15 Best Coffee Shops in Bellingham WA

By:

JP

Last Updated:

Situated in the northwest corner of Washington State, Bellingham seamlessly blends the tranquil charm of a small town with the dynamic energy of a vibrant urban hub.

Nestled between the shimmering waters of Bellingham Bay and the majestic snow-capped Mount Baker, it’s a destination for nature lovers. Kayaking, hiking, and skiing are available right at its doorstep.

Yet, amid its historic neighborhoods, lively arts scene, and bustling Bellingham Farmers Market, a particular aroma wafts through the city streets – freshly brewed coffee.

Bellingham’s thriving coffee culture is a harmonious mix of artisanal roasters, cozy coffee houses, and eclectic cafés, serving cups of liquid gold and unique atmospheres.

Best Bellingham Coffee Shops
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Best Bellingham Coffee Shops

In this post, we navigate the best Bellingham coffee shops, spotlighting the city’s top coffee spots to try.

Narrative Coffee

When you visit Narrative Coffee in Bellingham, you’ll be greeted by a bright, warm atmosphere, clean lines, and natural light. The friendly staff is always ready to welcome you and help you choose from their delicious coffee drinks and breakfast options.

Located at 1400 W. Holly St., Narrative Coffee also has a roastery where it produces its excellent coffee beans. Its coffee menu caters to various tastes, and its breakfast and brunch offerings are perfect for delightfully starting your day.

So, next time you’re in Bellingham and crave a tasty cup of joe, make sure to stop by Narrative Coffee for a pleasant, satisfying experience.

Editor’s Note: I recently watched an interesting YouTube video about the owner of Narrative Coffee, Maxwell Mooney, who shared his journey from starting a coffee cart to owning two thriving coffee shops. He shares great information for anyone interested in coffee shops and even starting one. You will find the video at the bottom of this page.

Camber Coffee

Camber Coffee is a fantastic spot in Bellingham, WA, known for its exceptional coffee and delicious food offerings. Thanks to its warm and cozy ambiance, it’s a great place to unwind or catch up with friends. Their attentive staff ensures that you have a delightful experience, ensuring that this coffee haven rightly deserves its place in the 15 Best Coffee Shops in Bellingham.

You’ll find a variety of flavorful coffee roasts and tasty menu items to choose from, whether you prefer a classic espresso or a mouthwatering breakfast sandwich. Don’t forget to try their popular savory Dutch Baby, which has garnered rave reviews.

With its commitment to sourcing high-quality beans and treating coffee as an art form, Camber Coffee has a loyal fanbase in the community.

11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar

Located in the heart of Bellingham, 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar is a cozy spot that will instantly make you feel welcome. As you enter the shop, you’ll be greeted by the warm atmosphere and friendly staff, who are ready to serve you a range of handcrafted beverages.

With a diverse menu, you can choose from their delicious teas, Stumptown coffee drinks, and unique elixir blends that cater to your taste and preferences.

It is a place for caffeinated delights and offers an assortment of menu items like the immune-boosting Cacao Latte and the ever-popular Vanilla Latte, which are perfect for a treat or to accompany your work sessions. A delightful break from your everyday routine, the 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar is a spot you’ll want to visit repeatedly.

Locus

Locus of Bellingham is an urban-industrial coffee shop in downtown Bellingham’s heart. It’s a welcoming gathering place that effortlessly connects its customers by bringing everyone together in a unique, inviting space.

When you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed classic espressos alongside a selection of refreshing hops, tasteful wines, and rare drink fusions.

Not only does Locus provide an array of delicious beverages, but it also offers a menu filled with homemade bites. One popular choice is their caramel macchiato, featuring vanilla and caramel sauce topped with a net of caramel drizzle.

If you like unique drinks, don’t miss their Vietnamese iced coffee, with its velvety foam and sprinkling of crumbled chocolate-covered espresso beans.

bellingham wa coffee shops
Taylor Dock Shelter at Boulevard Park Boardwalk in Bellingham

The Coffee Shop by Hammerhead Coffee Roasters

Established in 2007, Hammerhead Coffee Roasters has become a staple for coffee lovers in Bellingham. This small-batch coffee roaster offers thoughtfully roasted, unique blends made with Fair Trade and Organic certified beans.

You’ll be drawn to the cheerful ambiance of their cafe at 405 E Holly St, located in a prime downtown spot. With a mission to make every coffee a special part of your day, Hammerhead believes in forming relationships with cooperatives of small growers.

Welcoming you with a bright and open atmosphere, The Coffee Shop by Hammerhead Coffee Roasters truly celebrates its passion for craft and connection. Enjoy their delicious coffee, explore their retail offerings, or soak in the vibrant energy.

If you prefer to savor their coffee from the comfort of your home, you can easily order from their online store or find their products in select retail stores.

Cafe Blue

Cafe Blue is a charming, cozy spot in Fairhaven Village, perfect for a rainy weekend pick-me-up or a slow Sunday morning with friends. The ambiance is welcoming, featuring an eclectic art collection on the walls and beautiful indoor plants filling the windows.

They serve delicious coffee, particularly their mochas and lattes. The food menu might be small but offers mighty flavors that will please your taste buds.

As you sip your coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, browse the cafe’s website or social media pages for any events or updates. Connecting with the Cafe Blue community is just as enjoyable as your experience in their store.

NEKO Cat Cafe Bellingham

At NEKO Cat Cafe, you can enjoy a variety of delicious drinks and light nibbles while interacting with adorable, adoptable kitties.

With a partnership with the Whatcom Humane Society, NEKO provides a sanctuary for its feline friends, making the cafe a unique and enjoyable experience for cat lovers. Your time at this Bellingham location will whisk you away to a perfect paradise.

While you’re there, don’t miss out on their selection of beverages for purchase and cat-themed merchandise to showcase your love for these whiskered companions. Relax in a fun environment with these adorable cats, and remember that reservations are highly recommended for your visit!

Avellino Coffeehouse

Avellino Coffeehouse is a charming spot in the heart of Bellingham. With its inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee while catching up with friends or getting some work done.

Their selection of beverages includes espresso drinks, teas, and even gluten-free options. The friendly staff at Avellino Coffeehouse is always ready to serve you with a smile, ensuring your experience is delightful and memorable.

In addition to serving great coffee, Avellino Coffeehouse offers fresh pastries, delicious sandwiches, and gluten-free treats. The lovely wall artwork enhances the cozy ambiance, making it a must-visit when you’re in the Bellingham area.

Shirlee Bird Cafe

Shirlee Bird Cafe is a delightful spot in Bellingham with two locations: one on Commercial Street and another in Sycamore Square on Harris Avenue.

Both cafes offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making them the perfect place to gather with friends or take a break with your favorite brew. With their range of delicious food options and decadent drinks, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

The café is known for offering mouthwatering breakfast burritos, lemon blueberry danishes, and its unique Waffleini. You’ll also appreciate the bright, open space and, if the weather permits, enjoy the abundant covered patio seating.

Friendly staff members are always on hand to ensure your visit is memorable. For a great complement to your meal, don’t forget to check out their wine, beer, cider, mimosas, and tea offerings.

coffee shops bellingham wa
Whatcom Museum of History and Art Bellingham

Caffe Adagio

Caffe Adagio is a locally-owned gem in Bellingham that celebrates the art of espresso and strives to draw the community together. You’ll feel the heart put into every cup as each espresso is carefully prepared and beautifully presented, with European culinary perfection as their inspiration.

Caffe Adagio offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind or catch up with friends. In addition to their finely crafted espresso drinks, they also offer a selection of teas, sandwiches, and other delectable menu items.

Reflecting its commitment to local Bellingham residents, Caffe Adagio strongly emphasizes building community connections. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance will make you feel at home as you enjoy their delicious drinks, tasty foods, and relaxing environment.

Black Fern Coffee

At Black Fern Coffee, you will enjoy tasty coffee, delicious natural wine, and a thoughtfully curated craft beverage experience. Located in Bellingham, Washington, this cozy coffee shop is perfect for your morning caffeine fix or an evening catch-up with friends.

As a nature lover, you will appreciate Black Fern’s commitment to embracing the great outdoors. They even host events and tutorials on how to brew backcountry coffee while backpacking and skiing.

Additionally, they offer trailhead coffee lessons, where hikers and bikers can learn about and sample Black Fern coffee before setting off into the mountains. Visiting Black Fern Coffee is a wonderful mix of adventure and delightful beverages.

Makeworth Coffee Roasters

Located in Bellingham, WA, Makeworth Coffee Roasters is a welcoming and trendy coffee shop that takes pride in serving high-quality coffee. As you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the spacious and modern atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax, work, or socialize.

They carefully source their coffee beans and roast them in-house, providing a delightful and authentic coffee experience. In addition to coffee, their menu includes teas, pastries, and tasty food options, which you will find equally pleasing.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot with free Wi-Fi to enjoy your coffee break or catch up with friends, you won’t be disappointed by the ambiance and excellent service at Makeworth Coffee Roasters.

Colophon Cafe

Colophon Cafe has been a local favorite since 1985 in the heart of Fairhaven. As you step inside, you will be greeted by a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a quick coffee break or a leisurely meal. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home, and the delicious menu offerings include soups, salads, sandwiches, pot pies, and quiche.

Remember to stop by on weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. for their Happy Hour specials. Whether catching up with friends or enjoying quiet time alone with your favorite book, Colophon Cafe is a delightful spot to unwind and savor delightful coffee and delectable bites.

ROAM Coffee + Beer

At ROAM Coffee + Beer, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere that brings together the best coffee and beer. Nestled in the heart of Bellingham, this unique spot features locally roasted organic coffee, Wander Brewing beer, local craft cider, Washington wine, pastries, and light eats.

As a community gathering place at the confluence of the Fountain, Columbia, and Lettered Streets neighborhoods, ROAM Coffee + Beer is the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a quiet moment to yourself.

When you step into ROAM, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and a cozy environment that feels like home. It’s a perfect space for all, whether you’re there to enjoy a cup of coffee or sample some of Wander Brewing’s finest brews. So why not take a break and visit ROAM Coffee + Beer while traveling around Bellingham’s local coffee scene?

The Lodge Coffee

The Lodge Coffee is a popular, locally-owned spot in Bellingham, WA. When you visit this drive-through coffee stand, you’ll enjoy their specialty coffee drinks and made-to-order breakfast food options.

The staff is dedicated to improving your day by providing quality coffee that may turn you into a coffee snob. In addition to their amazing coffee, The Lodge Coffee also offers bagels and brunch items you’ll love.

Check out their social media presence to stay updated on new offerings and events at this beloved coffee destination. Visit them and experience the friendly atmosphere and exceptional coffee for yourself.

Wherever you are in Bellingham, there will always be plenty of coffee shops nearby, so it won’t be hard to find one. The tricky part is finding a good one.

Hopefully, you will visit at least one or two of the Bellingham coffee shops we recommend.

Remember, the next time you get your phone out to search for the best coffee shops near me in Bellingham, return to this page and try another of our recommendations.

Check out the best coffee shops in Washington and other places in the state we cover.

Be sure to take advantage of the chance to explore our wide range of coffee shops in Everett, and Spokane.

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