By Fernando Gonzalez
BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON. – When it comes to authentic, heartfelt, and flavorful Mexican cuisine, Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine on Bakerview Road in Bellingham stands out as a must-visit. From the moment we walked through the doors, this dining experience was nothing short of phenomenal.
A Warm Welcome & Inviting Atmosphere
Upon entering, we were greeted warmly by the host and promptly seated at a comfortable table. Unlike many restaurants where seating can feel cramped, Lilia’s has thoughtfully arranged their space to provide ample room between tables and booths. This made for a private and enjoyable dining experience with perfect lighting—bright enough to see our food clearly but cozy enough to create an inviting ambiance.
A Unique Start: Freshly Made Tableside Guacamole
Soon after being seated, we were brought a complimentary basket of warm tortilla chips and a bowl of their house-made salsa. But what truly set the tone for the meal was the tableside guacamole service—an experience unlike anything I’ve seen before in Bellingham.
A server approached with a small prep table, similar to the tray stands used at diners like Denny’s. On this, he placed a large bowl, fresh avocados, and an assortment of garnishes. He asked us for our preferences—allowing full customization of our guacamole. We opted for everything, which meant jalapeños, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and more. Watching the fresh avocados be mashed and mixed right in front of us was a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity.
The result? Some of the best guacamole I’ve ever had—creamy, flavorful, with the perfect balance of zest from the jalapeños and freshness from the lime and cilantro. It paired beautifully with the warm tortilla chips, and for the first time ever, we completely finished a large serving of guacamole. It was so good that we ordered a second basket of chips just to keep enjoying it.
Other tables in-front and behind us received the same great service, including the guacamole prep table!
The Signature House Salsas
Our server, Reymundo, also introduced us to Lilia’s house salsas—one red and one green—both of which were made from family recipes passed down for generations. The love and care put into these sauces were immediately evident. The red salsa had a deep, smoky richness, while the green salsa carried a vibrant, tangy kick. Both complemented the dishes perfectly and showcased the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors.
The Main Course: Quesabirria Tacos
After about 10-15 minutes, our entrées arrived with impeccable timing—just as we finished our chips and guacamole. We ordered the Quesabirria taco plate, which consisted of three slow-cooked birria tacos, served with rice, beans, and a side of consomé for dipping.
The presentation was stunning—each plate was generously portioned, visually appealing, and thoughtfully garnished with fresh onions, cilantro, and lime wedges on the side.
The tacos themselves were phenomenal. The beef was incredibly tender and juicy, packed with deep, slow-braised flavors that made each bite mouthwatering. The crispy-yet-chewy tortillas were perfectly griddled, adding a delicious textural contrast. Dipping the tacos into the rich, savory consomé took them to another level, enhancing their juiciness and intensifying the flavors.
The beans and rice were equally impressive. Unlike the generic versions often found at other Mexican restaurants, Lilia’s refried beans had a velvety texture with melted cheese mixed in, giving them a smooth, creamy consistency and a flavor that felt truly homemade. The rice was fluffy, well-seasoned, and paired perfectly when mixed with the beans and a drizzle of their house salsa.
Every component of this dish tasted fresh, well-prepared, and packed with flavor—a clear indication of the passion behind the cooking.
Sweet Finale: Flan & Sopapillas
Despite being completely full from the entrées, we couldn’t leave without trying dessert. We opted for two classics: flan and sopapillas.
The flan was silky, delicate, and had a rich caramel drizzle over the top. Unlike some flans that can be overly dense, this one had a light, almost airy texture, with a subtle hint of cinnamon adding warmth to every bite.
The sopapillas, a first-time experience for me, were absolutely delightful. These fluffy, golden-brown pastries had a light cinnamon-sugar coating, drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce, and served with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, crispy exterior and the soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior made them an instant favorite.
Final Verdict: A Must-Visit in Bellingham
From the warm hospitality to the thoughtfully prepared, authentic dishes, Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine delivers an outstanding dining experience that’s worth every penny.
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with love)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Friendly, attentive, and passionate staff)
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Comfortable, well-lit, and spacious seating)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ($19 for a massive, high-quality meal)
For anyone in Bellingham craving a truly authentic and memorable Mexican dining experience, Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re stopping in for their incredible guacamole, their flavorful birria tacos, or their decadent desserts, you won’t be disappointed.
📍 Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine
190 E Bakerview Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226
If you haven’t been yet—go now. This place is the real deal.
Article by Bellingham Metro News Editor-in-Chief, Fernando Gonzalez.
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