After wandering around downtown one sunny afternoon, my friend and I found ourselves approaching Drake, a cozy restaurant with an upscale-diner aesthetic. It was about 4 o’clock, which coincided perfectly with Drake’s happy hour menu, and if there’s one thing I am always up for, it’s a good happy hour. We were promptly seated at a booth by a window and served a bag of complimentary gourmet popcorn, which was not too spicy, but instead had mild yet lively flavors. From there, we ordered our cocktails. My friend ordered The Bohemian, a beautiful beverage with gin, elderflower and grapefruit in an elegant glass, and I simply had to try the D-Town Crush, a drink that marries spiced rum, cranberry and ginger beer in one harmonious glass. Needless to say, we were extremely happy campers.
As for sustenance, we decided on an order of Drake’s signature Fried Pickles and the Artisan Cheese Plate. While these two dishes were quite different from each other in flavor, they were both rich and decadent in their own right. The pickles were crispy on the outside (thanks to the beer-batter) with the signature pickle-flavor that has made it the American staple it is today. The pickles were served with a tangy herbed yogurt dip, adding extra brightness to the dish. The Artisan Cheese Plate was especially delicious, served with an assortment of three different cheeses, dried cranberries, nuts and a warm loaf of Sparrow Bakery bread. This is the type of cheese platter that sets the standard for all others.
And besides the tasty snacks and beverages, the staff was incredibly warm and welcoming, giving us honest recommendations, being attentive and extremely conversational. From the upscale-retro décor to the delicious food and drink options to the friendly service, Drake is a great spot to relax with friends while being treated like family during the meal.
801 NW Wall Street
Bend, Oregon 97701
(541) 306-3366
Hours:
Monday-Thursday, 11 am-9:30 pm
Friday-Saturday, 11 am-10 pm
Sunday, 11 am-9 pm
Photo credit: Madeline Churm
