A nibble, a nosh, or a feast: Visitors and locals alike can get a tasty sampling of the high desert by exploring the High Desert Food Trail, a self-guided journey through the region’s culinary and agriculture businesses. The trail aims to connect people to the many tastes of Central Oregon through experiences such as on-farm visits, stops at tasting rooms, artisan markets, restaurants and more.
The High Desert Food Trail is a partnership between a Central Oregon organization, High Desert Food & Farm Alliance, and Travel Oregon that works to increase access and spread education about healthy foods. Visitors who explore some of the 45 businesses (farms, ranches, restaurants, farmer’s markets, craft and beverage makers, and more) along the way might be surprised to learn about the region’s diverse and bountiful agriculture and culinary scene, according to staff from the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance. “Many people believe that local food is unavailable in Central Oregon due to our sandy soils and frosty nights, but we have one of the most vibrant local food scenes in the state,” said Annie Nichols, HDFFA Agricultural Support Manager. With stunning landscapes to marvel at, artisan offerings to feast on and resilient agriculture to experience, there is something for everyone on the High Desert Food Trail. Learn about some of the stops below. For the full itinerary, view the full downloadable trail map.
Trail Stop: L&S Farm and Garden
With deep roots in Central Oregon, Lisa has been gardening and working with plants for decades, and after years of managing their nursery in south Deschutes County, in 2017 Lisa and her husband Sonny closed that nursery and bought a farm in Prineville. True to their farm-to-table philosophy, the farm has offerings ranging from Angus beef and eggs, to produce and jams and canned goods, gardening classes, and so much more. Be sure to visit lsgardens.com to plan a visit while in Prineville.
Trail stop: Feast Food Company, Redmond
Once a food truck, Feast Food Co. transitioned to a brick-and-mortar in Redmond in late 2022. Although no longer on the move, owners Chris and Emma have kept the focus on bringing a true farm-to-table experience to their eatery by preparing and serving food that comes from local ranches and farms in Central Oregon. When in the Redmond area, be sure to check out their menu at feastfoodco.com for a local, flavorful dining experience.
Trail stop: Mecca Grade Estate, Madras
Dive into Central Oregon’s beer culture with a visit to Mecca Grade Estate Malt House and Tasting Room, situated on 1,000 acres in a rural area north of Madras and east of Warm Springs. This family-run malthouse aims to bring back the flavors of old European malts, with malted barley varieties bred in partnership with barley scientists at Oregon State University. Stop by to taste the difference this premium malt makes with a flight of beers brewed on-site. meccagrade.com.
Trail stop: Boone Dog Wood Fired Pizza
Exciting people about organic and healthy ingredients is a top priority for Boone Dog Wood Fired Pizza. Located at The Barn in Sisters, this mobile wood-fired kitchen offers a nourishing culinary experience with full flavors from farm-fresh produce, ethically raised meats, and a variety of cheeses from Central Oregon. With a dedication to a sustainable food cycle and supporting local farmers, Boone Dog is firing up tasty pies 7 days a week and invites you to stop by and enjoy. Go to boonedogpizza.com to view their menus – they also offer delectable breakfast and pastry options
Up-to-date information is available at https://hdffa.org/hdft/. The High Desert Food Trail is one of nine other food trails active in Oregon, all of which can be found at oregonfoodtrails.com.
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
-
Complete Guide to Food Trucks in Bend and the Surrounding Area
Over recent years, Bend, Oregon has become a foodie paradise. Aside from the nationally renowned chefs and the blossoming restaurant scene that offers tons of dining options, foodies now flock to Bend for a more indie dining experience. The food truck trend has proven to be much more than a trend, as more and more pods of deliciousness pop up around town. These pods typically include a variety of food trucks situated around a central location that more often than not acts as a tap house. Many of them offer indoor and outdoor seating, a variety of beer, wine and cider along with firepits, stages for musical performances and more. With so many spots each offering different food trucks to try, it might be tough to figure out where to start. Read on for a list of some highly recommended spots to try out, and start your own foodie adventure.
-
8 Pictures That Will Have You Rethinking Some Life Decisions (Central Oregon Food Edition)
Is this plate from 5 Fusion and Sushi Bar art or food? (It’s food. Definitely food.)
-
Bend Area Breweries: Where to Go and What to Get
It used to be our little secret: That along with the countless recreational opportunities in Bend and Central Oregon, there was a burgeoning craft beer scene. That trying to decide which brewpub to hit after a day skiing at Mt. Bachelor was a two chairlift ride discussion. There were options. And lots of good beer.