"Inside Zydeco’s elegant and bustling space lies one of Bend’s most consistent and popular restaurants. Since 2004, Zydeco has served Northwestern food with a Louisiana flair. Last year, owners Steve and Cheri Helt brought in executive chef Eric Joppie, who continues to create light new dishes alongside classic Southern favorites like jambalaya and blackened redfish. Halibut succotash has a mixture of textures from whole beans to asparagus and roasted radishes, topped with just enough creamy gribiche sauce. The upscale bar is a great place to try one of its creative cocktails, best accompanied by barbecue shrimp and grits. Be sure to get extra bread, as that sauce is worth wiping the plate clean. The Zydeco carrot cake is among the best desserts in town. Zydeco also offers a full gluten-free menu." - Barb Gonzalez