Hungry but don’t feel like cooking? Perhaps you’ve had a hard day, and the thought of having to lift another finger is too overwhelming to even consider. On nights like these, sometimes all we want is to skip the hassle of dirtying our kitchens and just have someone cook for us. After all, you worked hard all day, and you deserve to relax. What better way to pamper yourself than enjoying a nice dinner out on the town at these local family-owned and operated Deschutes County restaurants!
Joolz
916 NW Wall St., Bend
541.388.5094
The Middle East meets the Wild West at Joolz in the heart of downtown Bend, where an electric mix of middle eastern fare is created with local flair from chef Ramsey Hamdan. Instead of Happy Hour, Joolz has an Ecstatic Hour where the mezze meets the mesa from 4:30 until 6 p.m. in the restaurant and until 9 p.m. in the bar with special deals on a selection of both food and drinks. Their welcoming staff and comfortable vibe make them the perfect location for any date night, but remember to call ahead as they only take reservations!
900 Wall
900 NW Wall St., Bend
541.323.6295
900 Wall Restaurant has been serving modern American food with strong influences from Italian and French cuisine to the Bend community since its opening in May 2009. Both unique in location and atmosphere, the two-story brick building that houses the restaurant was built all the way back in 1920 and gives the space a historical charm infused quite nicely with its industrial-chic design. It comes complete with two private dining spaces for those looking to rent out a room for a party or special occasion. Their wine program is amazing all on its own, featuring a diverse selection of more than 200 labels, so you can find that perfect pairing to enjoy with your meal.
Diego’s Spirit Kitchen
447 SW 6th St., Redmond
541.316.2002
Also serving the Deschutes County community since 2009 is Diego’s Spirited Kitchen in Redmond. Diego’s offers casual American dining with contemporary Mexican food and so much more. Owners Pablo Peña and Juvenal Santana both have a passion for international cuisine, and they made it come to life at Diego’s Spirited Kitchen. Some international surprises on the menu include Italian-inspired dishes, Creole cuisine, and more, such as their signature Pork Osso Bucco, Tex Mex Spring Rolls, Pastas, and fresh-made margaritas!
Terra Kitchen
509 SW 6th St., Redmond
541.615.8001
An authentic field-to-table experience is found at Terra Kitchen in Redmond, which offers a locally-grown and locally-sourced dining experience in Central Oregon. Terra Kitchen’s mission is to nourish the soul, community, and planet while providing a healthy menu influenced by blue zones and Mediterranean-style Pacific Northwest crops featuring fresh ingredients. The menu itself is ever-changing as their ingredients come from locally sourced farms and foraged food items from the region’s land and streams, as well as consciously raised meat, poultry, and seafood.
The Basecamp Grill
17355 Spring River Rd., Sunriver
541.598.8868
Serving the Sunriver area since the 1960s is The Basecamp Grill on Spring River Road. The grill actually sits on the site of the first restaurant ever in the Sunriver area known as “The Wagonwheeel” way back and catered to loggers and forestry workers in the area. Carl and Sherrie Tessen own the restaurant now. They have built a reputation for one of the finest hamburgers in Central Oregon while keeping up the funky western atmosphere the building has managed to maintain after all these years.
Marcello’s Cucina Italiana
57031 Ponderosa Rd., Sunriver
541.593.8300
Marcello’s Cucina Italiana has been a cornerstone of fine dining in the Sunriver community since its grand opening back in 1980. Their extensive menu consists of contemporary and traditional Italian food with a Northwest twist added to the mix, ranging from pasta and hand-tossed pizzas to salmon and filet mignon. They also offer an international wine selection, local micro-brews on tap, and a full-service bar. Come on in and enjoy your meal next to the fireplace, on the patio, at the lounge, or in the comfort of your own home if you order to go!
It is no secret that the Deschutes County community has a wide variety of dining options available — from local favorites to international sensations — it’s all available right here in Central Oregon. So, pamper yourself and don’t lift a finger for dinner. Head on over to any locally owned and operated restaurant in the area and let them cook up you’re craving for dinner tonight!
