Rick J.
Yelp
Well. well, well... first visit for sure won't be my last.
YELP Short Answer: No Doubt break the credit card out and enjoy this "Best Of" experience. At this moment in time, RBC is hands down the best dining experience in Bend.
Location: Great new Grove location in NWX, tons of parking options but during seasonal busy times, ride or walk if possible. You can go enjoy a beverage at Waypoint if you get there early.
Tips: Get there early if you don't have a reservation as it is open seating in the bar first come first serve and limited. Call well ahead for a good reservation many seating options not sure any are bad. We sat at the kitchen bar which was fun to watch but maybe not too romantic but it was fun.
Buildout: New construction, first class for Bend, you will be impressed. Light and bright a really positive vibe kind of space.
Menu: Pretty simple thankfully and refreshing. Lots of options but carnivores rejoice, it is all about the meat and the pairing of sides. Waitstaff are there to answer any menu or prep questions and they all seem to be expert at their jobs, so impressive.
They make it clear, most items are meant to share which is prefect as some Bend establishments discourage sharing and charge split plate fees, that trick is so yesterday.
Food Prep: Pretty average nothing over the top just well cooked food on a serving plate, perfection as one of the few times the food itself is the star here.
Food Quality: Well, can't say enough, from the intentional sourcing of ingredients and the kitchen artistry is worth the shock once the bill arrives. RBC is NOT overpriced but just be prepared and don't let the menu pricing ruin your experience, we shared and still left some food behind.
Steak: I think the star of the RBC, cooked to absolute perfection. Menu options changes daily. Ordered Snake River Rib-Eye MR and it was incredible.
Waitstaff: This is one of those intangibles that can be overlooked when it is so good. Everyone at RBC from host station, to handoff for seating, and then introduction to our guest experience manager (kind of like a waiter) ... sorry don't really know what else to call it but on our visit everyone was so professional, what a team.
Overall Value: Outstanding but please set your wallets expectation correctly.
Final Thoughts: I know this is not RBC's first rodeo, and if they can maintain this level of a perfect customer experience, they shall set the bar very high for some of the fine dining options in Bend who seems to have lost their way in customer appreciation business.
RBC did not happen by accident, appreciate the experience they provide.