Hood River
About a 30 minute drive from Stevenson, Hood River has a huge range of dining ranging from casual to michelin-starred. I don’t eat out there too much so google is a great resource for researching more, but here are some of my favorite gems, and some of the local favorites!
The Fruit Loop – A loop of farms with various farmstands, restaurants, and u-pick areas to explore the incredible bounty of the gorge.
Stonehenge Gardens – perhaps my favorite hidden gem here, this place is unbelievably beautiful and has a hearty menu, you’ll feel transported to a different time!
Wicked Sushi and Burgers – this place has a LOT of food (sushi and burgers!) but my favorite on-the-go meal in Hood River is the Hawaiian bowl here.
White Salmon
Under 30 minutes from Stevenson on the Washington side
White Salmon Bakery – famous for a reason, this place has incredible pastries and fresh made breakfasts. Expect a bit of a wait – there’s almost always a line out the door – but it moves pretty fast and is well worth it.
Feast – Fresh modern dining with a beautiful patio with great views, and out of this world cheesecake!
Everybody’s Brewing – Great brewpub with live music Mondays 6 – 8pm
Carson
An up and coming neighborhood less than 10 minutes up the hill from Stevenson
Backwoods Brewing Company – a very cool indoor / outdoor space with phenomenal food and a fun scene, I can’t recommend this highly enough! Menu The brewery that this is a taphouse for is just down the street, right on the river in Stevenson!
Cascade Locks
Just across the river, about 5 minutes away from Stevenson
Bridgeside – a bit of an old-fashioned, not very fancy diner with an *exceptional* view of the river and bridge of the gods!
Thunder Island Brewing – a popular local riverside brewery
Gorges Beer – because Breweries On The River is really the theme of this area!
Thirsty Coffee – an adorable coffee shop with indoor and outdoor seating, great for hanging out and working!
Standouts Beyond
Maryhill Winery (Goldendale, WA) – This stunning venue deserves it’s own section – breathtaking views, beautiful food, and great events and live music [events schedule, tasting room website]
Indian Curry and Kabobs (Biggs, OR) – Some of the best indian food I’ve ever had, and a LEGEND to the locals. A hole in the wall food truck that has expanded into an absolutely adorable little restaurant, this is a cannot-miss if you’re out East