About
Welcome to Keenan's at the Pier, a culinary gem nestled along the scenic waters of Bellingham Bay. This restaurant isn't just a place to eat; it's an experience that tantalizes the senses, from the stunning views to the carefully crafted dishes that celebrate the bounty of the sea. Imagine savoring delicious meals while watching the sun dip below the horizon—this is what dining at Keenan's is all about.
From the moment you step inside, the warm and attentive service envelops you. As Chuck Conrad eloquently noted, the staff approaches each table with energy and enthusiasm, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. Their knowledge and genuine care elevate the meal, making it truly enjoyable.
The menu at Keenan's is a seafood lover’s paradise. Notably, the crab cakes receive high praise for their perfectly crisp exterior and moist interior, infused with delightful bell pepper flavors—a must-try according to Tehzeeb Arif. Additionally, the mussels served in a subtly spicy broth are generously portioned, providing an indulgent treat best accompanied by toasted bread for that extra touch.
While the views remain an inevitable highlight, food enthusiasts rave about the seafood chowder. Steve Weis refers to it as one of the best he's encountered, and it’s a signature dish that perfectly complements any meal. For those seeking something a bit more filling, the scallop linguine and halibut also hold their own, although taste buds may differ on the right balance of flavors.
As you sit and ponder your choices, consider the ambiance. Many diners, like Janis March, find a relaxed atmosphere heightened by breathtaking views of the bay and friendly service. Whether it’s the expertly crafted avocado toast or elegant cocktails like the Bloody Mary, every dish is a testament to the quality and freshness that Keenan's strives to deliver.
If you’re seeking a unique dining experience in Bellingham, look no further than Keenan's at the Pier. With options that cater to various dietary needs and a stunning setting that enhances every bite, it's a dining destination that rejuvenates both body and spirit. So, make a reservation, preferably on the patio, and prepare to indulge in a memorable culinary journey!
“ We picked this restaurant because we were staying in the hotel and didn’t want to drive. Next time, we will pick Keenan’s at the Pier because it is over the top in all aspects. Service: From the moment we asked for a table, the service was terrific! The waitress gave us a great table with a wonderful view. Through the whole meal, she never let up. She served with energy, enthusiasm, and skill! Atmosphere: overlooking the boardwalk at sunset time, how could it get better than that? We enjoyed the passing train for added entertainment. It’s a magic location. Food: Our group of four covered the menu well. Mussels, prawns, Mahi Mahi, scallops, and specialty pasta. All were perfectly prepared and presented beautifully! When you go to Keenan’s, by all means, chow down. But be sure you save room for dessert. The crème brûlée was awesome! ”
“ Delicious Food The crab cakes were outstanding, with a wonderful bell pepper flavor running through them. The exterior was perfectly crisp, while the inside stayed firm and moist without being mushy. The mussels arrived in a mildly spicy broth that made them especially enjoyable. The portion was generous—about 12 to 13 mussels—and they were served with crisp toast points, perfect for soaking up the flavorful liquid. The Keenan Burger was a standout. Juicy, thick, and cooked to perfection. The tomato chutney added a bright, tangy-sweet pop that elevated the whole burger, and the quality of the bun held everything together beautifully. The falafel was another hit: crisped perfectly on the outside and full of flavor inside. Paired with the creamy hummus and tangy feta, it made a wonderfully balanced bite. The peri peri chicken skewers were equally delicious. A slight char on the outside added a smoky edge, while the chicken itself stayed juicy and flavorful throughout. Finally, the almond polenta cake was superb—a subtle sweetness with a unique, delightful texture. Topped with creamy, smooth ice cream, it made the perfect ending to the meal. On top of the incredible food, the service was excellent—the waitstaff were friendly, attentive, and very accommodating, making sure everything was just right. And to top it all off, the stunning view of the water and the fresh outdoor air made the entire experience even more incredible—delicious food paired with a breathtaking setting. ”
“ You can’t beat the view found at this restaurant. Service was average. I really enjoyed the seafood chowder, the scallop linguine had a little too much lemon in it, and there was a small strand of hair found in the South African lamb stew. I plan on returning here to try different menu items. ”
“ Excellent location. A great way to start off a beautiful evening. Halibut was very good but it's the the seafood chowder gets rave reviews from me. One of the best I've had. The scallops were also very good. I'd definitely go back if I were in the area! ”
“ We’ve walked the boardwalk many times and always looked up at this restaurant, so we finally decided to stop in for lunch—and we’re so glad we did. We arrived around 4 p.m. on a Saturday, which turned out to be perfect timing for happy hour. Luckily, there was one patio table left, and later we even got to move to a table right alongside the water. We ordered the calamari, a side Caesar salad, crab cakes, and the risotto. The calamari was perfectly crunchy and flavorful, the risotto had a wonderful wine note, and the crab cakes were so delicious they didn’t need any sauce at all. The only downside was that the Caesar salad felt a bit pricey for the portion size, but it was still tasty. Service was excellent—our server was attentive, friendly, and on point throughout the meal. Overall, this was a fantastic dining experience with a beautiful view, great food, and warm service. We would definitely recommend Keenan’s to anyone visiting the boardwalk. ”