12 minute read
The Ultimate Foodie’s Road Trip Guide to the Oregon Coast
The Ultimate Foodie's Road Trip Guide to the Oregon Coast
written by Jean Chen Smith
illustrations by Jenna Lechner
The Oregon Coast offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the state. Although hugely popular in the summer and fall, spring is actually an excellent time to go because the temperature tends to be mild and you will likely experience fewer crowds. Although you might encounter rain, as Oregonians, that is nothing new, so just be prepared by dressing appropriately.
Along with spectacular vistas and hiking trails, the 363-mile stretch along the Pacific Ocean showcases a solid roster of restaurants worth visiting. Whether you work your way from Astoria down to Brookings, or start from the south and head north, our lineup features some of the best spots to stop along the way, in addition to accommodations to relax and get some shut-eye.
Astoria
Established in 1811, Astoria is the oldest city in Oregon, with many historical buildings and landmarks. In the 1900s, it had a large Scandinavian population, which is reflected throughout the city in various places, including the Astoria Nordic Heritage Park and Suomi Hall, Finnish Brotherhood Lodge #2.
Broder Strand, at the historic Commodore Hotel, serves fare such as Danish pancakes, Finnish porridge and trout Benedict. (258 14th St., Astoria; www.commodore hotelastoria.com/broder)
For American classic dishes, head to Fort George, a family-owned brewpub. Fort George has been making beer in Astoria since 2007. You can grab delicious food from the downstairs pub, the upstairs area or the Lovell Taproom. Feast on creative fare such as its vegan Nashville chicken, beer-battered albacore or orange chipotle chicken wings, and choose from a wide selection of beers on tap. Head upstairs for wood-fired pizzas and decadent desserts. Set in a renovated 1920s auto shop, the spacious restaurant also has plenty of outdoor seating, which is perfect if you have your pup with you. (1483 Duane St., Astoria; www. fortgeorgebrewery.com)
South Bay Wild Fish House is a no-frills spot serving fresh seafood that is caught from the family’s commercial fishing vessel. Order at the counter, take a seat and enjoy mouthwatering options, including crab cakes, hearty clam chowder and fry bread with a seafood topping of your choice. You will need to plan ahead though, because the fish house is popular and wait times can be long. (262 9th St., Astoria; www.southbaywild.net)
Stay: If you want a unique experience with spectacular views of the Columbia River, book a stay at Bowline Hotel, which is located right along the pier. You will be close to the center of it all, with restaurants and shops only minutes away. Contemporary rooms feature maritime themes, with flat-screen televisions, mini fridges and cozy fireplaces. Try the cozy cedar barrel saunas overlooking the river—it is the perfect spot to relax. Grab breakfast at the restaurant, The Knot Bar, which has a seasonal menu. (1 9th St., Astoria; www.adrifthospitality.com/bowline-hotel)
Seaside
Known for its bustling promenade and walkable beaches, this quaint coastal town offers visitors plenty of fun attractions, along with some standout eateries.
When visiting Seaside, make sure to stop by Camp 18 Restaurant, which has been a mainstay for loggers since the mid 1980s. The historic log cabin building showcases a large stone fireplace and antler chandelier, along with other wood carvings that reflect a bygone time in the state’s logging history. If you are a brunch fan, you will not be disappointed with savory plates such as biscuits and gravy, eggs Benedict or chicken-fried steak. Camp 18 also serves lunch and dinner, paying homage to the lumberjack diet, with dishes such as the lumberjack burger and the “riggin’ boss.” (42362 US-26, Seaside; Camp 18 Restaurant & Giftshop on Facebook)
Just minutes away from Seaside is Gearhart Bowl & Fultano’s Pizza, a bowling alley and restaurant that serves delectable pizza, salads and fries, along with beer and wine. Fultano’s offers a full spectrum of pizza pies, including the spicy Pacific shrimper, the porkey pig and, of course, the everything. Pick a lane, grab a seat and roll up your sleeves for a night of fun. Fultano’s has happy hours Monday through Friday, from 2 to 6 p.m. You can also get take out and delivery from Fultano’s. (3518 US-101, Gearhart; www. gearhartbowl.com)
Stay: Make the Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort your base camp for all your adventures. The low-key hotel is centrally located to restaurants and shops. It is also within walking distance to the Seaside Aquarium and the Seaside Museum and Historical Society. Some rooms offer spectacular ocean views; plus, you are mere steps from the beach. (414 N. Prom, Seaside; www. oceanviewresort.com)
Cannon Beach
Best known for the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach features a wide range of offerings, regardless of your palate.
Revel in delicious pastries, breads and really good coffee at Sea Level Bakery + Coffee. The cute café makes all of its baked goods from scratch daily, so be sure to get there before they sell out. The bakery also offers a good selection of gluten-free options. On warmer days, you can enjoy your pastries on the patio, which is dog-friendly. (3116 S. Hemlock St., Cannon Beach; www.sea levelbakery.com)
Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, but where it really shines is its seafood options. Some favorites include the calamari appetizer, Oregon pink shrimp ceviche and salmon dinner. Everything is made-to-order and served with a friendly smile. Wayfarer has been serving Northwest coastal fare since 1977, so you should expect that level of experience when you visit. (1190 Pacific Dr., Cannon Beach; www. wayfarer-restaurant.com)
Stay: Rest your weary head at luxury beachfront hotel. The Stephanie Inn. The three-story property gives visitors perfect views of Haystack Rock. Settle in for a refined experience with large Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces and an indulgent complimentary breakfast with your stay. For a delightful gastro experience, book a seat in their dining room, where chef Aaron Bedard will spoil you with creative dishes, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. (2740 Pacific Ave., Cannon Beach; www. stephanieinn.com)
Lincoln City
Not only will you find an abundance of sea glass along the coastline in this idyllic beach community, there are also some hot spots for grabbing savory clam chowder and fresh seafood.
Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill is a solid choice—it has been serving the area with delicious offerings for more than thirty years. Plus, it has something for everyone on its menu. Although Kyllo’s serves pasta, pizza and burgers, the seafood is the winner here. Menu items include local rockfish tacos, fisherman’s cioppino and halibut mac and cheese. Make sure to arrive hungry because the portion sizes are generous. Go during happy hour for great prices and a lively atmosphere. (1110 NW 1st Court, Lincoln City; www. kyllosseafoodandgrill.com)
Perhaps best known for its famous clam chowder, Mo’s Seafood & Chowder is an iconic Oregon Coast staple. Established in 1977, the local chain serves seafood, salads, burgers and pastas, but you should definitely order the chowder. Although Mo’s gets busy in the high season, it is well worth the wait. Plus, you will enjoy views of the Siletz River inlet. (860 SW 51st St., Lincoln City; www.ilovemos chowder.com)
Pelican Brewing Company opened its Siletz Bay location in 2022. Set in a beautiful building with breathtaking water views, the restaurant serves the same classics as its other locations. Enjoy satisfying burgers alongside crispy fries, seasonal salads and seafood-focused entrees. Oh, and, of course, award-winning beers. Pelican also offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make sure to stop and peruse the fun gift shop on the way out. (5911 US-101, Lincoln City; www. pelicanbrewing.com/pubs/siletz-bay)
Stay: Looking Glass Inn is nestled in the Taft District of Lincoln City, right along the waterfront, across from Mo’s. The small motel gives guests the feeling of staying in a quaint neighborhood. Rooms are well-appointed and spacious, with soft, pillow-top mattresses and cozy sitting areas. A grab-and-go continental breakfast is included in your stay. (861 SW 51st St., Lincoln City; www.looking glassinn.com)
Newport
Newport, also known as the Dungeness Crab Capital of the World, is the home of Oregon’s largest fishing fleet, along with walkable beaches and two historic lighthouses, Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. Both structures were built in the 1800s and are open to the public.
When visiting Newport, do not miss Local Ocean Seafoods, one of my go-to favorite stops to enjoy fresh seafood, while taking in the beautiful views. Ask to be seated on the second floor, where you will have a good view of the bustling port. Although the tuna niçoise and house-made crab cakes are two standout dishes, you cannot really go wrong here. Everything is fresh and made to order. The bi-level restaurant also sells fresh-caught fish and seafood at the front counter, so grab something on your way out. (213 SE Bay Blvd., Newport; www. localocean.net)
Stay: Inn at Nye Beach is a cozy oceanfront property that is centrally located. The polished hotel features charming rooms with comfortable beds and gas fireplaces. A continental breakfast and weekly wine tasting are offered to guests staying at the inn. (729 NW Coast St., Newport; www.innatnyebeach.com)
Florence
Florence is worth a visit because of its many activities and nearby historic landmarks, such as the Heceta Head Lighthouse. For expansive vistas, head to the Cape Perpetua Overlook. Make it a point to stop by the Sea Lion Caves, especially if you have kids. The large display of sea lions is truly a sight to behold.
For an elevated dining experience, try The Waterfront Depot, an American bistro offering diners coastal cuisine with a wide variety of cocktails and wines. Set along the romantic riverside, it is the ideal setting for an anniversary or birthday dinner. Choose from freshly prepared seafood, house-made pastas and high-quality steaks. Start with the focaccia and basil parmesan pesto for the table. Highlights include the arroz con marisco seafood bowl and crab-encrusted halibut. For carnivores, the Depot serves an impressive chimichurri steak with sweet potato fries. (1252 Bay St., Florence; www. thewaterfrontdepot.com)
Stay: Driftwood Shores resort is an oceanfront retreat offering casual rooms with balconies. Suites feature spacious living rooms, fireplaces and full kitchens. The Market and Deli serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The resort also has a heated indoor pool and aquatic area for kids. (88416 1st Ave., Florence; www.drift woodshores.com)
Brookings
This picturesque town is a great destination for whale watching. Although December through March are the best months for spotting whales, it’s possible for year-round sightings. It is also a thriving community with a wide variety of eclectic restaurants. While there are many to choose from, these are two of our favorites.
Black Trumpet Bistro, located along Brookings’ main street, serves New American cuisine with Italian influences. The kitchen partners with local purveyors to incorporate fresh, local ingredients. You will find classic standbys like cioppino, beef stroganoff and chicken marsala. (625 Chetco Ave., Brookings; www. blacktrumpetbistro1.com)
If you are looking for good food and casual vibes, you will find it at RH Pub & Grill, which is best known for its hand-tossed garlic fries and flame-grilled burgers. It is a family-friendly spot with a huge menu and food options for your little ones at reasonable prices. (401 Oak St., Brookings; www.rhpuband grill.com)
Stay: Beachfront Inn, located right along the oceanfront, features comfortable rooms with televisions, microwaves and mini fridges. Suites offer more space, with separate sitting areas, soaking tubs and balconies. There’s a heated outdoor pool and a hot tub. The Beachfront Inn also provides a complimentary breakfast. You are only a short drive away from the Port of Brookings Harbor and Harris Beach State Park. (16008 Boat Basin Road, Brookings; www.beachfront inn.com)
