Monkless Belgian Ales is a restaurant and taproom in Bend that sits right on the Deschutes River. Their highly curated kitchen fuses the delicious tastes of European Cuisine and intentionally pairs them with Monkless’ award-winning Belgian-style ales.
Oblivion Brewing Company is a brewery and tasting room in Bend whose classic craft beer can be found in taps all across Oregon. Oblivion’s founder, Darin Butschy, began home-brewing when he was still in high school and has been passionate about the craft ever since.
In authentic German style, Prost! is an inviting neighborhood pub perfect for a gathering, a post adventure bier or a pre-adventure warm up. Share moments with old friends and make new ones in this cozy spot on Southwest Century Drive.
SCHWEINSHAXE Slow roasted skin on pork shoulder-shank, dark bier gravy, spätzle, braised red cabbage
SCHNITZEL SANDWICH Crispy breaded Carlton Farms pork loin topped with sauerkraut, house mustard, aioli, German gruyère on a pretzel bun, served with frites
HAMBURGER MIT KÄSE Muenster cheese, tomato, onion jam, shaved cabbage, house mustard and aioli, served with frites, curry ketchup
Silver Moon Brewing is the third oldest brewery in Bend and remains a local favorite. Be sure to stop by on trivia night to enjoy one of their tasty craft beers and to grab bite from one of the food trucks parked onsite.
Immersion Brewing is family-owned and operated brewery in Bend. Enjoy their quality craft brews and house-made food, or try brewing your own beer with their brew-it-yourself kettles.
Lifty’s is a family-owned and operated bar and grill in Bend. With stellar mountain views, elevated pub food, and a sand volleyball court you’re guaranteed to have a fun time.
Bevel Craft Brewing in Bend is a specialty brewery passionate about India Pale Ales. Try a pint of their hop-centric beer and finish it off with a bite to eat from one of the four food trucks parked on site.
Bridge 99 is a small-batch brewery in Bend that uses fresh and local hops to brew delicious beers. Chill on the patio while enjoying a cold drink and one of the house-made tasty pizzas.
Brother Jon’s Public House is a favorite restaurant and pub among locals in Bend. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant that offers great food or a place to grab beers with friends after an outdoor adventure, Brother Jon’s is the place to go.
Dump City Dumplings is a restaurant in Bend bringing Chinese and Thai-inspired recipes to their dishes. First established in 2010 as a food cart, the restaurant today is known for its classic Pad Thai dumplings and Roujiamo pork sandwich.
Cascade Lakes Brewing Company provides innovative craft beers and cuisine to both of their locations in Bend and Redmond. Driving home from Mt. Bachelor? Their Brewpub of Bend should definitely be your first stop.
Craft Kitchen & Brewery of Bend is popular for their craft beers and delicious barbecue. Their ingredients, for both the brews and the BBQ, are locally and sustainably sourced.
Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5 is a tap house in Bend serving up a variety of the best beer that Central Oregon has to offer. Grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks parked in their beer garden and be sure to check out their impressive whiskey collection.
Consider Crux your craft beer playground—a place where beer lovers (along with their kids and dogs) can gather over great food, relaxing vibes and, of course, amazing beer. The tasting room boasts more than 28 taps and a spacious lawn that offers an array of food carts, fire pits and unbeatable mountain views. Photography by Tina Paymaster
FOOD
PUB PRETZEL Traditional pretzel topped with sea salt, grated Parmesan and choice of beer mustard or beer cheese dip
WHIPPED FETA DIP Tangy whipped feta dip with a hot honey drizzle, served with naan, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, carrots and celery for dipping
PROJECT BOARD Shareable board with salami, candied bacon, soppressata, assorted cheeses, pickles, naan bread and dried fruit
CHOPPED SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD Iceberg lettuce, spicy black bean and corn salsa, shredded chicken, guacamole, cheddar, tortilla strips,
cherry tomatoes, red onion, served with cilantro-lime dressing
FRENCH DIP Hoagie roll filled with roast beef, Havarti cheese and housemade sauce served with au jus for dipping
BEER
28 taps with a wide diversity of styles brewed in-house (and cocktails) including:
CRUX PILZ Brewed with traditional Pilsner malts, imported Czech Saaz and local Oregon Sterling hops
GRADE A IPA Brewed in honor of our Portland Pub, this West Coast IPA has fruity and slightly dank notes
HANG TIGHT This classic West Coast-style IPA is dry-hopped with Simcoe and Amarillo hops
CRUX STOUT Classic roasty stout with notes of caramel, chocolate and coffee
NØ MØ A non-alcoholic beer that is refreshingly hoppy with a familiar mouthfeel
CRUX FERMENTATION PROJECT 50 SW Division St., Bend
Kanpai is an upscale sushi restaurant on Bend’s west side. With sushi rolls served a la carte or on tasting menus, Kanpai is a popular spot for poke bowls, specialty sushi rolls and oysters.
Chomp Chomp in downtown Bend is a casual restaurant that draws inspiration from both Pacific Northwest and Japanese Northwest cuisine. Chomp Chomp is known for its innovative menu and selection of cocktails inspired by Japanese aromatics and citrus.
Cafe Sintra is known for its delicious brunch and welcoming service in downtown Bend. They are named for the town of Sintra, Portugal, and their dishes pay tribute to traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Goodlife Brewing is a local craft brewery in Bend. Each brew is crafted with the finest Northwest and select imported hops, quality malts, and highly prized pristine Central Oregon water.
Big O Bagels of Bend has been a breakfast staple for over 25 years. Their simple and delicious bagel sandwiches are the perfect fuel for your next outdoor adventure.
Avid Cider Co. is a family-run taproom in Bend specializing in delicious hard cider that perfectly balances the dry and sweet flavor profiles. Inspired by the abundance of fruit in the Northwest they create their ciders using sustainably sourced and local ingredients.
Bend Brewing Company sits right on the river that runs through downtown Bend and is a favorite watering hole among locals. Being the second oldest brewery in Bend, they certainly know what they’re doing when it comes to brewing craft beers and serving up tasty pub food.
Born in 2013 on the historic corner of Bend’s eclectic downtown, Drake is a traditional-with-a-twist restaurant offering a delicious dining experience in a comfortable environment. From classic, nostalgic flavors to new and creative dishes, we cook food that is sometimes elegant, sometimes rustic and always honest.
SAMPLE MENU
LUNCH
THE BENDIE
Open faced Waygu burger on sourdough, dijon, grilled peppers and onions, cheddar, beef jus
Jackson’s Corner of Bend sources fresh and local ingredients for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. Also, make sure to check out their house-made sourdough bread, scratch pizza, mouthwatering pastries, and natural wine selection. Their “express” outpost is in Bend’s latest and greatest modern food hall in NWX, Market Hall. Their culinary philosophy is a celebration of the seasons, guided by what the earth is offering, what farmers can grow, and the timeless wisdom of nature. They embrace a simpler approach to food, allowing the true flavors of each ingredient to take center stage. And let’s be real, in-season food just tastes better.
Flights Wine Bar is a cozy place to spend time with good wine, good food and good friends. Choose from our wine flights, wine by the glass or from our bottle selection of wines from around the world. Come relax and enjoy learning about new wines and find a favorite bottle to take home with you. Our private Flight Lounge is available for special occasions and larger groups.
Photos by Tina Paymaster
SAMPLE MENU
SNACKS & BITES
HOUSE POTATO CHIPS Choose from sea salt, truffle salt or melted blue cheese
GOLDEN BEET & GOAT CHEESE SALAD Mixed baby greens, brown sugar pecans, dried cranberries, citrus champagne vinaigrette
FRIED CALAMARI Peppadew aioli
BEEF CARPACCIO Truffle chips, baguette, Parmesan, capers, toasted pine nuts, tender greens, Caesar dressing
PLOUGHMAN’S PLATE Selection of artisanal meats and cheeses, condiments, Marcona almonds, breads
Photos by Tina Paymaster
SHAREABLES
BAKED MAC & CHEESE Tillamook cheddar, Cavatappi pasta, crumb topping
The Lemon Tree’s charming atmosphere, friendly service and menu full of international flavors have made it one of the most popular brunch spots in Bend. The two chefs met while cooking on yachts around the world and have brought their experience and passion for fresh and local ingredients to Bend.
River Pig Saloon is a popular bar in Bend that’s known for its cocktails, local draft beers, and hand-crafted pub food. Grab a drink, a bite, watch the game and hang out with friends by the fire.
Cabin 22, named for the number of taps at this Bend sports bar and patio, has an atmosphere that guarantees you’ll have a good time. Their food menu is elevated beyond the standard bar and their trivia nights are a can’t miss.
Parilla Grill has served innovative Mexican fusion to the Bend community for over twenty years. Take one bite of one of the fish tacos or Jambalaya burrito, and it will have you coming back again and again.
Solomon’s at Tetherow Resort offers an elevated menu of perfected Pacific Northwest fare. Enjoy farm-to-table steelhead, elk, pheasant and more along with stunning views.
Pastini serves up classic Italian pastas inspired by the farms, vineyards and waters of the Pacific Northwest in the historic Old Mill District, with gorgeous views overlooking the Deschutes River and Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Scratch-made recipes include more than 25 pastas, salads and handcrafted desserts. Join Pastini for signature Italian cocktails and antipasti or a full festive meal with family and friends seasoned with laughter and wine.
SAMPLE MENU
PASTAS
SPAGHETTI CARBONARA Creamy Parmesan sauce, bacon, sweet peas and cracked black pepper
FETTUCINI ALFREDO WITH CHICKEN Classic Alfredo sauce with roasted chicken
TAGLIATELLE WITH MEAT SAUCE BOLOGNESE Rich beef and pork ragu, red wine, fresh tagliatelle pasta, Parmesan
LINGUINI MISTO MARE Shrimp and whitefish with garlic, lemon, herbs, butter and white wine
CAVATAPPI PRIMAVERA Zucchini, mushrooms, sweet peas, roasted red peppers, broccolini, garlic, olive oil and fresh basil
FUSILLI ALLA ROMA Corkscrew pasta with chicken, sundried tomatoes, local mushrooms, roasted garlic, Parmesan cream sauce
SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS Three handmade beef and pork meatballs simmered in savory marinara sauce
Crater Lake Spirits is one of Oregon’s oldest and largest distilleries serving up traditional spirits with spirited infusions. Stop by their tasting room in downtown Bend to enjoy a selection of tasters and mini cocktails.
CHI Chinese and Sushi Bar is a restaurant in Bend, Oregon that specializes in modern Chinese and Japanese cuisine. With views of the river, CHI is a popular spot for sushi, noodles and cocktails.
Boneyard, a brew pub in Bend, has twenty-plus taps that pour clean and balanced Boneyard beers for you to enjoy on their patio. The beer isn’t the only thing to stick around for though; the pub menu is full of innovative and delicious dishes for you to try out.
Bos Taurus is an upscale steakhouse that brings fine dining to downtown Bend. Expect exquisite cuts of beef, inventive entrees and appetizers and an experience that feels like something you’d find in a big city.
Trattoria Sbandati is an Italian restaurant in Bend that gives traditional Italian dishes a fine dining touch. Much of the menu items are culled from the recipe books of chef Juri Sbandati’s Italian grandmother, at whose side he learned the subtle artistry that allows him to transform familiar dishes into culinary experiences.
Both of the 10 Barrel Brewing locations in Bend offer up a wide selection of their handcrafted, specialty beers on tap along with your classic pub cuisine. Whatever adventure you get up to, make sure you end it on their patio with an ice-cold beer and maybe a plate of their loaded nachos.
Chow in Bend is a popular brunch spot known for their fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and welcoming atmosphere. A wait is to be expected, but their Bloody Marys and eggs Benedict will definitely make it worth your while.
Sunriver Brewing Company is pouring their delicious craft beers at both of their pub house locations in Bend and Sunriver. Their pub food is also premier, with a great selection of seasonal salads, burgers and sandwiches that require two hands and entrees to satisfy whatever fare you’re in the mood for.
The Brown Owl in Bend does delicious brews and locally sourced burgers in their nest. Sando options include The Cuban, pulled pork and a veggie burger, all perfect to try with a side of spiced double-fried fries.
The Capitol is a basement bar and nightclub in downtown Bend. Swing by for a slice of pizza, a couple of drinks and to groove on the dance floor with friends.
Recently migrated to Oregon via Idaho, this chef-hostess duo are actual sisters and do home cooking with a couple of surprises. While elk burgers and fried chicken anchor the menu, guests can also branch out with international dishes such as the green curry bowl. Bonus: an upstairs view of the Three Sisters makes everything taste better. 541-640-8285
Pine Tavern, built in 1936, has been a beloved Bend restaurant to locals and tourists alike. The downtown location is stellar, the classic pub food and drinks are on point and the giant pine tree is still planted in the middle of the dining room.
The Phoenix in Bend offers roadhouse-style, family-friendly dining in a casual atmosphere. With a menu full of soups, salads sandwiches, pizzas and more The Phoenix is accommodating to all tastes buds.
The Row: A pub-style, casual, family-friendly dining experience
Perched at the edge of Bend’s high desert beauty, The Row at Tetherow serves up bold flavors and laid-back vibes, where craft brews meet unexpected pub fare like elk shepherd’s pie and Scotch eggs. The weekend brunch brings its own delicious twist, featuring inventive takes on classics and local favorites. With mountain views that steal your attention and a menu that surprises at every turn, it’s the kind of spot where every meal feels like a scenic adventure. Now accepting dinner reservations.
SAMPLE MENU
STARTERS
SCOTCH EGGS Two farm fresh eggs wrapped in Carlton Farms sausage, fried and served with creamy brandy peppercorn aioli and balsamic reduction
PUB WINGS Wings and drums slow braised, fried and tossed in our house buffalo, ghost chili, sweet BBQ or sesame-ginger sauce
BRUSSELS SPROUTS Roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon, olive oil, local honey and shaved Parmesan
AHI TARTARE Avocado and mango purée dressed with sesame oil, fresh ginger,
garlic, sweet soy sauce and wasabi crema garnish
SALADS
THE BURGER SALAD ½ lb. Cascade Natural beef patty with pickles, onion,
tomatoes and Tillamook cheddar atop mixed greens
CIDER SNOB COBB Mixed greens with bleu cheese dressing and crumbles,
grilled chicken, crispy prosciutto, hard boiled egg, tomato, cucumber, avocado and gluten-free beer berries
CARNITAS TACO SALAD Crispy corn tostada with black beans, carnitas, pico de gallo, avocado, candied pepitas, feta cheese, arugula and romaine lettuce, served with cilantro ranch dressing
KALE & QUINOA SALAD Shredded kale sautéed with quinoa, pickled onions,
roasted shallot-champagne vinaigrette, topped with cucumber, tomato, avocado and feta cheese
THE ROW SOUP Choice of our housemade rotating daily or tomato soup
served with Village Baker Striata
ENTREES
THE BURGER ½ lb. Cascade Natural beef patty with IPAioli, lettuce, onion, tomato and pickle, served on Big Ed’s brioche bun
TETHEROW REUBEN Triple decker club with ham, turkey, candied bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese and mayo, served on sourdough bread
FROMAGE À TROIS Asiago crusted sourdough with Tillamook sharp
and extra sharp white cheddar and honey glazed ham, served with a bowl of housemade tomato soup
ROW CLUB SANDWICH Triple decker club with ham, turkey, candied bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese and mayo, served on sourdough bread
FRENCH DIP Cedar River prime rib, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, horseradish aioli on a ciabatta roll with demi au jus
FISH & CHIPS Beer battered cod with house-cut fries, coleslaw and remoulade
NEW YORK STRIP Served with potato-parsnip purée and seasonal roasted vegetables
GRILLED SALMON RISOTTO Fresh grilled salmon fillet with herb-Parmesan risotto, broiled asparagus and a cherry mustard seed gastrique
VEGAN BOWL Coconut jasmine rice and red quinoa topped with fresh avocado, edamame, slaw, roasted beets, cucumber and fried rice noodles with sesame-ginger and Thai peanut sauce
TETHEROW TACOS Two tacos on flour or corn tortillas served with chips, salsa and guacamole. Your choice of breaded and fried fish, lettuce, pico de gallo and cilantro-lime sour cream; carnitas or chicken with lettuce, feta cheese, pico de gallo and avocado crema
The original Sparrow Bakery is known for baking of the highest caliber. If you’re looking for something savory and sweet, you’ll want to try the Ocean Rolls – a Central Oregon staple.
Zydeco Kitchen, located in the heart of downtown Bend, has been a longtime favorite fine dining establishment for locals and visitors alike. The menu offers fine Northwestern cuisine with a Southern twist as well as an extensive list of wine, beer and cocktails.
In downtown Bend, 5 Fusion & Sushi Bar is an upscale Asian fusion restaurant. Established in 2009, 5 Fusion & Sushi is a popular spot for oysters, specialty sushi rolls and cocktails.
Located in the heart of downtown Bend, 900 Wall is a fine-dining eatery and wine bar. The menus are seasonally inspired and the food is modern American with strong influences from Italian and French cuisines.
Indulge in gourmet sausages with an Argentinian flair. As a family-run restaurant, we understand that the best way isn’t always the fastest or easiest way, and we’re ok with that. We believe that quality food, made from scratch, can still be sold at an honest price. Discover why Yelp ranked Bangers & Brews #1 in the “Top 100 Places to Eat in the USA” in 2019.
SAMPLE MENU
OPTIONS OF STYLE SERVING
Served on a bun, salad, fries, or on mac & cheese. You can also build it on a pretzel.
PICK YOUR SAUSAGE
TRADITIONAL Banger, Bratwurst, or Spicy Italian
SPECIALTY Black Pepper Garlic, Burnt End Brisket Smoked Hot Andouille, or Smoked Polish
POULTRY/VEGGIE (VEGAN) Chicken Basil, Chicken Mango Chipotle, Smoked Apple Veggie, or Italian Veggie
EXOTIC & WILD GAME Wild Boar Cheddar & Hatch Chili, Elk & Pork Cheddar Brat, Duck with Cilantro, Alligator Bayou Style, or Wild Boar Blueberry & Merlot
Barrio/Shim Shon is a local Latin American restaurant and food truck in Bend. The menu is full of flavorful Mexican, Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired fare.
Broken Top Bottle Shop, a brewery in Bend, is home to craft brews, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. Beyond their impressive selection of drinks they have also received recognition for their high-quality vegetarian offerings.
Along with its extensive menu of classic Vietnamese dishes, Dang’s Vietnamese is also affordable. The restaurant is known for the best pho in Bend and generous portions of noodles.
At J Dub experience a rustic and welcoming environment and indulge in elevated traditional American cuisine, complemented by a wide selection of handcrafted beers and expertly crafted cocktails. This family-friendly establishment combines the warmth of a woodsy atmosphere with the delicious comforts of American cuisine.
Enjoy barbecue, burgers, and wings at the Pour House Grill, a sports bar boasting ten big screen TVs in midtown Bend. Sample the 34 brews on tap by the outdoor firepit.
El Sancho is back with a fresh new look and the same killer tacos. Part taco stand, part neighborhood living room, El Sancho has always felt effortlessly hardwired for joy—held together with hot sauce and scrappy, low-key magic that somehow works. So when a fire rolled through the eastside location last June, it felt like someone pulled a chair out from under the city.
The building may have burned, but El Sancho’s spirit never flinched. The crew regrouped, rallied its crowd and cranked out an insane amount of tacos at the Galveston location during the eastside rebuild. It turns out that good people—and good tacos—don’t mind getting a little messy.
Different Walls, Same Sancho Vibes
“We built the original restaurant with whatever we could scrounge up,” said co-owner Joel Cordes. “The rebuild allowed us to create the space we always dreamed of—even though the path wasn’t ideal.” Almost a year after the fire, El Sancho East is back with a fresh new look. The sprawling outdoor patio is once again pulling in Bend’s taco faithful. A line occasionally snakes through the parking lot, but nobody cares because the air smells like grilled meat, citrus and everything else good in the world. The dining room got a major glow-up—less squeeze, more ease, with joyful colors and funky artwork that crank up the energy without sanding down the charm. Cordes calls it “a slightly more grown-up El Sancho.” Everyone’s still wearing flip-flops, but the tables no longer wobble.
El Sancho’s food remains as unfussy and glorious as ever. Just real-deal Mexican street food best eaten near a pile of napkins. Fried plantains, served with a tongue-tingling dollop of serrano aioli, are the perfect little snack. And the tacos still crush it—carnitas dripping with salsa verde, barbacoa buried under a pile of Cotija cheese and grilled mahi-mahi fresh enough to summon a sea breeze.
Of course, it wouldn’t be El Sancho without margaritas. Every drink begins with fresh juice, squeezed daily by an actual human. Pineapple Serrano, the margarita darling of the seven-flavor lineup, continues to seduce guests with its slow, welcome burn. “And when you just want a great margarita, go for the El Camino,” Cordes advised. Cointreau steps in for Triple Sec, tequila gets upgraded, and a splash of fresh lime juice brings the zing.
Some things have changed. And some haven’t. El Sancho never stopped being El Sancho, because the stuff that mattered—tacos, people, spirit—never burned. Walls come and go, but vibes are forever.
For an elegant yet casual farm-to-table dining experience, visit The Jackalope Grill in downtown Bend. With a refined ambiance and expertly curated menu, we offer the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort.
SAMPLE MENU
STARTERS
SCALLOPS Pan-seared scallops, black truffle and morel beurre blanc, chive oil
ESCARGOT Snails roasted in a fresh herb and garlic butter, lemon zest
BUTTER BOARD Whipped butter, fresh herbs, pickled onions, roasted garlic, capers, served with warm bread
SECOND COURSE
LITTLE GEM SALAD Little gem lettuce, scallions, radish, mint, garlic bread crumbs, roasted sunflower seeds, lemon cream dressing
CAESAR SALAD Baby romaine, parm crisp, garlic bread crumbs, caesar dressing
The McKay Cottage is a local favorite for brunch and has been voted Best Breakfast in Bend for thirteen years in a row. You definitely don’t want to pass on their infamous cinnamon rolls.
Chanterelle at Pronghorn’s beautiful dining room is just half an hour’s drive from Bend or Redmond. The golf course, mountain views, food, service and wine list will make the trip more than worth your while.
At Pizza Mondo, we take the craft of pizza making seriously. Locally owned and operated, we have become a downtown landmark and community favorite by serving Bend’s finest pizza since 1996. Enjoy our award-winning, hearth-oven baked pizza at our cozy restaurant, to go or delivered. Buon Appetito!
SAMPLE MENU
PIZZA
Pizza by the slice always available: Cheese, Pepperoni, Meat and Veggie combos
EVERGREEN Spinach, roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, roasted onions, and mozzarella on a basil-pesto base
BARNYARD Grilled Italian chicken, bacon, garlic-roasted tomatoes, spinach and red onions on a garlic, olive oil base
FORAGER Our white pie with garlic-roasted tomatoes, roasted garlic, portabella mushrooms and fresh arugula
RUN LITTLE PIGGY Prosciutto, pepperoni, Italian sausage, smoked gouda, mushrooms and black olives
MOUNT OLYMPUS Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, garlic, feta cheese, roasted onions, basil and oregano
BIG ISLAND BBQ pulled pork, Mama Lil’s sweet-hot peppers, bacon and pineapple on a sweet pepper-infused olive oil base drizzled with BBQ sauce
RITA Pizza Mondo’s version of the classic margherita pizza. Tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella, fresh mozzarella, garlic-roasted tomatoes and basil
WHITE PIE Mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, herbs and spices on a garlic, olive oil base
Also serving fresh salads: House, Caesar and Mondo
Spork is a local favorite eatery that elevates a fusion of Mexican, Asian and American cuisine to surprising heights. From the peanut tomato curry to the spicy fried chicken to dan dan noodles to the wide variety of tacos, it’s guaranteed that Spork is going to be a spot you return to again and again. From food truck to foodie fixture, Spork and its visionary trio fused a melting pot of flavors with urban style. See Spork’s current menu.
Spork owner Erica Reilly and chef Jeff Hunt | Photo by Joshua Langlais
Article written in 2018 about Spork in Bend
Stories about Spork, a Bend favorite offering creative, globally inspired fare at an affordable price point, generally focus on the kitchen. And there have been some impressive stories, including several “best of” nods and even a profile in The New York Times. The attention is well deserved. When you eat Chef Jeff Hunt’s innovative interpretation of street food and traditional dishes from around the world, you can taste his years of travel in countries such as Spain, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, Ecuador and Colombia, as well as his genuine passion for what he does.
Photo by Arian Stevens
While the heart of a good restaurant may lie in its menu, a great one also needs a soul and a vision. Spork has it all. The mutual respect and complementary talents of owners Hunt and Erica Reilly, general manager and beverage guru, along with help from consultant and idea-man Chris Lohrey, elevate this casual, counter-service spot into something much more.
Our story begins in 2001 at the old Astro Lounge on Minnesota Avenue, back in the (recent) olden days when Bend was still the Wild West to most people east of the Mississippi. He was a snowboarder from Illinois. She was a bartender from Orlando. Erica was Astro’s bar manager, and Jeff was in the kitchen. (“She took advantage from her position of power,” Jeff joked.) Their relationship ended after five years, but their partnership didn’t.
Jeff went on to cook in several other kitchens including Marz, at the time considered the best restaurant in Bend. Erica and Chris (who eventually were dating, but are no longer) partnered to buy in to legendary hotspot The Grove on Bond Street in 2003. When it was time for Erica to embark on her next venture in 2009, Jeff was the clear pick for chef.
Photo by Arian Stevens
Years before food carts were parked around every corner in Bend, Spork was a pioneering and popular food truck housed in an old Airstream. In 2013, they put down roots in their current location on Newport Avenue. Already expanded once in 2015, it’s a thoughtfully designed space with high ceilings, metal and wood industrial notes and a pervasive air of cool that isn’t at all cold.
The partners were a winning combination from the start. Erica was the hospitality maven and glue holding the whole thing together, who Jeff also characterizes as “the boss lady—like in Vietnam—the one in the corner with a box of cash who everybody’s afraid of.” Jeff,of course, was the talent behind the food and oft-world traveler on a constant quest for new flavors and culinary ideas. And Chris, who Erica describes as “the visionary, tastemaker and ethos designer,” consulted on concept and design.
Photo by Arian Stevens
They set out to ensure that Spork wasn’t going to be your average restaurant, nor your average workplace. All three were longtime veterans of the industry and wanted to do things differently. Spork opened with a mission to create a deeply satisfying dining experience, as well as a commitment to quality, locally sourced, green-conscious ingredients. But just as important was making a decent living while maintaining work-life balance for themselves and a positive work environment, fair pay and ample time off for their staff.
Photo by Alex Jordan
Even if you don’t know exactly why the experience at Spork is deeply satisfying—and it is—the food itself is only a part of it. A visit to Spork is always flavored by the atmosphere, the culture the owners have created, and the deep appreciation Erica, Chris and Jeff have for each other after so many years and so much change. “We’re a special team, and it’s just as rewarding as making a bunch of money,” said Erica.“At the end of the day, we are artists more than capitalists. We have a passion for what we create on each and every level.”
Lomo Saltado | Photo by Arian Stevens
As Chef Jeff Hunt will tell you, his food is “not trying to be authentic. It’s about flavor profiles.”
The Stihl Whiskey Bar has the best selection of whiskey you can find in Bend. At Stihl enjoy an old-school atmosphere with upscale takes on comfort food such as mac and cheese and turkey pot pie.
Ariana offers a fine dining experience in Bend that both locals and visitors can’t get enough of. The innovative menu offers seasonal, organic and sustainable dishes that blend Northwest cuisine with European and Mediterranean influences.