The Green Frog

BBQ's on Thursdays.

The green frog is predominantly about great live music, but the grilled cheese is a highlight for me every time since they opened the new location last year. (The old location didn't offer hot food). Check out the 10+ kinds of grilled cheeses with options like gorgonzola, bacon and greenapple, or "the elvis" with cheddar, bacon and peanut butter. I haven't tried it yet,  but the jalapeno, pepper jack cream cheese and tortilla chips grilled sounds amazing - especially with all the great beer on tap! All grilled cheese are offered on your bread of choice, including Gluten Free (yay for me!). They consistently grill it so the cheese runs out and gets crispy on the side. Yum! Downside: it often takes 20+ minutes from order to delivery, but usually we're enjoying the music so it doesn't matter. They added a new outdoor patio which is unique in downtown Bellingham, and awesome in the summer. Note though if you are out on the deck belly up to the bar or chatting at a picnic table you can't hear the music or know that the music is starting.

A unique type of place that you only come across every once in a while.  It hits all the main points you look for in a social spot.  Live music, large outdoor seating, variety of liquor and beer (Bloody Mary bar too), a simple quality menu, low prices, interesting venue, and most of all friendly staff.  Definitely check this place out if you're in the area.