Discovering Oregon’s Culinary Scene: 10 Farm to Table Restaurants Worth the Trip
Oregon is replete with lush, fertile lands, an immense coastline, and a climate that nourishes an abundance of produce throughout the year. The bounty of our state offers a unique farm to table culinary scene that’s as diverse as our stunning landscapes. For food lovers, here are 10 Oregon farm to table restaurants that deserve your attention, each promising a sensory experience like no other.
1. Thistle Restaurant & Bar
Nestled in the heart of McMinnville, Thistle Restaurant & Bar joyfully celebrates Oregon farmer’s harvest. The ever-changing menu depends on what’s fresh, local, and in-season, offering a true farm to table experience. Try the farmer’s tasting menu, a delightful exploration of ‘in this moment’ produce, and don’t forget to pair it with a wine from their thoughtfully curated local list.2. Gathering Together Farm
It would be hard to get closer to the source if you tried. At Gathering Together Farm in Philomath, you can delight your palate with meals made largely from the farm’s own bounty. For those seeking a picture-perfect brunch spot, this farm-stand restaurant offers unparalleled views of the North Willamette Valley amidst fields of bursting produce.
3. Local Ocean Seafoods
Delighting fans with the freshest catch, Local Ocean Seafoods in Newport provides an oceanic farm to table experience. Here, the catch of the day is not just a phrase, but a practice. Ask for crab po’boy or charred Alaskan octopus – you’ll taste the Pacific on your plate.4. AgriVino
In the picturesque setting of Carlton, Oregon’s wine country, AgriVino pairs Italian cuisine with Oregon ingredients. A real hidden gem, this spot serves dishes crafted daily by the chef using ingredients grown on their own farm. Try the hand-rolled pasta, it’s divine!5. Farm Spirit
Presenting freshly foraged ingredients of the Cascadian region, Farm Spirit in Portland deserves special mention. This restaurant is an interesting crossroads of art and taste, with the most sophisticated vegan tasting menu in town. It’s quite popular, so book in advance!6. Meriwether’s
Honoring the lush Willamette region, Meriwether’s is a Portland staple for farm-fresh dining. This restaurant has its own Skyline Farm where majority of the ingredients come from, providing a menu that changes with the seasons. Don’t miss the Sunday brunch; the pastries are the stuff of legend.7. Marché
Making Eugene’s food scene richer, Marché is a food lover’s dream. With menus reflecting the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, this restaurant prides itself on its relationships with local farmers and artisans. Make sure to dine during the monthly dining specials, where specific farms or ingredients are celebrated.8. Nora’s Table
Visiting the scenic Hood River? Remember to eat at Nora’s Table. Known for its unique fusion dishes, this restaurant is dedicated to sourcing products from nearby farms. The lamb curry alone is worth the drive!9. Castagna
For those seeking the avant-garde in dining, Castagna in Portland is a must-visit. It blurred the lines between nature and the kitchen, with dishes aesthetically mirroring the environments that the ingredients come from. Be adventurous and go for the Chef’s Tasting menu.10. South Store Cafe
Seek out South Store Cafe in Hillsboro for a casual farm to table experience. Housed in an old country store, the charm of this place is matched by an impressive selection of homemade breads, pastries, and sandwiches. Their roasted turkey sandwich is highly recommended.Each of the restaurants on this list represents Oregon’s deep commitment to sustainability and the connection between the land and our food. They symbolize our heritage of farming and fishing, and our hospitality that turns visitors into friends. Make sure to put these farm to table restaurants on your Oregon culinary road trip, and let your taste buds discover why we cherish our state’s culinary scene. Happy eating!