Anchored by classic northwest brewpubs like Boundary Bay and Chuckanut Brewery, “Brewingham” has long been a favorite Washington beer destination. Bellingham’s modern brewery boom began around 2012 with the opening of Kulshan Brewing — followed by Aslan, Wander, Structures and many more. If you haven’t been to town in a while, you might have missed the city’s latest batch of brewery openings. Between 2018 and 2020, four new breweries opened throughout the city — bringing Bellingham’s total brewery count to 14. These new establishments add even more variety to the city’s already vibrant beer scene.
Whether you’re looking for a true beer-and-food brewpub experience or a simple pint, Bellingham’s newest breweries serve a little bit of everything. All four on our list are family-friendly and offer both indoor and outdoor seating. Check them out next time you’re in town!
Otherlands Beer
Launched by industry vets Karolina Lobrow and Ben Howe in June 2020, Otherlands Beer is fast becoming a Bellingham favorite. You’ll find a carefully curated list of six (or so) beers here — from easy-drinking farmhouse saisons and rustic lagers to pale ales and IPAs. Otherlands’ seasonal, European-inspired food menu pairs perfectly with their brews.
The cafe vibe is relaxed and welcoming. If you’re seeking an intimate drinking and dining experience, Otherlands’ cozy 50-seat cafe is the brewery for you. Find them one block south of Twin Sisters Brewing in the Sunnyland neighborhood.
122 West Brewing
Opened September 2019, 122 West Brewing offers a full-fledged brewpub experience. You’ll find a variety of beers on their 21 taps, ranging from hoppy, light and crisp to dark and malty. The food menu offers everything from pub grub (burgers, fries, fish and chips) to soups, salads and sandwiches. Essentially, there’s something for everyone at 122 West. Sip a hazy IPA in their sleek and modern space, then head over to neighboring Menace Brewing for a follow-up pint.
Stemma Brewing
In June 2019, family-owned Stemma Brewing joined the Bellingham beer scene. Stemma’s brewing team is led by Jason Harper, the only Level 3 Advanced Cicerone in Bellingham (Jason is one of only four Advanced Cicerones in Washington State). Stemma’s experimental brews range from juicy IPAs to refreshing lagers and gin barrel-aged ales. While they are focused on brewing and don’t have a kitchen, you’ll always find a food truck outside. Stemma is located between Kulshan Brewing’s two locations, just off I-5.
Twin Sisters Brewing
Twin Sisters Brewing opened in August 2018 in Bellingham’s Sunnyland neighborhood. Featuring a huge restaurant, event space and the largest brewery beer garden in Bellingham, their opening made waves in the local brewpub scene. This is the place to go with family and large groups. Outside, enjoy the sunny beer garden in the summer or bundle up next to the fire during cooler months. Twin Sisters offers a wide range of food, beer and even cocktails to keep everyone in your party happy. Be sure to check out neighboring Otherlands Beer while you’re in Sunnyland!
Photos: Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism, Otherlands Beer.
How have these breweries survived the pandemic? Have many bars and breweries permanently closed since? We visited Bellingham in early October before your governor shut things down. What we experienced was what seemed to be ton of support from locals. Thanks! Keep up the great work.
Hi Ela, thanks for your questions. Bellingham breweries (and businesses across the state) have been surviving by offering to-go options and heated outdoor seating. As you mentioned, support from locals is what’s keeping our businesses afloat! Unfortunately, one brewery in town (122 West) has permanently closed.
Cheers,
Brandon
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