Oregon

Stephanie Inn (update), Cannon Beach, OR., 8/21 & 22/25

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exterior – 2740 Pacific Ave, Cannon Beach, OR 97110-3164

Stephanie Inn’s owners also own the Public Coast Farm, which you will pass if you drive in from Portland.  So much of the produce is from there and according to Chef Jeff what they send is the largest input into what’s on the menu.  You’ll find their produce at dinner and also in the complimentary breakfast that is included in your room rate.  Portions for the dinner menu are spot on and offered at two seatings each night (they go to one seating in winter) and reservations are required.  The dinner starts with drink orders being taken and delivery of the amuse bouche is about the same time as the housemade bread and butter coming out.  The bread is the same every night and the butter has a bit of course salt on top of it.  It’s a soft bread in that the crust isn’t crisp but the interior is soft and dense.   They came around each meal and offered more if you wanted.  When the first course is out one of the chef’s come out to describe the evening’s menu and then staff comes around to get your entrée choice.  Each meal finishes with a couple of Ranger Chocolate squares in different flavors.  It’s takes just over an hour and a half, depending on how many people are there.  Service is friendly and couldn’t be more helpful.  I really like this place, as you can tell since I keep going back, and hope you’ll get a chance to try it too. Continue reading →

Stephanie Inn (update), Cannon Beach, OR., August 19 & 20, 2025

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exterior – 2740 Pacific Ave, Cannon Beach, OR 97110-3164

We returned to the Stephanie Inn for another 4 nights like last year.  You can read last year’s posts by clicking here and here or searching for Stephanie Inn.  The building is pretty much the same as are some of the staff and that’s just fine by me.  Really friendly folks work in the dining room and hotel.  This year we had an ocean view the whole time and I highly recommend that as there’s lots to watch for relaxing entertainment but all the rooms offer easy access to the beach and water.  The tasting menu in the dining room is 5 courses with an amuse bouche and the only choice being the main course.  I did see some substitutions for dietary restrictions,  Wine pairings are offered on two levels and there is a good menu of by the bottle or glass wines.  Cocktails are available but there is no bar to go to.   The view with dinner is of the mountains and nearby homes but one night we also were treated to some elk that wandered through.  White tableclothes and muted music are the set up for this lovely dining experience.  Executive Chef Jeff Slemaker was on hand most nights but we did not see Executive Chef Aaron Bedard.  The food is fresh, much coming from their own farm (Public Coast Farm), and the seafood is mostly local.  The menu changes plenty from night to night so we did not mind coming again and again.  It’s a great vacation spot that I highly recommend you try.  I’ve already made reservations to go again next year.  Hope to see yo there! Continue reading →

Captain Freeman Inn, Brewster, MA., 6/25

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house – 15 Breakwater Rd, Brewster, MA 02631

The Captain Freeman Inn is a bed and breakfast in a restored Sea Captain’s mansion near Breakwater Beach.  It has 10 rooms and is run by a delightful young couple with experience in the hospitality industry.   You can’t go there for breakfast unless you stay there but I wanted to share what we had with my readers as Cape Cod has many options for dinner but few in the same town.  I found this to be a good location to get to many places of interest, beaches, and restaurants.  The breakfasts were were mostly made by Jason while wife Laurie brought out the food and beverages.  You eat on the screened in patio overlooking the pool and some of the gardens.  The breakfasts were enough to keep you satisfied all day while also being tasty and composed of local products when possible.  Laurie is also helps with baking.  This is a place I’d recommend when visiting Cape Cod. Continue reading →

Cocorico Neo Rustic Kitchen, Ashland, OR., 5/17/25

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exterior – 15 N 1st St, Ashland, OR 97520

Cocorico was a medium sized place serving Mediterranean cuisine.  Chef Nat Borsi and his wife Grace dreamed of owning their own place for years.  His experience came from many fine kitchens and hers was in hospitality.  Named for the French translation of ‘cock-a-doodle-doo’ it was to be French but not too much.   Opening in August 2022 it seems to be a local favorite drawing a steady stream of customers the night we were there.  Open Tues to Sat they have both indoor and patio seating.  At first they didn’t take phone reservations, but now the website refers you to tock  The room we were in had some art on the walls, windows to the street, music in the background and bench seating along the walls.  The lights were lowered and the medium sized bare wood tables were fairly close.  They have a full bar and street parking is your option if you can’t walk there.  Service was good and the hostess at the door made you feel most welcome.  The food was great, the portions large and I’d easily recommend the place and go back if I’m ever back in the area. Continue reading →

Bella Union Restaurant, Jacksonville, OR., 5/17/25

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entrance – 170 W California St #9237, Jacksonville, OR 97530

Bella Union Restaurant and Saloon is locally owned and operated and open daily for lunch and dinner.  We were there to meet a friend from college for lunch which goes back even further than the restaurant’s 37 years.  Offering a full bar they are also known for their live music events.  The diverse menu had a number of Italian (including pizza) options and was supplemented by a large list of daily specials, which included local fish.  The large place was spread over many rooms and a large, very popular covered patio.  Some of the rooms were smaller which probably can be secured for small parties.  Service was helpful and efficient and most importantly, left us alone so we could catch up.  For such a large place I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the food.  My husband really liked his fish and my sandwich was scrumptious.  Color my opinion only slightly by the joy of spending time with a long time dear friend.  It was a great lunch and one I’d recommend when and if you find yourself in historic Jacksonville. Continue reading →

MÄS, Ashland, OR., 5/16/25

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building – 141 Will Dodge Way, Ashland, OR 97520

MÄS was a tiny tasting bar by Chef Josh Dorcak serving Cascadian cuisine.  Started in 2017, it was in the basement of a bakery but it secured a more permanent home the next year.  Dorcak was a finalist for the 2023 James Beard Best Chef Pacific Northwest award and the restaurant was named on the New York Times “favorite 50 restaurants” in 2022.  It’s a hidden sort of entry, in an alley behind the busier streets of downtown Ashland.  The tasting menu only is served at a half dozen counter seats and a small room with tables for a total capacity of 18.  The night we were there only 4 of us were at the counter for the earlier seating of the night and Dorcak was not there but the other two chefs, Chef de Cuisine Andy Peterson and Sous Chef Jeffrey Kimura,  and Sommelier Joseph Shaughnessy provided a wonderful evening of tastes and wines for about 2 and a half hours.  Pairings are offered and also available as non-alcoholic.  If you’re in Portland, it’s about 5 hours to drive here but it’s worth the drive.  Next door is Dorcak’s a la carte and drink slightly larger place, Nama. Continue reading →

Le Bistroman Atelier, Madrid, 3/2/25

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exterior – C. de la Amnistía, 10, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Le Bistroman Atelier was a French concept from Chef Stephane del Rio Brossier and Miguel Ángel García Marinelli.  The medium sized location had wood and tile on the floor, chandeliers, a cut out in the ceiling, windows to the street on two sides, music in the background with some exposed brick on the walls.  The small tables were covered with white cloths and a couple were on the larger side.  We had made the reservation some time ago and signed up for their long tasting menu, which you need to do in advance.  We stopped by a couple days prior to our reservation and talked with the door person and said we no longer wished to have the tasting and they were fine with it and said would make a note of it.  They didn’t and when seated the server came to check for allergies and about the tasting.  We repeated our former request and they said fine but there was much confusion even so.  It foreshadowed the continuing confusion with the server who split our main course and forgot to bring the salad yet still had it on the bill.   It was a night of errors which made for a less than satisfactory meal.  The food was edible but nothing to “write home about” and I’m sorry but I can’t recommend you try this place unless you really need to get a French fix in Spain. Continue reading →

OSA, Madrid, , 2/26/25

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exterior – C. de la Ribera del Manzanares, 123, Moncloa – Aravaca, 28008 Madrid, Spain

OSA offers a single tasting menu, with long (20-22 dishes) and short (14-15 dishes)versions in a small 2-story house.  Chefs Jorge Muñoz and Sara Peral, who both previously worked at Mugaritz, are the drivers of this seasonal menu with French and Japanese influences.  The two dining rooms on the main floor can accommodate up to 20 guests at 5 tables.  The large open kitchen is also on this floor and shines with much stainless steel and marble.  There is a terrace upstairs and a small room with a fireplace that looks into the large glassed wine cellar and cabinet of pickling/preserving products.  We started our long tasting up there with a tour of the wine cellar and our first 4 charcuterie snacks with a glass of Spanish cava.  They had a fire going and it was fun to explore all the projects waiting to made into dishes for our plates.  In the dining room the large tables were covered with white cloths and adorned with vases of orchid blooms.   Different music was downstairs than upstairs but the lighting was brighter – possibly due to overhead spots and light walls.  The meal was a long one but the service was exceptional and the pacing great, however some of the courses need to be scaled down and we asked that to happen about 2/3 into the tasting.  The food and menu are creative and tasty making it an experience I’d recommend for any adventurous eaters. Continue reading →

SOLA Soho, London, 1/25/25

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entrance – 64 Dean St, London W1D 4QQ, United Kingdom

SOLA was a small place, about 8 tables, featuring Victor Garvey’s California cooking.  It has one Michelin star and opened in 2019.   Bench seating backs up to plants and windows on the long wall of the restaurant.  A couple small tables are opposite next to some wine cabinets and the end has an arced banquet.  Large round tables are covered with white cloths and brown leather placemats with the starched napkin held in plaster hands.  Music was in the background.  They offer one tasting with optional wine pairings (two levels).   We ordered our own wine but the wine list is very small and oddly chosen and the wine glasses quite clunky.  The wine and cocktails are all badly over-priced and the Old Fashioned we started with was very sweet.  Staff were all friendly but the vibe seemed odd to me.  Nothing was bad but nothing was outstanding either. Continue reading →

Muse by Tom Aikens, London, 1/24/25

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building – 38 Groom Pl, London SW1X 7BA, United Kingdom

Muse is the restaurant where Chef Tom Aikens returned to fine dining in a 23-cover 2 floor Georgian townhouse.     Opening in 2020 he was quickly awarded one Michelin star.  The menu focuses on memories of his personal life and culinary career with a seasonal emphasis.  He primarly serves foods from local and sustainable sources.  The building was in a residential looking neighborhood with a lovely reception room, bar and small kitchen on the arrival floor.  Upstairs was the small dining room and 6 counter seats facing the kitchen where he actually cooked our lunch.  The menu offered 2 tastings and a couple supplemental dishes using Urbani truffles and/or N25 caviar.  (The menu has a cute pop-up of the building in the middle.)  We chose the shorter tasting, no supplements and our own beverages rather than the available pairings.  Another one to put on your list when in London. Continue reading →

The Ledbury (update), London, 1/22/25

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exterior – 127 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AQ, United Kingdom

The Ledbury was last visited in April of 2018  for a lunch and in Nov. 2014 for a dinner, on this blog.   It’s now been elevated to a 3 Michelin star rating under Chef Brett Graham’s direction for the last 17 years and now with Chef Tom Spenceley running the kitchen.  They offer 6 or 8 course tastings at lunch but only the 8-course in the evening with optional wine pairings.  Rennovated in 2022 they made many interior decorating changes to the dining room as well as reduced the number of seats from 55 to 45 to make space for a center serving table.   Dried plants hang from the ceiling in the lowly lit room filled with shades of beige.  The pedestal tables were set with fine white linens and table decorations that coordinated with the ceiling ones.  Staff are attentive but not intrusive and go the extra mile in service.   We were delighted to find one of the fine servers we met last year at Da Terra now working here and Chef Graham helping present many of the dishes and taking time to visit with guests.  Each dish was presented with in depth descriptions that I’m afraid I missed much of or can’t decifer my quickly written notes.  Trust me that all was good with lots of flavors and textures in the dishes.  Go if you get a chance and can afford it.  (It will set you back 275 pounds or about $340/person and then there’s the cost of beverages and service.) Continue reading →

Community Pizza & Beer Garden, Wimberley, TX, 12/27/24

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entry – 111 Old Kyle Rd #330, Wimberley, TX 78676

Community Pizza and Beer Garden was opened in 2018 by husband and wife team Michael and Morgan Mekuly.  It featured wood-fired Neapolitan Pizza, 32 tap beers and a full bar.  It’s a huge place with playscapes for children and a variety of seating options.  Music was in the background, it was well lit and filled with people.  The large indoor room holds the bar, with seats and the glassed-in wood-fired pizza oven, complete with cooks tossing the pizza dough.  We were there just after Christmas with family and I think most everybody had the same idea.  The place was in the midst of a bunch of stores and other eating and drinking establishments.  As usual, when out with people, photos get blurred, things get eaten and I generally get bad about taking notes.  However, we did have a good time and sampled many items that I tried to get photos of.  The pizza had a nice puffy edge crust and it was tasty but I think I might have liked the sandwich even more.  Either way, if you’re in Wimberly doing whatever, this certainly would be a filling place to stop and have a bite to eat. Continue reading →

Galatoire’s Restaurant, New Orleans, 12/18/24

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interior – 209 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Galatoire’s has been written up on this website numerous times, the last one being a year ago,  so little introduction is needed.  It is an institution at the holidays and Mardi Gras for parties.  Always festive with excellent service, sometimes it’s better than others but it seems to call us back for the generous servings of crab and butter.  Not at all cutting edge, it is solid old school (still have a dress code and loaner jackets for men in the evening)  and I’ll go again to have some of my favorites.  They will customize almost any order.  For example, we wanted to share a number of things and bring them out one at a time.  They were happy to do that and split many of them into two plates in the kitchen for us.   Also you can add crab meat to anything.   We have too many favorites to have them all every meal – here’s what we chose today.  Hope it treats you as well if you visit. Continue reading →

Georgie (update), Dallas, 12/7/24

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entrance – 4514 Travis St Suite 132, Dallas, TX 75205

Georgie was first visited by Frankie last July and we were very excited by the potential of this recently re-vamped place.  The addition of Chef RJ Yoakum in Jan. 2023 was a step in the right direction and we wanted to see how it fared without the benefit of the summer’s bounty of ingredient options.  Inside not much has changed, but it felt darker- probably because it was dark outside and there are a lot of windows posing as exterior walls.  They still have double-clothed nice-sized tables with stuffed bench-like seating, music in the background, a mix of dress styles and a lively bar taking up one-third of the space.  Now however, the tasting menu is printed in the menu in addition to the a la carte options.  Wine pairings are offered as well as a sommelier and large wine list.  Service was a little more mixed this visit, sometimes quite slow and absent and while the food was very good it couldn’t maintain the same caliber the entire tasting.  There’s a lot of staff in the kitchen, you could see them through the screen by our table as most folks seemed to be ordering a la carte.   Dallas has been super slow to accept tasting menus, but hopefully, with Michelin recognition in Texas, this place will continue to evolve into stars. Continue reading →

The Stephanie Inn breakfast, Cannon Beach, OR., 8/14-17/24

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dining room – 2740 Pacific Ave, Cannon Beach, OR 97110

When you stay at the Stephanie Inn breakfast is included.  It alone is worth staying there for.  It’s in the same room as dinner and on the kitchen side they set up the hot buffet with a variation on eggs, potatoes, meats and hot cereal.  In front of that they have fruits, granola, Greek yogurt and sauces.  On the other side of the room they have muffins, bagels, toast, scones along with butter and jams.  After you’re seated they take your drink order and then you serve yourself as you choose.  A menu in your napkin details what is on the buffet and also items you can have cooked to order.   Their fruits were all fabulous, being well ripened and full of flavor.  The scone flavor changed daily and they were all very good with a nice crisp exterior.  The muffins also varied daily and some I liked better than others but all were fine.  The toast was the same bread they serve at night.  We also tried several of their order options as well as crafting our own order one morning.  The coffee was French press and they offered fresh juices but I never tried any of them.   The menu also  offered alcoholic drinks but I didn’t try those either.  It was all wonderful and gave a fantastic start to the day.  Plus they serve from 8 – 10:30, so it works whatever time zone you’re coming from. Continue reading →

The Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, OR., 8/15 & 16/24

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back of the inn – 2740 Pacific Ave, Cannon Beach, OR 97110

The Stephanie Inn’s dining room holds about 17 cloth-covered tables in the second-floor round room on the mountain side of the hotel.  A wooden domed ceiling is over the front half of the room and a lower flat ceiling is over the back darker portion of the room.  With the tablecloths, padded chairs, table spacing and carpet on the floor the noise level was wonderful.  You could easily hold a private conversation but with light music in the background, you could still enjoy the hum of the other people.  Children under 12 are not permitted in the dining room.  Service was excellent all the nights we were there with good attention to detail, particularly special requests.  They start each evening by offering to get you a cocktail from the bar and take your other beverage requests.  An amuse bouche is served and then some bread before the first course hits your table.  At this point, Chef Jeff Slemaker took the floor to discuss the upcoming meal.  He was to the point and invited all to continue eating as he talked.  He was a delightful host and came around to talk with the guests.  For our last meal, Chef Johanna led the kitchen team.  Portioning at the tastings was wonderful – there was plenty to taste but not too much to make you feel stuffed.  They brought additional bread if you needed filler.  Each meal was fairly different so it was fine to eat there multiple nights.  The staff were all fabulous, friendly and helpful.  I can’t wait to go back and hope to see you there too! Continue reading →

The Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, OR., 8/13 & 14/24

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exterior – 2740 Pacific Ave, Cannon Beach, OR 97110

The Stephanie Inn was a 3 story hotel on the Oregon coast owned by Ryan and Stephanie Snyder.   We visited two years ago and enjoyed it enough that we decided to come back and stay here 4 nights.  Rather than making five posts I’ll group two of the dinners in separate posts and do some comments on the breakfast in another post.  The first change you noticed was that the place had been painted blue.  According to one of the bellmen the place closed for 4 months for an extensive re-do of the facility.  On one side of the hotel are beautiful flowers, people’s homes and views of the mountains and on the other side is the beach and rolling ocean.  Guests and townpeople alike can also enjoy their 4-course tasting menu at dinner.  Chef Aaron Bedard showcases the flavors of Oregon with a daily changing menu.  They also highlight many items from their own 40-acre Public Coast Farm, which we saw midway to Portland.  Three of the courses are set but there was a choice on the entree course.  Wine pairings were available but there was a good list of bottles and wines by the glass to choose from as well as a bar that made good cocktails.  In the summer there are 2 seatings, 5:30 and 8:00 but in winter they only offer 5:30.  Those staying at the hotel have priority for reservations and there’s plenty of free parking around the hotel.  Chef Bedard left his most capable Executive Sous Chef Jeff Slemaker in charge of our first 3 meals.  This is a definite recommendation for dinner if you are in the area or have the opportunity to plan a trip here. Continue reading →

The Meating Place Café, Hillsboro, OR., 8/13/24

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cafe exterior – 495 NW Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124

The Meating Place first opened in 1974 and was in business until 1998.  It re-opened in 2011 as a small custom meat shop and within a few years expanded into a 20,000 sq. ft. store offering smoking, curing and sausage making along with a separate cafe.  Now with their own herd and ability to process other small rancher’s meat, they are working to reduce the carbon footprint of meat packing and slaughterhouse processes.  Their beef goes “straight from our farm to the Meating Place where it’s cut and wrapped for customers without ever hitting a piece of plastic.”   The huge meat market was in a separate building just down a small hill from the good-sized café.  It offered plenty of indoor and outdoor dining spots and also did a healthy take-out business.  It takes a while to get your order so many have learned to call ahead or order online.  Music was in the background and a huge mural filled one wall.  The kitchen was next to the long order counter and mostly walled off from view.  The smells were fantastic as you entered and Frankie enjoyed all the pig decorations.   They are open Tues through Sunday for breakfast and lunch from 9 to 3.   A special sandwich is offered some days and many are available in a half size.  The sandwiches and burgers come with a bag of chips and a pickle spear.  If I lived nearby I’m sure I’d shop at their market because I admire what they’re doing.  Not so sure about their sandwiches but it’d be worth it to try a burger and if you do please let me know how it was. Continue reading →

Dear Irene, Bend, OR., 5/2/24

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building – 926 NW Brooks St, Bend, OR 97703

Dear Irene is the creation of Chef Jonny Becklund and his wife Irene.  Opening in July 2023, Jonny moved to Bend from San Francisco where he owned a 12 seat tasting menu restaurant.   He likes to change the menu here as he did there based on what he can find at the market.  Their wine list was not particularly great but they do have a huge selection of bourbons.  It was a long space with brick walls, tile floor, a high wood ceiling, music in the background and draping on the lights over the long bar.  There was a second dining area through a window which was about a third of the length and then the kitchen.  Art was on the walls and there was lots of color in the decorating scheme.  Small tables were along the walls with one side utilizing bench seating.  The place could have noise issues but the food was good enough to put up with it. Continue reading →

BOSA Food & Drink, Bend, OR., 5/3/24

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exterior at night – 1005 NW Galveston Ave, Bend, OR 97703

BOSA owned and operated by chefs Bill Dockter and Nate King, offers regional Italian and French specialties including housemade pasta.  They opened in August of 2021 in the historic Bakery Building, just before Covid hit.  The restaurant is named for a town in the Sardinia region of Italy that the owners felt resembled Bend.  It’s a long space with counter seating running the length of the place divided by a low wall with the table area.  The open ceiling is decorated with cloth ‘flowers’ probably for sound absorption as the rest of it is hard surfaces.  Opposite the counter seating are numerous windows that offer views of the street.  The other walls have mirrors or art.  The noise level was significant as it was packed with tables changing out regularly, but it did get better when one large group left and was replaced with 2 or 4 person groups.  The plates are served family style and meant to be shared.  Our server wanted our entire order in at one time and said he would course it out.  He did, it was well paced and the small table did not get overwhelmed.  It was really tasty food and I would recommend this place be on your schedule when you visit. Continue reading →

Bonta – Natural Artisan Gelato, Bend, OR., 5/3/24

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street entrance – 920 NW Bond St #108, Bend, OR 97703

Bonta Gelato had one of their locations very close to our hotel so we stopped in to try it.  Owners Jeff and Julie Labbhart have traveled to find different flavors to incorporate into their handcrafted gelato.   The small batch gelato is made with techniques they learned working with Italian gelato masters.  They make their gelato with Oregon milk, desert lavender and mountain hazelnuts or whatever local ingredients they can source.  They scoop into cups or a variety of cones as well as have pints and quarts to go.  They also offer non-dairy sorbets and have seasonal flavors.  The gelato had marvelous texture and well developed flavor.  If you see their product I encourage you to indulge. Continue reading →

That Guy’s Bistro, Bend, OR., 5/3/24

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exterior – 61147 Bend Parkway, Bend, Oregon 97702

That Guy’s Bistro has 3 locations, one of which is in Redmond.  It started as a food truck in 2018 and now has a brick and mortar location, where we ate,  in addition to the 2 food trucks.  They serve salads, pizzas, burger and Philly sandwiches – which are offered with a variety of fillings.  In addition to the large menu they also have a variety of liquors.   It was a medium sized place in a shopping center that felt to me a little like a “bubba bar”.  Several large TV screens were on each of the walls, mercifully silent, playing a variety of sports and a life guard show that seemed to focus on bikini clad women.  It got a good crowd of working men.    The counter people were very friendly.  We wanted to try the basic TG Burger which was a 1/4 pound beef patty with American cheese, onions, tomato, lettuce, pickle and TG sauce on a grilled brioche bun.  The burger comes with fries or mac salad.  We chose fries and they were a fun curled variety that were dusted with seasoning and nicely crisped.  The burger was cooked to ‘pink’ and loaded with other ingredients.  The bun was nicely toasted and tasty but too big for the patty.  They gave you extra sauce which did have a nice spice to it.  A fine burger, but next time I’ll try one of the Philly options. Continue reading →

Farmer’s Deli, Bend, OR., 5/2/24

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truck – 925 NW Brooks St, Bend, OR 97703

Farmer’s Deli is a breakfast or lunch spot brought to you by Chef/owner Justin Halvorsen.  Opening in summer 2023 it is the result of 24 years of cooking in various capacities for others and now he has his own gig.  The place highlights locally sourced food and ingredients.  It is a food truck behind Bar Rio and next to the restaurant Dear Irene.  There are no tables right next to it but there are tables by a coffee shop 30 feet away where you are welcome to sit and enjoy your food but many seemed to take it to go.  Halvorsen was raised in Vermont so there are numerous East coast inspired items on the menu.  It’s a small menu but the ingredients are quality indeed, even bread from Sparrow Bakery.  Both sandwiches we tried were generous portions and could have easily been split.  They each came with a nice pickle spear.  A fun off-the-beaten-track place to grab a quick bite to eat. Continue reading →

The Sparrow Bakery Northwest, Bend, OR., 5/2/24

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exterior – 2748 NW Crossing Dr #110, Bend, OR 97701

The Sparrow Bakery opened in 2006 on Scott Street  then moved to the present location in Bend in 2014 where they had more seating room.  They now have a second location in Portland.  It’s a large place with high ceilings and lots of windows.  Merchandise is on a long table guiding you to the counter where you order.  They call out your name when your order is ready to come pick up.  A separate station had napkins and flatware.  They sell bakery items, coffee, breads and sandwiches and next door was another spot where you could just get to go items.  We got some Americana coffees and tried a few of their baked items.  The coffee was average.  Their baked goods had a similarity of dough.  None seemed as flakey as I expected but the Ocean Roll was worth going for.  It’s unique and delicious. Continue reading →

Ariana Restaurant, Bend, OR., 5/1/24

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building – 1304 NW Galveston Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Ariana was in an older Craftsman bungalow and run by Chefs Andres and Ariana Fernandez.   Their regionally inspired cuisine was offered as a seasonal chef 6-course tasting that changes weekly as well as an a la carte menu on Wed through Sat evenings.  In 2004 Ariana’s Italian parents were excited about the culinary marriage she had with Colombia native Andres and offered the start up money for a restaurant of their own.  It turned out that they both attended the Cascade Culinary Institute and her father had experience in the wine industry so he started as their beverage manager.  With Ariana’s mother helping work the front of the house, the family restaurant was born.   I’d call it medium sized with some seating available on the porch area and a couple seats in front of the bar.  The main room had lots of windows, bench seating along one wall, lowered lighting, art on the walls and a unused fireplace.   It is the “special occasion” restaurant in Bend.  Both of the Fernandez still cook but she will also work any position in the front of the house, even tend bar, when needed.   We went with their tasting to get the best representation of their cooking but in retrospect I’d suggest ordering a la carte.  It was a good place but the tasting went downward toward the end. Continue reading →

Americana Burger, Bend, OR., 5/1/24

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food truck  – 536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Americana food truck is in The Podski Lot,  a small lot with several food trucks and one brick and mortar place where you can buy drinks or grab a glass of water.    A bunch of colorful picnic tables are on a combination of artificial grass and concrete for a place to eat.  Parking is tricky as it’s just what you can find on the street, but most have a 2-hour free parking zones.  Owner Joe Franco wanted to offer an affordable burger where anybody could come out and eat and opened this venture in 2020 then moved to the Podski in Nov. 2022.  The basic OG Burger is only $8 and includes caramelized onions, American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato and secret sauce and is served on a toasted brioche bun.   Each burger includes two 2-ounce patties which are only cooked on one side to form a crust on the bottom of the patty yet keep the beef moist.    For the vegetarians he offers a grilled cheese and for burger lovers there are variations including BBQ or jalapenos.   It made a great lunch. Continue reading →

Yolk (update), Manzanita, OR., 7/14/23

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exterior (when closed) – 503 Laneda Ave, Manzanita, OR 97130

Yolk serves breakfast and lunch in Manzanita, on the coast of Oregon.  We visited there about a year ago and had fond memories so we were looking forward to dining there and interestingly found out it had been sold in the last couple of days.  The past owners were still there when we went, helping the new owners with the transition, particularly cooking.  Even so, a little snafu with the ordering process made it take longer to get the bill and impossible to check on our order.  It is still a bright and tasteful interior with music in the background, a patio, a full bar and lots of windows to the outside streaming in the sunshine.  The food is good but they don’t take reservations, so get there early or be prepared to wait.  It’ll be worth the wait. Continue reading →

Neah Kah Nie Bistro (update), Manzanita, OR., 7/13/23

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exterior – 519 Laneda Ave, Manzanita, OR 97130

We visited Neah Kah Nie Bistro last year and it was much better than this year’s visit.  They were really short-staffed, meaning one person working the floor and one in the kitchen so any walk-ins were turned away and service was tremendously slow.  It’s a small place with some outdoor seating, although the tarp over those seats was gone.  I felt for the server but they should have canceled some reservations or notified guests.  This was horrible.   We didn’t try for a cocktail and instead were thankful to finally get to sit down.  We also didn’t try for multiple courses, it took so long to get our wine and then it was the wrong bottle and vintage too.  She took it back to try again but finally came back with what we drank and said they’d been delivered it by mistake.  (The bill tried to reflect the charge for what we ordered and we waited to have that corrected as this wine was half the price of what we ordered – and was awful).  They have a small parking lot but lots of street parking is available.  Music was in the background and there was lots of light from the windows in the room to supplement the low lighting.  Even so, you could tell the menus were well used and no daily specials were available.    I’m sorry to say I can’t recommend this place. Continue reading →

Pacific Roots Coffee and Mini Donuts, Nehalem, 7/13/23

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sign on street – 35915 N Hwy 101, Nehalem, OR 97131

Pacific Roots Coffee and Mini Donuts is a food truck off the main street in Nehalem.  It is by the water in the same clearing as the Riverside Fish and Chips Truck, both of which we tried last year.  The signature mini donuts are made fresh, on the spot when you order them and come with a variety of toppings.  You order as many as you wish and they will mix the toppings in an order.   These little donuts are made in a remarkable machine and I have found them in a number of places but the flavor and quality do vary.  These are good ones, served nicely hot with a perfect amount of cinnamon sugar.  Another nice feature is that these are served in a styrofoam container as opposed to the usual paper bag.  They are perfect to order, especially while you wait for fried cod from the fish and chips stand.   While the fish was nice and the slaw interesting, the mini donuts were the star of this lunch for me. I encourage you to find a stand and try some. Continue reading →

Wanda’s Cafe & Bakery, Nehalem, OR., 7/13/23

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exterior –12880 H St, Nehalem, OR 97131

Wanda’s Cafe and Bakery is family owned and operated where you can dine in or grab something to go.  It’s a small to medium-sized place with additional seating outdoors.  They do not take reservations, so expect to have a wait, but while we waited for breakfast they had coffee available.  Parking is limited on site but there is free parking in a close city lot.  Named for the original owner’s grandmother, there is no Wanda associated with the place now.  Music was in the background and the entrance and check-out are filled with goods for sale, both edible and novelty.  The servers were efficient and friendly.  It’s a place I’d recommend but I’d like to go on a day they make the fresh cinnamon rolls. Continue reading →

Offshore Grill and Coffee House, Manzanita, OR., 7/12/23

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exterior – 154 Laneda Ave, Manzanita, OR 97130

Offshore Grill and Coffee House is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday and tries to showcase local foods. The Coffee Shop is open all day on those days.  They moved from nearby Rockaway to Manzanita during the pandemic when they added the coffee house.  It’s a medium-sized place with art for sale on the walls.  Polished wood makes up the tables and wood is on the floor as well as the curved bar.  Lots of families were diners and there was faint music in the background.  A few parking spaces are out front but mostly it’s street parking or walk-in guests.  Lowered lighting was supplemented by bright sunlight from the windows.  Service was friendly but only would rate okay.  All though there is a bar area they serve just wine and beer, no hard alcohol.  No specials were offered that evening and the food was mixed. Continue reading →

Arnie’s Cafe, Warrenton, OR., 7/31/22

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entrance – 269 S. Main, Warrenton, OR., 97146

Arnie’s Cafe is really popular and they don’t even have a webpage.  They have been a part of the Warrenton community for decades and recently owners Crystal and Michael Green (took over in Sept 2014) decided they needed more space and moved to their current location.  It started out as The Sea Breeze and in the late 50s became the Donut Hole and subsequently the Ponderosa.  At the front of the current location is a coffee grinder, that belonged to Mike’s grandmother,  whose wheel has become the logo with Arnie’s written across it. In the move, they brought over lots of kitschy signs that line the walls.  At the hostess station, they have a list for seating.  A coffee bar is at the front end but didn’t seem to get much use yet.  Their plans include a liquor license and expanding their baked goods selection. There were about 7 stools in front of the kitchen window that was in the back of the place.  They have a good-sized parking lot out front and windows looking out to it and the lovely hanging plant baskets,  all along one side. They serve lunch and breakfast with large portions and friendly service. Continue reading →

The Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, OR., 7/30/22

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hotel exterior, restaurant on second floor – 2740 S. Pacific, Cannon Beach, OR., 97110

The Stephanie Inn Dining Room is of course in the oceanfront Stephanie Inn.  Chef Aaron Bedard creates a 5-course prix fixe tasting menu that changes often and in which you have a choice of entrée.  They have a full bar but also offer wine pairings for the meal.  Built in 1993 the inn is a luxury coastal retreat in Cannon Beach on the Oregon coast.  They do 2 seatings in the evening at 5:30 and 8:00 in the second-story room overlooking the mountains and nearby homes.  The large tables are set with cream-colored cloths and brown napkins in a room with a vaulted wooden ceiling.  The room faces east so the glaring sun is not a problem for diners.  Music is in the background and there’s plenty of parking out front. Some tables are on the outside veranda but they didn’t seem to get used for the dinner service.  They didn’t open early, in fact they were a bit late, and so a number of the diners lined up at the door.  The problem with that is many people wanted a cocktail and the servers were trying to get out an amuse bouche and take dinner drink orders – and basically, it felt clunky and ill-planned for a fine dining experience (we waited 25 minutes to place a drink order).  It is hard when the diners are all served at the same time so the place can accommodate more people, but there must be a way to make it flow more smoothly.  That said, the service was friendly and finely caught up with demands to provide a lovely evening with pretty good food too. After the salad was served the chef came out to talk about the evening’s menu and the 2 choices for entrées. Continue reading →

Riverside Fish n’Chips, Nehalem, OR., 7/30/22

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line to order – 35915 N Hwy 101, Nehalem, OR 97131

Riverside Fish and Chips is small trailer serving up hot fresh fried fish baskets and a couple of alternative items.  There are picnic tables in front, some with umbrellas and an additional patio with cover up a small set of stairs.  Across from this trailer was one selling seasoned mini-donuts, but they are not related.    It is really popular and by that I mean when we got there after standing in line 20 minutes to place your order we were told it would be about 45 minutes before the food was ready.  It’s a long wait but well worth it.  They do sell wine and soft drinks but they are right on the water and many just enjoyed sitting back and watching while they waited.  Lots of dogs and kids were there too, so I enjoyed the people-watching.  There’s a small sign on the street directing you down a fish-marked path to the site and if you like fish and chips, it’s worth finding. Continue reading →

Yolk Restaurant, Manzanita, OR., 7/30/22

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exterior – 503 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, OR., 97130

Yolk is a small place serving breakfast (all day) and lunch (beginning at 11:00) in the little town of Manzanita.  They have been in business since 2018 and strive to have your dining experience provide a level of flavor and service that reflects their zest for life. It was a very popular place but takes no reservations so show up early if you don’t want to wait.  Inside there was seating at small tables or a few seats were at the kitchen counter.  There were also stools on two sides of the large bar but they were only for those over 21.  On the patio, there were several additional tables.  The hostess at the entry had a list.  Music was in the background and the vibe was casual and fun with a concrete floor, metal siding on the bar, windows to the outdoors, tile front on the kitchen counter and lots of wood and mirrors.  The service was super friendly and would offer advice as well as joke around.  In addition to the menu, there were daily specials.  It was a good place. Continue reading →

Neah Kah Nie Bistro, Manzanita, OR., 7/29/22

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exterior – 519 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, OR., 97130

Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro was opened in the late fall of 2012 by Owner/Chef Lynne Hopper, who specializes in gourmet comfort food.  I’d call it a casual fine dining place, if that makes sense.  It is named for a coastal headland a few blocks away and located in a 1920’s house with just 7 small tables and a bar.  They added a cover to the tables on the patio to provide additional seating.  The bare wood tables are set with stuffed chairs and music is in the background.  The small kitchen is open behind the serving bar and there are windows around the room to the street and patio.   There were chairs at the bar, which turned out good cocktails.  The service was very friendly, welcoming and helpful.  It was a fun and tasty place to eat. Continue reading →

Pasture PDX, Portland, OR., 7/29/22

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exterior – 1413 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR., 97211

Pasture PDX bills itself as “a whole animal butcher shop and restaurant that offers a wide variety of meat cuts, cured products and sausages”.  Owner Kei Ohdera and John Schaible met while working in New York in 2014.  In early 2019 they started doing pop-ups in Portland featuring meat of retired dairy cows and European-style butchery – in an effort to recreate the experience they had with high-quality meats offered in New York restaurants.  They opened the permanent location near the end of 2021, with the aid of a “Kickstarter” campaign, and now offer lunch and dinner on Thurs. and Fri and a butcher case as well as locally sourced products, beer and wine.  It’s a small yet very tasteful space with tables out front, meal supplies (including cloth napkins) on a cart, and the order counter behind all that.  Next to the area is the butcher counter and shelves of local products for sale.  The menu is via smartphone link but can be found on their website <pasturepdx.com>.  They ask you to bus your own tables and orders can be over the phone.  There is music in the background and both owners were working in the shop and very friendly.  The sandwiches were great.  I totally recommend the place. Continue reading →

Nelscott Breakfast House, Lincoln City, OR., 6/26/21

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exterior

Nelscott Breakfast House alternately called Nelscott Café is a small coastal cafe offering breakfast and lunch items. Located in Lincoln City, their patio welcomes dogs too and there are special items available just for our canine companions.  It’s in a strip of shops along the highway in what looks like a house and was started around 2009 by a couple with the names Nelson and Scott, but it has changed hands a number of times.  Inside you find a number of tables and stairs to another level of seating as well as a door to the patio.  Plenty were also getting food to-go.  A pass through window to the kitchen lets you get a small peek at the action, windows are all around, music is in the background and happy people are everywhere.  Service was outstanding – they promptly took our order and food was out quickly, which was great as we were on our way to the airport. The menu has a good selection of sweet or savory dishes but there are also specials, which were noted out front.  I would go back if I am ever anywhere close.    Continue reading →

Local Ocean Seafoods, Newport, OR., 6/26/21

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exterior

Local Ocean Seafoods specializes in sustainable wild seafood from Oregon and has a retail outlet downstairs with dining rooms upstairs.  Opening in 2005, the lively fish counter on the ground level notes which vessel caught the fish and the technique used.  Owner Laura Anderson is the daughter of a commercial fisherman and has a Masters degree in Marine Resource Management. The dining room has windows looking out on the working port (Yaquina Bay) with fishing boats coming and going.  When you visit know that there is dedicated parking in the lot adjacent to their building otherwise it is hard to find a free space.  In the dining room, small light wood tables are set with matching wood chairs, no music is in the background and there is a bar area with some high-top tables for seating. Continue reading →

Restaurant Beck (update), Depoe Bay, OR., 6/24-26/21

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sign at the inn

We visited Restaurant Beck and stayed at the beautiful Whale Cove Inn about one year ago.  The facility hasn’t changed but the town of Depoe Bay has revitalized with the dispersal of a vaccine for Covid.  Since there are the previous entries on this lovely place I thought I’d make one post of the 3 dinners we had there.  They still offer three and five course tastings as well as an a la carte menu (wine pairings are available). The first night we enjoyed the 5 course tasting menu, but last year we realized that with their small menu, changing what we get every night is not possible.  So the second two nights we ordered a la carte.  I will post pictures of the items but not repeat pictures if we had the same item another night.  They still have a limited bar as well as bottles of wine.  It is a beautiful and tasty place to stay and/or eat. Continue reading →

The Schooner Restaurant & Lounge, Netarts, OR., 6/25/21

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exterior

The Schooner Restaurant and Lounge is located at the boat launch for Netarts Bay on the Tillamook Coast.  The source of most of their oysters is from the bay next door and the rest of their seafood is mostly locally sourced.  During lunch we watched a number of small boats launch into the bay and clam diggers hunt for clams.  They are quite popular and there was a line when we arrived at the opening hour.  Most wanted to sit on the large outdoor deck but we chose inside where you could watch the kitchen and wood fired oven.  Indoor the bar is separate from the dining area that has a combination of copper topped tables and booths.  Service was hurried and poor – for example we were told when the server arrived that the daily special was all gone (15 minutes after they opened) then later were told it was still available but she could not change the order we placed. Continue reading →

Side Door Cafe, Gleneden Beach, OR., 6/24/21

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exterior

Side Door Café is in an old brick and tile factory building.  It’s the restaurant part of the 7,000 sq. ft. warehouse also home to Eden Hall that all opened in 2000.  Family owned and run it serves New American dishes in an eclectic space decorated with many re-claimed items from other Oregon buildings.  They have some daily specials to add to the already large menu.  Their hours are shorter now and tables well spaced due to Covid, so changes may be coming in those areas. Lots of windows in the building add to the lighting during daytime and instrumental music is in the background.  The high ceiling is filled with fans and decorations are everywhere.  There were 2 large rooms, the first one having some booth seating and the second strung with little lights. Continue reading →

Restaurant Beck (re-visit), Depoe Bay, OR., 6/26/20

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IMG_6223
reception area

Our third visit to Restaurant Beck we were a few minutes early and so had some time to explore old photos of the hotel, Whale Cove Inn, that has been its home for the 11 years it has been open.  The Inn has just 8 suites but all are spacious and have private balconies overlooking the Whale Cove.   We were lucky to secure one of the suites and that made it an even more fun experience to just walk down to dinner.  We were given a different table that changed the view slightly, but there is not a bad table in the place.  While looking over the menu and listening to the 70-80’s music in the background we got to talk with the wonderful server.  We wanted to do another 5 course tasting but wanted to make sure and have different things than we’d had the previous nights.   The previous night Stormee Wills had suggested another wine to try so we were not going to partake of the wine pairing options.  As with every night, portion control was on the generous side and pacing was well done – no lapses or rush. Continue reading →

Ainslee’s, Depoe Bay, OR., 6/26/20

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IMG_6167
exterior

Ainslee’s was started in 1947 in Depoe Bay, Oregon by Graham and Helen Ainslee as a salt water taffy kitchen.  They sold the business to Dale and Cindy Nelson in 1978.  It’s a large store where customers are led down an aisle that passes the large selection of salt water taffy and other candies.  Across from this line is the large machine that makes the taffy and wraps it.  You can also see the end of the machine from one of the windows in front.  They also have a large mixer going that makes the taffy that is poured into the machine for pulling and wrapping.  It is a nice diversion as you wait your turn for service.  Their caramel corn uses a normal air pop variety that produces a smaller piece.  They also have cheese popcorn and a combination called Riptide.  I’ve had combos before (often called Chicago popcorn) but theirs was different in that the cheese popcorn is secondarily coated with the caramel – so each piece has both flavors.  It was really good but a much greasier corn than sold down the street.  It was not as sweet, probably because of the addition of cheese but I was surprised how much I liked it and kept going back for another piece. Continue reading →

Tidal Raves (re-visit), Depoe Bay, OR., 6/26/20

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IMG_6151
old photos

 

We liked Tidal Raves enough to come back again the next day for lunch.  Once again the view was spectacular and we were seated on a different end of the place so it gave us another perspective, too.  This day was sunnier and the waiter pointed out some gray whales that were making water spouts in the water in our view.  I thought the service was good yesterday and today’s was even better.  He was kind enough to let us order leisurely and enjoy the food and wine while we took advantage of the view.  I should have taken his photo but in these times I’m not sure how much personal handling Frankie wants or people want to partake in.  Since the virus looks to be with us for some time to come, I’ll have to figure out delicately how to proceed with things I took for granted before.  Nevertheless we were equally delighted with our lunch and highly recommend this spot if you are ever anywhere near by.   Continue reading →

Restaurant Beck (re-visit), Depoe Bay, OR., 6/25/20

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IMG_5693Our second evening at Restaurant Beck we got a table next to the window and the view was spectacular.  The tables were configured slightly differently to accommodate the guests, but they were still well distanced from one another. Continue reading →

Carmel Corn Connection, Depoe Bay, OR., 6/25/20

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IMG_5613The original caramel corn shop in Depoe Bay, Oregon has been also named “J’s Caramel Corn” and the building has had various paint jobs, but all say it was established in 1940.  It’s a tiny shop that also sold salt water taffy, a few other candies, books and toys.  It’s a one woman shop that uses Kettle corn for their product.  They also sell plain and cheese corns but no mix.  This corn was well coated with caramel and very sweet.  It pops into really large pieces and I found very few hard, unpopped kernels in our bag.  It’s not greasy and your fingers will have more of a stickiness rather than glisten after eating.  The owner used to make the cheese caramel mix but found it too messy and didn’t sell as well.  Either way, it was a really good caramel corn and she was very friendly and offered samples.  Do note, it’s not a mis-spelling in the title here – it’s spelled without an ‘a’ in the middle. Continue reading →

Tidal Raves, Depoe Bay, OR., 6/25/20

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IMG_5829
building

Tidal Raves has been in business since 1990 on a beautiful spot on the central Oregon coast. Whales are a regular sight out the large windows that frame the good sized dining room.  They do have a tint on them that keeps the sun from being too intense but will also tint some of your outdoor photos.  It is primarily a seafood restaurant but a few meat choices are there for the those not in the mood.  The a la carte menu was supplemented by a fresh catch special that was on the chalkboard on both our visits.  The long room has well spaced large bare wood tables along the windows and another series of tables on a second level (separated from below by a plexiglass barrier)  that is just high enough to afford them a good view also.  Instrumental music was in the background, carpet was on the floor, ceiling fans helped to keep it a nice temperature, additional light fixtures add to the incredible day light and the friendly, efficient staff wore masks. Continue reading →

Restaurant Beck, Depoe Bay, OR.,6/24/20

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IMG_7562
entrance

Chef Justin Wills and his wife Stormee operate Restaurant Beck at the Whale Cove Inn on the coast of Oregon.  The restaurant, named for their son Becker, has been open 11 years.     Chef Wills has been a James Beard nominee twice and recognized in Food & Wine magazine and Best Chefs in America.  Stormee runs the front of the restaurant and manages the wine service.  Depoe Bay is about 2-3 hours from Portland but worth the trip for the beautiful scenery.  The boutique hotel, with just 8 rooms, sits above a small cove where whales (mostly gray) love to visit and the dining room has windows on 3 sides overlooking this magnificent view. White cloth covered tables were well spaced, music was in the background, the natural light was supplemented by candles, servers were friendly and wore masks and tables were disinfected and re-clothed between seatings.  The menu changes slightly each day based on what is fresh (Oregon, Washington and Idaho suppliers) with a la carte options as well as 3 and 5 ($95) course tastings.  Optional wine pairings ($35 for 5 course) are available but the wine list was interesting and well priced.  Cocktails and liquor are offered. We got the 5 course tasting and chose our own wine.  Portions are generous and pacing was at a good rate, but then Covid was mandating that they stop service by 10:00 pm. Continue reading →