With an explosive history of volcanic eruptions, lava flows, and cinder cones covering the region, Central Oregon is no stranger to smoke. But these days, while our volcanoes remain in a state of blissful calm, another kind of smoke is the talk of the town: smoked cocktails, the latest culinary attraction from Solomon’s Restaurant at Tetherow.
But what is a smoked cocktail? And how can you make it a part of your next trip to Central Oregon? Here’s a breakdown of Tetherow’s innovative craft cocktails, along with the resort’s fine dining and scenic offerings—all on the southwest side of Bend.
The Best Cocktails in Bend
Solomon’s at Tetherow is well-versed in craft cocktails; after all, the restaurant’s thoughtful creations are made with local spirits by talented mixologists. Its new offerings, however, take that innovation one step further with “Smoke Show” smoked cocktails that are a visual treat and a culinary delight.
As the name implies, these vibrant offerings imbue Tetherow’s signature cocktails with literal smoke—we’ll get to how it’s done in a moment—for a medley of curious flavors, aromas, and textures.
It all starts when your mixologist places a cocktail smoker (resembling a small wooden top hat) atop your glass. The friendly server then drops a few wood chips—choose among applewood, cherry, hickory, or bourbon barrel chips—into the top of the smoker; at that point, they light a small torch directly above the chips and let nature do the rest. Best of all: It’s done tableside, so you get to see the magic yourself.
Slowly, your glass fills with smoke; even after the bartender wraps up, it hangs around like a cool fog on a cloudy morning. Assuming you’re not still taking photos or videos to share on TikTok—who among us?—you can swirl your glass to catch more of the smoky flavors, subtle notes of sweetness, and wood-fired aromas.
A few of Tetherow’s smoked cocktails incorporate smoking in different ways. Its Smoked Apple Julep, for instance, is made with Knob Creek bourbon whiskey, lemon, simple syrup, and mint—all of which is muddled, smoked, and strained over crushed ice. The Fall Manhattan, meanwhile, is served with smoked cinnamon. Of course, you can make any cocktail a “Smoke Show” (neat or on the rocks) for a small fee; each includes your choice of spirit and wood chip flavor; whiskey and mezcal are both smoke-friendly spirits, but your server may have additional recommendations.
Seasonal Farm to Table Fine Dining
Of course, you’ll need to eat at some point during your stay. Fortunately, Solomon’s features seasonal ingredients and thoughtful dishes for a true farm-to-table dining experience—one where you’ll share sunset views of Cascade peaks with hungry hikers, energetic golfers, and fellow guests looking for a filling meal. (Is it any wonder that Solomon’s is routinely cited as one of the best restaurants in Bend, Oregon?)
The Tetherow restaurant menu changes frequently, typically to reflect whatever’s fresh and in-season, but almost always spotlights international cuisines crafted from (and influenced by) Pacific Northwest ingredients.
That means salads crafted with seasonal greens and toasted hazelnuts (an Oregon delicacy), chicken marsala featuring poultry from a family-owned farm, risotto with foraged mushrooms, and pan-seared steelhead; vegetarian, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free items are available, as well. It all pairs well with an extensive wine collection starring selections from across the United States and around the world.
Getting hungry? You’re not alone—so note that reservations are encouraged.
Where to Enjoy Your Cocktails Around Tetherow
Whether you’re whiling the afternoon away or enjoying a nightcap after a busy day, you’ll find plenty of scenic spots around Tetherow Resort for sipping refreshing cocktails.
If you’re lounging outside, relax with a cool drink around Tetherow’s outdoor, heated pool (open year-round)—or in one of the resort’s state-of-the-art, poolside cabanas; nearby fire pits encourage lingering when the sun sets. Hitting the links? Stop by the snack shack at Tetherow Golf Resort, which sits between the ninth and 10th holes and serves a mix of fresh fare and adult bevvies. Naturally, the luxurious lodge rooms at Tetherow each feature a private balcony, and most afford excellent views of the Cascade Range—the perfect setting for relaxing with your favorite drink.
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