Eat Like a Local: 3 Great Restaurants Near Downtown Bend, Oregon
Exploring Bend while at the festival? You’ll definitely work up an appetite between classes, new friendships, and sunshine-soaked adventures. Whether you’re craving something playful or something elevated, here are three great spots near downtown and the Old Mill District that consistently deliver good food and good vibes.
Lady Bird Cultural Society — Old Mill District
Classic + creative with a sense of occasion
Lady Bird feels like a celebration — handcrafted cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, oysters, seasonal small plates, and a warm, stylish atmosphere. It’s dinner that feels like a night out, but still totally relaxed. Grab a table indoors or on their beautiful patio overlooking the Old Mill.
A mix of vintage charm + elevated comfort: wood-fired pizzas, oysters, seasonal small plates, and creative cocktails. Fits a “treat-yourself” dinner after a full festival day.
Why Go: The lovely stroll along a paved portion of the Deschutes River Trail as it flows along the river — not to be missed, especially at sunset!
More Info here: ( https://www.ladybirdbend.com )
📍 375 SW Powerhouse Dr, Unit 130, Old Mill District
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails — Downtown Bend
Southern flavors meet PNW ingredients
Zydeco has been a local favorite for years — vibrant dishes, bold spices, and excellent cocktails. It’s the kind of place where everyone at the table finds something to love, whether you’re into steak, fresh seafood, or really good salads (seriously — the Gorgonzola salad is famous).
Why go: Outdoor dining on rooftop terrace and streetside
More info: (https://www.zydecokitchen.com )
📍 919 NW Bond St, Downtown Bend Open from 4:30 pm daily.
Dear Irene — Downtown Bend
Modern dining with a creative streak
A modern, curated dining experience — creative, seasonal menu + thoughtfully designed cocktails and ambiance. Perfect for date nights, celebration dinners, or anyone craving something special.
If you’re ready for a memorable meal to cap a soulful day at the yoga festival, Dear Irene is an excellent pick. Their menu rotates with the seasons, the cocktails are beautiful, and the space itself is gorgeous — stylish without feeling pretentious.
More info: https://www.dearirenebend.com )
📍 926 NW Brooks St, Downtown Bend
Pro tip: Make reservations!
Summer weekends in Bend are busy, and festival week will be no exception. If there’s a restaurant you know you want to visit, hop onto their website and book ahead.
This is just the beginning — Bend’s food scene is thriving in its own laid-back, Pacific-Northwest way. Stay tuned for our extended dining guide coming this spring, covering:
Breakfast + brunch near the festival
Local brews & late-night bites
Vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free friendly favorites
Grab-and-go eats between sessions
Your festival experience deserves deliciousness. Go explore — and bring your appetite. 🍽️🌞