Bars in Bend
The Best Bars and Pubs in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, is a paradise for craft beverage enthusiasts. From laid-back brewpubs to sophisticated cocktail lounges, Bend offers something for every kind of drinker. Here's your ultimate guide to the best bars and pubs in Bend, complete with helpful descriptions and links to plan your next night out.
The Dogwood Cocktail Cabin
Known for its inventive cocktails and eclectic atmosphere, The Dogwood Cocktail Cabin is a must-visit for cocktail lovers. The menu is packed with creative drinks crafted with house-made syrups, aromatic herbs, and unexpected ingredients.
Vibe: Cozy and stylish, with a playful yet refined energy.
Must-Try: The "Bee's Knees," a refreshing gin-based cocktail with honey and lemon.
Good to Know: Perfect for a date night or an intimate gathering with friends.
Velvet
Velvet blends rustic charm with modern elegance, making it a favorite for Bend locals. The intimate upstairs bar is perfect for enjoying craft cocktails and small bites.
Vibe: Rustic-chic with a relaxed, cozy feel.
Must-Try: Their signature Velvet Martini, a creamy concoction that's perfect for dessert lovers.
Good to Know: Great for pre-dinner drinks or a casual night out.
San Simon
Tucked away in Tin Pan Alley, San Simon is a hidden gem that delivers big on flavor and atmosphere. This intimate spot features creative cocktails and a solid whiskey selection.
Vibe: Intimate and eclectic with indoor and outdoor seating.
Must-Try: The house Old Fashioned, made with a unique twist.
Good to Know: Limited seating, so plan ahead during busy times.
The Stihl Whiskey Bar
A haven for whiskey lovers, The Stihl Whiskey Bar offers over 400 varieties of whiskey alongside a full menu of craft cocktails. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for locals.
Vibe: Sophisticated yet approachable.
Must-Try: Their Whiskey Flight, featuring a curated selection of rare and popular whiskeys.
Good to Know: Great for whiskey connoisseurs or those looking to expand their palate.
McMenamins Old St. Francis School
Set in a historic schoolhouse, McMenamins offers a unique experience. O’Kanes bar on-site features cozy fire pits, an extensive beer list, and a charming outdoor space.
Vibe: Quirky, historic, and relaxed.
Must-Try: A pint of Ruby Ale, one of McMenamins' signature brews.
Good to Know: Perfect for larger groups or those who enjoy outdoor seating.
10 Barrel Brewing Co.
A staple in Bend's craft beer scene, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. is known for its wide selection of beers and rooftop patio. It’s a favorite for beer lovers and foodies alike.
Vibe: Casual and lively with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Must-Try: Joe IPA, a classic hoppy beer.
Good to Know: The rooftop patio offers great views of Bend.
Deschutes Brewery Public House
Deschutes Brewery is a pioneer in the craft brewing world. Their pub in Bend serves up fresh, innovative beers and a menu full of elevated pub fare.
Vibe: Warm and welcoming, with a rustic-modern interior.
Must-Try: Black Butte Porter, their iconic dark ale.
Good to Know: Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner paired with great beer.
Prost! Bend
This German-inspired bar brings a taste of Bavaria to Bend. Prost! offers an impressive selection of German beers and traditional fare like pretzels and sausages.
Vibe: Lively and authentic with a casual vibe.
Must-Try: A stein of Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier.
Good to Know: Their outdoor seating is a great spot to enjoy sunny Bend afternoons.
Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge
Step into a tropical paradise at Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge. Known for its vibrant decor and Polynesian-inspired cocktails, this bar offers a refreshing change of pace.
Vibe: Fun and tropical, with a lively ambiance.
Must-Try: The Mai Tai, crafted with fresh juices and house-made syrups.
Good to Know: Pair your drink with their Asian fusion small plates.
The Capitol
Located in Downtown Bend, The Capitol is an underground bar that doubles as a live music venue. Known for its infused vodkas and creative cocktails, it’s a hit for locals seeking something unique.
Vibe: Edgy and vibrant with a cool, urban feel.
Must-Try: Infused Vodka Cocktails, like their Jalapeño Lime creation.
Good to Know: Check their schedule for live music events.
Portello Winecafe
For wine lovers, Portello Winecafe is a cozy neighborhood spot offering a curated selection of wines. It’s the perfect place to relax with friends or enjoy a quiet evening.
Vibe: Relaxed and intimate, with a European feel.
Must-Try: A flight of Oregon Pinot Noirs.
Good to Know: Their small plates pair beautifully with the wines.
Hideaway Tavern
The Hideaway Tavern is a local favorite for its laid-back vibe and hearty drinks. Known for its Bloody Marys, this spot is great for game day or a casual hangout.
Vibe: Sports bar meets neighborhood pub.
Must-Try: Their Signature Bloody Mary with all the fixings.
Good to Know: Plush couches and large TVs make it ideal for watching games.
Bend’s Bars as Community Hubs
Bend’s bar scene isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about fostering a sense of community. Many bars in Bend double as gathering places where locals and visitors connect over shared interests. Whether it’s trivia nights, live music, or charity events, these establishments bring people together in meaningful ways.
Why This Matters
Shared Experiences: Bars like McMenamins Old St. Francis School host events ranging from movie screenings to live performances, creating opportunities to mingle with the community.
Local Support: Bars often partner with local producers, featuring beers, spirits, and ingredients sourced from Central Oregon, which strengthens the local economy.
Inclusivity: Many of Bend’s bars, like Deschutes Brewery, are family-friendly during the day, welcoming patrons of all ages to enjoy their food and atmosphere.
Bend’s bars aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re spaces to create connections and lasting memories, all while supporting the local culture.
Best Daytime Bars in Bend
Day drinking in Bend is a delightful experience, especially with its sunny days and scenic views. Whether you’re unwinding after a morning hike or meeting friends for a casual drink, these bars are perfect for daytime outings:
Crux Fermentation Project
Located in a former transmission shop, Crux offers a relaxed setting with a large outdoor lawn perfect for soaking up the sun. Their rotating beer list features innovative brews and classics alike.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: Stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and a family-friendly vibe.
Must-Try: Cast Out IPA, a hoppy favorite.
Good to Know: Grab a spot during "Sundowner Hour," where you can enjoy discounted beers while watching the sunset.
Immersion Brewing
As Bend’s only “brew-it-yourself” facility, Immersion Brewing offers a hands-on beer experience alongside a full menu of craft brews and tasty eats.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: The outdoor patio is shaded and pet-friendly.
Must-Try: The Hot Blonde, a jalapeño-infused beer with a hint of heat.
Good to Know: Perfect for groups looking for a fun and interactive experience.
Silver Moon Brewing
One of Bend’s oldest breweries, Silver Moon Brewing combines a laid-back vibe with a stellar lineup of craft beers.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: The outdoor patio features live music during the day.
Must-Try: Mango Daze Pale Ale, a fruity and refreshing option.
Good to Know: They often have food trucks on-site to complement their beer offerings.
The Lot
This food truck pod and beer garden is a quintessential Bend experience. The Lot features a rotating selection of food trucks and a variety of local craft beers on tap.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: Plenty of outdoor seating with shade and heaters for year-round comfort.
Must-Try: Pair any beer with a dish from one of the trucks, like Thai noodles or tacos.
Good to Know: It’s a great spot to meet up with friends after an outdoor adventure.
Why Cocktail Bars in Bend Are Perfect for Your Weekend Plans
Bend’s cocktail bars offer the ideal mix of relaxation, creativity, and vibrant atmosphere, making them a fantastic choice for weekend outings. Whether you’re winding down after an adventurous hike or celebrating a special occasion, Bend’s bars cater to a range of preferences and occasions.
Creative Cocktails That Wow
Bend’s bartenders are masters of their craft, creating innovative drinks that rival big-city cocktail scenes. Whether it’s a classic Old Fashioned or a seasonal drink with locally sourced ingredients, every cocktail is a unique experience.
Local Ingredients: Many bars, like The Dogwood Cocktail Cabin, incorporate regional spirits and fresh produce into their drinks for a true taste of Oregon.
Signature Creations: Bars like Velvet and San Simon are known for their one-of-a-kind concoctions that you won’t find anywhere else.
More on Why Cocktail Bars in Bend are Great
Relaxed and Welcoming Atmosphere
Unlike the fast-paced nightlife of big cities, Bend’s cocktail bars exude a laid-back charm that’s perfect for unwinding.
Intimate Settings: Many bars, like The Stihl Whiskey Bar, provide cozy, intimate environments ideal for connecting with friends or enjoying a quiet drink.
Outdoor Options: Bars like Crux Fermentation Project and McMenamins Old St. Francis School offer outdoor spaces where you can sip your cocktail while enjoying Bend’s stunning views.
Weekend Events and Entertainment
Bend’s cocktail bars often feature live music, trivia nights, or special happy hour menus on the weekends, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.
Live Music: Venues like The Capitol frequently host live performances, making them a great choice for music lovers.
Seasonal Themes: Many bars craft weekend specials that highlight seasonal ingredients, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
A Perfect Pre-Dinner Stop
Many of Bend’s cocktail bars are conveniently located near top restaurants, making them an excellent choice for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night nightcap.
Plan a Route: Start with a cocktail at Velvet before heading to dinner at a nearby restaurant like Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails or Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats.
Stay for the Evening: With so many great options, it’s easy to make a full night out of Bend’s cocktail scene.
Bend’s cocktail bars combine creativity, charm, and community, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to elevate their weekend plans. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find that these bars embody the best of Bend’s laid-back yet vibrant spirit.