Craig Dailey
Google
After a lively night at a concert, our group of six wandered into McMenamins in Bend without reservations, hungry, loud, and, if we’re being honest, a little over-enthusiastic from the evening’s “adult beverages.” We were fully prepared for a wait or for chaos, but instead, we were met with one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in a long time.
Our server, Raven, was nothing short of incredible. She welcomed us with an easy smile and an unshakable calm, even as we rattled off orders full of modifications and last-minute changes. She handled each request without missing a beat, making us feel like valued guests instead of a post-concert inconvenience. Her timing, attentiveness, and humor were exactly what our rowdy group needed.
The food arrived faster than expected, and impressively, all at the same time. The two pizzas were hot, perfectly baked, and generously topped. The burgers were cooked to perfection, juicy and full of flavor, with fries that were crisp and golden. The pretzels with cheese were warm and soft, with a rich, savory dip that disappeared quickly from the table. The fish and chips were fresh, flaky, and piping hot, while the salad was crisp, colorful, and clearly freshly prepared. Every plate was spot-on in temperature and presentation, which is no small feat for such a varied order.
By the end of the meal, every one of us was beyond satisfied, not just with the food, but with the atmosphere, the friendship, and of course the outstanding service. Raven’s professionalism and personality elevated the entire evening, turning what could have been a late-night scramble into a perfect ending to our night, and she even took time to take our picture..
If you’re in Bend, on a Bender like us post-concert, or just passing through, McMenamins is worth a stop. And if you’re lucky enough to have Raven as your server, you’re in for a treat.