Grazing on the Mountain – Mt. Hood Restaurants

By Peggy Wallace | Eat + Drink

An article in Prevention Magazine published November 2011 touts the benefits of “eating twice as often, half as much and chewing twice as long.” This method of eating is otherwise known as “grazing.”

In the spirit of grazing, here is some “food for thought!”

The dining establishments in the Mt. Hood corridor utilize fresh, local ingredients prepared and served in an attractive manner and are sure to nourish body and soul. While some of the fare may prove to be too tempting to “eat half as much,” the numerous choices available from Sandy to Timberline Lodge give ample opportunity to eat “twice as often!”

Here are some of our favorites:

Rendezvous Grill & Tap Room

The Rendezvous Grill’s motto is “Serious Food in a Not-So-Serious Place,” and the choices rival any fine dining establishment. Steaks, seafood, vegetarian entrees and amazing desserts served by the friendly professional staff in a relaxed atmosphere will keep you coming back again and again.

For more than two decades, “The Vous,” as many locals know it, has been a favorite among not only local residents, but those who visit only once or twice a year. Visit the Rendezvous website for more information and to check out their menus.

Address: 67149 E. Hwy. 26Mile Post 40Welches, OR 97067

Hours:11:30am-9pm, 7 days a week

Skyway Bar and Grill

The Skyway Bar & Grill located in Zigzag is a roadhouse style restaurant that boasts a “lick your plate clean” menu with handmade food from scratch ALWAYS.

In addition to an inviting environment, terrific food and friendly service, The Skyway features live music with some of the Northwest’s most famous bands, local talent, and open mic. They have a pretty cool collection of old chandeliers in their back dining room, too! Visit their website to see a live music calendar.

Address:71545 US-26Rhododendron, OR 97049

Hours:Thursdays, 3pm-1amFridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Noon-1amMondays, 3pm-1am. All ages until 10pm

El Burro Loco Restaurant - Welches, Oregon

El Burro Loco prepares Mexican cuisine from scratch. The atmosphere is warm and cozy and the full bar offers some pretty unique “south of the border” cocktails as well as traditional beverages. “The Burro” is a great choice for lunch or dinner. Check out their website to take a look at their menu.

These are but a few of the local restaurants. For a more complete list, visit Whispering Woods Resort’s website.

About the Author

After living and working on Mt. Hood since 1985, the peace and beauty of the area never ceases to amaze! Opportunities for recreation, dining and entertainment change, grow and improve constantly, all the while maintaining the tranquility and beauty that is "The Mountain." As a part-owner of The Mountain Times newspaper, it is an honor and delight to serve and contribute to this community and its visitors.