I love finding the best local food spots when I visit new places. Bend, Oregon is a city that’s known for its outdoor activities, but it also has a great food scene.
I’ve put together a list of my top picks for local restaurants in Bend that I think are worth checking out.
These 5 restaurants showcase some of the best food Bend has to offer. From casual eateries to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone.
I’ve tried to include a mix of cuisines and price points, so you can find the perfect spot no matter what you’re in the mood for or what your budget is.
1. Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
I had an amazing experience at Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails in downtown Bend. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
The menu blew me away with its unique blend of Cajun and Northwest flavors. I tried their signature jambalaya, and it was bursting with spices and perfectly cooked seafood.
The cocktails were equally impressive, crafted with care and using fresh, local ingredients.
Service was top-notch from the moment I walked in. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, offering great recommendations for both food and drinks.
I especially appreciated how they accommodated dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
While it’s a popular spot, I found the noise level just right for conversation. The restaurant’s layout creates a cozy feel, even when it’s busy.
Rating: 4.6 (1500 reviews)
Location: 919 NW Bond St, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 312-2899
Website: Visit Website
2. 900 Wall
I recently had the pleasure of dining at 900 Wall, and it was a truly memorable experience. This charming restaurant is nestled in the heart of downtown Bend, Oregon, in a historic brick building from 1920.
The atmosphere is a perfect blend of historical charm and modern industrial-chic design. I loved how the two-story space felt both cozy and sophisticated at the same time.
The food at 900 Wall is simply amazing. Chef Cliff Eslinger crafts modern American dishes with Italian and French influences.
I was impressed by their commitment to using fresh, local, and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Their menu changes with the seasons, which I think is great. It means you can always expect something new and exciting.
The happy hour from 3-5:30 PM is a great deal if you want to try their delicious food and drinks at a lower price.
Rating: 4.5 (968 reviews)
Location: 900 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 323-6295
Website: Visit Website
3. Bangers & Brews Westside Bend Oregon
I recently visited Bangers & Brews on the west side of Bend, and I was blown away by their amazing sausages and craft beers. The menu offers a wide variety of unique sausage flavors, from classic bratwurst to more adventurous options like elk and buffalo.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a relaxed dinner with friends. I loved the outdoor seating area, which was great for soaking up the Oregon sunshine while I ate.
One thing that really stood out to me was the friendly staff. They were knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations.
I tried their house-made mustard, and it was the perfect complement to my sausage.
The beer selection is impressive, with plenty of local brews on tap. I particularly enjoyed pairing my meal with a crisp IPA from a nearby Bend brewery.
If you’re a fan of good food and good beer, Bangers & Brews is definitely worth a visit.
Rating: 4.9 (1600 reviews)
Location: 1288 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 389-2050
Website: Visit Website
4. Currents at the Riverhouse
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Currents, and it was a truly delightful experience. The restaurant’s location along the Deschutes River provides a stunning backdrop for a meal.
As I sat on their heated patio, I was captivated by the soothing sounds of the river and the beautiful views. The ambiance is a perfect blend of refinement and comfort, with rich wood accents and stylish lighting inside.
The menu at Currents is a celebration of Pacific Northwest flavors. I loved how the chef uses fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes.
The cocktails are also worth trying – they’re creative and perfectly complement the food.
Music lovers will appreciate the live performances. I enjoyed their Beats & Bites Brunch on Sunday, which added a lively touch to my meal.
The staff was friendly and attentive, making my visit even more enjoyable.
Rating: 4.3 (1500 reviews)
Location: 3075 US-97 BUS, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 389-8810
Website: Visit Website
5. The Blacksmith Restaurant
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Blacksmith Restaurant in downtown Bend. This place is a true gem, housed in a historic blacksmith shop that adds a unique charm to the experience.
The steaks here are top-notch. I tried their signature cut, and it was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and flavorful, exactly what you’d expect from a premier steakhouse.
Their bar is a great spot to grab a drink before dinner. I enjoyed a crafted cocktail in the elegant lounge area. The atmosphere is casually sophisticated, making it ideal for both special occasions and casual nights out.
I was impressed by their weekly specials. They offer happy hour deals and discounts on wine bottles certain nights.
It’s worth checking out their Sunday all-day happy hour if you’re looking for a good deal.
Rating: 4.6 (869 reviews)
Location: 211 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 318-0588
Website: Visit Website
Dining Trends in Bend
Bend’s food scene is buzzing with exciting new trends. I’ve noticed a growing focus on local ingredients and creative dishes that push boundaries.
Farm-to-Table Experiences
Bend restaurants are embracing the farm-to-table movement. I’ve seen more places teaming up with nearby farms and ranches. They’re bringing in fresh, seasonal produce and meats.
Many chefs now plan menus around what’s growing locally. This means the food is super fresh and changes with the seasons. I love how it supports local farmers too.
Some spots even have their own gardens. It’s cool to see herbs and veggies growing right outside the restaurant. Bos Taurus is one place that takes pride in using top-quality local beef.
Innovative Culinary Concepts
Bend’s chefs are getting really creative. I’ve tried some wild flavor combos lately! They’re mixing up different cuisines in fun ways.
Food truck lots are a big deal here. These spots let chefs test out new ideas without the cost of a full restaurant. I’ve found some of the most unique dishes at these clusters.
Fusion restaurants are popping up too. I recently had Korean-Cajun tacos that blew my mind. And there’s a new Moroccan speakeasy-style bar in town. It’s exciting to see global flavors mixed with local ingredients.
Local Ingredients and Flavors
Bend’s food scene is bursting with fresh, local ingredients that give dishes their unique Central Oregon flair. I’ve tasted some amazing meals that showcase the region’s bounty and creativity.
Seasonal Dishes Highlighting Bend’s Bounty
Bend’s restaurants love to use what’s in season. In spring, I’ve enjoyed dishes with wild mushrooms foraged from nearby forests. Summer brings juicy heirloom tomatoes and crisp greens from local farms.
Fall is all about pumpkins and squash. I’ve had some incredible butternut squash soups that warm me up on chilly days. Winter menus often feature hearty root vegetables and locally raised meats.
Many places change their menus often to use the freshest local, organic ingredients. It’s always fun to see what new creations chefs come up with each season.
Signature Dishes Unique to Bend
Bend has some dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
I love the Korean-inspired comfort food at Spork. Their Lomo Saltado is a tasty mix of juicy steak, potatoes, and veggies with a spicy kick.
Craft beer is huge here, and many restaurants use it in their cooking.
I’ve had amazing beer-battered fish and chips made with local brews. Some places even use spent grains from breweries in their bread.
Pine nuts and juniper berries add a uniquely Central Oregon touch to many dishes.
I’ve tasted them in everything from salads to desserts. These flavors really capture the essence of Bend’s high desert landscape.
