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Mambo Italiano Cafe
Categories: Restaurants Italian Restaurants Pizza Italian, Pizza [Edit]
1303 12th StBellingham, WA 98225
(360) 734-7677
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 11:30 am - 10 pm
Fri-Sat 11:30 am - 11 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
34 reviews for Mambo Italiano Cafe
Review Highlights
"...a wonderful atmosphere in the lovely Fairhaven district."
(in 8 reviews)
"My lunch partner loved the Steak Salad; I tried it and the..."
(in 2 reviews)
"The best food in a sit-down restaurant in Bellingham."
(in 3 reviews)
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34 reviews in English
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Review from Ted S.
Friday Harbor, WA
8/28/2011 5 photos
On a recent trip to B'ham for some 'back to school' shopping, my daughter Ashely said "we have to go to Mambo Italiano!"... she was pretty emphatic, so I was looking forward to lunch. With a name like that, I wasn't sure what to expect, but she has a way of finding cool out of the way places. I had never been to Fairhaven, so that was a treat in itself, with the old buildings... and the cafe was inviting from the moment I stepped out of the car. Pleasant from the outside, and more so inside. Soaring ceiling with open kitchen gave an airy effect, yet the dining area was intimate and comfortable. I was all geared up for the Meatball Pannini I had heard about, until I saw an Oyster PoBoy on the impressive menu. That sealed the deal, because I cannot pass up a good oyster sandwich. It was fabulous... the oysters were fried to perfection with just the right amount of breading. The roll was perfect and the right texture for this Po Boy Italian Style. Ashley had the MBP, so I got my meatball fix, smothered in tomato and mozzarella cheese. UlaG the 10 yr. old Back to Schooler had Oyster Stew that was to die for, and a beautiful Italian Soda. Such a rich creamy soup with plump oysters!
Our waiter was outstanding. Attentive and solicitous without being cloying. I was impressed with the food the service the decor and everything Mambo Italiano. If I had to think of a reason to leave Friday Harbor and move to Bellingham, it would be to have access to this restaurant. To quote Arnold... "I will be back..." -
Review from Michelle K.
Seattle, WA
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
It was good light and had plenty of bread for my husband who loves bread. 31/2 stars was my plan until i remembered the prices are low and the bathroom clean and also very heated..I like a warm bathroom!
Try the green salad and vegie pasta. -
Review from Melissa R.
Tallahassee, FL
1/23/2012
I went here with my mom. She was visiting and I thought that we could go and have a nice, fancy Italian meal somewhere that I wouldn't really want to pay for myself. It was okay. But for the price I expected something better than what I think I could cook myself. The lighting was too dim (I know, some people like mood lighting) and I wish the other Italian restaurants in the area didn't all seem to go out of business, because they were better. Oh well.
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Review from Steven P.
Greeley, CO
10/4/2011
If it wasn't for the fact that D'annas is a short drive away, Mambo Italian might have received 5 stars from me, but everything must be kept in perspective.
The food here is excellent, the prices are a bit high though. It can get quite cramped inside if it is busy, and I've also noticed how it can be a bit too warm inside during the summer, and a bit too cold during the winter.
The pasta is terrific, the pizza is fantastic. Personally, the whole bread/olive oil/balsamic thing is overdone with. -
Review from Jeff H.
Updated - 5/14/2011
Still the best, and it isn't close. Came for dinner and it was EXACTLY the Mambo I've remembered so fondly over the years. Service was spot on, prices were way beyond reasonable, and the seafood special (pan roasted wild king salmon with triple berry compote served with cream cheese mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus) was out of this world. Thanks Mambo for always delivering a great experience for me over the years. You've earned those five stars yet again, and I can't wait to come back for more.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/2/2009
First off, this gem tucked away in the Old Fairhaven section of Bellingham, is sure to be missed by… Read more »
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Review from Chris R.
Olympia, WA
The Calzone Rustico was perfect! My lunch partner loved the Steak Salad; I tried it and the meat was tender & tasty. The calzone was a perfect combo of mushrooms, sausage, ricotta, mozzarella, and red sauce. The walls are filled with colorful, zesty paintings for a bright, cheery look. Servers are cute too! I rarely give 4 stars and Mambo deserves it!
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Review from Ken H.
Bellingham, WA
6/28/2011
Our favorite restaurant!! Consistent quality and great service ALL THE TIME. Our second home. Freshest fish in town with varied specials. The key lime pie is the BEST! The martinis are killer as well.
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Review from Chloe B.
Bellingham, WA
1/30/2007
Very good Italian food, I've been here a number or times and their service has been great too.
The pasta is cooked to perfection and their sauces are clearly made to order, not to mention their side salads which are a perfect compliment.
The layout of the restaurant is weird though their dining room is quiet small and the poor hostess is practically in the kitchen.
There isn't anywhere to wait for a table (except outside) avoid busy nights in the winter. -
Review from Ezra M.
Bellingham, WA
7/10/2011
I've been to Mambo Italiano at least half a dozen times. Every single time I've had nothing less than stellar service from their wonderful staff. The food is excellent, always better than your average Italian restaurant. The prices are more than fair and the ambiance is most pleasant.
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Review from Melissa B.
Seattle, WA
7/17/2008
BEST MARTINI OF MY LIFE!
You have GOT to try the Vanilla Lemondrop...I know it sounds odd, but it is truly a life-altering experience. You will forever be comparing every martini following this one for a good chunk of time, guaranteed.
The lasagne is amazing as well...very flavorful and just the right proportion. I also noted that the waitstaff was friendly and attentive.
I would take a star away for the atmosphere's lack of charm, but that martini was just too damn good. -
Review from Marina C.
Vancouver, WA
4/9/2010
The best food in a sit-down restaurant in Bellingham? Yes.
The bread is served with oil and vinegar and is tasty--it looks small and cozy but has plenty of seating. Dishes are... On the pricy side, but this is more or less a date restaurant, so you really shouldn't care about that. Service is prompt, odd requests from autistic food separatists are honoured ( I know because my best friend in Bellingham is one), and the texture of the pasta noodles, which is a big deal with me, always comes out reasonably firm without falling into crunchy. Eat here! It's Bellingham, what other options for Italian do you have? Olive Garden, as far as I could ever tell. -
Review from Sarah C.
Pullman, WA
4/24/2010
Just thinking about Mambo makes me happy. The interior is larger than it looks from the outside, but is not actually large. The coziness makes for an atmosphere that, even in the middle of the day, feels romantic and warm. I would hesitate to bring anyone but a date to eat here.
I love the bread, the Caesar salad, and the fettuccine con pollo. The menu is definitely typical of any good Italian restaurant, but the food is better than most. Rest assured that they make their bread and their fresh ingredients are from local establishments.
I enjoy the waitress and have never had an issue with the service. Keep up the good work, Mambo. And keep playing your ridiculous commercial. -
Review from Jeff d.
Lynden, WA
4/22/2011
Great food! Best Italian food I have had since I ate in Italy.
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Review from Lindsey R.
Upland, CA
12/28/2008
Love this place. It's right in the heart of the historical part of Bellingham where they've renovated a lot of the old buildings to clean them up a little more. There are lots of cute shops nearby to walk around and browse, so this is a fabulous stop if you're in the mood for Italian.
The menu is very simple. You have appetizers/salads, paninis, then pizza...with a little pasta thrown in there. The steak salad is excellent, as well as the Panini Club, which is grilled chicken with prosciutto, lettuce, tomato and pesto aoili. I got this with a small green salad, which was lightly tossed in a simple vinaigrette. I got a double shot of espresso, which warmed my body in the cold, snowy weather.
The window is lined with fresh bread, and the walls hold the artwork of artists in the area. It's always colorful and vibrant, which adds to the personality of Mambo's. Our waitress was very polite, which is always appreciated. I haven't had dinner here before, but maybe on my next visit home I can give that a try too! -
Review from Mary B.
Encinitas, CA
3/30/2010
I've been here twice. Once with my Mom as a casual dinner and once on a date. This is a restaurant that definitely served to the "date like atmosphere" more, as opposed to the casual atmosphere. That being said, both experiences were wonderful. The food was delicious but the service was just okay. The wait was awful and that was my big complaint.
It was a bit pricier than I was planning but that's why I mention that it's probably more so for the special night out as opposed to casual night out (please don't get me wrong, you CAN eat here casually... I just felt that the atmosphere was more formal, personally speaking!)
Fairhaven is a fun part of Bellingham though so I recommend spending part of your evening shopping around and finishing it off at Mambo Italiano! Makes for a great evening! -
Review from A B.
Bellingham, WA
8/2/2009
I have mixed feelings on this one, on one hand I have never had a bad meal here, and reading other reviews its apparent that many have (I have eaten at Mambo's a few dozen times by now).
On the other side, I have without doubt had the crappy service experience way more than once, and again this has not been consistent either, about half the time its fair to good service and the other half its pretty abysmal.
The food is not traditional Italian, I would call it more Italian inspired, if you want traditional go to D'Annas (always excellent).. if you want something more contemporary Mambo is a good choice.
The Fettucine con Pollo is my favorite dish, if you are in the mood for something a bit different try the BBQ Chicken Pizza quite tasty. I also usually take home a loaf of their bread.
Overall the service experience has not been enough to drive me away as it has from other b'ham restaurants, the food has been very good and has kept me coming back and willing to risk the occasional bad service. -
Review from Mandy M.
Bellingham, WA
1/30/2011
Mambo Italiano is wonderful. I had spaghetti and meatballs with salad and homemade bread. It was great. The service is fast and friendly and the prices are reasonable. The building is very small and quaint. Just love it, will go back again and again!
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Review from Brittney v.
Bellingham, WA
12/25/2010
I live within walking distance to this place, and can always count on it for decent italian food. The service is always great. The baguettes are awesome!!! The quality of food is great, and always consistent. I am a big fan of the Garbanzo bean salad. However, their menu items are kind of plain jane. They keep it safe with all of their dishes, and their menu consists of ordinary items you would expect to find at any other americanized italian restaurants. I would give this place 4 stars if they had a seasonal menu, or more specials.
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Review from Deirdre M.
Bellingham, WA
5/16/2010
On a double date we decided to go to Mambo. It was a gorgeous day and asked the hostess if we could sit outside. She probably weighed about 100 pounds, and after about 30 seconds of watching her struggle to put the iron tables together we begged to sit inside... it was like watching a snake eat a pig, she would have gotten it eventually but it was kind of sad. Anyway, we were promptly seated in a booth and ordered a bottle of wine. The waitress was very nice, and the food was really good. It's a little overpriced, but considering it IS in Fairhaven and the obvious quality of the ingredients it won't stop me from coming back it will just have to be a special occasion place.
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Review from Jennifer L.
Bellingham, WA
12/10/2006
I think the wait staff is getting better. I've been to Mambo's about 20 times in 2006/2007, and had excellent service every time. This place gets the honor of "best caesar salad in town," ultra-fresh romaine, excellent dressing but not too much glopped on, and crispy croutons. As for the entrees, the regular menu is fine (the crab cakes get an "A+"). But the reason to go to Mambo's is for the nightly seafood special. Wow - do NOT pass up any seafood specials. They are really well done, I've never been disappointed. (Sometimes they run out, go early!) Also, when fresh strawberries are in season, do not miss their strawberry shortcake made with sweet biscuits, YUM.
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Review from Nathan H.
Tacoma, WA
6/24/2011
Went here for the first time for dinner tonight, and showed up with 8 people without a reservation. They gladly and easily accommodated my party in their courtyard, which had a lovely fountain. The food, mine being the Mambo's Rustic Pizza, was excellent, with attentive, yet not overzealous service. I was meeting some friends I had not seen in a great while, and we ended up talking late into the night. I know it makes me a horrible guest at a restaurant, but the staff were very gracious and considerate. A big thumbs up to Mambo Italiano, and their wonderful staff! Home run on all bases: food, service, atmosphere.
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Review from Cara Q.
Bellingham, WA
3/20/2009
I really don't understand why people like this place. Their food tastes generic at best. The drinks are not very good and they are overpriced. I had the greek salad once it came with PLAIN black olives, not kalamata! Gross. The pizza is awful, and I like pizza, all kinds, just not theirs. Also the pasta is OK. I had the salmon pasta once but I got a stomach ache very soon after so I don't know. The space is also crowded. I think the only reason it stays in business is cause they are in Fairhaven in an easy to spot location. But don' t waste your money.
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Review from Kelsie H.
Marana, AZ
2/26/2007
Great food, I'm a sucker for good Italian. The place is decorated very well, but is a little small. Get ready to get cozy on busy nights. The staff has always been friendly and helpful to me. Cool little "upstairs" bar too.
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Review from Glen B.
Bellingham, WA
4/6/2009
I agree with the other reviewers that this is very generic Italian food and the wait staff is hit and miss in terms of friendliness. I've tried a number of different dishes here and I have not had anything I would order again. Mambos is not bad but it's the kind of Yuppie Italian one would expect to find in Bellevue: heavy on presentation and light on substance.
For the same price, you can have far superior Italian at D'Annas. I think Mambos gets a lot of raves because it is the only Italian food in Fairhaven. -
Review from Lindy M.
Seattle, WA
9/25/2010
I lived in Bham for 8 years and I must say that Mambo's is the place we go when we want yummy fresh food, consistently delicious. The service is some of the best in town, I personally don't like hovering service.
Heads up, don't go on a WWU grad weekend or when it's too hot. The wait will be long - duh it's some of the best food in town! And it's in a very cool old building so no AC. Suggest you go early for the best seating.
If you want fast Italian food go to Olive Garden, if you want fresh and tasty go to Mambo! -
Review from Mallory P.
Bellingham, WA
2/28/2006
This place is great, but it can be a hit and miss. The wait staff is really touch and go with how friendly they can be. The food here is pretty good, but almost standard italian fare. They have good pizza, but I would go to La Fiamma for that. Do try their pasta dishes - they are excellent. It's a wonderful atmosphere in the lovely Fairhaven district. There's a mix of tables and booths and they have a full bar. Great wine list, too.
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Review from Dan K.
Fremont, CA
3/2/2008
I've eaten at Mambo Italiano a handful of times and was always pretty impressed with both the quality of service and the food. The pastas offer good variety and the calzones are very good. The price is a little higher than I would prefer, but the location is prime and the atmosphere is 5/5 and quite soothing (maybe romantic is a better word). I think I chose a 4 out of 5 because it seems cramped and the food is not 5/5 quality. This place is good if you've got some family or friends visiting who don't mind picking up the check. Otherwise I'd vote for Giuseppe's every time.
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Review from Kim F.
Bellingham, WA
4/23/2011
I visit Mambo at least once a month and really enjoy the atmosphere and food! Fairhaven is a unique, fun area of Bellingham and this is the perfect restaurant to experience all Fairhaven has to offer! The tortellini with snow peas is amazing and they have a decent house red. I always leave Mambo happy!!!
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Review from Rob L.
Seattle, WA
1/11/2010
Located in one of the oldest, most unique buildings in downtown Fairhaven, Mambo offers incredible Italian cuisine. It's a pretty laid-back place, like most of the places on this list. Try the tortellini carbonara. Cream sauce, peas, ham and cheese tortellini....and LOTS of garlic. Be careful with the Caesar salad- it's great, but the default setting comes with anchovies. I find them disturbing and a little horrifying. What am I, a cat?
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Review from Chris G.
Bellingham, WA
5/8/2010
I would really give it 3.5 stars if I could. There's nothing to complain about the food, but there's nothing to rave about either. The pastas are good, but the pizza is lacking when I know La Fiamma's so close. My rating has nothing to do with the building itself though, which I love and consider the best restaraunt location in all of Whatcom County.
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Review from Chris G.
Bellevue, WA
4/13/2009
Went there a few months ago with wife, MIL and two kids. Saw many other families there and the ambiance was great. However, the food was average at best. There are at least two other Italian places (i.e., places w/ emphasis on pasta and other non-pizza dishes) in Bellingham that puts this place to shame.
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Review from Paul W.
Seattle, WA
2/26/2009
Mambo's is a great place to get great Italian food. I have not had one pasta or pizza dish that was not amazing. Mambo is definitely my first choice of Italian restaurants in Bellingham and the prices are reasonable as well.
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Review from Christopher B.
Seattle, WA
4/13/2010
This is a great place to bring friends, family, or a date. Friendly and attentive service, and a solid selection of italian food.
My only problem was that lack of anything special in my meal. I tried the crab-cakes (which were good...just sort of bland). The pizza had good crust, but lacked in toppings, leaving it dry overall. I guess I am more of a fan of a kitchen that takes risks, and goes bold... this was not such a place. -
Review from Ellen F.
Bellingham, WA
3/30/2010
I went here for the first time a couple of weeks ago and had a great dinner! When my party of 6 got there on Saturday night, there was a 30 minute wait. The hostess offered to call my cell while we all got a drink at a nearby bar... she called within 10 minutes! The place was cute, cozy, and had character. The waitress gave us good recommendations on wine and pizza- we were very happy with our choices! The food was YUMMY... I would definatly come back!
