Business tidbits: Restaurant changes owners after 25 years, plus store openings and closures

Here’s a roundup of the latest retail, business and restaurant activity in and around Whatcom County:

Beloved Bellingham restaurant under new ownership

Diamond Jim’s Grill, a diner that makes breakfast, lunch and dinner, has changed ownership after 25 years of serving Bellingham.

“I am happy to pass the diner to an experienced restaurant owner, and I believe he will bring new energy and ideas. It is time for me to retire from Diamond Jim’s Grill ...,” the previous owner, Jim (no last name given), wrote in a Facebook post.

“Diamond Jim has been making the big 10” pancakes since April Fool’s Day of 1998... he loves being his own boss and is very fortunate for the great employees and customers...” the diner’s website states.

The diner officially changed ownership on Saturday, Sept. 30.

India Mart possibly opening in Bellingham

A building permit has been filed under the name “India Mart,” for a store at 193 Telegraph Road in Bellingham. The project has an estimated cost of $214,200 and was proposed on Sept. 18. Approval is pending.

Joe’s Garden closing for season

Joe’s Gardens farm and plant nursery closed for the season on Saturday, Sept. 30. The seasonal farm sells a variety of vegetables, flowers, native plants and fruits and is usually open from February through September each year.