It is said by many locals, “You haven’t experienced Bend until you’ve been to the Pine Tavern!” The Pine Tavern first opened its doors in 1936 and has been a historic downtown favorite ever since. Famous for many things that make it a unique must-eat dining spot in Bend like the towering pine trees growing through the center of the dining room, the picturesque patio along the Deschutes River, and the delectable sourdough scones and honey butter, are just a few.
The menu offers a wonderful combination of traditional favorites paired with pure Northwest style cuisine in addition to creative dishes that “spur the imagination,” according to one of our foodie volunteers. Our group started off with the Cowboy Caviar, a twist on chips and salsa that was light and refreshing with excellent flavor.
After house salads and the excellent chicken curry soup of the day, we sampled the legendary hot sourdough scones before continuing on to the main course. There was something for everyone – Northwest Smoked Salmon Salad with alder-smoked salmon, fresh pear slices and crumbled bleu cheese; Seafood Lasagna with ricotta cheese, spinach, bay scallops, and crab; Pine Tavern’s Meatloaf with wild mushroom demi-glace; Pork Tenderloin Oregonian topped with marionberry-merlot sauce; and a wonderful version of the traditional German favorite, Jägerschnitzel.
The service is prompt and friendly, and our server for the evening, Michael, wouldn’t hear of us leaving until we tried the delicious homemade desserts: warm marionberry cobbler with vanilla ice cream, crème brulee, and a frightfully large frozen mud pie. We hadn’t saved much room, but we finished them all!
A true Bend landmark, the Pine Tavern offers a great location, friendly atmosphere, welcoming staff, and fantastic cuisine. It showcases some of the best that Bend has to offer and it should be a stop for lunch or dinner on your Bend itinerary. And, if the weather is nice (as it often is here in Bend) make sure to enjoy outdoor dining on the river in the lovely garden setting!
Some recommendations from Visit Bend’s Staff and Volunteers:
“The oldest and most famous eatery in Bend. It has a wonderful view of the river and is right in the heart of town.”
“The Pine Tavern is true Bend!”
“Unique dining that reflects the Central Oregon lifestyle.”
“The Pine Tavern is an iconic restaurant in Bend, not only because of its history as the oldest establishment in town but because of its wonderful location on the river. And then there are the sourdough scones and honey butter…”
“I love the Pine Tavern! I never hesitate to recommend this restaurant to everyone!”
“I’ve made it a point to bring friends and family who are new to Bend here first.”
“A can’t-miss landmark to visit while in Bend.”