Bend offers Scrumptious dining options to please any palate We all have different tastes. Some might like super-spicy Thai food, while others might prefer a juicy burger washed down with a cold craft beer. One person might crave a five-course gourmet meal with wine pairings, while another might fancy an al fresco picnic on the banks of the Deschutes River. Luckily, you can have it all when you hit the culinary scene in Bend, Oregon. Planning a meal for a special occasion? Make a reservation for Jackalope Grill, and if the weather’s nice, request a table in their sunny outdoor courtyard. The baby kale salad with mint and peanut makes an excellent starter, and meat lovers will adore the succulent pork osso bucco slow braised in red wine and served over creamy sun-dried tomato polenta with citrus gremolada. Another great option is Ariana Restaurant. Housed in a cozy craftsman bungalow on Bend’s west side, Ariana offers Northwest cuisine and unique twists on classic dishes. They have an impressive wine list and a special flair for seafood dishes like seared scallops. For the best Italian meal you’ll enjoy this side of Tuscany, don’t miss Trattoria Sbandati. Their creative dishes are guaranteed to keep you swooning long after you’ve lovingly polished off the last forkful of tagliatelle al gorgonzola. Looking for something more casual? There are plenty of stops along the Bend Ale Trail offering tasty cuisine that pairs perfectly with your favorite craft beer. Hit Old Mill Brew Wërks and order a pint of Rabble Rouser Red to wash down their scrumptious risotto cakes stuffed with goat cheese and served with pesto cream &
balsamic reduction. If it’s pizza you’re craving, newcomer Worthy Brewing offers a unique variety of options served bubbly hot from their wood-fired oven, or scope out the pizza menu at 10 Barrel Brewing, which offers suggested beer pairings for each pie. Hankering for a burger? Pilot Butte Drive-In has been voted Bend’s Best Burger for 14 years and counting, and it’s perfect paired with one of their custom-blended milkshakes. If you want to watch the big game or play a few rounds of poker while you eat, Rival’s Sports Bar & Grill is the place to be. Seeking something family-friendly? Red Robin in the Old Mill District offers familiar dishes and a kid-friendly atmosphere. For a uniquely-Bend option, try Jackson’s Corner for breakfast, lunch, and dinner made with locally-sourced ingredients. Bend was named the nation’s dog-friendliest city by Dog Fancy magazine, which means Fido can join you at dozens of local restaurants with outdoor seating. Nab a patio table at Anthony’s, where you’ll enjoy one of Bend’s best happy hour menus along with gorgeous views of the Deschutes River. Crux Fermentation Project is another super dog-friendly option, and you won’t want to miss their amazing Grilled Cheesy sandwich—an asiago-cheese crusted panini with mixed ricotta, pepper jack, and white cheddar with diced bacon and spicy pickles on Italian country spent grain bread. Looking for a nightcap in a super-chic setting? 10Below on the lower level of the Oxford Hotel has a huge array of unique cocktails and appetizers to whet your whistle. For a funky vibe and unique drinks, hit Velvet Lounge and order a plate of baconwrapped apricot skewers washed down with their tasty Rosemary Ricky cocktail. Wherever your cravings lead you, you’re sure to find a great meal in Bend. Bon appétit! Tawna Fenske is the PR & Communications Manager for Visit Bend. For more info on dining, lodging, and activities, check out www.visitbend.com or sign up to receive local secrets once a week from the Bend Buzz Blog.