The best inexpensive meal in Hood River is found in a casual little restaurant at 1210 13th St. Visitors to the Hood River Taqueria sink their teeth into authentic Jalisco Mexican cuisine at bargain prices.
The tacos - succulent corn tortillas stuffed with spiced chicken, beef, tongue, pork or even goat - are the signature dish of this delightfully Mexican cantina. A lightly-spiced, smoky sauce - along with lettuce and cheese - adds flavor and texture. A taco is $1.25 - $1.50 with guacamole - which is a screaming deal.
Jalisco in Hood River
The rest of The Taqueria's menu explores other classic Jalisco dishes, such as Bistec Encebolldo - steak steamed with butter, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers and lemon pepper.
Futbol - soccer to many - is usually playing on the two big televisions, and there is a big selection of Mexican beers, tequila and even bottled, sugar-cane Coca-Cola from Mexico.
Hood River Taqueria is open from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Visitors should not be surprised to see world-class windsurfers, kiteboarders or skiers at the next table - or local Mexican families.
Many Mexican families moved to the Hood River Valley years ago to work on the many pear, cherry and apple orchards, and they have enriched local culture - and restaurant offerings! The Taqueria is not a fancy place, but it is a slice of Jalisco in Oregon.
Locally Brewed Beer and New York Pizza
Hood River, about an hour's drive from Portland up Interstate 84 through the Columbia River Gorge, is known for microbrewery beer. The world-famous Full Sail Brewery at 506 Columbia St. serves up site-brewed beers and ales - and good Cuban sandwiches, burgers and hot wings.
Full Sail offers free tours each day from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and visitors learn how water, grain and hops are transformed into Full Sail IPA , Full Sail Pale Ale and other well-known brews.
Another, smaller brewery is building a strong reputation nearby. Double Mountain Brewery, at 8 4th St., is winning prizes - and customers - for wonderfully crafted beers and ales. Double Mountain also serves up crispy, authentic New York-style pizza.
Double Mountain starts hopping after windsurfers, kiteboarders, skiers, snowboarders and other hard-playing folks call it a day. Local families rub elbows with visitors over beer - soft drinks for the kids - and great, thin-slice pizza from a lava-hot brick oven. Large pizzas range from $14 to $18.
Fresh, All-Local Northwest Cusine
Celilo, at 16 Oak St., is more expensive than other spots in town, but grass-fed beef, local salmon, shellfish, and fresh produce from local farms gets added magic from talented, imaginative chefs.
Celilo's menu changes with the seasons. Every dish - from a tender hanger steak to grilled coho salmon riding on locally grown Dutch Gold potatoes to tarts made with local pears, apples, marionberries and cherries - is fresh, perfectly prepared and addictive.
Main courses range from $15 to $25, but the bar menu offers great deals, such as a local corn chowder for $6 in season. The wine list is crammed with Oregon and Washinton vintages.
The staff is friendly and knows food and wine. Sean, the bartender, is famous for his meticulous cocktails, ready smile and great service. Celilo is gaining a reputation as one of Oregon's top restaurants.
Eat Like a Hood River Local
Hood River is a world-famous windsurfing and kiteboarding destination, and the town jumps with skiers, snowboarders, mountain bikers, hikers and anglers throughout the year. Locals play hard and eat well at these restaurants, and visitors are always welcome!
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