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Central Oregon's vibrant food scene incorporates our area’s agricultural heritage with farm-to-table options that bring fresh, locally sourced ingredients straight to your plate. From rustic ranch-style restaurants to modern eateries, our area offers a variety of dining experiences that highlight the best of Central Oregon's farms, ranches, and local producers. Here’s a few of our favorite farm-to-table dining experiences you can enjoy in Central Oregon.
1. The Farm-to-Table Concept
The farm-to-table movement emphasizes the use of locally grown and sustainably sourced ingredients to create fresh, flavorful dishes. Central Oregon’s diverse agricultural landscape provides a wealth of high-quality produce, meats, and dairy products that are featured prominently in many local restaurants. This approach not only supports regional farmers but also ensures that diners enjoy meals made from the freshest ingredients available.
2. Must-Visit Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Here are some standout farm-to-table restaurants in Central Oregon where you can savor delicious dishes made from local ingredients:
The Cowboy Dinner Tree (Silver Lake, OR): This legendary dining experience is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Central Oregon. Located in the small town of Silver Lake, the Cowboy Dinner Tree serves up generous portions of either a whole roasted chicken or a massive steak, accompanied by homemade rolls, salad, baked potatoes, and dessert. This rustic eatery embraces the spirit of the West and showcases the best of locally sourced meats and ingredients. Cash only, no alcohol on site.
Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats (Bend, OR): While known for its Northern Thai cuisine, Wild Rose takes farm-to-table seriously by sourcing fresh, local ingredients to create vibrant and authentic dishes. Their use of organic produce and responsibly raised proteins makes for a unique farm-to-table experience with an international twist.
Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge (Bend, OR): A modern cowboy-themed restaurant and bar founded by Chef Brian Malarkey and his brother James, Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge offers a ranch-to-plate dining experience featuring beef and produce sourced from their nearby P-B Hawkeye Ranch in Tumalo. The menu includes dishes like the Happy Hour Smash Burger, Beef Fat Fries, Steelhead Trout, and Beef Tongue Tostadas. With a wood-fired oven, semi-private canvas tent dining, and a vibrant outdoor patio, this eatery embodies Oregon's majestic outdoors and a commitment to local sourcing.
Jackson’s Corner (Bend, OR): A staple in Bend’s farm-to-table scene, Jackson’s Corner serves seasonal dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, or a farm-fresh salad, this beloved restaurant celebrates the best of Central Oregon’s bounty.
3. Farmers Markets and Local Producers
In addition to dining out, exploring Central Oregon’s farmers markets and local producers offers a firsthand look at the region’s agricultural diversity:
Bend Farmers Market: This bustling market features a wide variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal goods. It’s a great place to meet local farmers and producers, sample fresh products, and find ingredients to create your own farm-to-table meals at home.
Redmond Farmers Market: Located in Redmond, this market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local products. It’s an excellent spot to discover the region’s agricultural offerings and support local vendors.
Sisters Farmers Market: Nestled in the adorable western-style town of Sisters, this local farmers market offers an array of fresh produce, farm-raised meats, baked goods, and handcrafted artisanal products. The market is a community hub where visitors can connect with local farmers, enjoy live music, and experience the small-town charm that makes Sisters a special place.
4. The Benefits of Farm-to-Table Dining
Dining farm-to-table offers several benefits for both consumers and the local community:
Freshness and Flavor: Farm-to-table meals are made from the freshest ingredients available, resulting in superior taste and nutritional value. Seasonal ingredients are at their peak flavor, making for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Sustainability: Supporting local farms and producers reduces the environmental impact of transportation and promotes sustainable agricultural practices. Farm-to-table dining helps foster a more eco-friendly food system.
Community Support: By choosing farm-to-table restaurants and local markets, you’re contributing to the local economy and supporting small-scale farmers and producers. This strengthens the community and encourages the continued growth of sustainable practices.
5. Exploring Beyond the Plate
Central Oregon’s farm-to-table ethos extends beyond the dining experience. Consider visiting local farms, taking part in farm tours, or attending cooking classes to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s food culture:
Farm Tours: Many local farms offer tours where you can see firsthand how your food is grown and harvested. These tours provide insight into sustainable farming practices and the effort that goes into producing high-quality ingredients.
Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class that focuses on farm-to-table cuisine. Learn how to prepare dishes using fresh, local ingredients and gain new skills to incorporate into your own cooking.
If you want recommendations for either activity, just reach out to us and we’ll be glad to connect you with some local tours and classes!