Bellingham, located about an 1-1/2 – 2 hours north of Seattle, is a nice getaway within 4 hours reach…whether it be a day trip or making a weekend of it, a nice time can be had here.  This trip consisted of a girls weekend.  The itinerary included:

• Milagro Mexican Grill
• Shopping in Fairhaven – fave stops included Artwood, A lot of Flowers, Gallery West, Three French Hens, 12th Street Shoes, and others…
• Olive Oil and Vinegar Tasting at Drizzle
• Wine tasting at Purple Smile  http://www.purplesmilewines.com/  A must stop!
• Hotel Bellwether   http://www.hotelbellwether.com/
• Hearthfire Grill…not the greatest experience as our server (in the bar) was horrible, food could have been better
• Starbucks
• Bistro on Magnolia Street  – really good!  http://www.bistromagnolia.com/

Wine tasting at Purple Smile was most fun.  It’s a great stop on a Saturday afternoon, whether it is to have a day out with friends or meet some new ones…whether it be a person or wine.   You can pay/taste by the glass, a taste of 7 different featured wines or a separate tasting of 3 specialty wines.  A great selection can be found here… Washington wines and other.  I really liked the cement style high tables and other touches that made the shop inviting.  Wick was a great host.  On this day, I had a glass of O.S. Rose, a dry rose that aimed to please.

Hotel Bellwether was a nice place to stay.  Near a nice spa, dining, and right on the water.   Note:  they only have two rooms available with multiple beds, so not so convenient if there is a group event.

Bistro on Magnolia Street has a bistro vibe…is that possible?  Entertainment on Sunday mornings for brunch.  Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, and brunch on the weekends.  Scrambles are served with hashbrown casserole and bread farm toast.  A variety of options abound:  Smoked Salmon Hash, Magnolia BLT, Biscuits & Gravy, Blue Scramble, Frites, Cobb Salad, Green Bowl, Mac & Cheese, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Calamari Sandwich, Flat Iron Steak Frites, North African Vegetable Stew, and more.  The entrees at dinner are served with a seasonal vegetable and garlic mashers.  Prices range from $4 – 32, with brunch options under $13.  Improvement needed:  speed in the kitchen and the ability to split up checks for a larger group.  Hey…looks like they have happy hour too!

See my May 2010 Post for a more info.