I have been watching a lot of Lord of the Rings recently. By recently, I mean my entire life and by “a lot,” I mean a lot. Tolkien geeks can get a little obsessed fantasizing about round objects of ultimate power but in a world devoid of magic wielding wizards and absurdly accurate elves, most mortals know of one magical round object: the perfect burger.
It may be an impossible quest to find one burger to rule them all, especially in a place like Bellingham, whichis packed full of incredible offerings. It’s so packed, I couldn’t fit all the great burgers I found into one list (or one stomach). So I decided to document my top five quick-bite Bellingham burger joints. I’ve chosen to save places like Lovitt Restaurant and Boundary Bay Brewery for another article, as they provide their own uniquely delicious dining experiences.
Boomer’s Drive-In
New to Bellingham and wondering where to start your burger adventure? Boomer’s Drive-In has been an absolute staple since it first started frying patties in 1989. Sit around their unique fireplace and let the retro interior, classic hard ice cream shakes and mouth-watering burgers take you away to a time when jean bottoms flared and cars had wings. Their standard Boomer Burger is a perfected form of a classic cheeseburger with just a hint of that special sauce giving them their own unique flavor. From
Boomer’s Drive-In
310 N Samish Way
Bellingham
360-647-2666
www.boomersdrivein.com
Zane Burger
Zane Burger is one of a handful of new kids on the block. Located in Fairhaven, Zane Burger takes a revamped-retro approach to burgers and their dining experience. Recently remodeled, you’ll find the interior decorated with historic photos of drive-ins and restaurants – a visual pairing for the treat your taste buds are about to experience. Zane’s premium burgers feature locally raised, grass-fed Angus beef and house made buns that bring a satisfying crispness to a unique take on an all-American dine-in burger. I recommend making multiple trips to try each version of their house-made sauce and delicious fries with traditional house-made chili.
Zane Burger
1315 12th St
Bellingham
360-734-5226
www.zaneburgers.com
Fiamma Burger
Over the last decade, Fiamma Burger has made a name for itself by focusing on keeping their ingredients Bellingham friendly. This includes their all-natural, locally sourced ground beef. Fiamma Burger’s signature creations go well beyond a classic quick bite burger. You’ll enjoy a downright gourmet meal at their upscale Railroad Ave. location, just down the street from their sister pizza shop. If you are looking for a simple classic cheeseburger, they have that too. It comes with their own special sauce and signature craftsman-style approach.
Fiamma Burger
1309 Railroad Ave
Bellingham
360-733-7374
www.fiammaburger.com
Fat Shack
Fat Shack is the only chain featured on this list but with only 11 locations (and only one in Washington) they will quickly become a local favorite. We get to enjoy their delightful food thanks to Ferndale natives Marcus and Taylor Martin who brought Fat Shack to Bellingham last year. Replacing humble classics with deep-fried deliciousness, every item on Fat Shack’s menu packs a punch and their burgers are no different. Fat Shack’s special sauce gives it a stand out juicy flavor that pairs perfectly with their pure Angus Beef and generous fresh toppings.
Fat Shack
414 W Bakerview Rd Suite 112,
Bellingham
360-366-8752
www.fatshack.com
With so many choices, who could ask for more? Fortunately we live in an area that enjoys a bounty of wonderful burger options. So try out these local favorites, then venture out on your own. No matter which burger you choose, you’re sure to leave full, happy and eager for more.
