Sunrise Sensations: Breakfast and Brunch in Hood River
Hood River. The name conjures images of windsurfers dancing across the Columbia River, their sails catching the fierce Gorge winds. But beyond the adrenaline-fueled watersports and breathtaking scenery, lies a culinary scene as vibrant and diverse as the landscape itself. More than just a pit stop on your way to adventure, Hood River has blossomed into a genuine food lover’s paradise. From farm-to-table restaurants celebrating the region’s bounty to innovative craft breweries and cozy cafes brimming with charm, this guide will lead you on a delectable journey through the best places to eat and drink in Hood River, showcasing a culinary experience for every palate and budget. Prepare to discover a side of Hood River you never knew existed – a world of flavor waiting to be explored.
Start your day the right way with a satisfying breakfast or brunch at one of Hood River’s many inviting establishments. Consider venturing over to Bette’s Place, a Hood River institution. Bette’s exudes classic diner charm with its friendly atmosphere and hearty portions. This local favorite serves up comforting breakfast fare that will keep you fueled for a day of exploring. The must-try dish? Bette’s famous German pancakes, a light, airy, and slightly sweet treat that is nothing short of legendary. The warm, inviting atmosphere and consistently delicious food make Bette’s Place a perennial favorite among locals and visitors alike. They offer a genuine taste of Hood River’s down-to-earth spirit.
For a more contemporary brunch experience, head to Egg River Cafe. Their focus is on locally sourced ingredients and creatively crafted dishes. Expect a menu featuring seasonal specialties that reflect the bounty of the Columbia River Gorge. The restaurant is known for its delectable benedicts, often incorporating ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Beyond the benedicts, their pancake stacks with locally made fruit syrup are a great option too. They also have an excellent selection of coffee and espresso drinks, perfect for a morning boost.
Before you dive into a day of outdoor adventures, grab a quick breakfast pastry at Pine Street Bakery. This beloved bakery offers a wide array of freshly baked goods. From flaky croissants to hearty muffins and delectable scones, you’re sure to find the perfect pastry to accompany your morning coffee. Their sourdough bread is also a local favorite, perfect for grabbing a sandwich to enjoy later in the day.
Lunchtime Adventures: Casual Eats and Delicious Discoveries
When lunchtime rolls around, Food Hood River offers a diverse range of casual dining options to satisfy your cravings. For a quick, tasty, and family-friendly meal, visit Double Mountain Brewery & Taproom. While primarily known for its handcrafted beers, Double Mountain also serves up seriously good pizza. Their pies are made with quality ingredients and feature creative toppings. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot to relax and refuel after a morning of outdoor activities. Plus, with its extensive beer list, you can find the perfect brew to complement your meal.
For a more unique lunch experience, venture to Solstice Wood Fire Cafe & Bar. Their diverse menu boasts flavors inspired from around the world, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their wood-fired pizzas are a highlight, with a variety of interesting and delicious toppings. The vibe is laid-back and casual, perfect for enjoying a relaxing lunch.
If you’re looking for a flavorful and quick lunch, check out the El Rinconcito food cart. This hidden gem serves up authentic and mouthwatering Mexican food. Their tacos are a standout, filled with tender, flavorful meats and fresh toppings. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Find a sunny spot nearby to enjoy your delicious meal al fresco.
Evening Indulgences: Dinner Destinations in Hood River
As the sun sets over the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River transforms into a destination for elevated dining experiences. For a truly memorable dinner, make a reservation at Celilo Restaurant & Bar. This esteemed establishment is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and innovative cuisine that showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant’s menu features a rotating selection of seasonal dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. Their seafood is exceptionally fresh, and their wine list is extensive, featuring both local and international selections. Dining at Celilo is a culinary journey that is not to be missed.
If you are after a rustic ambiance and wood-fired cooking, visit Ferment Brewing Company. While they brew a wide range of beers, Ferment’s kitchen focuses on using local ingredients and preparing dishes with wood-fired ovens. The dishes include sandwiches, salads, and entrees. The establishment overlooks the Columbia River, so ask to be seated near a window for the best experience.
For a more casual but equally satisfying dinner, check out pFriem Family Brewers. While primarily a brewery, pFriem boasts an excellent kitchen that complements their beers perfectly. Their menu features elevated pub fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or family. Don’t miss their Belgian-inspired fries, which are the perfect accompaniment to their award-winning beers.
Sip and Savor: Exploring Hood River’s Beverage Scene
No visit to Food Hood River is complete without exploring its thriving craft beverage scene. This is a place where beer, wine, and spirits flow freely, thanks to the region’s fertile soil and innovative producers.
Start your brewery tour at Full Sail Brewing Company. This pioneering brewery helped put Hood River on the map as a craft beer destination. They offer a wide range of beers, from classic styles to innovative seasonal brews. Their tasting room offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. Sample a flight of their beers and learn about the brewing process. Their Amber Ale remains a local favorite.
Next, venture over to Double Mountain Brewery & Taproom again, this time to focus on the beer! This popular brewery is known for its hoppy IPAs and flavorful lagers. The brewery has a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Their taproom is a great spot to relax and enjoy a pint with friends. Try the Kolsch, a smooth, refreshing, and slightly hoppy beer.
For wine lovers, Cathedral Ridge Winery offers a stunning tasting room with panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Their wines are crafted from grapes grown in the surrounding hills. Enjoy a tasting flight and learn about the winemaking process. Cathedral Ridge specializes in bold red wines.
Hood River also boasts a few charming cocktail bars, including the The Side Bar. This stylish speakeasy-style bar serves up handcrafted cocktails. Their skilled bartenders use fresh ingredients. Indulge with their signature cocktails, like the Smoked Old Fashioned.
Sweet Endings: Desserts and Treats in Hood River
No culinary adventure is complete without indulging in a sweet treat. Food Hood River offers a delightful array of options for satisfying your sweet tooth.
For a scoop (or two) of delicious ice cream, visit Mike’s Ice Cream. This local favorite serves up homemade ice cream in a variety of classic and creative flavors. They use high-quality ingredients. The ice cream is rich and creamy. Mike’s Ice Cream is the perfect place to cool off on a warm day and indulge in a sweet treat. Try the Honey Lavender ice cream for an unforgettable experience.
For a delectable assortment of pastries and baked goods, head to Oak Street Hotel & Bakery. This charming bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked treats. From flaky croissants to decadent cakes and pies, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. They also serve up delicious coffee and espresso drinks. The macarons are a favorite of many.
A Taste of the Gorge: Local Products and Markets
One of the best ways to experience the true essence of Food Hood River is to explore the region’s local food products and markets. Visit the Hood River Farmers Market (seasonally) for a taste of the Gorge’s bounty. You’ll find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local honey, and other delicious treats. The market is a great place to meet local farmers and producers and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage. You can grab delicious picnic provisions here.
For a unique and flavorful souvenir, stop by the Hood River Distillers. They produce a range of spirits made with local ingredients. Pick up a bottle of their locally distilled vodka for a gift.
Planning Your Foodie Getaway: Tips for Visiting and Eating in Hood River
The best time to visit Food Hood River is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is the peak season, but it can also be quite crowded. Getting around Hood River is easiest by car, as many of the restaurants and attractions are located outside of the downtown area. However, the downtown area is easily walkable and bike-friendly. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner at the more popular restaurants, especially during peak season. Expect to pay around twenty to forty dollars per person for dinner at a mid-range restaurant. There are also many budget-friendly options available. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to check with the restaurant in advance to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.
A Culinary Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Hood River
From its stunning natural beauty to its thriving food scene, Hood River offers a truly unforgettable experience. Food Hood River is a testament to the region’s agricultural abundance and the creativity of its chefs and producers. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your palate in Hood River. So, pack your appetite and head to Hood River for a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. With breathtaking views, a vibrant food scene, and a welcoming community, Hood River offers a true taste of the Pacific Northwest at its finest. Now you have the tools to explore Food Hood River to its fullest.
