Rich McCudden

Flats Tapas in Fairhaven has been awarded Wine Enthusiast’s “Restaurant of Distinction” Award for the second year in a row.  Restaurants are judged on the depth of their wine list, their food menu and how it’s cuisine pairs with the wines.   Flats is the only restaurant in Whatcom County to receive the award.  Most Washington state honorees were located in Seattle, and include such well-known ones as Campagne, Assagio,  and Il Fornaio.  A total of only 355 restaurants nationally were honored.

The restaurant, which just celebrated its fourth anniversary, offers over 200 wines and beer.  Owners, Rich and Yasmine McCudden moved to Bellingham to be near family and open Flats after trips abroad inspired their interest.  Tapas were created in Spain as small plates of food to enjoy with wine.  The McCudden’s have created unique and tasty dishes both traditional and more local in flavor.  Their “Yams Bravas” was featured on PBS, Channel 9’s cooking show.

Business has continually grown since their opening and 2008 was the best year ever.

“Even in a recession, we’ve done well,” said Rich.  “I think people go out less, but when they do, they want something delicious and different that they don’t normally cook at home.  We see customers of all ages from college students to retirees.”

Flats’ location in the 108 year-old Nelson Block building adds to their comfortable European ambiance.  McCudden also stresses that the Fairhaven District has grown so much since their opening in 2005, that business growth was natural.

“The new buildings are finished, people have moved in and we are a neighborhood destination.  Fairhaven isn’t just for tourists, most of our loyal customers are living close by.”

Flats Tapas, is located at 1307 11th Street in Fairhaven.  
Visit Flats Tapas online at www.flatstapas.com, or call, (360) 738-6001.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR-
Taimi Gorman, Gorman Publicity
Attached Photo by Taimi Dunn Gorman
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03-2009

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