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As seen in the October 2005 issue of Gourmet Magazine |
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By John Furgurson Bend, Oregon is experiencing a growth spurt that has some long-time locals hemming and hawing about real estate prices and traffic congestion. But no one’s complaining about all the excellent new restaurants, now that there’s enough demand to support a whole new generation of sophisticated restaurateurs choosing to ply their trade in a town where "quality of life" means as much as the quality of their sauces.
The Blacksmith211 NW Greenwood Ave. Bend, OR 97701 (541) 318-0588 theblacksmithrestaurant.com You know you’re in for a rustic experience when you realize the doorknob is an authentic forging tong, but rustic meets savory in this ranch cuisine establishment headed by Dallas-native turned Oregon-chef Gavin McMichael. This former blacksmith shop never housed so much excitement as the bar inside, surrounded by tables full of people enjoying appetizers like authentic fried green tomatoes or mouth-watering entrées like the Blacksmith’s cider brined pork rib chops. A party of four or six can enjoy a dessert sampler including homemade lemon meringue tarts and bruléed banana split with mango cotton candy. For your more refined evenings out, you’ll discover a quiet and romantic dining area that offers the same delectable cuisine in a quieter oldfashioned setting. You can count on the Blacksmith’s integrity, passion for good food, and creativity to craft this comfort-food establishment to satisfy your hungers every time you visit. |
Merenda900 NW Wall Street Bend, OR 97701 (541) 330-2304 www.merendarestaurant.com Up until 2002, fine dining in Bend was a fairly genteel affair, reserved mostly for those looking for quiet ambiance and a high-grade steak. Then Merenda opened. At Merenda, there’s a distinctive vibe that shouts, "Hey, we aren’t in Kansas any more!" Merenda’s atmosphere fits perfectly with the energetic crowd that flocks to Bend. It’s the kind of place where you can let your hair |
down, drink a bottle of wine, and have a good laugh with friends without worrying about the couple at the next table. Merenda maintains one of the largest wine cellars in Oregon, and serves 89 different varieties by the glass.
If you can’t decide on one, you can always start with the four-glass flight and go from there. Chef Jody Denton employs some old-world cooking methods that create fantastic sights, sounds and smells. And, of course, delectable tastes! The roasted halibut cheeks are a favorite starter, and don’t forget to leave room for the benigets, which are simply the finest this side of New Orleans.
Ariana1304 NW Galveston Bend, OR 97701 (541) 330-5539 www.arianarestaurantbend.com One of the latest additions to Bend’s restaurant scene is the intimate and inviting Ariana. Located in a cozy, craftsman-style building on Bend’s west side, Ariana is a sure thing for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The food, which has a Mediterranean influence, is always delightful. Chefs Ariana Asti and Andreas Fernandez choose organically grown produce and serve it in healthy, colorful combinations that complement their meals quite nicely. The salmon is flown in daily and hand-filleted. The Chorizo is homemade. And the desserts are painstakingly prepared right there. Ariana is a family-run operation, and you’ll want to get to know the family. The only problem with Ariana is there isn’t enough of it to go around. It’s a small place, with a big following, so be sure to book early. Especially if you want to reserve that special seat right in front of the fireplace. This new movement and attitude from Bend restaurant owners is raising the fine-dining bar to new levels in Oregon. The visionaries working in Bend’s best kitchens are delivering fine-dining experiences that go beyond the natural beauty and warm atmosphere of the town. No need to wonder why Bend, Oregon is earning the reputation as a culinary destination in the Pacific Northwest – visit them yourselves and you’ll find out! |
