While Bend is best known as Central Oregon’s hub of outdoor activity, its food scene gets its share of recognition from foodies and locals alike. From gourmet street food to beer gardens, Bend offers variety, quality, and great atmosphere to those looking to grab a bite or sit down for a meal. Here are a few of our favorite places to dine out:
Riverview Restaurants
Our favorite place to grab a bite and enjoy a view of the Deschutes River is right here at the Riverhouse. Our in-house restaurant, Currents, is a bounty of Pacific Northwest cuisine. The reimagined restaurant has an open layout, a stylish atmosphere, cozy fireplace seating, and views of the Deschutes River from our outdoor patio.
One of Bend’s most iconic river views is from the patio of the Pine Tavern, a staple in Bend, Oregon since 1936. Other than a spectacular riverside patio, Pine Tavern’s most distinguishable feature is two giant Ponderosa pine trees (one dead, one living) growing right in the middle of the dining room. Open for lunch, happy hour, dinner, and late-night, this Bend classic is known for their hot scones with honey butter.
“Eat pasta, drink wine” is the motto of our other favorite place to enjoy a river view and an entrée. Pastini is located in the Old Mill District and serves up pasta and other Italian delicacies for lunch and dinner on their deck with a view of the river and the bustle of the Old Mill District.
Street Food & Food Trucks
If you’re looking for street food in Bend, Oregon, Midtown Yacht Club should be at the top of your list. This laid-back spot offers cold beer on tap and a selection of Bend’s favorite food trucks including Mexican and Spanish dishes from Barrio to sushi, maki, and poke from North Fresh.
Other popular street food in Bend includes Aina Kauai Style Grill, a Hawaiian-style food cart that serves unique poke bowls topped with kalua pig, crispy fried shrimp, and other hard-to-find exotic cuisine.
For a taste of Oaxaca, try . This food cart is one of the best in town with its moles, hand-made tortillas, and its signature quesabirria (a cheesy, beefy comfort food to warm you up on a cold day).
Breweries and Brewpubs
Bend loves its beer. It’s even home to Central Oregon’s very own Ale Trail. There’s no shortage of opportunities to dip your glass into something local, often with a view of the river.
GoodLife Brewery and Bierhall Tasting is an excellent first stop on anyone’s brewery tour of Bend, Oregon. This local favorite prides itself on approachable beers with creative salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, and wraps. Suffice it to say, the food is just as exciting as the beer at GoodLife.
If a view of the river is a priority for you, look no further than The Brasserie at Monkless Belgian Ales. Located in the Old Mill District, with a view of the Deschutes River, Monkless specializes in Belgian style ales and inside it features a monastery-like bar, perfect for a cozy night after a busy day on the slopes or the trails.
Crux Fermentation Project is another great stop for good beer and a memorable atmosphere. Located in an old transmission repair plant in the Old Mill District, the taproom and adjoining yard is perfect for adults and kids alike, with yard games, food trucks, and views of the Cascade Mountains.