Bend restaurants are a foodie’s paradise. In recent decades, Bend welcomed a thriving culinary scene with an array of restaurants in Bend to satisfy every palate and mood.
From upscale eateries with top-class dining to laid-back cafes, breweries and food-trucks, there are a diversity of Bend restaurants to choose from.
You won’t be disappointed with the selection of Bend Oregon restaurants. In this article, we are eager to share the top Bend restaurants and provide you with our local tips to help you plan your outing.
We’ll cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner and explore the large variety of cuisines and dining experiences that are available at Bend restaurants. We hope you brought your appetite. Let’s eat!
Best Breakfast and Brunch in Bend
When it comes to breakfast Bend does not disappoint. If you’re looking for a quick breakfast bite or a leisurely brunch with friends, Bend has a brunch of options (we did a pun!) to choose from. Here are the top breakfast and brunch spots in Bend.
McKay Cottage: Overall Best Breakfast in Bend
McKay Cottage is a quaint restaurant located in a historic home in Bend. McKay Cottage has been consistently voted the best breakfast in Bend for 13 years in a row (2010-2023)!
It is a local favorite with an excellent reputation and has earned over 2,500 reviews on Google Maps. The response among visitors is overwhelmingly positive and a testament to their consistently delicious breakfast food.
Enjoy popular brunch dishes made with fresh, local ingredients like the eggs benedict and the homemade granola. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, and the service is friendly.
During nice weather we recommend soaking in the ambiance of their outdoor patio (where dogs are also allowed).
Local Tip: They are quite popular so you might have to wait a bit for a table. If you do (which is likely), we recommend taking a walk along the Deschutes River across the street at Sawyer Park.
Chow – Great Atmosphere and Unique Dishes
Chow is a popular spot for breakfast in Bend. They offer classic breakfast dishes like eggs benedict, french toast, and waffles, as well as more unique and seasonal offerings like a “Breakfast Crabby Patty” and “Honey Truffle Fried Chicken Sando”.
They serve local and organic where possible and are committed to sustainability, which we are big fans of.
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the food is worth the wait. Overall, Chow has earned its spot among the best Bend brunch.
Local Tip: If the wait is too long for you, head next store to A Broken Angel food cart, one of our favorite food trucks in Bend. Alternatively, pass the time by grabbing a coffee at Backporch Coffee Roasters, one of the many great Bend coffee shops.
The Victorian Café
Another top contender for Bend breakfast, The Victorian Café is a charming restaurant that serves breakfast and brunch in a cozy, Victorian-style setting.
The menu offers the classics, including omelets, pancakes, and french toast, as well as potato hashes (yum!). “The Vic” is known for their bloody marys (voted the best in Bend) and eggs benedict.
Jackson’s Corner
Jackson’s Corner is a well frequented restaurant that serves breakfast and brunch made with locally sourced ingredients. They have a bakery that makes all of their own bread and all their eggs are from a local farm.
Overall, they emphasize local options in their food and drink (they also do dinner). Jackson’s is a great spot for families.
As a result of the inviting atmosphere and great service combined with tasty food, they have built an overwhelmingly positive reputation in the Bend breakfast scene.
Sparrow Bakery
Sparrow Bakery is a local favorite that serves delicious pastries, coffee, and brunch in a cozy setting. The menu features a variety of baked goods, as well as breakfast sandwiches and quiches.
Our favorites are the bacon breakfast sandwich and of course the can’t-miss ocean roll, an ever-popular pastry with pepper and cardamom. They are mostly known for their tasty and beautiful pastries and coffee!
A Broken Angel
The Broken Angel food cart is one of our new favorites. Serving unique and delicious vegan food out of their location behind The Pantry this is hidden gem is the perfect spot to grab a quick breakfast or brunch.
Many of Bend’s brunch spots require long waits on the weekends but not this spot. Also, we though the portions were large and felt like we got a great value.
There is a pleasant outdoor seating area, and The Pantry or Backporch Coffee Roasters are close by if you want to grab a coffee while you wait.
Overall Highest Rated Bend Oregon Restaurants
Bend, Oregon has a vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors.
Here are the top five highest rated restaurants in Bend, according to the tastebuds of both local regulars and out-of-town visitors:
1. Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails is a Cajun-inspired restaurant that serves locally sourced ingredients in an elegant yet cozy setting. The diverse menu features primarily American food, including seafood, steak, and pasta, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Their Cajun shrimp appetizer is to die for… sometimes we just order it for dinner. The cocktails are also a highlight, with creative and delicious options like the Bourbon Pecan Pie and the Ginger Jive. Zydeco is a nice restaurant, but don’t worry about dressing up, you can expect to pay between $30 and $70 per person.
2. Spork
Spork is a fusion restaurant that combines international flavors with locally sourced ingredients. They started in 2009 as a mobile food kitchen and were well regarded from the beginning.
Now they have a brick and mortar location in west Bend, where the atmosphere is hip and lively, and the service is friendly and efficient.
Spork is known for its eclectic street food inspired menu, serving dishes from curries to carnitas. We have loved Spork since they were a food cart serving out of an airstream and continue to be delighted with every visit.
3. Ariana
Ariana is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience in a cozy, romantic setting. One of the high-end dining options in Bend, they offer a daily seasonal menu with a daily six course chef’s tasting menu.
The service is impeccable, and the wine list is extensive. Looking to treat yourself or loved one’s for a special occasion? Consider this memorable and delicious option, but expect to shell out $100 per person or more!
4. Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats
Wild Rose is possibly the best Thai Food in Bend. Actually, it was called the best Thai Food in Bend by the Source Weekly, a local newspaper.
The menu is full of tasty northern Thai dishes including traditional Thai soups, curries, stir-fries, and salads. One of the more popular dishes and our favorites is Khao Soi, a fragrant curry soup with egg noodles (delish!). I promise you won’t even miss Pad Thai.
The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a full bar with a range of craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate (with nice artwork), making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Dining in Bend by Cuisine
If you’re in Bend and looking for some delicious food, you’re in luck. The city has a diverse culinary scene, offering a range of cuisines to satisfy any taste bud.
Whether you’re craving some wood-fired pizza or flavorful Indian curries, there’s something for vibe. Here are best options for popular cuisines to explore in Bend:
Pizza in Bend
Pizza is beloved by many around the world, and Bendites (the inhabitants of Bend) are no exception. There are plenty of pizza places in town, each with its own unique spin on the classic dish.
One of the top-rated pizzerias in Bend is Pizza Mondo. This long standing downtown New York pizza joint has been serving up slices for as long as I can remember. This is the perfect lunch or after-mountain stop.
Another popular spot is Bend Pizza Kitchen, which offers organic gluten-free and vegan options along with their delicious pizzas.
Indian Food in Bend
If you’re looking for some flavorful and aromatic Indian cuisine in Bend, you won’t be disappointed. Taj Palace is one of the best Indian restaurants in town, offering a range of traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
Although they are not in the same iconic location that they have been in for the last 20 years they are still serving up tasty Indian food from their new spot on highway 97.
Italian Food in Bend
If you’re in the mood for authentic pasta, pizza, or a delicious risotto, Bend has got you covered. One of the best places for Italian food in Bend is Bosa, an upscale neighborhood restaurant offering homemade pastas and authentic flavors.
Another excellent option is Trattoria Sbandati, an elevated traditional Tuscan restaurant with a lot to offer.
If you are looking for something a little more casual and family friendly try Jackson’s Corner, their homemade pasta and woodfired pizzas are just what the doctor ordered.
Mexican Food in Bend
Mexican cuisine is another favorite among Bend locals and visitors alike. Bend has a wide range of Mexican restaurants, from casual taquerias to upscale dining experiences.
El Sancho is a local favorite though maybe a less traditional option, known for its flavorful tacos and unique menu items like the Korean BBQ beef burrito.
If you’re looking for something more upscale, try Hola! for a refined dining experience with elevated Mexican and Peruvian dishes. Their menu includes creative takes on classic dishes like mole and ceviche, as well as handcrafted cocktails.
There are a variety of Mexican food trucks. Learn more in our full article about food trucks in Bend.
Thai Food in Bend
If you’re craving the complex flavors and spices of Thai cuisine, Bend has some excellent options. Noi Thai Cuisine is a local favorite, serving up classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup. Their dishes are made with fresh ingredients and traditional Thai flavors, making for an authentic experience.
Another great option is Wild Rose, a cozy restaurant serving Northern Thai cuisine. Try their Khao Soi curry for a taste of Southeast Asia in Bend.
BBQ in Bend
Bend may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of BBQ, but there are some great options in town. One standout is Baldy’s BBQ, known for their tender brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.
Another popular choice is Boneyard Beer’s Pub, which serves up delicious BBQ alongside their craft beer offerings.
Steakhouses in Bend
For those craving a juicy steak, Bend has several excellent options. One of the most highly rated is Ariana Restaurant, which sources their beef from local ranches and serves it up with creative sides and sauces.
Another top choice is Blacksmith Restaurant, which offers a range of cuts and cooking styles, including a Wagyu beef filet. Yet another option is Bos Taurus; a highly rated, high-end steakhouse in downtown Bend.
Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Bend
Don’t worry! There are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans too. For a plant-based breakfast or lunch, head to Salud Raw Food, where you can enjoy smoothie bowls, wraps, and raw desserts.
We also love Active Culture for their nourishing smoothies, bowls, wraps, salads, and shakes.
Sushi in Bend
If you’re in the mood for sushi, Bend has some great options to choose from. One of the most highly rated sushi restaurants in town is Kanpai Sushi & Sake Bar. They offer a variety of tasty sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, as well as creative specialty rolls.
Another great spot for sushi is 5 Fusion & Sushi Bar, which combines traditional Japanese sushi with unique flavors and presentations. Other top sushi spots in Bend include Chi (a Chinese Japanese fusion spot with a great happy hour) and Sora Sushi.
Breweries and Taphouses in Bend
Bend is known for its thriving craft beer scene, and there is no shortage of excellent breweries and tap houses. In fact, with over 20 breweries and counting, you can find everything from traditional IPAs to sour beers and experimental brews.
Some of the most popular breweries in Bend include Deschutes Brewery, Boneyard Beer, and 10 Barrel Brewing. Many of these breweries have outdoor seating areas, perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a sunny day.
No matter what your beer preferences are, Bend’s breweries and tap houses are a must-visit for any beer-lover. With so many great options to choose from, it won’t be hard to find your new favorite brew. Plus, many of these places also offer delicious food options, so you can pair your beer with a tasty meal.
To get you started, here are some of Bend’s favorite watering holes, not in any particular order.
| Deschutes Brewery | Local craft beer that goes way back. Pub house and brewery that can be toured. Seasonal beers and classics. Full food menu at pub house location in downtown. |
| Crux Fermentation Project | High quality ingredients. Great outdoor area with a view of the Cascade Mountains. Very family friendly. Great sunset spot. Food trucks. |
| Silver Moon Brewery | Excellent outdoor seating area. Great beer. Food trucks. Keep an ear out for live music. Trivia on Thursdays. Great during warmer weather. |
| GoodLife Brewing Co. | Year-round and seasonal brews. Nice family friendly outdoor area. Pub food. Great spot to hang before a concert at the Volcanic Theatre. |
| 10 Barrel Brewing | Based in Bend and founded in 2006, 10 Barrel was bought out by Anheuser-Busch. That said, they have great beer and quality pub food to match. Nice outdoor patio with firepits. Diverse beer selection. |
| Worthy Brewing | East side of Bend. Live music events at an amazing outdoor space. Great beer and amazing food. Solid pizzas, salads, and burgers. A worthy stop on your Bend visit. |
| Boneyard Pub | Reputation for solid beers that have won lots of awards. Great place to watch a football game on Sunday. Founded in 2010, they have made their name in the Bend craft beer scene. |
| Sunriver Brewing | Founded in 1998, Sunriver Brewing is a longstanding name in Bend. They have a great westside pub location with good food, great beer, and a nice outdoor patio. |
| Bend Brewing Co. | Amazing downtown location on the river. Award winning beer. Second oldest brew pub in Bend (1995). |
Food Trucks in Bend
If you’re looking for a casual and delicious bite to eat, Bend food trucks are a great option. There are several food cart pods located throughout Bend, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world.
One popular food cart pod in Bend is The Lot, located on the west side of Bend. The Lot also offers a nice selection of local beers and beverages, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends.
Our favorite food cart pod is The Podski, located on the west side of Bend between downtown and the Old Mill in an area known as the Box Factory. This pod features a variety of international cuisines, including Thai food (the spiciest in town), BBQ, and even cheesecake (don’t forget vegan mexican food- my favorite!).
Podski also offers plenty of outdoor seating, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal on a sunny day.
Overall, food carts are a great way to experience Bend’s diverse food scene without breaking the bank. In fact, we love food carts so much, we made an entire separate article about it!
Best Coffee and Cafes in Bend
If you’re a coffee lover, Bend has plenty of options to satisfy your caffeine cravings. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café to work from or a quick stop for your morning brew, there’s a spot for you.
One of the most popular coffee shops in town is Backporch Coffee Roasters, where they roast their beans in-house and serve up some seriously delicious pour-over and espresso drinks. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try one of their signature lattes like the honey lavender or the spicy mocha.
Another great spot to check out is Palate, a hip coffee bar located near downtown Bend. They serve up a rotating selection of specialty coffee drinks as well as a variety of teas and pastries. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. They also do nice coffee art.
Lone Pine Coffee Roasters is a chill coffee shop in Bend that roasts their beans in-house. The vibe is modern and inviting, with yummy pastries and hand-crafted drinks to choose from. The staff is friendly and down-to-earth, making it a great spot to hang with friends or get some work done.
Nancy Ps and Sparrow Bakery are two of the best places for pastries. Nancy Ps makes a mean brownie puddle and a gourmet hot pocket! Sparrow Bakery is famous for their ocean roll pastry.
No matter what type of coffee experience you’re after, Bend has something to offer. So grab a cup of joe and enjoy all that this vibrant town has to offer! Check out our full article about cafes and coffee in Bend.
Learn More About Dining in Bend
If you’re planning a trip to Bend, you may have some questions about dining options in the city. Here are some common questions visitors often ask:
Are some restaurants closed during the winter?
Yes, some restaurants in Bend close during the winter months, particularly those that rely heavily on outdoor seating. It’s always a good idea to check ahead and make sure your favorite spot is open before you head out.
Is it hard to reserve a table at some restaurants during crowded weekends?
Bend is a popular tourist destination, and some restaurants can get very busy during peak season. It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, particularly if you’re planning to dine on a weekend or holiday.
How has tourism affected restaurants in Bend?
Tourism has had a significant impact on Bend’s dining scene. The city’s popularity as a vacation spot has helped to fuel the growth of new restaurants and food carts. However, the influx of visitors has also put pressure on some establishments, particularly during busy periods.
Do restaurants in Bend have outdoor seating?
Many restaurants in Bend, Oregon offer outdoor seating and welcome pups, especially during the summer months when the weather is warmer and more pleasant. Some restaurants have spacious outdoor patios, while others have small sidewalk tables. Outdoor seating can be a popular option, especially for those who want to enjoy the beautiful views and fresh air while they dine.
Conclusion
Hopefully you found this information helpful and understand more about the best restaurants in Bend for any occasion. Bend restaurants are sure to please any palate. Happy dining!
If you are visiting Bend, welcome! We hope you enjoy your time here. If you’re still in the planning stages, be sure to check out our other articles about visiting central Oregon. You also might want to know some other things to do in Bend. Let us help plan your trip with insightful Bend trip itineraries.
