What exactly is Northwest Cuisine? In Albany, people consider it foods that have been grown locally and prepared with techniques to bring out their natural flavor. In the Willamette Valley, nearly anything grows and the farmers enjoy trying new crops, new varieties and new flavors.
Driving through the countryside you can sample the fare at many roadside stands. Spend a delightful morning or afternoon taking in the region and use the Mid-Willamette Valley Food Trail as your guide to tasty stops throughout the area.
Farmers’ markets are plentiful in the valley and the Albany Saturday Farmers’ Market provides a variety of local produce, including a wide array of organic options, fresh baked bread, cut flowers and plants. They are open every Saturday from mid-April to mid-November. Oregon’s autumn bounty is upon us, so your options are abundant.
There are several restaurants that pride themselves in using locally sourced food to prepare their menus. Try one of these for a true taste of the Northwest.
SYBARIS, 442 First Ave SW, is an award-winning establishment described as both elegant and eclectic, featuring Northwest Cuisine. Matt Bennett has twice been nominated for Best Chef: Northwest by the James Beard Foundation. The gourmet menu changes each month featuring the finest local, seasonal ingredients.
CALAPOOIA BREWING CO., 140 Hill St NE, For some of the best micro-brewed beers in the valley, visit this unique pub which serves numerous locally brewed micro-beers, great hamburgers and sandwiches and VIVACITY SPIRITS, of course housed in the same location.
FRANKIE’S, 641 Hickory St. NW, starts with a serious dedication to locally grown farm fresh produce and meats and seasoning, adds a unique twist to old favorites and is a must-do for out-of-town guests. Take dinner to go or have a seat with comfortable indoor tables or patio dining.
SPRINGHILL CELLARS WINERY. Feast your eyes on the rural beauty surrounding Springhill’s perch atop a hill. The tasting room annex is part of a fully restored barn used for a variety of events—including Thanksgiving weekend’s annual Federweisser Festival. Picnic tables, fairy lights and a fire pit dot the grounds with views to the west and magnificent sunsets over the Coast Range. Tastings can be made by appointment or by visiting the winery May through December, Friday through Sunday, at 2920 NW Scenic Drive.
Historic Albany has without a doubt, some of the finest eateries in the Northwest!
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