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Bistro Estelle named in Esquire’s 50 Best New Restaurants in America

Fairhaven restaurant serving French-inspired, new American cuisine opened in October 2022

Bistro Estelle in Fairhaven was named in Esquire Magazine’s list of 50 “Best New Restaurants in America, 2023.” 

The restaurant serving French-inspired, new American cuisine opened its doors in October 2022, the third enterprise of the Carnal Restaurant Group

Carnal, Accomplice and Bistro Estelle are run by four partners: former New York City chefs James Zamory, Aaron Saurer and Sean McDermott, and film and music producer Skip Williamson. 

“The culinary credentials of the chef and his partners undoubtedly make the town more delicious,” Esquire Magazine wrote of Bistro Estelle. 

“Their latest venture is in a prettier space, and its French-forward fare is a bit more delicate and refined,” the article continued. 

Estelle, meaning “star” in French, lives up to its name. Located in the former Swim Club space at 1147 11th St., Bistro Estelle‘s interior is nearly as tantalizing as its dishes. Marble tables, retro lighting and furniture, a wrap-around bar, checkerboard tile and abundant greenery make for an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere. 

Bistro Estelle's window showcasing the store's name in bright yellow font.
The French/American bistro Estelle at 1147 11th St. in Bellingham’s Fairhaven neighborhood on Oct. 14. A soft opening is expected on Oct. 20. (Frank Catalano/Cascadia Daily News)

Bistro Estelle’s seasonal menu boasts adventurous appetizers in its beef tartare and hamachi, and standout main dishes with the skirt steak and pork ribs. 

“That the crispy duck confit is lacquered with a spiced orange gastrique and served with a side of herby fries is all you need to know. Just go,” Esquire Magazine wrote.

In an Instagram post acknowledging the honor, Bistro Estelle extended “a special thanks to the team both past and present for pushing it forward and staying inspired.”


“It’s surreal to be in the company of such talented and amazing restaurants,” the post continued.

Seattle’s kebab pop-up-turned-restaurant Hamdi was also named in Esquire Magazine’s list. Bistro Estelle nodded to Hamdi and San Diego-based Mabel’s Gone Fishing, which are “helmed by our friends,” the post said. 

Carnal was named in the Seattle Met’s “Best Restaurants in Washington State” in January. The fine dining spot that opened in August 2020 specializes in wood-fired, carnivorous entrees.


Bistro Estelle is open from 5–9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 4–9 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Reservations can be made on their website

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