Highlights of the restaurant scene in Bend

There are a lot of things to love about life here in Bend. Sure, our little town is famous for our world-class outdoor playground, 300 days of sunshine a year, and thriving craft brewing industry. But the food scene is also getting national recognition. Bend was even named one of the top cities with the most eateries per capita by the Huffington Post. To whet your appetite, here are a few Bend restaurants that will soon become your favorites, if they aren’t already.

The Classics

Jackson’s Corner was mentioned in AAA Via Magazine as one of the “Northwest’s favorite place to eat” for its use of local/organic ingredients on its breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Pine Tavern has been a local staple in Bend for over 75 years and is famous for its scones with honey butter, incredible patio overlooking Mirror Pond, and the real pine tree in the middle of the dining area. Zydeco and 900 Wall are two of downtown’s most popular places to sit on the sidewalk and enjoy upscale dining and drinks. Finally, Pizza Mondo is another downtown favorite. Just trust me–I’ll let the pizza speak for itself on this one.

Apres-ski

At Parilla Grill, you can get deals on tasty wraps, clam chowder, and beer on your way down from the mountain. Or “do a snow dance in your snow pants” to earn a free soda. The stylish Rim Rock Bar at Seventh Mountain Resort has established an apres ski reputation. Indulge in low-price, well-executed food and perhaps play a game of chess. And everyone has heard of the Deschutes Brewery & Public House, especially since it just earned the #1 spot on USA Today’s list of the Top Ten Ski Resort Breweries.

Breakfast

Chow is a sustainable business that sources many of its ingredients locally and is very gluten-free/vegan friendly. Don’t know what to order? Ask for the “vegan surprise.” The Victorian Cafe on the corner by the flaming chicken roundabout is a popular one and always has people mingling outside by the fireplace, sipping their famous bloody mary’s while waiting for a table. McKay Cottage has been named the “Best Breakfast” in Bend for 4 years running now.

Ethnic

Five Fusion and Sushi Bar’s innovative cuisine, swanky cocktails, and charitable contributions to the community all helped it earn its place as the Source Weekly’s “Restaurant of the Year” in a very competitive field. Noi has also earned special recognition from the source as the “Best Thai Food in Bend.”

Views

Brasada Ranch offers sweeping vistas of the Cascades while offering a menu created daily using the freshest ingredients from local farmers, foragers, and purveyors. Broken Top Club also offers fine cuisine with Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters looming on the horizon while reflecting in the lake below the expansive deck. The Row at Tetherow is a newer pub/restaurant, but it’s already getting some rave reviews.

Sweet tooth

Goodie’s Chocolates was born in Sunriver in 1984, and quickly became a legendary and loved tradition in downtown Bend with locals and visitors alike. Cuppa Yo is the original frozen yogurt establishment in Bend and has been voted Bend’s best dessert for three years running.