When the bright, beautiful Central Oregon sun finally burns off the High Desert-ified frosted chill, I have a ritual that reawakens the warmth in my bones and sheds off my Seasonal Affective Disorder like so many discarded layers of North Face. I find a patio in Bend, bring a book and either drink coffee or something much harder for several hours until the sun drops or my lower extremities go numb. Either way, it’s a ritual I will never outgrow. I’m here for it.
With that said, here are just a few of my favorite patios for summertime sipping and the food and drink pairings to order..
Simón Latin Cuisine and Margaritas— What I love about the patio at Simón is almost impossible to quantify. First, it sits in Old Bend. Looking out on that historical neighborhood roots me into a sense of place that is easy to lose as the city rapidly changes over the years. Second, the staff is exceptionally warm, serving up elevated margaritas and Latin cuisine that’s truly unlike anywhere else in town.
Pair the Flautas de Cameron (chipotle marinated tiger prawns) or the Chile Con Rajas (roasted bell pepper stuffed with poblano chiles, corn, mushrooms, shredded cheese and cream) with either the heat-forward Pina Picosa margarita, fresh watermelon margarita, or the massive, citrusy Paloma. There are no wrong choices here.
Olvi— What I love about the patio at Olvi (formerly Hasta Que Olvidemos) is the immaculate vibes. Looking out on Galveston Avenue, this spot feels like classic Bend while being fairly new. It features a spacious deck that somehow always remains peaceful and chill. Maybe it’s because half the crowd is on dates, I dunno, but Olvi feels romantic even when I’m just reading a book by myself, sipping one of Tim Colla’s gorgeously complex wines and putting down the freshest oysters I’ve had this side of Newport. Trust me, it’s a hell of a patio and a whole ass vibe. Their vermouth will change you.
McMenamins Old St. Francis School—What I love about the patio at McMenamins Old St. Francis is eavesdropping on tourists and locals alike fawning over the coolness of Bend. Personally, I think we take McMenamins for granted. It’s one-stop shopping for a soak, a movie, a microbrew and a few pretty classic comfort dishes. Sitting on that lively patio, watching the bustle and lights of downtown while sipping a cold Rubinator and munching on cajun tots instantly reminds me why I still love this town after all these years.
Stacks Dinner and Delicatessen— What I love about the patio at Stacks is the world-class people watching. So, if you watch the river trail, you’ll notice a lot of people and their pets headed to and from the dog park. Then what you’ll notice is how many of the dogs look like they just came from a luxury groomer, leading you to realize that you’re basically watching an impromptu dog show where the walkers are simultaneously exercising their pets while proudly showing them off to the wide-eyed diners along the path.
The patio boasts some of the nicest outdoor furniture I’ve ever plopped myself upon and if you pair a Jopp Chop sandwich with pastrami and corned beef with their Manhattan (one of the best I’ve had, period), you’re locked in for a lovely night.
Watershed Coffee Roasters (formerly Looney Bean)—What I love about the patio at Watershed is the front-row view of Mirror Pond. It’s legitimately one of the most stunning coffee shop backyards I’ve ever seen. With ample seating and plenty of choices between direct sun or cool shade, it is my absolute go-to destination for outdoor, non-alcoholic reading. Pair their Cayenne-infused Killer Bee with an Ocean Roll and you’ve found a pocket of heaven.
Honestly, it’s hard to pick just a few because each patio offers something different based on whatever experience you’re after.
- Want to get up to some local shenanigans? The patio at The D or Westside Tavern almost guarantees a conversation with a stranger.
- Craving those old-school Bend vibes? Pine Tavern remains a downtown staple.
- Romance? Look no further than Dear Irene.
- Most underrated? Wildwood over in the Box Factory.
- If you want a food cart patio but The Podski or On Tap are completely packed, don’t forget that Ballers and Brews, Dogwood and River’s Place host exceptional multi-cart lineups.
- The patio at Crosscut is usually packed with regulars who know that it features the finest beer curation of any tap house in town.
- For towering views of the Old Mill, hit Monkless; for a gorgeous, serene river perspective, rediscover Sen.
- Are you after a hidden gem? The open-air private courtyard at Rosemary and Fox is breathtaking.
Seriously, I could do this all day. Bend has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to patios, great food and inventive beverages. It’s hard to go wrong.
What’s your summer patio ritual?
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