Washington's Very First Diner Has Literally Been Around Since The 1800s
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published March 25, 2024
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Like your breakfast with a side of history? Then check out Horseshoe Cafe in Bellingham, the oldest brunch spot in Washington. This historic restaurant might have made its name serving stick-to-your-ribs goodness to back-country ruffians in the 19th century, but today, it’s a beloved college-town diner.
When it debuted in 1886, Horseshoe catered to the interests of the rough-and-tumble Bellingham residents: men who worked grueling hours in logging, mining, and fishing. To this end, food was only part of what they offered locals, a side dish, if you will, alongside hunting supplies, fishing licenses, and tobacco products.
Offering comfort foods at fair prices and a hoppin' bar, the 'Shoe— as it came to be called— spent its first twenty years earning the loyalty of locals. In a funny historical footnote, it was also one of the first Whatcom County businesses to receive a liquor license in 1950, despite the fact it had been serving booze to Bellinghamsters for almost 65 years!
In 1958, the cafe moved from its original location to a new spot across the street. Since then, it has done little to change its atmosphere, which retains the vintage character of its past.
I'd forgive a diner that's been around for almost 140 years for being a little dated, but the quality of Horseshoe's food has kept up with the times. Always observant of local demand, it has met the rising standards of Washington brunch without sacrificing its homey appeal.
At any time of day, the 'Shoe's booths host a smörgåsbord of Bellingham types, from college students fueling up with burgers to business people kicking up their feet after a long day.
What makes Horseshoe Cafe great today is what made it great 138 years ago. As other restaurants strive to catch up with fads or wear local flavor like a cheap cologne, this tried-and-true Bellingham favorite keeps true to its customers and community. With this winning formula, it's sure to stick around for another hundred years.
If, like most Washingtonians, you’re a brunch fiend, why not visit the oldest brunch spot in Washington and see where the obsession began? Horseshoe Cafe is more than a local diner. It’s a time capsule of Bellingham’s vibrant history and a gathering place for today’s locals.
