We came in on Saturday morning for some books and breakfast. I love that Evolve has such a great view of the bookstore! They have a great range of menu items. I like that they provide to-go items and food that you can eat there. They have seating amongst their books and a dining hall, as well as some pantry items and local art for sale. I ordered the Lamb Baguette and it was so good. I should have ordered the whole because whatever they stewed the meat in was absolutely lovely. A lamb baguette and cup of coffee from Evolve kept me refreshed all day! Their cake is really good too-I shared it with friends. So bring your stomachs and curiosity when you come here to eat and to read to your heart's content. read more

See all

This little cafe is tucked away at the top of Village Books. There's a great view, phenomenal food and sensational drinks and sweets! I had the seasonal special Salmon Wellington which far beyond exceeded my expectations and then took a few sweet treats and a Honey Bee Latte to go. Definitely will visit again read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Salmon Wellington (comes with a fresh side salad and very puree - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

In the reddish-brown brick hue of Fairhaven Washington, a book shop exists where Mark Twain keeps vigil. Village Books. Readers come and go and on occasion while navigating through nooks and crannies they pass giggling children being gifted with reimaginings of the latest inked pages. If you pass the beautiful smiles and shuffle up the wood planked curving staircase, you'll find a green walled wood planked Northwest Gem. Evolve! In clear glass cases sit savory twisted cheesy spirals of beauty, lemon cakes of bright yellow plenty, iced hazel nut creations, and chocolate bedazzlements. They sit amongst rainbow rowed coffee cups awaiting your perusal. Step up and attempt to order, I dare you, but don't be surprised if you're suddenly lost for words when asked, "what would you like..." with a smile, and find yourself taking the special the owner suggests. Take heart as you mumble out your desires for no matter what you've chosen it'll enrich your life for the foreseeable future. This foodie was gifted an amazing limey, avocado, bacon, and tomato fired sandwich on a crunchy chewy bread with the freshest greens. It was shockingly good! Sitting back and reflecting on Bellingham Bay and listening to the smooth Bellingham speak all around me I soaked in my sandy and iced hazelnut creation with a smiling soul. I dreamed of upcoming winter rains, warm fires and the company of good books and loved ones. Thanks, Evolve and thanks again. I'll be giving you warm dream filled hugs tonight. read more

See all

Now that the news has come out that evolve chocolate is going out of business, I hope that the next operator will consider opening a place like the one that was there BEFORE evolve chocolate. It was delightful... Had nice, simple, wholesome baked goods... A comfortable bright, friendly atmosphere. I believe the owner had to move out of the area for family reasons... But the business was always lively and crowded... And a nice place to enjoy company or to read a book. It was a beloved place. read more

Americano was watery/weak and beans seemed low quality (tasted like cheap diner coffee) Cappuccino similar (coffee tasted cheap, foam was disappointing) Food also similar experience. Not cheap either, so Someone needs to up their game. read more

Service was good. I enjoyed my chia tea. The sandwich, not so much. Something on the Reuben I didn't care for. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

The five stars are specifically for the food--I had the avocado toastie & came back a few days later to have it again. Fresh, healthy, filling. A perfect alternative to the meat-heavy brunch/lunch options around Fairhaven. I also tried a basic black tea, which was pretty weak. Service is slow & courteous--bring your chillax with you. nb: if you need to use a laptop, there *is* a designated section in the bookstore for this. I prefer the low-tech, let's-be-humans-together vibe of the cafe proper. read more

I came here after buying my book to have a little snack! Prices were good and the blueberry pasty was delicious, but the problem was the tea (which is the main part of the snack). It was incredibly hot which I understood, but it burned just to hold it so I had to sit down with it for about 10 minutes. It barely cooled enough to hold but I still couldn't drink it. I opened the cap and it was steaming heavily, and went to walk around a bit hoping it would cool down. After 20 minutes it never did, the first sip 15 minutes in burned off a layer of my taste buds. High heat can mess with the flavor of the tea and making it undrinkable for so long isn't fun. Please, change how you do your tea! read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - darjeeling tea blueberry pastry - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

The two visits to Evolve (8/25/19 and 10/23/20), located on the top floor of Village Books in Bellingham's Fairhaven District, primarily focused on using up a generous gift card. However, I have only indulged in one thing, their drinking chocolate. Rich, luscious, decadent, luxurious dark chocolate. I feel pampered, sometimes it elicits naughty thoughts. Yes, they have other pastries, food/beverage items, and handmade chocolates. But I'm a creature of habit. Two words, drinking chocolate. read more

See all

I worked here for about 3 months. I didn't last long, as this was by FAR my least favorite job (I've had a lot.) To start, Chef Christy has an insane ego and makes her employees say "yes, chef." She would yell at you over how to plate a SALAD, share private secrets about other employees behind their backs, and would purposefully serve moldy fold. Oh and not to mention the stolen tips. I remember one time I was just asking her a question on the line, and she responded with "I am no one that you want to pick an argument with." Another time, I saw her stick her bare finger in someone's soup and then taste her finger before bringing it out to them. read more

I stopped by this place as it's located in the Village bookstore on the 2nd floor and I wanted to grab a quick snack. Though it wasn't quick, both with having to wait in line and then having to wait for my drink, it was worth the wait. I had just a simple hot chocolate and a chocolate chunk cookie. Both were remarkable and delicious. It's surprising how good a simple hot chocolate can be when made authentically with ingredients other than hot water and a packet. The chocolate was very flavorful when mixed with the right amount of milk and whipped cream. The chocolate chunk cookie was more chocolate than cookie and was so yummy. read more

This cafe surprises me on all their offerings in such a small space and using selected and seasonal ingredients and freshly made right there--just delightful! You got to know what you want as there is a lot to chose from. Wonderful casual setting. read more

A haiku review: Nothing like their Chai And with it must be their pie Fate is kind and sweet read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Pie for breakfast with a delightful chai - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

I ordered the savory pastry with ham and cheese while shopping at Village Books last week. When I got home after one bite it was inedible and gross. Straight into the garbage. read more

Maybe the most disgusting food I have tried to eat. I am home recovering from a minor surgery, and a friend dropped off a "picnic box" for me. The items were each worse than the one before. Some gross fruit on top of ribs. RIBS. I tried a few bites, got paper towels and wiped all the gross fruit smear off of it, then was edible. Then there was a potato side that had mushrooms mixed in, had the smell and taste of dirt. Tried removing the mushrooms, thought maybe some butter and salt and the potatoes could get decent, as I am not capable of cooking for myself right now. It didn't improve. I finally allowed my dogs to try that, and they rejected it as well. There was some sort of fruit cobbler for dessert which was bitter at best. Oh, and some melons but they added mint to them, destroying the melon flavor, removal of the mint didn't help, I couldn't get down to the flavors of the melon. There was a really good cornbread, I will say that was nice. And the meat was cooked perfectly, once I got all the nasty stuff they put on it off, it was edible. I appreciate people who are able to find new flavor profiles, but this was not it. All all. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Pic from the opening of the to go container, and the outside of it - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

I asked for 2 light tahini peanut butter cookies. I asked the server specifically for 2 from in front. she said there was no difference in them" from the same batch." she gave me 2 dark cookies which are inedible. they have no taste, and if a customer asks you for specific 2 from the front of case, which were lighter, why do you have to argue? I will never go back nor recommend, which is too bad because when I got a lighter one 2 weeks ago I really enjoyed it and recommended it to people. read more

See all

I forgot what were the recommended items to order here and I would think since it had chocolate in its name, that would be the specialty. I could not really see any chocolate or truffles, and the staff was not the most helpful or friendly. So I just ordered the chocolate cake displayed in the cooler, as well as the hot chocolate. There was a water dispenser but no glasses were available. My friend asked for water glasses and was only given one. I do love the hot chocolate mug and plate the cake was on. The cake was horrible. Sticky and gummy. It made me think that maybe this was gluten free. I dislike gluten free baked good as they are usually sticky and gummy and I do not like that texture. I checked the menu while writing this review and found out the cake was gluten free and dairy free. I wish this was clearly stated on the tag, then I would not have ordered it. I basically left the cake almost untouched after 2 bites. Wasted my $6. The hot chocolate was not bad, but not the best either. Maybe this place is better for the savory and other food. I will not be back again. read more

See all

I ordered a Morrocan lamb dish on pita bread, and a red cab. I've forgotten the name. But they were both delicious. The cafe seating area was very pretty and I liked how open and spacious it seemed. It was the perfect day, so the sunshine shone through the windows. The ambiance is very bright, cheery, and quiet here. Nice place to read a book or for some relaxing time alone or with a friend. They have an array of pastries and cocktails too~ maybe I'll try next time! read more

See all

I got the rose cakette and it was incredible! Very strong, beautiful rose flavor. My partner got the brownie, which was also very tasty. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - two desserts on plates - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

This is a wonderful little cafe nestled away on the second floor of Village Books. Entrees revolve around a variety of soups, salads and dishes that lean toward middle-eastern cuisine, but they also prepare some yummy looking sandwiches. Evolve also features a coffee bar, wonderful desserts and pastries and, the name says it all, chocolate! Chocolate, Coffee, Desserts, Pastries, Sandwiches, Wine, Salads, Soups, Wine and Sandwiches -- all prepared fresh, primarily from locally sourced ingredients in a world-class, independent bookstore with a view "to die for!" read more

See all

Four of us "sisters" came for a birthday lunch. Two orders of polenta bowl, the ladies were only eating half. Next thing they knew, the bowls were scrapped clean. I ordered the ham/Brie pinwheel, delicious and rich, I could only eat half, so dinner was easy. Remember, the food is fresh so it takes awhile. And the view is great. read more

This place is not great. They do not allow laptops and they are a cafe...get with program some of us have to work. Food is over priced and gross. Only gave one star because I had to read more

Had an amazing dinner here recently. My adult son and I both decided to go with the Prix Fixe menu. Every course was delicious. The cheesy grits were by far the best I've ever eaten. The next course was Blackberry BBQ Ribs. Wow! The ribs were cooked to perfection. No knife required and perfectly tender, not overdone. The blackberry ginger bbq sauce had just the right amount of sweet and spicy. The mashed potatoes beneath the ribs were nice and creamy and complimented the ribs well. If I had one complaint, it would be that I could of had a few more of the delicious roasted rainbow carrots on my plate. The chocolate cream pie we both pretty much inhaled. I will be back. And not just because my sons moved Bellingham. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

Had a nice slice of pie, went back to have another (drove all the way from north county) and they had 2 nice beautiful pies in the display case, one with a sign $6 per slice, I asked the person at the counter for a slice and was told in a borderline unfriendly tone "those pies are not for sale". Pretty lame, there's a sign advertising pie for sale but no pies for sale? Can't you place them somewhere else or take the sign out of the pie? read more

Want here twice and the food was delicious but third time ordered the avocado toast again and it was missing half the ingredients that where on it last time and with a completely different taste aka no seasoning. The egg was wayyy undercooked and the bread was old and dry. Where did your old cook go? Bring them back! read more

This review is in the context of the cafe that used to be in place of Evolve. This was a spot with really good sandwiches, where college students/remote workers could grab lunch or coffee, sit by the windows overlooking the bay, and read or work. Evolve moved in, scrapped the old menu with a new one that's underwhelming, and banned laptops in the dining area. So now you can't come to that area to work, and all the seats are often empty anyway because the food isn't good. I'd love to see some changes made that makes the space a nice quiet work spot again. read more

My husband isn't effusive, but I got him a slice of Evolve's Pecan Chocolate Bourbon Pie for his birthday today, and he announced that it was the closest anyone has ever come to his dream slice of pie. I asked if I should keep exploring or file this one for later. "Definitely save it for the future!" Thanks Evolve! And my slice of giant Apple Pie was also superb. And gigantic! We'll be back for more takeout! Love/Fl!p read more

Can't speak for the whole menu, but my beloved brought me the best piece of chocolate pecan pie I've encountered in decades of searching. And sharing a building with Village Books is a Good Thing. read more

Midweek lunch. All covid protocols followed. Large airy space with views of Fairhaven, curtains separating it from the bookstore. Great cup of coffee. No wait time for meals. Friends had biscuits and gravy, which I have to say was strange, but tasty. Reminded me of hollandaise sauce with ? Oyster or perhaps shiitake mushrooms in it over a biscuit that was cut up in chunks. The biscuit was homemade and perfect, but the dish fell short due to the gravy. The friends commented they should've read the menu a bit closer. I had the avocado toast which had perfectly poached eggs but as I cut into it I realized their was a layer of squash or sweet potato purée under the avocado. I couldn't finish it. There's not many things I don't like, but squash on toast is one of them. So disappointed. I did read the menu and I'm positive it didn't say squash. Our other friend had the Reuben. He said it was tasty if a bit dry ( toast and lack of dressing), so he ate the middle. We took cookies home for dessert and they were "chefs kiss". Will def go back but will read the menu closer. read more

So...someone working here seems to think the cafe + upper floor of Village Books is a designated fine-dining establishment...when it's a "cafe," attached to a bookstore (a pretty damn awesome bookstore, though, no joke - puts Powell's to shame, in my opinion). Back to the cafe...If you come to the cafe with a laptop, be afraid, as towards the end of the day, especially on/around weekends, you may become subject to scowls and terse interactions, especially if working from your laptop in the..."dining area." DO NOT get caught doing schoolwork...personal business tasks...or any other project...on your laptop...in a cafe, of all places! Seriously, who do you think you are to try something like that? How dare you jeopardize Evolve's chance at a Michelin Star! Their Curried Lentil Bowl is a truly unique gastronomic experience, all blandness aside. read more

Lovely cafe inside Village Books. I adore their chai! Great selection of treats if you're just grabbing something sweet - and a really nice lunch menu. We ordered take away dinner a few times over covid - very generous portions and always something creative. I'm dying to try their brunch - the menu looks delish!! read more

How is this place not 5 stars?! The food is amazing. As someone who cooks a lot at home, I can tell the food is thoughtfully prepared and made with a lot of care. Their pastries are great too, I usually leave with about 3-4 bakery items to take home. In fact, I celebrated my first birthday living in Bellingham here. I cannot wait to come back. read more

We ordered chocolates to be delivered, how great to have chocolates delivered while stuck at home. The people were super nice. Chocolates and champagne arrived when they said it would. One item was missing. Truffles were pretty, but just ok. The flavor combinations were so weird it made most of them hard to eat. A couple were good. The honeycomb that was missed from the order came a few days later by special delivery. I was so looking forward to it, but the candy was so very burnt, it was not eatable. For a chocolate place, I assumed it would be better. Maybe it was a fluke. But I was unimpressed and I really wanted to like the chocolate delivery. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - The color should be a lighter caramel color. Not this dark. Tasted really burnt. - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

Evolve is a hidden gem in Fairhaven owned by the coolest wives. Their daily specials are always a delicious surprise of local flavors. My absolute favorite dish is the the veggie rice bowl made with a thick ginger broth. It goes perfect with an Earthling (gin cocktail with house made beet-ginger shrub) Pre-fixe dinners on the weekend are always amazing as well! read more

It's a bright, cheerful place with a beautiful view of Bellingham Bay. A nice place to relax, meet with friends, have a good cup of coffee and a yummy pastry or try a delicious dish. I tried a taco from the Butcher Paper list (a nice way to indicate specials of the day. This taco was not an ordinary taco. The meat was very flavorable and soft. There was a generous amount of chimichurri sauce, lots of goat cheese and a sprinkle of onions. Such a great combination of flavors! I want to go back and try some of their other dishes as well as the dessert! read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - I miss the Bookfaire, but Evolve is a new look. - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

"Wait to be seated" sign was turned wrong way, so we waited. After fifteen minutes we were told to order at the counter - that the sigh was for dinner not lunch. Make certain your sigh is turned the correct way! That's a silly mistake. Girl behind the counter was friendly and helpful with our questions. Because of all the squatters (people using WiFi) we couldn't find a place to sit. Do not sell food to be eaten in the dining room when there isn't any available seating! Very frustrating! Tell people upfront that there is no seating and it is to go only. Either be a WiFi coffee shop or serve meals; you can't do both especially on busy weekends. Food was great - I appreciate the creativity! Nice job with interesting menu choices. Prices are reasonable, not through the ceiling touristy - like much of Fairhaven. Well, other than the coffee. That's way too high. Served in tiny cups and a dollar for a refill - what's with that? That's silly pricing. Your food is good, now get busy and work on the " small stuff." Solve the WiFi/seating problem, coffee prices, and make sure that sign is facing the right direction. Successful restaurants need more than good food. Fine tune your establishment and seek quality in every facet of the operation. read more

I'm a fan. I came in to hang out with a friend for a drink. I was expecting the worst based on reviews. However, I found the evening staff to be very friendly and attentive. My chocolate latte was delicious without being overly sweet. The chocolate sip was also quite good. I can't vouch for the food, but it looks amazing. It's the same relaxing atmosphere as the old place. I'll be back. read more

Very impressive space on the top floor of the Village Books building in Fairhaven. The dining area looks out to a perfect view of the water and has plenty of space. The cafe has truffles, cake, pastries, and a small lunch menu. I loved the wall of plants that greets you when you step off the elevator and there are books to look at as well. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

I decided to stop in today and try Village Book's newest cafe and overall, it is a good addition. I ordered the albacore tuna sandwich and because that was literally all that came with it, I also ordered the quinoa tabouli salad on the side. The best part about the sandwich was hands down the bread. It was warm, flaky and perfect. The tuna was also good but a little bland. I could say the same about the quinoa tabouli. I liked the mint flavor but it was definitely muted. I am curious to return and try other items on the menu. It was excellent food and I'm excited to have another great option in Bellingham, however, I think the price was a little high, especially with no side for the sandwich. read more

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe - Albacore tuna sandwich - Cafes Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

See all

the service was amazing! i remember the gentleman helping me was very friendly and told me about some of his favorite bakery items. i was not a huge fan of the matcha that i had, but it most likely had something to do with the brand of matcha, and not at all on how my server made it. would for sure come here again to sit in the lounge, read a book, and snack on a pastry--might skip the coffee next time. read more