Food is at the heart of our culture. It’s how we show love with a box of chocolate, express sympathy with a homemade casserole, or share special moments with an ice cream cone.
Food’s influence on cultural identity is seen around the world. The YuanYang rice terraces in China paint mosaic ripples of blue and green on the slopes of the Ailao Mountains. In France, homemade bread, pastries, and cheeses are savored and cherished with close friends and family during traditional “en famille” meals. Italian family recipes have been passed down generations for hundreds of years. Olive oil is not only a staple in Greek food but also considered sacred. For Americans, hot dogs are an iconic symbol for the sport, baseball.
And no better place to experience a local culture and great food than a local restaurant on the river. Below is a list we put together of local restaurants along the Willamette River to experience some of the cultural flavor:
1. The Old Spaghetti Factory in Corvallis
603 NW 2nd St Corvallis, OR 97330
Step into Corvallis’ past in a historic 1909 train depot that now serves traditional Italian entrees with views of the river.
2. Loafer’s Station in Albany
222 SW Washington St Albany, OR 97321
A service station turned bistro offers a light-hearted atmosphere and prime ribs on Friday. Walking distance to the riverfront and an antique carousel housing 50 locally hand-carved animals.
3. Roaring Rapids Pizza Company in Eugene
4006 Franklin Blvd Eugene, OR 97403
A family fun pizza parlor with pizzas named after the local rivers. The parlor is fitted with an arcade room and a carousel for the little ones. The restaurant also features great views on a riverfront patio.
4. McMenamins North Bank in Eugene
22 Club Rd Eugene, OR 97401
Indoor and outdoor seating with river views from every table. Local artwork combined with Hawaiian decor creates fun vibes for an evening out.
5. Territory in Independence
201 Osprey Ln Independence, OR 97351
Modern interior finishes with gourmet dishes and perfect views of the river provides opportunity for a classy date night.
6. The Falls View Tavern in Oregon City
100 S McLoughlin Blvd Oregon City, Oregon 97045
Live music, Wednesday night trivia, a backyard style patio, and views of Willamette Falls are just a few reasons for a night out at this burger joint decorated by local artists.