Lindsay S.
Yelp
A review of Pacific Way Cafe isn't complete without some context of its home, Gearhart. Among the octogenarians, young families, tinkerers, weekend warriors, and the handful of us here full-time, you will find incredible stories about this town, some of which date back multiple generations. To say that this is a nostalgic and prideful community, and that many visitors share similar feelings, is an understatement. Gearhart is so very special.
Running a restaurant--which, statistically, is really, really hard to do--in a tiny community where the number of residents alone makes this a very unconventional place is brave. I can imagine there are some logistical challenges--from sourcing, to staffing, to keeping food waste numbers down (this must involve advanced algebra)--and navigating the punishing ripple effect of one less than perfect experience.
Pacific Way Cafe, having changed hands a few years ago, navigated its share of bumps--a common scenario in business transitions. Yet, it has found its stride. Yes, I too have fond memories of the pizza. Change is inevitable, but it's comforting to see so many components of the old restaurant still intact. I have warm memories of Pacific Way Cafe as a gathering place for many years of laughter, meaningful conversations with friends, and delicious meals. Those memories could have been from 10 years ago, and they are also from last night.
Alan and his talented team show up week after week, innovating, collaborating, and evolving. They craft culinary magic in a community where isolation and nostalgia often predominate. I'll let that sink in for a moment. The excellence of the food and the unparalleled hospitality extend well beyond a 100-mile radius. Here, amidst the rugged charm of the northern Oregon coast, they are not just serving meals; they are creating an arena for new memories over the freshest oysters, craveable carrots, excellent wine and a boldly inventive menu.
This place doesn't just serve food; they serve up a hearty dose of kindness and community spirit.
The true gem of Pacific Way Cafe is its commitment to improvement and its enthusiastic openness to feedback. This isn't just a restaurant and bakery; it's a courageous endeavor in a quaint town filled with nostalgia, continuously striving to enhance the culinary experience. What more could one ask for?