alone. If you’d prefer to get Camber’s award-winning coffee delivered right to your doorstep, you can join their coffee club; subscribers can sign up for a six or 12-month subscription to receive a discount.

Frequent customers can also take advantage of a new coffee punch card: buy nine bags of coffee, get the 10th for free.

Camber is also committed to spreading the secrets to great coffee. They host coffee classes, including Zoom classes during covid. In their latest roast development class, students were shipped a bag of Camber’s new mosaic blend; students then tasted the coffee at home and learned about how the coffee roasting process contributed to its flavors.

If you’re interested in improving your at-home coffee game, sign up for a virtual one-on-one coffee consultation, either by phone or over Zoom. Learn about latte art, how to make the perfect pour-over, and the best way to grind, store, and brew coffee. 221 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com 38

BellinghamAlive.com

Black Drop is Bellingham’s oldest independent coffee shop, and you can taste the experience in every cup. If you’re looking for baristas who treat coffee as an artform, this is the cafe for you.

The coffeehouse and its staff have won numerous awards over the years, including several Best Coffee Shop medals in our annual Best of the Northwest competition.

The shop opened in 2002, but in 2009, the employees transformed it into an employeeowned co-op. Black Drop still purchases all their beans from the former owners, who run Maniac Roasting, a wholesale coffee supplier based in Bellingham. The commitment to excellent coffee starts with the beans, and then continues into every drink.

Black Drop offers a variety of signature drinks, such as the Just Like Heaven, a white chocolate mocha with lavender, and the Bee’s Knees, a rose honey latte flavored with made-inhouse syrup. Elvis fans will enjoy the Fat Elvis, a peanut-butter-and-banana flavored mocha.

You’ll also find snackable pastry items like scones, muffins, cookies, and cinnamon rolls.

In October, the coffeehouse moved to a new location on Magnolia Street, just across from their former shop. The new space is open and colorful, with attractive tufted booths and funky light fixtures to brighten even the dreariest winter day. 206 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.738.3767, blackdropcoffeehouse.com

Camber

FAIRHAVEN

Cafe Blue

Photos Left: Top by Thomas Hughes, Bottom courtesy of Camber. Photos Right by Kyle Hooper

Cafe Blue If this cafe’s decor doesn’t make you smile, then its pastries and drinks certainly will. From local art on the walls to stained glass lamps hanging over the barista station, there’s lots to look at in this colorful shop off downtown Fairhaven’s Mackenzie Alley. The lighting is bright and cheerful, perfect if you need a pick-me-up on a cold winter day. Near the register you can browse a selection of locally made art, jewelry, and ceramics.

At the counter you’ll find a display of fresh, made-in-house pastries and treats, from croissants and cookies to biscotti, quiche, and galettes. The food menu boasts items perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a snack in between. Think: toasts, sandwiches, bagels, and more. The drink menu has everything from chai lattes to golden milk and cortados.

For something unique, order the Rosemary Latte ($4–$5), flavored with house-made rosemary syrup.

“It might sound strange or bizarre, but it’s objectively good,” says co-owner Lily Lovell. “This is an all-around staff favorite.”

Lovell also recommends the cafe’s Toasts ($6.75), made on sourdough bread baked in-house and topped with various sweet or savory goodies. All toasts come with a side of yogurt and puffed amaranth.

An easy customer favorite is the Sourdough Bagel ($3.75), topped with a house-blended everything spice. “[The bagels] take 48 hours to make, and they are kind of crazy. We only make them on Sundays, and there is typically a line out the door of customers who have learned what time they come out of the oven,” Lovell says.

For something sweet, try the BestCookie, made with oats, brown butter, cacao nibs, and dark chocolate. Pro tip: ask for a glass of warm milk for dunking. 1319 11th St., Bellingham, 360.323.6669, cafebluecafe.com February 2021 39

Firehouse Cafe

Bellingham, 360.305.9858, firehouseperformingarts.com

Harris Avenue Cafe This cheerful neighborhood cafe has all of your breakfast favorites, from omelettes and bennies to scrambles and French toast. The menu caters to both meat-lovers and vegetarians, meaning the whole family can find something to be happy about. Their bread is from Breadfarm in Bow and their meat and sausage comes from Hempler’s in Ferndale.

For something unique, try the Maple Bacon Cakes ($10), in which bits of bacon are tucked into a classic short stack. The lunch menu features burgers, salads, and sandwiches, like the Thebetan Tuna Melt ($13) and the Fancy Burger ($15) featuring prosciutto, brie, and basil aioli.

When it comes to coffee, you’re in good hands, because the cafe connects to Tony’s Coffee & Espresso. Order a coffee drink made with locally roasted Tony’s coffee, or enjoy a Spice Hut tea, glass of wine, beer, or cider. If you’re feeling something fruity, go for the Blackberry Lemonade Mimosa ($6).

To accommodate dining during COVID-19, the cafe recently expanded its outdoor seating. Stop by to enjoy food in the new covered, heated, and protected outdoor dining area. 1101 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.5006, theharrisave.com 40

BellinghamAlive.com

Firehouse Cafe

Drop on by...

Coffee Junction 401 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.3172

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.220.1898, evolvechocolatecafe.com

Mount Bakery Cafe 1217 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.778.1261, mountbakery.com

Shirlee Bird Cafe 1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 100, Bellingham 360.746.2288, shirleybirdcafe.yolasite.com

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe 1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com

Photos by Alina Simone

Much more than just a cafe, Firehouse is also an arts and event center that features local, regional, and national artists. The space, located in what was once a fire station, serves as a classroom, performance space, art gallery, music venue, and theater. The performance space has retractable stadium seating capable of accommodating 80 people; when the seats are collapsed, the large, open space is perfect for workshops and classes, such as ballet, yoga, and improv. (Events and classes will resume after COVID-19 restrictions lift).

The cafe itself connects with the event space, allowing patrons and students to fuel up on espresso and tea before settling in for a show or class. You can also find scratch-made muffins, scones, cookies, and quiche. Since the pandemic, the cafe has also expanded their menu to offer soups and sandwiches, so you can drop in for lunch or an early dinner. They’re also now serving wine and beer.

With both indoor and outdoor seating, free wifi, and a walk-up window, it’s easier than ever to enjoy the Firehouse Cafe and its cozy neighborhood feeling. There’s also a large garden area near one of the most impressive sycamore trees you’ll find in town. 1314 Harris Ave.,

LOCAL ROASTERS Tony’s Coffee If you’ve ever grabbed a cup of joe in downtown Bellingham, there’s a good chance you’ve had a taste of award-winning Tony’s Coffee. Tony’s came to Bellingham 50 years ago and remains a Whatcom staple, clenching Roast Magazine’s Roaster of the Year award for 2021.

Sample a variety of flavors and highly-acclaimed blends, some of which contribute right back to your community.

Tony’s “Look for the Helpers” blend is a medium roast with notes of cocoa and praline and 100% of its profits go to the Bellingham Food Bank. You can order individual bags, K-cups, or packs online, and support the environment while doing so — Tony’s went completely carbon neutral in 2020. 2033 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.6319, tonyscoffee.com

Barnyard Coffee Roasters LLC

Barnyard Coffee Roasters LLC

You can find this charming specialty roastery on a family farm in Blaine. Barnyard Coffee opened in 2017, offering one-of-a-kind artisan brews and premium beans sourced from certified organic farms all around the world. Try balanced blends like the “Cock-A-Doodle Brew” medium/ dark roast, nearly 20 varieties of specialty tea, or one of their naturally-flavored coffees — all of which are sugarfree, gluten-free, and nut-free. You can order Barnyard blends online or on-site at their Blaine location, Edaleen Dairy stores, and the Northwood Market in Lynden. 4434 Boblett Rd., Blaine, 360.393.0475, barnyardcoffee.com

Photos: Top by Emily Porter, Bottom courtesy of Fidalgo Coffee Roasters

Fidalgo Coffee Roasters While this roastery has its roots in Skagit County, you can find Fidalgo blends and brews all up and down Western Washington — from Lynden to Tacoma and Gig Harbor.

Choose from more than 20 varieties of coffee, from bold sweet dark roasts like the chocolatey Sunset Blend or lighter roasts like the cherry-and-plum-noted Colombia blend. Like what you taste? Get a value pack. Want to try something new? Fidalgo’s “Frac Packs” offer six sample sized bags pre-portioned for one coffee pot. 856 N. Hill Blvd., Burlington, 360.757.8818, fidalgocoffee.com

Hammerhead Coffee Roasters

Fidalgo Coffee Roasters

Hammerhead has a history as rich as its coffee, putting forward big flavors through a small grower cooperative.

Known for full-bodied, sweet blends like best-seller Velvet Elvis (dark roast), Ethiopia Sidamo (medium-light roast) and Chuckanut Gold (medium roast), Hammerhead offers a majority of Fair Trade products and organic imports.

Order Hammerhead online, with free shipping available for orders $50 and up. You can also find bags at Haggen Food and Pharmacy stores and the Community Food Co-Op. 360.510.5265, hammerheadcoffee.com

February 2021 41

Peach Arch City Cafe & Bar

BLAINE Peace Arch City Cafe & Bar For all the breakfast lovers out there, Peace Arch City Cafe & Bar has all of your favorite classics, available all day long. The space offers all of the comforts of a cafe — free wifi and board games, with the amenities of a bar — plus lounge seating, pool tables, and live sports.

If you’re looking for a hearty morning meal, try one of the Good Morning Platters ($8.50–$10.50), equipped with eggs, toast, meat, and potatoes. For sweeter fare, try the Cinnamon and Nutmeg French Toast Platter ($12).

On the lunch menu, you’ll find a variety of unique salads like the Pear & Prosciutto Salad ($12.50), 100% grass-fed beef burgers ($12– $14), and sandwiches galore. Try the signature Peace Portal Sandwich ($12) for a twist on an ordinary turkey sandwich.

Pair your meal with Lotus brand coffee, locally-roasted espresso.

Go for a classic Americano or a sweet Crème Brulee Latte. Peace Arch also offers a full service bar with beer, wine, and craft cocktails.

658 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, 360.332.5212, peacearchcitycafe.com 42

BellinghamAlive.com

Drop on by...

The Railway Cafe 795 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.332.2448

Photos by Thomas Hughes

BLAINE, LYNDEN, & FERNDALE

The Meeting Place

FERNDALE The Meeting Place

Wood’s Coffee

LYNDEN

Photos: Left courtesy of Wood’s Coffee, Right by Thomas Hughes

Wood’s Coffee “Come to the Woods, for here is rest.”

At Woods Coffee, you can always find a good John Muir quote, a cozy atmosphere, tasty pastries, and of course — a hearty cup of warm coffee. Wood’s began blending it up at Bender Plaza in Lynden back in 2002, expanding to 19 locations throughout the state, including a public roastery in Bellingham.

While the amount of indoor seating and amenities varies between locations, the majority of Wood’s Coffee sites are equipped with comfy seating, free wifi, a fireplace, and lots of natural woodsy decor.

It’s a great place to study, work, or get together with loved ones.

The drink menu features delicious cafe classics like mochas ($4), lattes ($3.40), and cappuccinos ($3.40), as well as sweet blended drinks like the Avalanche or Mudslide ($5.45). Get a light boost with a Spruce (12 oz.) or fuel up with a Giant Redwood (24 oz.).

When you’re done, don’t toss the cup. All Wood’s Coffee cups are made from biopolymer plants and are 100% compostable.

Along with their coffees, teas, and smoothies, Wood’s offers freshly baked pastries (plus gluten-free options). Try sweet treats like the Banana Bread ($3.25) or White Chocolate Raspberry Scone ($3.25). If you’re in the mood for something savory, check out the Breakfast Burrito ($4.95) or Avocado Toast ($5.95). 8874 Bender

Aptly named, The Meeting Place is more than a cafe — it’s a place to meet and mingle with others. The interior is cozy and inviting, with comfortable seating (including couches and armchairs), local art, and, during nonpandemic times, live music on the weekends.

The cafe proudly serves Fidalgo coffee.

The cafe also offers a meeting room capable of accommodating up to 12 people.

The private space is free to use with a drink or food purchase, and comes with a TV monitor. You can also request that specific menu items be prepared for your group.

Although the pandemic may have put a damper on indoor gatherings for now, the cafe still offers food and drink items for delivery and curb-side pickup. Try a Toasted Croissant ($6.99), with cheese and your choice of meat, or go for a filling 16 oz. Peanut Butter Breakfast Smoothie for just $4.99.

On the lunch menu you’ll find usual cafe fare, like sandwiches ($6.99) and paninis ($7.99). For something warm and hearty, order the Frito Pie ($5.99), featuring chili served over Fritos and topped with cheese, sour cream, and green onions. If you’re there on a Saturday, grab the Biscuits and Gravy Special ($6.99–$8.99) featuring house-made cheesy biscuits slathered in sausage gravy.

To show their gratitude during the pandemic, The Meeting Place is offering essential workers a free 12 oz. coffee. This includes nurses, doctors, EMTs, fire fighters, and police officers. 5711 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.922.6146, themeetingplaceferndale.com

Drop on by...

Our Place Cafe 4920 Rural Ave., Ferndale 360.988.1938

Rd., Lynden, 360.354.0900, woodscoffee.com February 2021 43

SKAGIT 5b’s Bakery Located in the picturesque mountain town of Concrete, this 100% gluten-free bakery is a beloved destination among locals and tourists alike. Everything on the menu is made with a unique blend of more than 15 different flours, to get the consistency of the dough just right. If you’re skeptical of gluten-free pastries and bread, 5b’s will change your mind.

The pastry menu boasts numerous offerings, all made fresh daily in small batches. For a reliable, finger-licking standby, go for the Cinnamon Roll ($4.85) or the Honey Bun ($4.85). You can also bring home whole 9’’ pies for $27.95, or enjoy a handpie for just $6. The bakery also sells various frozen items you can take home, including loaves of bread, buttermilk biscuits, pizza crusts, cookie dough, waffles, and more. Remember, everything is gluten-free!

On the food menu you’ll find savory favorites like the Pot Pie (various flavors, $7.50 for 5’’), Calzone ($7.25), Meatloaf Potato Cake ($7.85), and Stuffed Pork Chop ($7.85). Meats are smoked and brined in-house, while veggies are sourced locally from Washington farms. The drink menu has everything coffee-based you need to keep buzzing, plus milkshakes and more.

The cafe’s interior is bright and cheerful.

The retro design is modeled off bakeries of the 1940s, with booths, tables, and bar seating that runs along the barista counter. For outdoor seating, customers can enjoy covered seating under the gazebo.

If Concrete is a far drive away, never fear.

The bakery now offers a list of shippable items on their website; orders can be placed from anywhere in the lower-48. 45597 Main St.,

5b’s Bakery

Drop on by...

Primal Coffee Company 108 Woodworth St., Sedro-Woolley 360.899.4578, primalcoffee.com

Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar

44

BellinghamAlive.com

416 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.0951, ristrettocoffeelounge.com

Photos: 5b’s by Cheryl Little, Ristretto by Catherine Torres

Concrete, 360.853.8700, 5bsbakery.com

Skagit Valley Food Co-op

Photos: Top courtesy of Skagit Valley Food Co-op, Bottom by Pat McDonnell

Skagit Valley Food Co-op The Skagit Valley Food Co-op is a popular destination for natural and locally sourced grocery items, but those who frequent the location know it also houses a top-notch cafe and deli. Brightly lit, with plenty of seating inside, outside, and upstairs, there’s always something new to try, whether for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

The drink menu features all the usual suspects, from espresso and cappuccinos to chai teas and Italian sodas. They also offer a variety of juices and smoothies. For a protein-rich smoothie, try the Popeye’s Secret Blend ($5.95 for 16 oz.), made with spinach, banana, strawberries, and apple juice.

Add protein powder or spirulina to any smoothie for just fifty cents.

The bakery features a variety of sweet treats, including the popular Bee Stings ($2.59) and Gluten-Free Donut Muffin ($2.29). Also on sale are cookies, scones, bagels, quiches, and more. For more filling fare, build your own sandwich at the deli, or take home a hot dish from the display case.

It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious scoop of the co-op’s organic ice cream, made in-house with locally sourced milk and cream. Choose from scoops, sundaes, malts, or milkshakes. For a treat that’ll keep you buzzing through the dark days of February, try the Mocha Milkshake ($5.50 for 16 oz.), featuring two shots of espresso, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate sauce. 202 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com

Drop on by...

Penguin Coffee 2119 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.588.8321, facebook.com/penguincoffeeanacortes

The Rhody Cafe 5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667, rhodycafe.com

Tweets Cafe 5800 Cains Ct., Edison 360.820.9912, tweetscafe.com

Tweets Cafe

February 2021 45

Whidbey Coffee

Since 1989, Whidbey Coffee has brought high-quality coffee to our neck of the woods. They now operate a dozen locations around the North Sound, including this location in Burlington, just a quick drive from I-5.

This conveniently located cafe is the perfect destination whether you’re hoping to grab a quick breakfast on-the-go, lounge with a latte, or take a break after shopping in the area. The cafe’s outdoor seating, including an indoor/outdoor fireplace and large patio, makes it a great option for covidsafe coffee-sipping, while the drive-thru offers yet another easy and safe alternative.

During non-covid times, the cafe’s cozy interior is a perfect place for catching up with a friend or catching up on work.

There’s even a free community room available by reservation.

The room seats up to 14 people, making it a great place for work meetings or larger social events.

From the drink menu, try the signature Whidbey Coffee Frozen Moka ($3.50–$5). Other blended options include an Espresso Milkshake ($3.75–$5.35) and Caramel Frappe

($4.45–$6.05). For more usual fare, the cafe offers lattes, mochas, and espresso.

The food menu features various breakfast items, including pastries, bagels, and sandwiches. When it comes to lunch you’ll also find salads and paninis. Gluten-free and vegan options are always available.

If you’re looking to make a day of it, the cafe also recommends taking a drink and pastry to the nearby Gages Slough Trail, also known as the Tammi Wilson Memorial Trail. The short, paved path is ADA-accessible, perfect for a leisurely stroll with a hot drink in hand. 1960 Marketplace Dr., Burlington, 360.783.7053, whidbeycoffee.com

Drop on by...

46

Calico Cupboard Cafe & Bakery

Island Cafe

Johnny Picasso’s

121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com

701 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.588.8518, islandcaferestaurant.com

501 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.299.2755, johnnypicasso.com

BellinghamAlive.com

Photos: Left Page by Kelsey Bratt, Right Page by Mike Sharadin

Whidbey Coffee, Burlington Marketplace Cafe & Drive Thru

SAN JUAN ISLANDS

Drop on by...

Mike’s Cafe and Wine Bar

Cafe Demeter 80 Nichols St., Friday Harbor 360.370.5443, cafe-demeter.business.site

Crows Nest Coffee Shoppe

SAN JUAN ISLAND

70 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.317.8474, facebook.com/crows-nest-coffee-shoppe

Mike’s Cafe and Wine Bar

Friday Harbor Espresso 565 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.378.8886, facebook.com/Friday-Harbor-Espresso

Riptide Cafe 10 Front St., Ste. 103, Friday Harbor 360.378.0363, riptidesanjuan.com

Rocky Bay Cafe 225 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.378.5051, facebook.com/TheRockyBay

Salty Fox Coffee 85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com

San Juan Coffee Roasting Co. 18 Cannery Lndg., Friday Harbor 360.378.4443

The Bean Cafe 150B 1st St., Friday Harbor 360.370.5858, thebeancafe.com

For local wine, beer, and an impressive all-vegan menu, head to Mike’s Cafe and Wine Bar in downtown Friday Harbor. The combined cafe and wine bar offers a highly curated wine list, a varied food menu, and, in non-pandemic times, live music.

When it comes to the cafe’s sandwiches, reuben fans should try the Friday Harbor Rueben ($18). In addition to the reuben staples of sauerkraut and toasted marble rye, this sandwich features UNREAL corned beef and dairy-free Chao cheese.

Dinner entrees include chef specials like Eggplant Lasagna ($25) and a Portobello Ginger Stir Fry ($22). The cafe also serves tacos including Jamaican Jerk Jackfruit Tacos ($13) made with slow-roasted BBQ jackfruit, coleslaw, and red pepper aioli.

When it comes to the wine list, owner and winemaker Mike Sharadin knows a thing or two: he’s the winemaker for Northwest Totem Cellars. Mike and his staff are happy to put together a custom tasting based on your favorite flavors.

All wines can be enjoyed by the glass, bottle, or 1-oz. tasting pour. The wine list rotates through the year, but typically features a variety of Washington reds and whites, including bottles from Northwest Totem Cellars.

If beer is more your thing, the bar also keeps a few local beers and ciders on draft, as well as bottled drinks. Whatever you order, the atmosphere at Mike’s will turn your meal into a meal to remember. 135 Second St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.0265, mikescafeandwinebar.com February 2021 47

ORCAS ISLAND Catkin Cafe

Olga, 360. 376.3242, catkincafe.com

Drop on by...

Brown Bear Baking 29 N. Beach & Main St., Ste. 2051, Eastsound 360.855.7456, brownbearbaking.com

Doe Bay Cafe 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com/cafe

Enzo’s Caffe and Gelateria 365 N. Beach Rd., Eastsound 360.376.3732, facebook.com/ enzos-cafe-and-gelateria

New Leaf Cafe 171 Main St., Eastsound, 360.376.2200, outlookinn.com/new-leaf-cafe

Roses Bakery Cafe

Roses Bakery Cafe Bread is at the heart and center of Roses Bakery Cafe on Orcas Island. Owner John Trumbull sought to bring good, hard-crusted, European-style bread to Orcas island. Trumbull opened the original Roses Bakery Cafe in 1991 with his wife Joni. In 1995, Roses expanded to have a storefront where the duo could sell baked goods as well as cheese, charcuterie items, wines, and pantry staples. In 2003, Roses Bakery Cafe moved to the remodeled East Sound fire station where the cafe and retail shop remain today.

Until indoor seating returns, Roses Bakery Cafe is offering food to-go. The fare at Roses is inspired by French and Italian culinary traditions, as well as those of the American southwest.

On the menu you’ll find simple and savory items like soups, salads, and thin crust pizzas. Their Pancetta Pizza ($18), featuring provolone and rosemary, is a classic. While the pizzas are available year round, the toppings change with the season.

The cafe also offers delicious sandwiches like the Serrano Ham Sandwich ($16) which has double cream brie, fresh arugula, and sweet cream butter, all served on a fresh baguette.

Don’t forget to check out the bakery and retail shop.

From the bakery you can purchase the cafe’s famous breads, like Baguettes ($4) and Challah ($8) as well as a variety of pastries, like their Bourbon-Pecan Tart ($36 for 9") and Tunisian Orange Cake ($42 for 8"). In the shop you’ll find various gourmet items like oils, tinned fish, and sauces. 382 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.5805, rosesbakerycafe.com

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Photo by Kai Gagnon

Over the past five years, Catkin Cafe has earned it’s fame as one of the yummiest all-day breakfast places on Orcas Island.

However, when the shutdown started in March, their team transitioned from a breakfast and brunch joint to serving mainly lunch and dinner for takeout. Whatever the meal, Catkin Cafe dedicates themselves to fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

“My favorite part is engaging with the producers of the island and bringing that to customers. We have farmers, cheesemakers, fishermen, mushroom growers, brewers, wine importers, bread bakers, etc.,” says owner Cheryl Helm.

“And I get to transform and deliver their amazing products to customers.”

Because ingredients are locally sourced and in-season, the menu changes often to offer new, delicious options for people to try.

“Our menu changes so often, and everyone has their own personal favorites,” says Helm. “However the Lemongrass Tofu Sandwich and the Chocolate Coconut Macaroons definitely have a following.”

As the menus are updated in 2021, Catkin Cafe brings back Brunch for New Years. The menu will include Crab Benedict, Corned Beef Hash, Dutch Baby Pancakes, and a few other popular breakfast items that have been missed throughout the year.

Supporting local businesses and agriculture is at the center of why Catkin Cafe does what they do best.

“I am so grateful for our small island community that has really stepped up and supported us. Their encouragement is what has kept us going,” says Helm. 11 Point Lawrence Rd.,

Vortex Juice Bar and Cafe

Vortex Juice Bar and Cafe

Vita’s Wildly Delicious

LOPEZ ISLAND

Photos: Left by Bruce Botts, Right by Wolf Ledonne

Vita’s Wildly Delicious Vita’s Wildly Delicious certainly lives up to its name. Started

by Bruce Botts and his wife, Vita’s began as a physical space for a farmers market food cart chef. Built from the ground up, Botts helped out in the restaurant for 10 years until eventually taking over. Since then, Botts has made many additions to the cafe, adding two outdoor patios and a stage where, before COVID-19, live music took place.

Since the pandemic, outdoor music has stopped, but the outdoor seating has remained open. Patrons are encouraged to order on the iPad, pick up their food from the take-out window, and enjoy their food on either patio. Botts even moved the selection of wines and olive oils outdoors during the day for people to buy.

One of the most popular menu items, and one of Botts’ favorites, is the Lopez Lamb Skewers ($5.95). Created with local Lopez lamb, the meat is cooked with Malaysian spices and served with a mint garlic sauce. The cafe also makes a Smoked Mozzarella Mac n’ Cheese ($6.50) with sun dried tomatoes.

Perhaps Vita’s most unique product is their take-home items. It offers seven frozen take-and-bake products with recipes, like the Take N Bake Chicken Risotto, which comes with online instructions for preparation and a guide to what wines pair best. 77 Village Rd., Lopez Island, 360.468.4268,

Located in Lopez Village, Vortex serves up organic juices, slushes, and smoothies along with nutritious wraps, salads, and soups. Whenever possible, they use organic, local produce in their soups and salads, and nearly everything they serve can be prepared to accommodate different dietary restrictions.

Vegetarian? Vegan? Gluten-free? Vortex has you covered.

The bulk of the food menu can be served either as a wrap or bowl. The Southwest ($13.25) features lime-cilantro corn, tomatoes, rice, chili-veggie sauce, and local greens. In the Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese and Feta ($14), neufchatel cheese and feta come together with red onion and parsley, smoked salmon, and greens; add even more flavor with avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Vortex’s drink menu is what makes it truly special. You can create your own custom juice ($6.75 for 12 oz.) by mixing flavors like apple-lemon-ginger, carrot-orange-parsley, and cucumber-pear-ginger, for a few examples. For something green, go with the Green Juice ($7.75 for 12 oz.), made with seasonal greens, cucumber, celery, and parsley, plus your choice of juice.

On the colder side of the menu you’ll find smoothies and slushes. Smoothies are made with nonfat yogurt, frozen bananas, and either frozen fruit or juice; slushes are made from frozen fruit blended with fresh fruit or berries. For extra nutrition, add local greens or protein powder to any smoothie or slush.

Other drink options include coffee, tea, and chai. The Chai ($5 for 14 oz.) is made in-house, and can be ordered hot or cold depending on seasonal availability. You can also buy Vortex’s chai mix to take home.

If getting food or drinks to-go, you can bring your own containers to reduce waste. You can also take home some of their ready-made items to enjoy later, including sandwiches, balsamic, salsa, harissa, hummus, and various spreads. 135 Lopez Rd., Ste. A., Lopez Island, 360.468.4740, vortexonlopez.com

Drop on by...

Isabel’s Espresso 308 Lopez Rd, Lopez Island 360.468.4114, isabelsespresso.com

Lopez Grind Coffee Shop 211 Lopez Rd, Lopez Island 360.375.7116, facebook. com/LopezGrind

vitasonlopez.com February 2021 49

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The Perfect Winter Salad 54 Tropical Escape on Holly Street 60 Five Faves: Chocolate Shops 64

Taste

Photo by Dean Davidson.

Review

Milano’s Italian Seafood

52

February 2021 51

Taste Review

Milano’s Italian Comes to Fairhaven

I

F THE NAME MILANO’S SOUNDS FAMILIAR, that’s

because the restaurant was in Glacier for 24 years. 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.

Milano’s owner, Sam Hassan, bought the Glacier location in 2015. After transforming it into a must-stop restaurant — among other changes, he expanded the wine list, edited recipes, and opened a bar — he decided it was time to give the business new life in Bellingham.

and fall-off-the bone tender. The carrot-parsnip puree is earthy, toothsome, and slightly sweet.

For a seafood extravaganza, try the Cioppino ($29). This Italian-American stew is like a miniature ocean in a bowl. You get a sampling of mussels, clams, calamari, prawns, scallops, and cod, all flavored with roasted fennel, shallots, chili flakes, and white wine. The shallots are a standout, probably because they’re cooked in Beurre D’Isigny, a gourmet French butter known for its hazelnut notes.

The menu changes often, so be sure to check online ahead of time.

Burgers, Pasta, and a Seafood Lover’s Dream

Rare Wines and Pasta…To-Go

On the new lunch menu you’ll find various burgers — but these aren’t your average salt-and-pepper burgers. They’re really, really good. The John Wayne Burger ($15) features a thick 6oz. patty of marinated beef topped with melted Irish Dubliner and Romano cheese. Parmesan mayo adds extra flavor, but if you want to turn this burger into one of the best in Bellingham, add bacon and a fried egg. Served on a brioche bun along with fries or a salad, this burger is well worth its price tag.

For dinner, start off with a fresh salad of Avocado, Hearts of Palm, and Cherry Tomatoes ($11). Topped with lemon olive oil from Drizzle next door, every bite is fresh and full of flavors that complement one another perfectly.

If you’re craving meat, go with the Short Ribs with CarrotParsnip Puree ($24), one of the most popular entrees. Sourced locally from Claus Meats, these ribs are perfectly marinated

Wine lovers will also be at home at Milano’s, which has the largest wine list in Whatcom County. Their selection boasts more than 200 wines, many of them rare and sourced from famous wineries around the world, like Makihuan in Argentina and Miolo in Brazil. Some bottles you won’t find anywhere else on the west coast.

In light of the pandemic, the menu now features dishes that work better for take-out. Because pasta dishes don’t travel well — the pasta will soak up all the juices and become soggy, Hassan explains — Milano’s supplies the raw pasta separately, so customers can cook it at home. If you’ve been experiencing lackluster take-home meals, this might just be the solution.

Milano’s also offers various items for purchase, including their Bristol Bay sockeye salmon sourced from a local fisherman, pasta (including a gluten-free pasta), and gift packages.

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Photos by Dean Davidson

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

An Italian Village Inside, Heated Dining Outside The new Milano’s opened in early October, right before the second wave of restrictions. Luckily, the space is particularly well-equipped for heated outdoor dining. The front patio is recessed into the building, meaning diners are protected by a roof and walls on each side, while the open front lets air circulate past multiple heaters.

Once restrictions lift, diners will get to enjoy the interior of Milano’s, which is designed to look like an Italian village, with windows and balconies facing into the dining room.

Various stained-glass pieces decorate the walls, including a rainbow glass piece meant to signal that all are welcome in Milano’s. Pair the setting with a staff that’s friendly, professional, and attentive, and you’ll see what makes Milano’s so special.

Milano’s is a high-end restaurant, but it’s also informal.

You don’t have to dress up, Hassan ensures, and everyone is welcome.

“We practically have zero complaints…people are loving what we do,” he says. 1210 11th St., Bellingham, 360.599.2863, milanosrestaurantbar.com  February 2021 53

Taste Recipe

The Perfect Winter Salad

BY KRISTEN CONNER

T

HIS WINTER SALAD is full of bright colors to cheer you up on a gloomy

day. The recipe features wild rice and two kinds of apple, both great sources of fiber and antioxidants. Sunflower seeds add even more nutrition, as these tiny seeds are packed full of Vitamin E, magnesium, and protein. The salad gets its color from rainbow chard, a great source of calcium, iron, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. Tossed with a simple vinaigrette dressing, this salad is perfect as a stand-alone meal at lunchtime or as a starter salad before the main dish. To learn more about healthy eating, talk to a dietician at Sensibly Sprouted in Fairhaven.

Winter Salad Makes 4–6 servings.

INGREDIENTS 2-½ cups water, lightly salted 1 cup wild rice, uncooked 1 bunch rainbow chard, washed 1 large granny smith apple, cubed 1 large pink lady apple, cubed ½ cup raw sunflower seeds ¼ cup golden balsamic vinegar ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS • To cook the wild rice, bring 2-½ cups lightly salted water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Add rice, bring back to a full boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer.

Cook covered for about 60 to 65 minutes. When finished, the rice should appear split with the white center exposed. While rice is cooking, prepare the chard greens.

• To prepare the vinaigrette, whisk together vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper. Toss with chard greens, wild rice, apples, and sunflower seeds. Serve at room temperature. 

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Photos by Kristen Conner

• To prepare chard greens, remove the tough stems and ribs. Chiffonade the greens (i.e., cut into thin ribbons) and very thinly slice a few of the stems, then add both to a large bowl and mix in the cubed apples. Cover with the hot wild rice and allow rice to cool, slightly wilting the greens. Mix in sunflower seeds.

Dining Guide Taste

DINING KEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . .Family-Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating . . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour . . . . . . . . . . . New Review Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at bellinghamalive.com * Local restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.

WHATCOM

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American

CARNAL American, Barbecue

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

1234 North State St., Bellingham 360.306.3587, eatcarnal.com

The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Brunch enthusiasts will be delighted by the three pages of breakfast options. Dishes include traditional pancake breakfast platters, French-style baked omelets, egg scrambles and Benedicts, and plenty more. Listen for the ringing of the kitchen bell every time one of these massive breakfasts is served.

Carnal offers hyper-local ingredients that highlight the bounty of the season, with an emphasis on slow-cooked meat entrees. The menu will always feature a chicken, fish, and veggie option, as well as their signature short rib. The covered eating area is perfect for a romantic dinner.

833 N. State St., Bellingham 360.788.4229, 11thhourteaandcoffeebar.com 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar has an extensive menu of drinks around $3–5, with a variety of teas, golden milks, tea lattes, superfood lattes, and a full line of espresso items. The intimate space is cozy and encourages conversation between friends and strangers alike. The energy, menu, and location attract everyone from college students and families to healthminded folks.

ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL

CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR American

BLUE FIN SUSHI Japanese

10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com

102 S. Samish Way, Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.752.2583, bluefinbellingham.com Delicious fresh sushi is a given, but Blue Fin also offers a full menu of non-sushi food items, from classic bento boxes to fish and chips.

Peruse their vast menu with help from their friendly waitstaff, then enjoy a mouthwatering close-up as chefs prepare your food behind the bar.

BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW

Named for the farm where they began growing their decadent heirloom tomatoes, Brandywine Kitchen sources many of its ingredients locally, upholding their “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options and a rotating selection of beer from local breweries.

CAFE VELO Coffeehouse, Deli 120 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.0930, cafe-velo.cc Cafe Velo is a European-inspired cafe with a twist — in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe also doubles as a bike shop.

With plenty of outdoor seating — and bike racks — customers can bask in the fresh air while enjoying a beverage or sandwich named after one of the owner’s favorite climbs from bicycle racing. This is more than just a place to quickly grab a bite; it’s a place to build community.

Steak, Seafood

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.

CAMBER COFFEE Coffeehouse, American 221 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com Camber is more than just a coffee shop.

Customers can order at the counter for a quicker bite, or enjoy table service for the restaurant experience. Throughout the day, customers will find a full menu for breakfast (or brunch, depending on your wake-up time), lunch, and dinner. The food is best described as “new American comfort.”

After a long day skiing or snowboarding from Mount Baker Ski Area’s eight chairlifts, Chair 9 is tailor-made for those seeking a place to grab a bite before heading back down the highway. The building is spacious, with two stories of seating and a colorful variety of snowboards decorating the wall. Their pizza is crafted on house-made artisan dough and cooked classically in a wood stone oven. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a destination to try on your next trip to the slopes.

1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com

11TH HOUR TEA & COFFEE BAR Tea, Coffee

CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Mexican

5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine derived from decades of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but also deeply satisfied.

CULTURE CAFÉ Eclectic 210 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.746.6558, kombuchatown.com This inviting, comfortable place gained a reputation for its all-natural, craft kombucha but it also offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. All the items are prepared in-house with the exception of bread, which is made by Mount Bakery. The menu reflects a great deal of care and integrity, served by authentic and accommodating employees in a communal space that offers karaoke, board games, and live music.

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com 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

February 2021 55

Taste Dining Guide 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.

DIRTY DAN HARRIS Steakhouse 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1011, dirtydanharris.com The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides a warm atmosphere, 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. Make sure to leave room for dessert, because the selections are dangerously good.

DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTER COMPANY

Seafood, Regional NW

685 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.656.5958, draytonharboroysters.com A board inside Drayton Harbor Oyster Company tracks when the last oyster delivery was made and how long it takes the oysters to get from the ocean to the kitchen. The record? 13 minutes. This level of freshness means oysters so good that people come from all over the globe to taste them. The intimate, casual setting will make you feel like you’re at a friend’s house.

FAIRHAVEN POKE Hawaiian 1102 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.922.7494, fairhavenpoke.com You’ll be taking a personal trip to the islands when you bite into Fairhaven Poke’s poke bowl concoction. The iconic raw fish, doused in a unique blend of sauces, along with a variety of other topping options are piled onto a bed of homemade sushi rice or salad. Customers then garnish their bowls with additional condiments such as furikake, a Japanese nori seasoning.

FIAMMA BURGER American 1309 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.7374, fiammaburger.com One word speaks volumes about Fiamma Burger: variety. With a multitude of patty types and more than 20 menu options, there are endless possibilities for a burger masterpiece.

All burgers are served on a fresh-baked bun, with crisp lettuce and all the usual fixings.

You can even get a “burger in a bowl,” served without the bread. Spice it up with chipotle ketchup, spicy mustard, or curry mayo, then cool it down with a beer or milkshake.

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THE FILLING STATION American 1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.715.1839 716 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.746.2079, fillingstationnw.com The 1950s vibe resonates within the walls of this all-American burger joint. From the antique gas pump to the car memorabilia lining the restaurant, The Filling Station is Fairhaven’s newest go-to spot to satisfy your hunger. With names like Chevy Pickup, Mustang, and Thunderbird, the menu provides different burger selections along with appetizers like Dip Sticks (deep-fried zucchini strips), Hot Rod (footlong hot dog), or the Junkyard (classic, onion, and tire fries).

Ariana Grande’s music softly playing in the background while a waitress in a white apron asks if she can top off your still half-full coffee.

JACK NEIMANN’S BLACK FOREST STEAKHOUSE German, Steak 638 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.306.8342 Black Forest Steakhouse offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special occasions, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations, but it’s also a place you’ll want to go to any day. Black Forest cooks their steaks different than most other steakhouses: They broil them in a 1,600-degree oven, leaving the meat tender and flavorful.

THE FORK AT AGATE BAY American, Seafood 2530 Northshore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com Nestled at the fork between Y and Northshore roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay. This relaxed and boat-housechic restaurant offers a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all featuring fresh, local ingredients. The bar boasts an impressive drink menu, with a drink selection based on fresh and local ingredients and tastes.

THE GRILL Greek, American 1155 E. Sunset Dr., Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.306.8510, thegrillbellingham.com A peek into The Grill’s kitchen will reveal a lamb rotisserie awaiting carving for your Traditional Gyro. The menu has plenty of variety; order anything from a hot dog to an Italian sandwich.

GUUD BOWLS American, Ready-to-Heat

Bowls

2625 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.510.4880, guudbowls.com Guud Bowls is unlike most food services because they don’t have a storefront. Every weekday, owners Mike Duncan and Meredith Steven cook and chill bowls of food in a commissary kitchen and hand-deliver anywhere in Whatcom County. Choose from a rotating menu of gluten-free bowls filled with colorful, fresh ingredients. Pop the ready-toheat bowls in the oven, microwave, or saute in a pan.

HILLTOP RESTAURANT American 5645 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360.398.2462, hilltopcooking.com Three years after Hilltop Restaurant opened, the small cafe turned into a classic diner open 14 hours a day, seven days a week, with delicious takes on all the classic diner eats. It’s the type of place where you’ll hear

JALAPEÑOS MEXICAN GRILL Mexican 1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6600 501 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3099 2945 Newmarket Pl., Bellingham 360.778.2041, jalapenos-wa.com Jalapeños Mexican Grill lures you in with promises of a cheap lunch special, but after looking at the menu, you won’t stop there.

There’s a variety of flavored mojitos and margaritas, and the “Big Mama” alone is proof that Jalapeños doesn’t play around with their drinks. The glasses are huge, and the drinks are good to the last drop.

JUXT TAPHOUSE American 119 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5223, juxttaphouse.com JUXT’s unique 28-tap draft system allows for a rotating selection of locally sourced beer, wine, cider, cold brew, and cocktails. Because cocktails are mixed and ready on-request, JUXT can deliver something unfound in other bars: cocktail flights.The food menu is also large and varied, with options to satisfy any palate or hunger level. True to the bar’s spirit, it juxtaposes fine dining items with pubfriendly comfort foods like nachos, burgers, and poutine.

KEENAN’S AT THE PIER

Northwest, American & Seafood

804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5510, thechrysalisinn.com Located inside the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven, Keenan’s at the Pier features fresh, local cuisine and a full bar. Keenan’s highlights the beauty and style of the Pacific Northwest with fresh ingredients that are seasonal and regionally sourced. Enjoy Bellingham Bay views from every table. Reservations are highly recommended.

LORIKEET Tapas Bar

THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar

215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham lorikeetbar.com

6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.599.2337

Designed to feel like a seaside resort bar, the atmosphere at Lorikeet is beachy, relaxing, and transporting. Food offerings rotate daily, but staples include small plates like ceviche and skewers. The extensive cocktail menu features numerous rum- and tequila- based creations.

Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system. The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles.

It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com Guests of Lynden Dutch Bakery will have a hard time picking just one sweet treat. Options include pies, donuts, fritters, cakes, and seemingly countless more. The wide variety of scones are some of the shop’s most popular items, along with a savory selection for those missing their sweet tooth. Fruit pies use berries grown just a few miles from the shop, and the owners sell many of their pastries to local businesses for wholesale.

MILANO’S ITALIAN SEAFOOD Italian,

Seafood

Formerly in Glacier, the Milano’s in downtown Fairhaven is your destination for fine Italian dining and seafood. Wine lovers will feel especially at home, as Milano’s boasts the largest wine list in Whatcom County. Despite being a high-end restaurant, it’s also informal.

You don’t have to dress up, and everyone is welcome.

THE MILL French 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760, themilllynden.com The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book.

The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.

MUTO RAMEN & SUSHI Japanese, Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.3530 Muto Ramen does not disappoint for those looking for both atmosphere and flavor at a reasonable price. From udon noodles and yakitori to long lists of different ramen, sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, guests can look forward to many visits of exploring the wide selection of Japanese dishes.

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

ON RICE THAI CUISINE Thai 206 N. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.714.9995 2200 Rimland Dr., Bellingham, 360.738.9995 1224 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.9995 onricethai.com Ask any 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 flavorful Thai dishes. All dishes are available with chicken, pork, beef, seafood, or tofu and can be made as spicy as you want them to be.

1210 11th St., Bellingham 360.599.2863, milanosrestaurantbar.com

PEL’MENI RESTAURANT Russian 1211 N. State St., Bellingham 360.715.8324, restaurantwebx.com/PelMeni 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 are piping hot and sprinkled with cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Because they pair so well with tasty libations, Pel’meni manages to consistently have a line out the door as soon as the sun goes down. Smother them with vinegar, sour cream, and hot sauce for the full effect.

PEPPER SISTERS Mexican, Pacific Northwest 1055 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414, peppersisters.com Customers have been diving into their plentiful plates of comforting burritos, quesadillas, and other specialties since 1988. The spunky atmosphere only elevates the already upbeat mood of the place. With bright booths, samplings of art, and lively music, it’s nearly impossible to feel sour. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled with red chili pesto, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, potatoes, green chilies, and cheese.

Food Trucks To Love Brother’s Bus Bistro Brother’s Bus serves up unique gourmet burgers, like The Mighty Thor, featuring smoked ham, pineapple, jalapenos, and Manchego cheese, spiced with sriracha aioli. Their playful grilled sandwiches — like the Gourmet LaRayne PB&J and the Grumpy Tiki Grilled Cheese — come on thick, toasted slices of brioche. Order fries on the side with your choice of aioli, or start with some chicken wings.

Where to Find Them Bellingham: Gruff Brewing - W, Th, F, Sat, Sun

Rooted Kitchen This truck is Farmstrong Brewing Co.’s new mobile kitchen. Inspired by local farmers, the truck uses local produce and meat whenever possible, highlighting the season’s bounty. Chef Brian Forkan serves up sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more. Start with an order of poutine before digging into a Skagit Steak and Cheese or a Jack Mt. Sausage Sando. Pair it all with a Farmstrong beer, of course.

Where to Find Them Mount Vernon: Farmstrong Brewing Co. – W, Th, F, Sat, Sun

That’s What I Like!

Island Grill Stop by this truck for authentic Filipino food, such as lumpia (deepfried spring rolls), lechon kawali (crispy pork belly), and ube ice cream (purple yam ice cream that tastes like a blend of vanilla and pistachio). Pair with grilled meats, noodle dishes, and burgers, and you’re bound to find something to love.

Where to Find Them Deming: Next to Quick Stop - Th Bellingham: WECU Parking lot, near WinCo - Th, Fri, Sat

February 2021 57

Taste Local Find

Monolo Eats Food Truck Good food makes good people

F

ROM THE TOP OF A MOUNTAIN,

to the cattle ranches of Mexico, the team at Monolo Eats understands the value of good food with good ingredients.

Coqui Thody has been dreaming of her food truck for as long as she can remember, but in 2018, she decided to turn her dream into a reality. Her son Marco joined in on the project, and the two opened Monolo Eats Food Truck on July 3, 2020.

Offering authentic Mexican food with inspirations from Greek, Indian, and South Asian cuisines, Monolo Eats is not just another taco truck.

Their menu features ingredients such as tofu, feta cheese, coconut oil, and cucumber, earning their style the title of Alternative Mexican food.

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Coqui and Marco knew they wanted their food to be affordable, healthy, and as sustainably sourced and produced as possible. By utilizing reusable produce bags, compostable utensils, and fresh ingredients, they turned their goals into a reality. The two put emphasis on caring for their community and caring for the environment at the same time.

“When we are not too busy at the food truck, it’s really fun to visit with our customers,” says Coqui. “Especially the regulars who order an item and ask for ‘No veggies, please’. ‘WHAT?’ I always reply. I like to give them a hard time.”

The menu caters to various dietary restrictions, featuring both vegan and vegetarian options. On the breakfast menu you’ll find the Breakfast Burrito

($8) and the Vegan Breakfast Burrito ($8), featuring crumbled tofu and a sweet potato mix in lieu of meat. Both burritos include red bell pepper and the choice between chipotle or green salsa.

“All of our produce is fresh and we take a lot of pride in our homemade salsas. We have an appealing menu to different diets without losing the explosive flavor of the Mexican food,” says Coqui.

The dinner menu offers Blue Tacos ($2 each) served on a blue corn tortilla with the choice of beef, chicken, or chicken molé. The Red Burrito ($8) is stuffed with brown rice, beans, feta cheese, cucumbers, cabbage, and cilantro yogurt dressing and the choice of beef, chicken, or veggies. The

Photos by Rachel Thody

BY ALINA SIMONE

Dining Guide Taste THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF

drinks to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.

Steak, Seafood

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com

This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Primegrade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.

STORIA CUCINA Italian, Pizza

COA MEXICAN EATERY Mexican 102 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon, 360.840.1938 214 Maple Ave., La Conner, 360.466.0267 coaeatery.com One bite of a taco or one sip of a margarita and you’re hooked. This eatery offers frequent customer appreciation days, offering 50 percent off food if you pay in cash. Deals and good food — what more could you want? Even on a different night, with the choice of fajitas, burritos, chimichangas, or flan, you won’t be disappointed.

109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.734.1929, storiacucina.com

Storia Cucina offers a simple, no-fuss menu meant to reduce decision-fatigue and prioritize quality over quantity. All pasta is made in-house on an imported Italian pasta extruder, and ingredients are as local as possible.

The restaurant itself is bright, cheerful, and tastefully decorated, certain to lift your spirits even on a drizzly autumn night.

SKAGIT

1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.

A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW

IL GRANAIO Italian

418 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.4001, atownbistro.com

100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com

A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.

truck also serves up quesadillas and a signature molé dish.

This winter, you’ll also find seasonal options like a rotating selection of soups all $5 each. Try the Lentil-Barley Coconut Soup (vegan) or Cream of Bean. For a warming wintertime drink, order the Mexican Hot Chocolate ($3), made with oat milk.

You can find Monolo Eats at Kona Bikes in Bellingham and off Mount Baker Highway in Maple Falls. At Kona they’re open for lunch/dinner on Thursdays from 11:30 a.m.–6 p.m. In Maple Falls, you can catch them on Friday–Sunday for breakfast from 7:30 a.m.–10 a.m. and lunch/dinner from 12 p.m.–5 p.m. 7802 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls, 360.223.9770, monoloeats.com 

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin

–

BASTION BREWING COMPANY American 12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewery.com On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.

Owner Alberto Candivi gets up every morning to make some of the day’s pastas by hand, sculpting basic ingredients into the building blocks for lavish, rich Italian dishes served throughout the day. When the ingredients call for a lighter hand, his restaurant also turns out reserved, delicate dishes. Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entree menu, the list can be quite daunting — and the dessert menu is also impressive. The wine menu is also expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.

NELL THORN Seafood 116 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but you’ll also typically find a seafood pasta, filet-topped salad, and oysters on the menu.

CATRINA TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican 517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566, catrinastacostequila.com Catrina Tacos & Tequila is known for their take on Street Tacos — with a multitude of meat fillings to choose from, double tortillas, cilantro, and onions — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. With plenty of

February 2021 59

Taste Sip

A Tropical Escape on Holly Street Lorikeet

T

HE CREATORS OF BLACK SHEEP have opened a

new venture, Lorikeet Bar, on Holly Street in downtown Bellingham.

The bar’s offerings are inspired by cuisine from Mexico, Central American, and South America, with additional influences from Mediterranean and tropical Asian fare. Rather than pigeonhole themselves into one particular style of food, Lorikeet leaves its possibilities open-ended and instead focuses on what tastes good.

Designed to feel like a seaside resort bar, the atmosphere at Lorikeet is beachy, relaxing, and transporting, perfect for escaping the wintertime blues and easing COVID-19 cabin fever.

“No one’s going on vacation this year… why not just build something here that’s escapist?” says owner Charlie Pasquire.

The bar’s extensive cocktail menu features numerous rumand tequila- based creations. The Hotel Nacional ($9) is a not-too-sweet daiquiri flavored with pineapple, apricot, and lime, while the Bando’lero ($10) is a smoke-and-honey drink made with mezcal, triple sec, honey, and lime.

As an homage to the space’s previous venture, a whiskybar/barbecue joint called Boy Howdy, the menu also boasts a variety of bourbons, ryes, and malt whiskeys. You’ll find 60

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everything from Old Fitzgerald bourbon, aged 15 years, to Kilkerran single malt whiskey, aged 12 years.

The food menu rotates daily, but staples include small plates like ceviche, skewers, and veggie dishes. It’s highquality food with a vendor-style presentation. Expect flavorful sauces and marinades, like scratch-made chimichurri.

The menu relies on ingredients sourced from local farms and suppliers throughout Skagit and Whatcom, including Cloud Mountain Farm, York Community Farm, and Taylor Shellfish.

Lorikeet opened in late July, joining the ranks of restaurants to launch during the pandemic. As fall approached, the bar turned its focus to making comfortable outdoor seating. The result is a semi-permanent facility featuring heated and sheltered cabanas. Each cabana is partially enclosed and enjoys an individual heating element, meaning you can sit back, sip a margarita, and pretend you’re on a tropical beach.

For the team at Lorikeet, the experience of launching the bar has felt similar to when Black Sheep opened.

“Feels familiar in a way, and it’s pretty exciting, to be doing that again,” says operations manager Brendan O’Neill. 215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101 Bellingham, lorikeetbar.com 

Photos by Alina Simone

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

Dining Guide Taste

THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak 205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.

beer | cider | spirits crafted in edison from skagit valley ingredients

TERRAMAR BREWING & DISTILLING 5712 GILKEY AVE • EDISON, WA TERRAMARCRAFT.COM

RISTRETTO COFFEE LOUNGE & WINE BAR American

416 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.0951, ristrettocoffeelounge.com Ristretto doesn’t have a kitchen, but the baristas know their way around a panini press. You can also order breakfast all day, fresh salads, hearty bagels, or one of the baked goods brought in three times a week from nearby bakeries.

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese 1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com Professional Teppanyaki 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 your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.

SHAMBALA BAKERY & BISTRO American 614 S. 1st Ave., Mount Vernon 360.588.6600, shambalabakery.com Crack open Shambala Bakery and Bistro’s menu to find all-day breakfast options and an array of sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and lighter fare items such as quiche and soup. Their daily specials take advantage of what’s in season.

SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL

FRESH ON THE GO GOURMET ENTRÉES READY FOR YOUR GRILL OR OVEN NOW AVAILABLE IN GRAB & GO

American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles.

Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

SEHOME HAGGEN

Haggen Fresh Food • Visit haggen.com to view our weekly flyers, store hours and more ©2021 Haggen • 201228-02

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Taste Dining Guide

TAQUERIA LA BAMBA Mexican

Storia Cucina Bishop Ingredients: mastika, mezcal, creme de cassis, green chartreuse $11

2222 Riverside Dr., Ste. 850, Mount Vernon 360.424.0824 Off the road and inside a small plaza sits a little gem — a family-run, low-key Mexican restaurant. Taqueria La Bamba offers authentic taco truck food in a sit-down restaurant.

The salsas are spicy, full of flavor, and made in-house. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a low price, eat here and you won’t be disappointed.

THE UNION TAVERN — LOCAL 902 American 902 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8245, theuniontavern-local902.com Patrons can get the perfect-size dish in a flavor profile to satisfy any craving. With plenty of beers on rotation, there’s the basics plus a surprise or two. Cocktails are another highlight — you won’t find Red Bull vodkas or overly sweetened Mai Tais here. The staff uses fresh juice, quality spirits, and house-made sours and grenadine. Staffers are encouraged to create their own cocktails, and the tastiest concoctions get a place on the menu.

VAGABOND STATION Southern 2120 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.421.4227, vagabondtrailerfood.com Vagabond Station is known for its mostly Southern-style menu with a few curveballs.

Dig into a prime rib sandwich, a meat-lover’s dream that is difficult to find in this day of well-done meat. Try a bowl of Vagabond Chili, the Santa Fe cornbread, or a wiscuit — biscuit dough cooked in a waffle maker. Of course, there’s crispy fried chicken and waffles, and their signature sandwich, the Yard Bird: chicken, cheddar cheese, and gravy piled onto a fresh, fluffy biscuit.

ISLAND COUNTIES HIS DRINK MAY LOOK

fruity, but don’t let the rosy color fool you. The mezcal creates a smoke-forward elixir layered with complex flavors. One such flavor is the mastika, which gets its name from mastic, a piney resin that imbues the liquor with an evergreen taste. The drink’s dark red color comes in part from the creme de cassis, a sweet French liquor made from blackcurrants. The final ingredient, green chartreuse, is the 62

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only naturally green liquor in the world, made from a blend of more than 100 plants and flowers. The result is a smokey, herbal tonic with hidden notes of spearmint and lime. This drink is intriguing, nostalgic, and tastes like a night out in a glass. The literal cherry on top is the Luxardo maraschino.

109 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.734.1929, storiacucina.com BECKY MANDELBAUM

2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.

Photo by Emily Porter

T

CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN American

CATKIN CAFÉ American 11 Point Lawrence Rd., Olga, 360.376.3242, catkincafe.com The menu of this Orcas Island eatery may be small, but it is mighty. Breakfast and lunch are served late and their menu features meat and produce grown on the island. Don’t forget about their bakery before heading out — all sweets and baked goods are made in-house.

DOE BAY CAFÉ American

8

GREAT

TASTES

107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com 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 Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes.

1

PRIMA BISTRO French 201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com A quintessential South Whidbey dining ­experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.

2

SALTY FOX COFFEE American 85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com When owner Andrea Hampton put together her coffee shop’s food menu, she worked hard to create items that were easy to make, but still healthy and satisfying. She wanted to be able to serve ferry riders on a time schedule, along with locals who come in for breakfast or lunch.

Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.

3

VINNY’S RISTORANTE Seafood

Photo by Dean Davidson

165 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood and modern comfort Italian. As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrees, many of them traditional favorites. The cocktail list includes the classics, along with some fun offerings.

4

For a quick and easy lunch, grab a Turkey Pesto Sandwich from Mount Bakery Cafe. Thinsliced turkey is paired with basil-pumpkin seed pesto, provolone, and greens.

The true star is the madein-house focaccia, toasted to perfection.

For a grab-and-go lunch, order the Walking Taco from Locus in downtown Bellingham. Everything you love in a taco, served in a bag of Doritos or tortilla chips. Options include veggie, chorizo, or beef.

For a dose of affordable Indian street food, track down the Mix Masala food truck at either Wander Brewing or Stones Throw Brewery. Their Chicken Tikka Masala comes with generous chunks of meat in a creamy spiced curry sauce, served with rice.

For authentic Italian meatballs like grandma used to make, try the Cicotti Meatballs from Storia Cucina. Made with pork and beef and flavored with basil and pecorino. Plus: fresh focaccia on the side.

5 6 7 8

The Spring Street Deli in Friday Harbor makes a mean sub. For a classic that’s sure to satisfy, order the Roobie Doobie Reuben. Corned beef, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing come together on slices of grilled marbled rye.

Next time you’re craving a warm bowl of soup, head to La Conner Brewing Co. for their hearty New England-style Clam Chowder. Served with a side of focaccia bread, it pairs perfectly with the brewery’s oatmeal stout.

For only five bucks, you can get a mouth-watering Station Burger from The Filling Station. This simple, satisfying burger comes with a sixth-pound patty of grass-fed beef, American cheese, diced onions, lettuce, and special station sauce, all on a toasted bun.

Meat-lovers will fall hard for the Carne Pizza at Bellingham Cider Company. Featuring Italian sausage, pepperoni, shaved capicola, mozzarella, reggiano, pickled red peppers, and house-made marinara.

February 2021 63

Taste 5 Faves

1

Chocolate Necessities This chocolate shop has been crafting up sweet goodness since 1986. With two locations in Bellingham, you’re never far from high-quality bars, brittles, and truffles. Browse their chocolate gifts to find the perfect Valentine’s present, whether it’s a box of chocolate roses or an assortment of animal-shaped dark chocolate bites. 4600 Guide Meridian, Ste. 109, Bellingham, 360.676.0589; 1408 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.733.6666; chocolatenecessities.com

FIVE FAVES

Chocolate Shops

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

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2

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe Located on the top floor of Village Books in Fairhaven, Evolve crafts top-notch chocolates, truffles, and cakes.

Locally owned by couple Christy and Shannon Fox, Evolve’s food, coffee, and chocolate are impossible to resist. 1200 11th

s

r

Full Service Fish Market and Lunch Available

® TM

Burgers • Wings Fat Sandwiches

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Mon�Sat ��:����:��pm with lunch until �:��pm Sun ����pm with lunch until �pm

St., Bellingham, 360.220.1898, evolvechocolatecafe.com

3

Sweet Art One reviewer said it all: “The chocolate treats are so flavorful and delicate they just melt in your mouth!” This small, quirky candy shop in downtown Bellingham has everything you need for Valentine’s Day: flowers, cards, and delectable, handcrafted chocolates. 1335 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.714.1331

4

Forte Chocolates

Shop Our Selection of Locally Made Goods and Gifts • Jams • Jellies • Salsas • Honey • Sauces

a

����� WA���, Burlington, WA ������������, skagitfish.com

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take-out • delivery Order Online 360.366.8752

•

Fatshack.com

Sun-Thurs 11am to 1am

Fri-Sat 11am to 3am

WT h a i E x p r e s s

Elegance and presentation are Forte’s, well, forte. Their awardwinning, beautifully packaged chocolates taste just as good as they look. Stop by for gift boxes, barks, hot chocolate mixes, truffles, caramels, and festive seasonal offerings. 700 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.588.4859

5

The C Shop The C Shop in Birch Bay has everything from handcrafted chocolates to pizza and ice cream.

Hard to beat that. Their chocolate selection is seasonal, too, making it perfect for gifts throughout the year. 4825 Alderson Rd., Birch Bay, 360.371.2070, thecshop.com

E X P R E S S LO CAT I O N N OW O P E N! Give us a call or order online at our new, express take-out location near downtown Bellingham or dine-in at our original location on Dupont Street!

We also deliver via Vikingfood, Ubereats, Postmates, Grubhub, and Doordash.

Express location: W Thai Express 2201 Cornwall Ave. Bellingham wthaiexpress.com, 360.922.7698

Original location: Wanida Thai Cuisine 1213 Dupont St. Bellingham wanidathai.com, 360.746.8642

February 2021 65

Menus Need direction? Let our local menus guide your dining choices.

N

ORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST. Those who come to eat here in the nation’s uppermost left corner have dining choices like few others, no matter which direction they take. We are uniquely situated to enjoy nature’s bounty while soaking up spectacular views of where those dishes originated, whether it be the streams and rivers of the Nooksack Valley, the berry fields of northern Whatcom County, the farmlands of the Skagit Valley, or the waterways of the San Juan Islands.

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Set your gastronomical compass east, and enjoy the sweet buttery texture of salmon or steelhead in Nooksack streams and rivers. North, and you’ll find the nation’s most bountiful raspberry harvest, as well as an abundance of strawberries and blueberries, depending on the month of your picking. Head south to Skagit’s picturesque farms, where the snowcapped Mt. Baker stands in contrast to that patchwork quilt of homegrown produce that is enticing members of a younger generation to trade tech for tractors. Or turn to the west for the crab, clams, and oysters of the San Juans, caught one day and brought to your table the next (or the same day, if you know someone).

If locally sourced food is not your thing, this area has familiar fare too. Be as conventional or adventuresome as you like. But whether you are cozying up to pub fare or sampling the latest organic offering, take a minute to look around. No matter where you’ve come from, this is a good place to be.

Milano’s Italian Restaurant Seafood & Veneto Italian Craft Bar

Milano’s: 30 years of tradition! Italian fare with emphasis on seafood Milano’s makes its own pasta, bread, sauce. Our wine list has 140 great wines. Our lunch sandwiches are unique! Veneto, a unique Italian craft bar: quality spirits with exquisite cocktails.

Our sidewalk café is warm and cozy for a great dining experience!

Cocktails

Il Mediterraneo

Italian Lemon Drop

Sexy Thing Vodka, Limone, Citron Orange Liqueur, lemon juice. sugar rim..

Water for Chocolate

Aunty Molly’s Rye Cask Strength, Old Monk Rum, Cynar 70, Cinnamon bitters.

Brandy Cream Mussels The only leg of Jamon Iberico de Bellota 4 years in Washington State.

Caesar Salad

Dressing made to order.

Entrees Pasta Toscana

Italian sausage, arugula, caramelized onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, red wine, stock, gorgonzola, fusilli. Sub lamb for sausage.

Appetizer Jamon Iberico de Bellota

French Cured Ham, Spanish Chorizo Iberico, Italian Truffle Cheese, tomato, red onions, greens, basil olive oil on ciabatta From Drizzle next door.

Short Ribs with Carrot-Parsnip Puree

Italian herbs, red wine, onions, garlic, meat stock.

Shallots, mushroom medley, white wine, butter, basil, Romano, linguine.

Cioppino

Mussels, clams, calamari, prawns, scallop, cod, smoked salmon, garlic, fennel, shallots, tomato.

Desserts Tiramisu Chocolate Temptation Raspberry-Limoncello Cake Torta della Nona

Puttanesca

Lunch

Tomatoes, capers, olives, arugula, rosemary, chili flakes, garlic, linguine.

Add Spanish white anchovies.

The Sinbad

Parma Funghi

Wild caught in Bristol Bay by a local fisherman Sockeye Salmon with Middle Eastern spices, lemon zest mayo on ciabatta.

Miscela di Funghi

Prosciutto di Parma, shallots, mushroom medley, white wine, butter, basil, Romano, linguine.

Hours

Contact

Decorum

Hours: 7 Days a Week

1120 11th Street, Fairhaven

Attire: Smart Casual

Lunch: 11am to 2pm

360.599.2863

Reservations: Highly

Dinner: 4pm to 9pm

Milanosrestaurantbar.com

Recommended Bar: Yes

February 2021 67

Swinomish Sports Bar & Grill Sports Bar Watch your favorite sports team compete at Swinomish Sports Bar & Grill on 34 large HDTVs! Even if you aren’t a sports fan, you can enjoy our menu, featuring starters, burgers, sandwiches, salads, Swin classics, pasta, pizza, desserts, and more! Menu subject to change.

Starters

Grilled Ribeye $26.99

Potato Skins $9.99

Baked potato skin wedges topped with cheddar jack cheese, green onion, and bacon bits

Bacon-Wrapped Prawns $13.99 Glazed with bourbon barbecue sauce

Chicken Wings $13.99

Buffalo, Caribbean, honey barbecue, garlic Parmesan, lemon pepper, chili-lime Cajun

Lumpia $11.99

Ribeye steak with Gorgonzola butter, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and vegetables

10" Pizza Pepperoni Pizza $10.99

Mozzarella cheese and pepperoni

Meatza Pizza $12.99

Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham, and mozzarella cheese

Filipino-style egg roll with pork and vegetables, served with sweet chili sauce

Hot Oven Grinder

Calamari $13.99

Italian Grinder $12.99

House-made fried calamari with lemongarlic aioli

Salad Northwest Cobb Salad $13.99

Chicken or shrimp, lettuce, smoked bacon, avocado, hard-boiled egg, tomato, Gorgonzola

Ham, pepperoni, lettuce, tomato, pepperoncini, mozzarella, mayo, and Italian dressing

Pasta

The Rookie Burger $12.99

Half-pound beef patty, lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheedar, and our secret sauce

Caprese Burger $14.99

Beef patty, fresh mozzerella, spinach, basil, balsamic reduction, and tomato

Chicken Bacon Ranch Burger $13.99

Lightly breaded chicken breast, bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing

Texas Leaguer Burger $13.99

Beef patty, tomato, lettuce, onion, barbecue ranch, caramelized onion, bacon, cheddar

Spicy Southwest Cheeseburger $13.99

Beef patty, green chili-pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, chipotle ranch

Wooster Burger $12.99

Prime Rib Stroganoff $16.99

Mushrooms, onion, garlic, prime rib, and fettuccine

Shrimp Diablo $17.99

Swin Classics

Burgers

Beef patty, pickle, onion, lettuce, garlic, special sauce, and American cheese

Salmon Burger $15.99

Grilled salmon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and lemon-garlic aioli

Shrimp, bacon, roasted red pepper, Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine

Fish & Chips $15.99

Beer-battered Halibut served with coleslaw, french fries, lemon, and tartar sauce

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*Prices subject to change.

Hours

Contact

Decorum

Mon–Fri: 4pm–1am

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes

Attire: Casual

Sat–Sun: 11am–1am

888.288.8883

Reservations: No

swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Bar: Yes

Nicki’s Bella Marina

Burgers, Seafood, Steak Nicki’s Bar and Grill features a casual friendly atmosphere for good times with a great water view along with some outstanding local micro brews, fresh seasonal local seafood and Washington state beef with local seasonal produce. Nicki’s was voted Bellingham’s Best Fish and Chips.

Salads

Seafood

Hot dogs

Bay Shrimp Bacon Salad $1599

Nicki’s Fish & Chips $1699

Nicki’s Gourmet Hot Dogs $699

BBQ Pulled Pork Salad $1499

Charbroiled Salmon $1999

Kids

Fresh mixed greens, red onions, wild bay shrimp and diced honey cured bacon.

Romaine, red cabbage, carrots topped with slow roasted BBQ pulled pork.

Award winning fish & chips hand dipped in tempura style batter and made to order.

8oz wild alaskan salmon, handcrafted champagne caper sauce.

Burgers

Steaks

Bacon Mushroom Cheese $1499

NY Steak $1995–$2595

2/3 lbs of ground chuck steak, honey cured bacon, mushrooms and American cheese.

Hand cut New York steak, charbroiled and brushed with real butter.

Dessert Hard Ice Cream Milk Shakes $499 Chocolate, Seasonal Berry, Vanilla or Coffee. Ask about ADULT milk shakes!

Rib Eye Steak $2195–$2795

The Big Hot Texan $1599

Slow Cooked BBQ Ribs Half Rack $2095 | Full Rack $2595

1/3 lbs of ground chuck steak, two onion rings, pulled pork, buff-a-q sauce and cheese

Kids Meal $599

Two kids chicken strips with fries or salad.

BBQ Onion Burger $1499

2/3 lbs of ground chuck steak, sauteed onions, our own BBQ sauce and gooey mayo.

Beef & pork 10 inch hot dog ready for topping of your choice.

Hand cut rib eye steak, charbroiled and brushed with real butter.

Tender fall off the bone slow cooked BBQ ribs.

Hours

Contact

Decorum

Lunch | Dinner | HH

2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr.

Attire: Casual

Monday–Sunday: 11am–11pm

Bellingham, WA

Reservations: Yes

Happy Hour: 3pm–6pm

360.332.2505

Bar: Yes

Sunday Funday: Happy hour all day nickisbellamarina.com

February 2021 69

Leader Block Wine Co. Italian An upscale, from-scratch, cozy restaurant featuring classic Italian cuisine using seasonal fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients. We have seasonal menu changes with daily lunch specials and nightly dinner specials, over 115 wines, an expansive craft cocktail menu using fresh-squeezed juices and house-made simple syrups. We do not have a microwave, a fryer, a soda gun and have no Styrofoam on the property!

When allowed, we have live music and provide options for private dining. We have an incredible wine club as well.

Specialty Cocktails Pour Some Sugar On Me $11

Peach Vodka, Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice, Orange Liqueur, CranberryRaspberry Powdered Rim

Victoria’s Secret $12

Empress gin (from Victoria BC) creme de Violette, fresh lemon juice, prosecco

Holy Crow $13

Bourbon, Quinquina, Lillet Rosso, Orange Bitters

Lady Leader Block Espresso Martini $11

Vongole $14

Manilla clams steamed in Pinot Grigio, butter, tomatoes, garlic, herbs, warm focaccia

Lunch & Dinner Beet Caprese $10

Goat Cheese, aged balsamic, pistachio, olive oil

Insalata di Semi di Papavero $10 Fresh greens salad, candied pecans, strawberry-poppyseed dressing

Agnello Burger $14

Avion espresso liqueur, Bailey’s Irsh creme, Espresso

Grass-fed lamb patty, onion-bacon jam, smoked gouda, garlic aioli, soup or salad

Panini Vegetariani $12

Appetizer

Squash, zucchini, red peppers, mozzarella, basil aioli, soup or salad

Formaggi e Salumi $20

Mixed selection of local & International meats and cheese, nuts, honeycomb

Germogli di Brussel $12

Roasted Brussel sprouts, confit garlic, pancetta, cranberries, parmesan. herbs

Gamberoni $11

Prawn Flatbread $15

Garlic Aioli, Smoked Gouda, Prawns, Herb Oil, Tomatoes, Parmesan, Mozzarella, Balsamic

Gamberetti Bisque $6 / $10

Decadent seafood bisque served with warm focaccia

Lasagna Classico (GF, V options) $19 Baked flat pasta, mozzarella, meat sauce, sauteed veggies, parmesan

Anatra $26

Seared and roasted duck breast, rotating jam, beurre blanc, tossed white beans, seasonal puree

Fettuccine Ai Frutti Di Mare $22

Fettuccine, Manilla clams, calamari, prawns, garlic-herbed cream sauce

Capesante $27

Pan-seared jumbo scallops, seasonal parmesan risotto, seasonal vegetables, mushrooms

Costata di Manzo $47.00 for 14 oz.

Butter-thyme basted Claus Meats Prime Ribeye, parmesan-rosemary fingerling potatoes, seasonal veggies, pan jus

Pasta Polpette $25

Spaghetti, Lamb Meatballs, Bacon Jam, Brown Butter, Blistered Tomatoes, Garlic, Mushrooms, Pecorino

Zucchini Puttanesca Gamberoni (V option) $25

Zucchini noodles, prawns, capers, garlic confit, blistered tomatoes, chili flakes

Herb-garlic sauteed prawns, Beurre Blanc topped with pepper flakes

Hours

Contact

Decorum

Visit our website for current hours.

2026 Main Street

Attire: Upscale Casual

Ferndale,WA

Reservations: Yes

360.306.8998

Bar: Yes

leaderblock.com

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BellinghamAlive.com

Guud Bowls Creative Food Delivery We offer seasonal, gluten-free food delivery throughout Whatcom County. Our weekly rotating menu offers individually sized bowls as well as larger family sized pans, all intended to be heated at your convenience. We use our own recipes to showcase seasonal fare, always offering vegan options. Whether you are in search of lunch at the office or dinner for Pot O’ Gold

home, we are happy to deliver your way free of Service Charges, Fees or Minimums. #YouHeatYouEat

Bowls

Family Pans

Vegan Cauli Curry

Golden Chicken

Grilled boneless and skinless chicken thighs, golden BBQ sauce, smashed potatoes, grilled asparagus.

basil chimichurri roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles,asparagus coins, green beans, ginger slaw, chia seeds,almonds and avocado green curry.

Sweet Pot Mac & Cheese

GF elbows and rotinis, caramelized onion, bacon, sweet potato and yam, maple, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, monterey jack.

Stoutstanding Steak Chili

The Woodstock Salad

Shredded chicken, roasted brussel sprouts and yams, bacon, pomegranate seeds, shaved parmesan reggiano, candied pecans, greens, reamy maple dijon.

Vegan Bangkok Coco Curry

Red coconut curry, mad tofu, asian slaw, simple broccoli, glass noodles, toasted cashew.

GF beer braised steak, sumac and chipotle stew base, charred corn and poblanos, red and black beans, sour cream, sharp cheddar.

La Jefe

Blackened chicken, tex-mex chipotle rice, tomatillo corn salad, avocado crema, pepitas and cotija.

Pot O’ Gold

Back East Brisket Hash

Danielle’s Back East fall apart Brisket, baked and fried potato dice, scrambled eggs, peppers and onions, all tossed in Tajin Sauce. Topped with cheese.

Stew of shredded chicken, shiitake and crimini, roasted apple, braised leeks, coconut milk, turmeric, ginger and lemongrass, bacon and wild rice.

Grilled teriyaki chicken thighs, honey teriyaki sauce, simple white rice, sesame green beans and broccoli.

Whitefish, scallops, shrimp, clams, bacon, fennel, charred corn, fingerlings, dairy free potato puree base.

Crispy baked tofu, Tso sauce, vegan fried rice, sesame green beans.

Vegan Zoodles and MBs

House plant baked MBs, scratch red sauce, zucchini noodles, plant based mozzarella.

Taco Salad

Chile seasoned Beef, mexican cheeses, guacamole, pico de gallo, black and white crispies, beans, hominy, olives, green onion, creamy cilantro dressing, greens.

Mad-Sauced shredded chicken, rice noodles, red coconut curry, ginger slaw, simple broccoli, toasted cashew and coconut.

Vegan Harvest Pan

chimichurri grilled veggies, charred yams, green beans peas, toasted almond quinoa, almonds, sunflower seeds, more chimichurri

Margarita Steak

Vegan General Tso

Dungy and lump crab, shrimp, bacon, bok choy, fried rice, snap peass.

Mad Chicken Bangkok

DF New England Seafood CHOWDA

Simple Teriyaki Bowl

Dirty Crab Fried Rice

Grilled carne asada, margarita sauce, parsley mashers, charred poblanos and grilled cabbage, toasted corn nuts.

Hours

Contact Info

Decorum

Order online 24/7.

360.510.4880

Delivery Only.

Pre-Orders and same

guudbowls.com

Refer to website for

day delivery accepted.

pricing and availabilty.

February 2021 71

These brown bear cubs stood to watch their mom fish for salmon after an arduous journey from their mountain den to the river. They were busy learning to navigate a new world filled with many bears and the odd human.

KENNETH KEARNEY

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs — ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion.

We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word write-up about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to dean@bellinghamalive.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.

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BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Kenneth Kearney Photography.

Notes Lasting Image

Meet O ur Chef!

Behind the cuisine CHEF DEAN

began his culinary

career as a busboy in a coffee shop, and while some may be intimidated by the lunch rush, Dean found it Xciting; it was then that he knew he wanted to be a chef. After 35 years, Dean has developed his own unique style that represents his cultural background and incorporates classical cooking techniques, which he brought to Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort. One of Dean’s favorite dishes is the 26-ounce prime ribeye hatchet steak at Whiskey Prime Steakhouse, a tender and juicy steak that pairs beautifully with the loaded baked potato and a glass of cabernet sauvignon from a local Washington winery.

Xperience the flavor!

C A S I N O

R E S O R T

100% Smoke-Free Property!

Viking Food Viking Food partners with over 100 restaurants to deliver unique and local food to the communities in Bellingham, Blaine, Custer, Everson, Ferndale, and Lynden. Some places that users can order from include:

AB Crepes

Cafe Akroteri

Skylarks Hidden Cafe

Redlight

Leaf and Ladle

Extreme Sports Grill

Shakedown

Pure Bliss Desserts

Thai House Restaurant

Cascade Pizza

JJ’s In & Out

Waterfront Seafood & Bar

vikingfood.delivery 360.922.0819 Mon–Thurs: 8am to 11pm Friday: 8am to 11:55pm Saturday 10am to 11:55pm Sunday 10am to 11pm