I don’t ski anymore, but I will always love the mountain town vibe. I am blessed to have a second home in Bend, Oregon, located on the eastern edge of the Cascades along the Deschutes River in Central Oregon.
Aside from its well-earned reputation as Beer Town, USA, you’ll find downhill skiing and snowboarding on Mount Bachelor, craft breweries, distilleries, and food trucks offering everything from breakfast burritos to tater tots (TOT TRUCK!). Additionally, there is a charming downtown packed with chic boutiques, restaurants, and cocktails that rival their big city counterparts.
In fact, my absolute favorite place to eat in Bend is Wild Rose. The menu features authentic Northern Thai dishes that will set your mouth aflame (in a good way). This is the perfect spot to warm your belly and delight your taste buds after a cold day outdoors.
Why Bend is Special
Bend restaurateur Rosie Westlund, the owner of the always-jam-packed Wild Rose, provides a local perspective on life in Bend, what makes it so appealing, and why it is worth a visit any time of year.
How Did You Choose Bend?
My dad, a big golfer, loves Bend. He operated a Thai restaurant in Port Townsend, WA, for decades. However, I didn’t eat typical Thai food; I grew up on Northern Thai family recipes. My dad’s family, originating from Chiang Mai, introduced me to this unique culinary style. When my dad visited Bend, he felt it was the perfect place to introduce something different.
The People of Bend
Bend boasts a mix of old-school ranchers and newly arrived young professionals who thrive on outdoor living. Many newcomers are drawn to Bend for its exceptional quality of life. While some compare it to parts of Montana or Colorado, Bend maintains its distinct West Coast character.
Favorite Spots in Bend
One of my favorite places is San Simone in Tin Pan Alley, which offers a cozy speakeasy vibe with great cocktails and mocktails. I also enjoy visiting Ju-bee-lee, a lovely gift shop, and Jack and Millie, a fantastic clothing boutique.
Another boutique I adore is Vanilla in the Old Mill District, perfect for the sporty Bend aesthetic while enjoying stunning river views.
Where to Eat
My favorite restaurant is Ariana, renowned for its fine dining that is not overly fussy. When I’m not at work, you can find me at Roundabout Books, a lovely bookstore with a café, and right across the street is Sparrow Bakery, another must-visit.
I recommend trying the ocean roll at Sparrow Bakery for a delightful treat unlike any cinnamon roll you’ve had before.
There’s also Nancy P’s on the West Side, famous for breakfast pockets filled with bacon, egg, cheese, or veggies. Local snowboarders often grab a breakfast pocket before heading to the mountain.
Accommodation Recommendations
If you’re looking for a place to stay, I recommend McMenamin’s. This transformed former school offers a unique ambiance with cozy cabins and a charming atmosphere—it would even be a fun staycation spot.
Moreover, staying in Sisters is also great. My husband and I have visited FivePine Lodge multiple times, which many overlook but provides even more options to enjoy Oregon.
Are You Outdoorsy?
Interestingly, I am not very outdoorsy. Walking my dogs is the extent of my outdoor activities. Nevertheless, the beauty of Bend is that you don’t have to be extremely outdoorsy to relish in its offerings. In fact, I prefer to sit indoors with a book and watch the snow fall rather than hit the slopes.
