Whatcom County lost these restaurants in March, while gaining a newcomer
Looking for a new restaurant to try out? Here is the one new Whatcom County eatery that opened in March and two that closed permanently.
New Whatcom County restaurants
Sawyer & Pals
A new food truck, Sawyer & Pals, opened March 10. It was launched by a husband-and-wife duo Darrell Sawyer and Marcie Pals, who recently moved to Bellingham from Seattle.
The food truck offers “seasonally-inspired breakfast, lunch, dinner and catering services,” according to the business’ Facebook profile.
“Our menu will be a rotation of sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts, breakfast service, etc. We are going to focus on seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients,” a March 3 Facebook post states.
The food truck’s specific menu will vary, but recently featured dishes such as a braised pork belly sandwich, fried chicken sandwich, burgers, french fries, salads, Meyer lemon cheesecake and chocolate cake with peanut butter cream frosting.
The food truck has also served at Stones Throw Brewery and Beach Cat Brewing’s Bellingham location. The truck’s schedule is regularly updated on Facebook.
Closed Whatcom County restaurants
Starla’s
Starla’s, a natural wine bar and pizza restaurant, officially closed March 28, according to an Instagram post from the restaurant.
The restaurant was started by Jordan Koplowitz — a Bellingham native and recent James Beard Award nominee — and Christy Wyble in 2024. The duo previously operated Blotto, a popular pizza restaurant in Seattle.
Although Bellingham is losing the popular bar and restaurant, the duo is planning to move back to Seattle and open Starla’s in the city.
“We have decided to move back to Seattle, and we’re bringing Starla’s with us. Expect a legit pizzeria, expect table service, expect more pies. Maybe a cold martini? No signed lease yet. But hopefully in the near future. … stay tuned. Third time’s the charm,” a March 29 Instagram post states.
Starla’s was at 1149 N State Street in downtown Bellingham, and a new restaurant and bar is already planned for the location.
Denny’s
Bellingham’s Denny’s restaurant, the last of the chain remaining in Whatcom County, has permanently closed. A poster announcing the permanent closure was posted on Denny’s front door on March 31.
“Thank you for your loyalty, support, and the memories we’ve shared. We are truly grateful to have been part of this community. Wishing you all the best, Management,” the sign states.
The restaurant was located at 161 Telegraph Rd. in Bellingham, near the Bellis Fair mall, and was Whatcom County’s last remaining Denny’s restaurant.
