Semiahmoo Store & Café — Restaurant in Blaine

The latte here falls far short of expectations—it’s more of a coffee-flavored milk drink than a proper latte.

Clam chowder: Taste like a regular clam chowder. Latte: The espresso appeared over-extracted, with a burnt taste that even the milk couldn’t mask. Watching the preparation, it was clear that the milk was overheated far beyond the optimal range, leading to an unpleasant foam texture and an off taste. Milk heated above 60°C breaks down lactose and denature proteins, which impacts flavor significantly. The cup was so hot I needed two sleeves just to hold it. This isn’t what a latte should be.

Reply to the owner: I appreciate your passive-aggressive response. For the record, while the cup looks empty, I had only taken a few sips. In fact, I was halfway through my latte while typing this reply. The photo was meant to highlight how poorly the milk was frothed—not to document how much I drank. A proper latte shouldn’t have such a thick layer of large bubbles, and it certainly shouldn’t be so hot that I need a sleeve just to hold it and then wait to drink it.

Also, it’s not my job to bring the issue to your staff. I’m under no obligation to teach them how to care about the product they’re serving. The person making my latte didn’t even bother monitoring the milk frothing process—she simply stuck it under the frother to heat it. I also noticed the flow rate of the espresso from your machine, and it’s clear that neither you nor your staff are trained to make a quality coffee.

Your claim that you’ve “always received great reviews” doesn’t mean much. Just because people are used to subpar, boiling-hot lattes doesn’t make them good. Perhaps you should consider raising your standards, especially when you’re not overwhelmed with customers. Making a good latte really isn’t that hard—if you...

The Semiahmoo Marina Cafe, the Semiahmoo Chandlery, the Semiahmoo Gift Shop is collectively known as the Marina General Store. No matter what you call it, the blue building at the top of the dock is a source of respite, supplies, good food and a whole lot of fun.

The cafe offers a complete espresso menu as well as soups, sandwiches and daily specials, not to mention a tasty breakfast offering of breakfast sandwiches, biscuits & gravy and pastries. There is even a kid’s menu.

The Marina Store makes a courageous attempt to stock as many anticipated supplies in their limited space that any mariner could wish for. A large variety of wine, the usual candy bars, chips, beer, milk and frozen pizzas are just a few of the food items available.

The gift shop offers its own marina branded swag, as well as greeting cards and kites. But the uniqueness of the store is set apart by the local handiwork and art put on sale by local artists and craftspeople offering the opportunity for visitors to snag the perfect gift for friends and family.

The Semiahmoo Marina Chandlery often saves boaters a 50 mile round trip to Bellingham when it comes to boat repair and vessel cleaning supplies. Zincs, docking lines and a variety of other nautical necessities are available. For boat owners and slip lessees,’ significant discounts and free shipping are available from West Marine and Fisheries Supply when ordered through the Marina.

All Slip Owners, Tenants and Fuel dock Customers are eligible for a 10% discount on most store/café items. Be sure to mention your discount at the beginning of your...

Stopped in for a snack after walking the entire length of Semiahmoo Park—seriously, my legs still haven’t forgiven me. This place seems like the go-to spot for marina boats to stock up on supplies, and it doubles as a perfect place to pick up some unique souvenirs. You’ll find local artists selling everything from handmade jewelry, cutting boards that make you want to chop something just for fun, rope baskets perfect for stashing things, and crochet clothing. If you're in the market for a memorable keepsake, this is your spot!

The service was quick and friendly, which was much appreciated after we dragged ourselves in from our beach adventure. As for the food, we went with the clam chowder, chicken salad sandwich, and a strawberry banana smoothie, and they did not disappoint. After all that walking, it felt like we’d discovered a hidden oasis. The chowder was creamy, the sandwich was hearty, and the smoothie was the perfect reward for pretending to be outdoorsy.

Now, let’s talk about the flowers. The groundskeeper grows these massive, stunning blooms that are on every table, adding a lovely touch—until the bees decide to crash the party. Gorgeous? Yes. But watch out, because those bees are on a mission to turn your peaceful lunch into their own personal floral rave. All in all, a charming spot for food, souvenirs, and a few inevitable...