BONUS ROUND!

Our Personal Faves

For this round, each team member of this generational drinking team shares their favorite haunt, and why.

Jack Harvel (Reporter/Millennial)

FAVORITE HAUNT: Vector Volcano Classic Arcade

Vector Volcano doesn’t serve cocktails, but it does let you drink while playing some great classic arcade games for a very reasonable $7 an hour. And who needs a $14 cocktail when you’ve got cheap access to Dig Dug? I grew up after the arcades had closed and home consoles became ubiquitous, but there’s something special about playing on a massive cabinet that has less computing power than my smartphone.

Allie Noland (Reporter/Gen Zer)

Nicole Vulcan (Editor/Generation Xceptionalism)

FAVORITE HAUNT: M&J Tavern

The M&J appealed to my Gen X sensibilities right away, since a punk band was playing its open mic the first time I walked in. If you know the M&J, then you know it boasts more than just John Wayne posters and cool diner stools; it also has an amazing collection of tequila kept in a handy locked cage. Order the margarita — often on special — and be amazed at the friendly bartenders’ prowess in mixing up not some tired old thing poured from a pre-made mixer, but with a delightful combo of juices and nearly any tequila you could dream to order. Or just go ‘head and order a macro beer and party like it’s 1999. Your call.

FAVORITE HAUNT: Dogwood

If I am going anywhere for a cocktail, it’s Dogwood. Accurately representing the Zer generation, atmosphere matters to me most. Dogwood’s got it all—downtown Bend location, an adventurous menu, tasty little bites, live DJ music and a cozy, cute vibe. The drinks are perfectly “boozed”— make you feel a little something but won’t knock you off your seat. I’ve done a decent job sampling the menu and have never been disappointed. The standout must be “Dillicious.” It’s tangy, fresh and a little funky. The drink is dill-forward, making it feel like a summery, drink-by-the-garden cocktail. I’m all about the egg white topper and gin in cocktails, so this drink just works for me. For those looking for a mellower drink, my friends and I love the “Lavender,” “Rosebud” and “Bluebird.”