Two Bellingham restaurants that temporarily closed in Phase 1 are back. Here’s an update
With the snow melting away and the arrival of Phase 2 in Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Healthy Washington” COVID-19 recovery plan, more businesses are announcing the return of indoor dining and expanded workout programs.
Here’s an update:
▪ Diamond Jim’s, the longtime breakfast/lunch spot in the Fountain District, is reopening at 7 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 19, for limited indoor dining and takeout.
The restaurant had temporarily shut down at the end of November after halting takeout-only services during Phase 1 of the state’s “Healthy Washington” plan during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Diamond Jim’s will have limited hours and days open early in Phase 2. It will be open 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday through Monday.
In an email, owner Jim Green said he is bringing back the staff he had in place last Thanksgiving, before the shutdown. They will have a limited menu, but one that’s been offered throughout the pandemic.
“We hope to add menu items and employees as the conditions improve,” Green said.
Green’s other business, North Fork Brewery near Deming, will continue to stick with a to-go-only format for pizza and beer until the pandemic and weather conditions improve. Online orders can be made on its website. The brewery is also working on creating more outside dining for the spring season.
▪ Scotty Brown’s restaurant in Barkley Village has reopened its current spot at 3101 Newmarket St. for limited indoor dining 11:45a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. The restaurant temporarily closed in November during Phase 1 and reopened last week.
Business Manager Allyson Farrar said in an email that the restaurant’s new location near the movie theater is set to open in the next couple of months and will feature both indoor and outdoor dining.
▪ Quite a few restaurants that were offering takeout and outdoor seating have added indoor dining services, so check websites or social media pages for rules and hours. Examples of businesses that have announced indoor seating in the past few days include Fiamma Burger, Rock and Rye Oyster House, Yungane, Soy House, Locus, Endgame, Bob’s Burgers and Brew in Birch Bay, Zen Sushi and Bayou on Bay.
▪ Gyms and fitness centers are also expanding programs and classes in accordance to Phase 2. Recent announcements of reopening/expanding include Bellingham Athletic Club, City Gym, Life Force Ninja and Locker Room Fitness.
This story was originally published February 18, 2021 at 5:00 AM.
