by Valerie Warren
The Visit Bend staff and volunteers had great expectations for our recent visit to the Jackalope Grill, one of the most award-winning restaurants in Central Oregon. We were not disappointed!
Once inside, we were greeted by a creative ambiance (with sparkly stars and all) and a very friendly staff. We started our meal with a selection from the extensive wine list. The Jackalope Grill is one of the only Bend restaurants with a wine list recognized by Wine Spectator. They also feature several specialty cocktails – the Cosmopolitan would make the girls from Sex in the City blush.
We started with several appetizers: Dungeness Stuffed Mushroom Caps, Calamari, and Asparagus topped with a Poached Egg. It was apparent that each dish was made with fresh ingredients of the highest quality. The Caesar Salad, Organic Field Greens, and soup of the day were also delightful.
Mere words can’t do justice to the amazing spread of main dish entrees we experienced: House Alder-Smoked Salmon – freshly caught in the Columbia River; Filet Mignojackalope-grill.jpgn with green peppercorn sauce; Beef Flatiron “Steak Frites” – we felt like we had been magically transported to France; Roast Rack of Lamb with rosemary and oven-roasted red potatoes; Fresh Prawns with mashed potatoes; and the classic Jaeger Schnitzel with rich mushroom gravy. Chef Tim Garling visited our table and talked with us about his local sources and the care he takes in making each of the entrees – which is apparent after one bite. This is truly some of the most exquisite cuisines you will find anywhere in Bend.
Some recommendations from Visit Bend’s staff and volunteers:
“Jackalope Grill will be on my special places list!”
“Everything was excellent!”
“A real hidden gem.”
“The next great place to take your special date.”
“Fresh, delicious cuisine around the corner from The Old Mill.”
“It’s hard to pick a favorite entrée. I’ll recommend it highly!”
“Order anything – you can’t go wrong!”