Farm to Table and More
There are many reasons to visit the Rogue Valley,…
There are many reasons to visit the Rogue Valley, and food is just one of them. In Southern Oregon, you'll find numerous award-winning restaurants and many flavors. I've listed some of my favorite go-tos you shouldn't miss below.
Over the past few years, Southern Oregon's food scene has gotten a lot of attention. It's not uncommon to see new restaurants, cafes, and tasting rooms open every month, so you'll never run out of things to do. Since Fall 2021, there have been a lot of new openings and expansions of well-known businesses. When pandemic regulations were loosened, it reached a crescendo. There are endless possibilities when it comes to discovering new tastes.
As a foodie, I believe you need to appreciate the diversity of culinary experiences. To truly appreciate them, you have to know the culture behind them. The food reflects who we are: organic farmers, master cheesemakers, craft beer enthusiasts, and innovative chefs. Our food scene is filled with people like Lillie Belle Farms and Rogue Creamery, new microbreweries like Walkabout Brewing and Weekend Beer Company, cocktail bars, food trucks, and restaurants where farm-to-table cuisine and craft beer aren't buzzwords anymore. The gorgeous vistas and Instagram-worthy views make this region of the state a foodie's paradise.
Morning Sip
Wheelhouse Coffee | Grants Pass, OR - A fantastic coffee truck found at one of Southern Oregon's hottest spots, the Weekend Beer Company. They make all of their baked goods from scratch or source them locally. You'll be dreaming about their homemade Pop-tarts.
TAILHOLt COFFEE CO | ROGUE RIVER, OR - Found in the tiny town of Rogue River this shop is a welcome surprise with friendly baristas, fantastic coffee, and the coziest little space. Grab a guitar or jump on the organ if you please, it’s the perfect little spot to bring a book or work remotely.
HiTHER COFFEE & GOODS | Ashland, or - Enjoy fragrant and delicious coffee paired with fantastic food, locally sourced from farms in the area at Hither Coffee & Goods. Everything used in their kitchen is sold on their larder shelves, including natural wines.
FORAGE COFFEE COMPANY | Medford, OR - Forage Coffee Company has found a home in downtown Medford with its quirky social media presence. Their regular menu always includes a house-made milk alternative along with unique seasonal specials. There is also a small breakfast menu. the Pork Belly Sandwich is a must!
CERBERUS COFFEE CO. | Jacksonville, or - the cutest little hole-in-the-wall shop in the quaint town of Jacksonville, where they serve fair-trade espresso and coffee, as well as their house-made baked goods. Make sure to check out their seasonal menu where they always have something fun and unique to offer!
Breakfast or Brunch
lulu’s for the love of food | Grants Pass, or - A cute little bistro in downtown Grants Pass will have all of your breakfast favorites with a twist. You will love this little spot for a relaxing Sunday brunch!
over easy brunch | Medford, or - Since Over Easy opened their new spot in downtown Medford they have been killing it. Chef/Owner Braden Hitt takes brunch basics to a whole other level with a small but mighty menu that includes one of the most delicious omelets you will have ever put in your mouth.
MORNING GLORY | Ashland, or - Morning Glory had been an Ashland staple for breakfast and brunch for over 20 years. Their restaurant is an old cottage right across from the SOU campus giving you all the cozy feels.
Lunch and Dinner
decant | Medford, or - With the opening of DECANT, Medford adds fine dining to its growing roster of creative food and beverage that partner with local farms. The kitchen is led by Chef Todd Meyerhofer, who brings more than 20 years of experience at the Culinary Institute of America, St.Helena Greystone, and Copia Restaurant in Napa.
bar Juillet | Ashland, or - Those who enjoy Hither Market's inspired homey, comfort food may well enjoy their new restaurant, Bar Juillet ("zhoo-lay") on the Ashland plaza. With more than a decade of food industry experience in New York, Portland, and San Francisco, the Reimers have created a bustling restaurant serving rustic fare using local ingredients and offering craft cocktails and natural wines.
The twisted cork | Grants Pass, or - An oenophile's paradise, The Twisted Cork pairs fine Pacific Northwest wines with tempting American and Mediterranean fare. With 800 bottles in its cellar, The Twisted Cork offers not just Oregon, but Washington and California varieties as well. There are 16 wines available daily either by the glass or in flights, paired with tempting entrees.