The best part about any vacation is the food, right? Especially when you are visiting someplace new or renowned for excellent culinary options.

Well, in Bend, Oregon, foodies are never disappointed. From coffee to beer, brunch to dinner, there is no shortage of offerings that are sure to tickle your taste buds.

With food truck lots and restaurants located in both the Historic Downtown area and Old Mill District, there is plenty to choose from no matter what you may be craving at the moment.

Enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s local flavors – including new takes on the classics – at one of the best restaurants in Bend, Oregon.

Dining in Bend, Oregon

While there are plenty of places to eat in Bend, let’s start with dining in.

Whether you are traveling alone, with a friend or loved one, or with the entire family, there is sure to be a restaurant on our list to meet your dining needs and palatal preference.

Ariana

French, Italian, Wine Bar

Established in 2004, Ariana is located on the Westside of Bend and is known for its fresh perspective on classic dishes.

All of the ingredients used in their dishes are locally sourced from farmers and purveyors in Central Oregon, so you know exactly where your food is coming from.

Their extensive wine list highlights local selections from both Oregon and Washington. They also have a variety of signature cocktails that include the use of distinctive spirits and liqueurs.

Take a seat at the bar to enjoy a great view of the kitchen. Or sit in the dining area for a more luxurious experience.

Jackalope Grill

European Cuisine

The Jackalope Grill has been known as a neighborhood restaurant since 2005 thanks to its devotion to authentic, old-fashioned warmth and hospitality.

They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients from local farms (Imperial Stock Ranch, Carlton Farms, and Double C Ranch) and other eateries, such as Sparrow Bakery and Strictly Organic Coffee Company.

Jackalope is predominantly family owned and operated, so you always feel like you’re home whenever you decide to stop by.

Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats

Northern Thai

The Itti family came down from the Olympic Peninsula to open Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats in Bend, Oregon. They have been in the restaurant business for over 30 years now after opening their first Thai restaurant in Port Townsend, Washington.

This isn’t your typical Thai restaurant; in fact, northern Thai food is very different – a rural cuisine that is an experience for all five senses.

Many of their dishes have their own unique flavors, where you just can’t get enough of. A must-have is their Kabocha Curry with the famous sticky rice – my favorite meal from Wild Rose.

Every meal is meant to be communal, with dishes prepared for sharing, so bring a friend or make some new ones during your visit.

Spork

Casual Dining, Latin, African, Asian, Vegetarian

What started in 2009 as a green-conscious mobile street food kitchen has now become a staple restaurant in Bend, Oregon.

Spork offers globally-inspired dishes, including those from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. Some of these remain very traditional, while others enjoy a creative twist that makes them unique to Spork and the Pacific Northwest.

They also offer an extensive drink menu, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You can find signature and classic cocktails as well as beer on tap, wine, cider, and kombucha.

Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails

American, Cajun, Gluten-free

Located in Bend’s historic downtown area, Zydeco features a classic American menu with a unique southern twist, only made with quality ingredients that are hormone and pesticide free as well as organic.

There is even a full gluten-free menu for guests who have allergies or sensitivities to wheat.

Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. As such, the dining area feels cozy and inviting.

During the warmer months, there is also patio and rooftop seating available.

900 Wall

Fine Dining, Modern American

Unique in both location and atmosphere, 900 Wall is located in a two-story historic brick building in Bend’s downtown area. They offer indoor seating as well as patio and bar seating. There are also two private rooms on location which can be reserved for events.

Their menu can best be described as modern American with strong Italian and French influences. Selections rotate seasonally, and all ingredients are fresh, local, organic, and responsibly sourced.

The wine program is something to behold, with over 200 labels available diverse in both palate and price. They even have wine experts at the ready to guide you through the program.

Washington Dining & Cocktails

Family Dining, American

Bend also has some great family-oriented eateries, and Washington Dining & Cocktails is one of them.

Their menu features unique cocktails, healthy ingredients, and even fun choices for the kids.

In a hurry? Check their online menu and order your food to go so you can always enjoy great food no matter how busy you may be.

Barrio

Spanish, Latin American

What started out as a successful food truck serving some of the best soup in the city has now expanded to a full-size restaurant in Bend’s historic downtown.

Barrio features a Latin inspired menu, featuring flavorful food, cocktails, and daily specials.

You will find a complete list of the daily lunch and dinner specials as well as seasonal offerings posted on the large floor to ceiling chalkboard as you walk into the lively, colorful dining space.

Enjoy your meal indoors or take a drink outside to the back patio to soak up the sunshine.

McKay Cottage Restauant

American Breakfast

Known for offering the best breakfast in Bend, McKay Cottage Restaurant has been serving great food out of the 1916 historic craftsman house for many years now.

They credit their great success to the way they treat their customers: like family. Locals and regulars are recognized and warmly greeted immediately, and even if it’s your first visit, you feel welcome.

In addition to breakfast, they also have a complete lunch menu complete with sandwiches, salads, soups, and house specialties.

Joolz

Middle Eastern, American Northwest

Joolz restaurant in downtown Bend describes itself as the place “where the Middle East meets the Wild West” thanks to Chef Ramsey’s father’s Lebanese heritage and his mother’s American cowgirl past.

Their menu features a mix of classic Middle Eastern fare with local flair as well as reasonable prices.

They offer a variety of small plates, bowls, and sandwiches in addition to specials during “ecstatic” hour, a variety of wines, and signature cocktails.

Bend Food Cart Lots

Now if you really want some local flavor, you can’t go wrong with a food truck.

There are three popular food truck lots in Bend, Oregon (in addition to several food trucks located around the city), each offering some unique flavors that cannot be missed.

The Lot

The first on our list is The Lot, located downtown, offering food from four food carts: A’ La Carte (specializing in French fry dishes and salads), Burgz N Dogz, Fricken Faco (an entire menu of fried chicken and fish tacos), and Greek Street.

With such variety, there is always something you can find to satisfy your street food cravings.

In addition to the four trucks on the lot, there are 16 tap handles that regularly rotate, featuring beer, cider, kombucha, and wine.

During the summer time, enjoy a nice breeze rolling through the open garage doors. And as colder weather sets in, heaters and heated benches crank up to keep you warm and cozy.

On Tap

Located on the Eastside of Bend, the On Tap food truck lot is the place to go if you want to enjoy good drinks and food with a breathtaking view.

They live up to their namesake with over 30 tap handles, including a variety of wine, cider, beer, and kombucha.

The lot includes 6 food trucks: Barrio (where it all started), CURBBQ, Himalayan Bites, The Bleu Rooster, PHILLYSTYLE, and Shaka Shave Ice.

For a food truck lot, the seating area is quite unique. With the enclosed covered patio area with heaters, bar seating, and TVs, you may forget that you are even eating on a food truck lot.

The Bite

The Bite in Tumalo – the north end of Bend – has a classic food truck and festival feel to it. It was created to act as a local hangout where families could enjoy good food, beer, and music.

They have five food trucks on site: The Rogue Chef (great American fare), Rico’s Tacos, Ronin Sushi, Heidi’s Grilled Cheesery (all things sandwiches and cheese), and Shaka Shaved Ice.

Be sure to check their web page for upcoming events that will be hosted on site, including live music and BINGO.