The Good Local Food

When you visit the Southern Oregon Coast, also known as "The Bay Area" here's what you need to know about where to eat. After all, we all have to eat!

There are many options for a town (I call it a town, because it's small to me) of only about 16,000. The quest is finding the right places. Hopefully, I've helped take out some of the guess work for you.



Sumin's Sushi & Oriental -298 S. Broadway, Downtown Coos Bay, serves great fresh authentic sushi which you can watch being prepared if you sit at the counter. Prices are fair and service is likewise. It's a little pinched for space, but overall a good flavor of food.


El Sol Mexican Restaurant - 63058 Hwy 101 - Just on the south side of Coos Bay - It's easy to miss, but it's worth finding. Heading south on 101 (Broadway) past cross street Johnson, over the small bridge, it's on the right. It's burnt orange in color. They have great Mexican cuisine that is prepared with traditional ethnicity. Combine a tasteful atmosphere with fast, friendly service. It's a win-win. Also fair in price.


Right next door to El Sol is The Stockpot. A total dive diner that is perfect for early morning breakfasts, or a classic American lunch. Don't let the appearance fool you, this place is always hoppin, with great food made from scratch and a Clam Chowder that is hard to beat. Only open 6 am until 2 daily.


For a fresher approach there is Sozo's Tea & Coffee House 1955 Union Ave. in North Bend. It's something that should make yourself feel a little bit of home if you are used to the original bay area or the many coffee houses of Seattle. It's definitely not as busy, but is a refreshing alternative to the usual small town assortment. They have a nice assortment of bakery items, but also offer a nice lunch that varies daily.



Cafe Mediterranean 1860 Union Ave. Just a block north of Sozo's, may be the most authentic cuisine you are able to enjoy while in the area. Open for lunch and dinner, enjoy authentic middle eastern entrees including the classic gyro, homemade lentil soup and a great variety on the dinner menu. Prices are accurate for what you are enjoying. They also sometimes host belly dancing & hookah nights.



Since 1981, The Pancake Mill Restaurant (& Pie Shop) has been an absolute destination for locals and visitors alike. It sits just across the street from The Mill Casino and Hotel and is open 6-3 daily. They have a great menu, fantastic pies made from scratch and also offer great gifts to remember the area. If you go on a weekend, be willing to wait, and expect to pay a little more than you may anticipate, but it is excellent food and amazing service.



A restaurant that many may overlook is Brickstones located within The Red Lion Hotel, Coos Bay. Chef Oscar has created a wonderful menu that ranges in options and price. Currently only open thru lunch, but you are still able to order thru Characters, the sports lounge, after the restaurant is no longer open. Inviting appetizers and some original entrees that wet your palette just to read their description.

The Coach House Restaurant & Lounge 604 6th Ave., Coos Bay (Eastside)
This one is a little tricky to find if you aren't familiar with the area. Use your GPS, or ask a local. An amazing bbq experience. The lustrous smokey scent that filters in as you first open the door is enough to make your mouth water. It also is one of the few that offers outside dining, when the weather is nice, of course. You can't go wrong with anything you may choose. Prices are moderate, but very well worth it. Be prepared to leave with left overs.
If you enjoy lounges, this is a local favorite, as well.

On the absolute opposite end of town, north of "the North Bend Bridge" situated with beautiful views is The Hilltop House. 93405 Willsey Ln., North Bend. Though reservations are recommended, this romantic destination is something you should experience at least once. Great food, good service, but a bit spendy. You won't find a better sunset for dinner, though.

If you have children, young children especially you should visit Outdoor-In, 305 S. 4th St., Coos Bay. Good, original pizza, subs, burgers that you can enjoy while your children are able to play in the indoor playground or the arcade area. Enjoy anything from Ice Cream to a beer in the "outdoor" inspired family restaurant.

Dave's Pizza, 1933 Newmark, North Bend also hosts fantastic pizza, pasta and sandwiches. They also have a nice salad bar and an arcade area. You'll be happy with any of their selections from their spaghetti to their Taco Pizza.

Roger's Zoo, 2037 Sherman Ave, North Bend is often overlooked by its somewhat questionable appearance, but don't be scared to go in and have great handmade pizza or a cal zone. Enjoy a beer with Roger himself and have good conversation with the neighbor to your right. A bit eccentric, but great fun and really good food.

For the taste of seafood, after all, you are on the coast! I have a few recommendations. First, if you are looking for Fish and Chips or a great bowl of chowder, I would say drive north to Winchester Bay and hit up Unger's Bay, Salmon Harbor Dr. on the docks. This unique floating restaurant has fantastic flavors and friendly service. Without a doubt worth the few extra minutes to get there, as everything is fresh and hand trimmed for the best flavor.

An colorful aquarium awaits you at Captains Choice Fish House, 3210 Virginia Ave, North Bend. This seafood family style restaurant offers a large menu with great choices for any taste, and fresh selections from local vendors. Fair priced, large portions and the kids have fun watching the fish while you eat.

In Charleston, the small unique village that sits humbly near the beaches, you'll find High Tide Cafe, 91124 Cape Arago Hwy. This 3 meal restaurant offers great food all day and fresh seafood that is a treat. You also can enjoy a little bit of culture with live music and great company. A favorite for locals and tourists alike.

There are plenty of choices to have a meal, these are just some of my personal favorites. I like to consider myself a connoisseur of tasteful food, as I have been many places and eaten many meals. This is, however an opinion, and should only be taken as so. I am open to comments, questions and suggestions. Until then, enjoy your meal!