Food

The Pine Tavern is preceded by its reputation. Before ever setting foot inside, I’d heard about the 300-year-old Ponderosa pine trees, which the restaurant famously built the dining room around in the 1950s. I was curious to see the trees myself, and intrigued about another Pine Tavern tale, ghoulish Gretchen, who according to Bend Ghost Tours, has been known to turn off TVs and re-light candles after they’ve been snuffed out.

I sat down at one of the high-top tables situated in the front bay window of the bar, the only part of the restaurant where you can order off the happy hour menu. The Iceberg Wedge Salad ($6.95) and Deviled Eggs ($7.95) came out first. The salad, beautifully plated, was dressed with a thick blue cheese dressing with the perfect-sized chunks of blue cheese, balanced by the crisp, bright iceberg lettuce and topped with bacon and tomatoes. The Deviled Eggs were topped with chunks of bacon and sprinkled with smoky paprika. The paprika overpowered the accompanying truffle oil. Chopped red onion was served on the side, but those seemed unnecessary.

Also from the happy hour menu, I ordered the Tavern Burger ($8.95), which was hard to wrap my mouth around, as any good burger should be, and came with a side of housemade kettle chips. The chips were crispy and rather addictive.

Service

It was attentive and accommodating. After explaining they were out of the Potato Skins, my server was quick to offer other options on the menu, as well as creative solutions for making items gluten-free.

Atmosphere

Walking into the tavern on a cold winter’s day felt like receiving a warm embrace. The Pine Tavern has a gemutlich quality that invites you to get cozy and order a drink or food. As you make your way to this back dining room, you’ll find a row of enclosed dining spaces which are perfect if you prefer a more intimate dining experience.

More info

Location: 967 NW Brooks St, Bend

Contact: 541-382-5581, www.pinetavern.com

Hours: Noon-8 p.m. everyday, happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday

Cuisine: American

Price range: $6.95-$8.95 Happy Hour food specials, $3.50 to $8 drink specials