The 10 Best Oregon State Foods and Drinks

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Today, we’re going to take a stroll down to the beautiful state of Oregon and learn about its fantastic cuisine. 

With its diverse landscapes ranging from the Pacific coastline to the Cascade Mountains, Oregon offers a wealth of natural resources that have inspired a rich culinary culture.

The state is renowned for its farm-to-table culture, where local farmers and fishers provide some of the freshest and most delicious ingredients. 

From wild-caught salmon to hand-picked berries, the Oregon state food is nothing short of amazing. 

The state is also home to a thriving wine industry, with numerous wineries producing world-class wines from locally grown grapes.

So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, try some of the delicious and unique Oregon state food.

Join us as we explore the rich culinary culture of Oregon and discover why it’s a foodie’s paradise!

The 10 Best Oregon State Foods and Drinks

Gardenburger (Veggie Burger)

Plant-based burgers have been a staple of health-conscious and environmentally friendly diets for more than 25 years, and their popularity isn’t going anywhere.

The Gardenburger was created in 1985 by Paul Wenner, a vegetarian restaurateur in Gresham, Oregon. 

Paul was inspired by the desire to create a tasty and nutritious alternative to meat-based burgers, and after much experimentation, the Gardenburger was born. 

The first Gardenburgers were sold in Paul’s restaurant and quickly gained a following among vegetarians and health-conscious consumers.

The secret to the Gardenburger’s success is its simple and wholesome ingredients. At the heart of every Gardenburger is a blend of mushrooms, brown rice, rolled oats, and a variety of vegetables, all of which are carefully selected for their flavor and nutrition.

The result is a burger packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition, and that’s a far cry from the past’s bland and mushy veggie burgers.

Another factor that has contributed to Gardenburger’s popularity is its versatility. These burgers can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried, and they’re perfect for all occasions, whether you’re grilling in the backyard or whipping up a quick meal in the kitchen. 

They can be served on a bun with all your favorite toppings or crumbled and added to your favorite recipes, such as chili or pasta sauce, for an extra boost of protein and flavor.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, a health-conscious consumer, or just someone who loves great-tasting Oregon food, the Gardenburger is sure to become your favorite Oregon state food. 

Marionberry Pie

This delectable dessert has been a staple of Pacific Northwest cuisine for decades, and it’s a must-try for anyone who loves pie.

Marionberries are a type of blackberry that are native to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. They’re named after Marion County, Oregon, where they were first developed as a hybrid of two blackberry species in the 1940s. 

Marionberries are known for their sweet and tangy flavor, and they’re a popular choice for pie-making because they hold their shape well and don’t turn to mush when baked.

Marionberry Pie is made by filling a flaky pie crust with a mixture of sweetened marionberries and a touch of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Afterward, the pie is baked until the filling bubbles and the crust becomes golden brown.

The result is a flavorful dessert and a beautiful, juicy filling held together by a tender and flaky crust.

In addition to its delicious flavor, Marionberry Pie has a rich history and cultural significance in the Pacific Northwest region.

It’s a staple of local cuisine, and it’s often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and other community events.

For many people in the Pacific Northwest, Marionberry Pie is a symbol of home, a reminder of the region’s agricultural heritage and must have Oregon state food.

Whether you’re a pie fan or just looking for a new dessert, Marionberry Pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. 

Tater Tots

This humble potato-based snack has been a staple of American and Oregon state food for over 60 years, and it’s a beloved treat for people of all ages.

Tater Tots were first created by the Oregon-based firm Ore-Ida, a potato processing company, in the 1950s. The story goes that the company was looking for a way to use up the leftover scraps of grated potatoes that were leftover from the production of their French fries. 

They mixed the scraps with some seasonings, formed them into small cylindrical shapes, and then fried them to crispy perfection. And just like that, Tater Tots were born.

Tater Tots combine grated potatoes with a blend of seasonings and then form the mixture into small cylindrical shapes. 

The tots are then fried until they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The result is a snack that’s crispy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor.

Tater Tots have become a staple of American cuisine because they’re versatile, convenient, and delicious. 

They can be enjoyed as a snack, served as a side dish with a meal, or even used as a topping for casseroles and other dishes. 

They’re a popular choice for kids’ lunches, late-night snacks, and for anyone who wants a satisfying snack that’s quick and easy to prepare!

Dungeness Crab

This delicious crustacean has been a staple of Pacific Northwest cuisine for generations and is known for its sweet and succulent meat.

Each year Oregon lands about 10 million pounds of Dungeness crab, which can be found from California to Alaska. 

Originally found along the Pacific coast of North America, Dungeness crabs are crabs that live in the ocean.

It’s named after Dungeness Spit, a sand spit on the Washington State Olympic Peninsula, one of the largest habitats for Dungeness Crab. 

The species is known for its sweet and delicate flavor, and it’s a popular choice for crab lovers because of its meaty claws and legs, which are packed with meat.

Dungeness Crab is typically harvested from November through June, and it’s one of the most commercially important crab species in the Pacific Northwest. 

The crab is often steamed or boiled, and it’s served with drawn butter or a variety of sauces, depending on the preparation.

In addition to its delicious flavor, Dungeness Crab has a rich cultural significance in the Pacific Northwest region. It’s a staple of Oregon foods, and it’s often served at special occasions and celebrations. 

For many people in the Pacific Northwest, Dungeness Crab is a symbol of the region’s seafood heritage, a reminder of the importance of sustainable fishing practices and a beloved Oregon state food.

Hazelnuts

These delicious nuts are one of the state’s most beloved and prized Oregon state food. Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are grown in abundance in the fertile, rolling hills of the Willamette Valley. 

With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Oregon produces over 99% of the United States hazelnuts and is one of the largest producers in the world.

Hazelnuts have a versatile, rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with sweet and savory dishes. They are a staple in many traditional Oregon foods and recipes, including cakes, cookies, and candies, adding a deliciously crunchy texture and nutty taste. 

Hazelnuts are also commonly used in savory dishes, such as pesto sauces and roasted meats, adding depth and richness to the flavor profile.

What’s great about Oregon hazelnuts is their versatility and health benefits. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, making them a healthy snack. 

They are also a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals such as iron and magnesium.

If you’re ever in Oregon, stop by one of the many hazelnut orchards for a tour and tasting. 

You can see how these delicious nuts are grown and harvested and sample some of the freshest hazelnuts you’ll ever taste. 

And, of course, don’t leave the state without trying some of the delicious hazelnut-based treats and products made by local artisans.

Tillamook Cheese

This creamy, rich cheese is a staple in households across Oregon and beyond, and for a good reason. Tillamook is a small coastal town in Oregon known for its high-quality dairy products, and cheese is its specialty.

Tillamook cheese is made from the milk of local dairy cows, which graze on lush, green pastures along the Oregon coast. 

The combination of the rich, creamy milk and the careful crafting techniques used by Tillamook’s cheesemakers results in a cheese that is unmatched in flavor and quality. 

From cheddar to Colby Jack, Tillamook offers a wide range of cheese varieties, each with its own unique taste and texture and it is a really beloved Oregon state food.

What sets Tillamook cheese apart from others is its commitment to using only the best, all-natural ingredients. 

The milk used to make their cheese is never treated with artificial hormones or preservatives, and the cheesemakers use traditional methods passed down from generation to generation. 

This results in a cheese that not only tastes amazing but is also a healthier option compared to many processed cheese products on the market.

If you’re a cheese lover, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory, located just outside of Tillamook. 

Here, you can tour the factory, learn about the cheese-making process, and sample some delicious cheeses. 

And don’t leave without picking up a block or two to take home with you – trust us, your taste buds will thank you for trying this Oregon state food!

Salt & Straw Ice Cream

Salt & Straw is a beloved ice cream shop that originated in Portland, Oregon, and has since expanded to multiple locations in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. 

With its unique and imaginative flavors, Salt & Straw has become a staple of the ice cream scene and a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

The story of Salt & Straw begins with cousins Kim and Tyler Malek, who grew up in the Pacific Northwest and had a passion for food and a love for their community. 

They opened their first ice cream shop in Portland in 2011, intending to create a neighborhood gathering place where people could enjoy fresh, locally-sourced ice cream.

Salt & Straw quickly became known for its one-of-a-kind flavors, which incorporate locally-sourced ingredients and often feature seasonal and unconventional ingredients. 

From classic favorites like chocolate and strawberry to bold, adventurous flavors like pear with bleu cheese and black olive brittle, Salt & Straw has something for everyone.

What sets Salt & Straw apart from other ice cream shops is its commitment to sustainability and community. 

In addition to sourcing its ingredients from local farmers, the company also partners with local artisans to create unique, small-batch flavors. 

They also give back to the community by supporting local non-profit organizations and sponsoring events that bring people together.

Another important aspect of Salt & Straw’s success is its commitment to quality. All of their ice creams are hand-crafted in small batches, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of ice cream makers. 

They use only the finest, freshest ingredients and never add preservatives or artificial flavors.

If you’re in the Pacific Northwest or visiting one of their locations, a trip to Salt & Straw is an absolute must. 

You’ll be able to try some of the most unique and delicious ice creams you’ve ever had, all while supporting local farmers and artisans and being part of a tight-knit community. 

So next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, head on over to Oregon’s best ice cream, Salt & Straw, for a scoop (or two!) of ice cream that’s good for you and the planet and let it become your favorite Oregon state food.

Craft Beer 

Ah, Oregon craft beer! It’s a topic near and dear to the hearts of many beer lovers. And for a good reason – the Beaver State has a rich and storied history when it comes to brewing delicious, hoppy, and flavorful beers. 

You’ll be fascinated by the fascinating story of how Oregon became a hub for some of the best beer in the world, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or just starting out.

It all started back in the 1980s when a handful of pioneers in the Pacific Northwest decided to take a chance on something new. 

They were inspired by the traditional European brewing methods but wanted to put their own spin on things, using locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques to create unique, flavorful beers that you couldn’t find anywhere else. 

This was the birth of the Oregon craft beer movement, which has been growing and evolving.

Today, there are over 250 craft breweries in Oregon, making it one of the most densely populated states in the country when it comes to independent beer makers. 

From Portland, which has been dubbed “Beervana” for its incredible selection of craft beer, to small towns and rural areas where local breweries are a staple of the community, there’s no shortage of places to find delicious, locally-made beer in Oregon.

The focus on quality and experimentation sets Oregon craft beer apart from the rest. As a result, the state is home to some of the country’s most innovative and adventurous brewers, who always push the boundaries of what’s possible in beer. 

Whether it’s experimenting with new hop varieties, barrel aging, or incorporating unusual ingredients like coffee, fruit, or even oysters, Oregon brewers are always pushing the envelope and coming up with new and exciting beers.

Of course, the key to making great beer is using high-quality ingredients. Oregon is home to some of the best hop-growing regions in the world, and many local brewers source their hops directly from local farmers. 

The state’s abundant clean water and fertile soil make it the perfect place to grow the grains and yeast needed to make great beer.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting for a few days, you owe it to yourself to explore Oregon’s incredible craft beer scene. 

From brewery tours and tastings to beer festivals and events, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the best of what Oregon offers. 

So raise a glass and toast to the rich history and exciting future of Oregon craft beer. It’s a delicious journey you won’t soon forget!

Pinot Noir

With its rich, complex flavor profile and undeniable elegance, this varietal has firmly established itself as one of the premier wines of the Pacific Northwest. 

But how did Oregon become a hub for some of the best Pinot Noir in the world? Let’s take a journey through the fascinating history of this beloved wine.

It all started in the 1960s when a few visionary winemakers set their sights on the Willamette Valley, a picturesque region located just south of Portland. 

With its cool, misty climate, rolling hills, and rich volcanic soils, they saw the potential to create something exceptional – a Pinot Noir that would rival the best wines of France’s Burgundy region.

Despite facing some skepticism and challenges along the way, these pioneers persevered, experimenting with different vineyard sites and winemaking techniques to find the perfect combination for Oregon Pinot Noir. 

And as it turned out, the cool, damp climate of the Willamette Valley was perfect for growing this finicky grape, producing wines with a distinctive balance of bright acidity, rich fruit flavors, and a velvety texture that set them apart from anything else on the market.

Today, Oregon Pinot Noir is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, with winemakers from the Willamette Valley and beyond continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible with this varietal. 

Whether you prefer a classic, Old World-style Pinot Noir or something bold and contemporary, you’re sure to find a bottle that’s just right for you in Oregon.

One of the great things about Oregon Pinot Noir is the incredible diversity of styles and flavor profiles that can be found here. 

From the bright, cherry-driven wines of the Dundee Hills to the earthy, spicy wines of the Eola-Amity Hills, there’s something for everyone when it comes to Pinot Noir from the Beaver State. 

And, of course, the best way to experience this incredible wine is to taste it for yourself! With so many wineries and tasting rooms to choose from, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample some of the best Pinot Noir in the world in Oregon.

So whether you’re a seasoned wine drinker or just starting to explore the world of Pinot Noir, be sure to put Oregon on your list of must-visit destinations. 

With its rich history, innovative winemakers, and stunning natural beauty, it’s a place that’s sure to leave a lasting impression – and a bottle of delicious wine to take home with you.

Voodoo Doughnuts

Who doesn’t love a good donut? But what about a donut that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning and truly one-of-a-kind? 

That’s where Oregon’s Voodoo Doughnuts comes in, a quirky and beloved institution that’s become synonymous with the Rose City’s quirky and creative spirit. 

But how did this humble little doughnut shop become such a beloved icon of the Pacific Northwest? Let’s take a look at the sweet and surprising story of Voodoo Doughnuts.

It all started in 2003 when co-founders Tres Shannon and Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson opened the first Voodoo Doughnuts in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood. 

From the very beginning, they set out to create something different – a doughnut shop that was equal parts fun, delicious, and a little bit off the wall. 

With its bold flavors, whimsical toppings, and eye-catching design, Voodoo Doughnuts quickly became a local sensation, attracting long lines of devoted fans from near and far.

Its unique, eclectic menu sets Voodoo Doughnuts apart from other doughnut shops. Whether you’re looking for a classic glazed doughnut, a creative specialty doughnut, or something truly over-the-top, you’ll find it here. 

With flavors like the “Maple Blazer Blunt” (a doughnut topped with maple frosting and crispy bacon), the “Voodoo Doll” (a raised yeast doughnut filled with raspberry jelly and topped with chocolate frosting and a pretzel stake), or the “Old Dirty Bastard” (a doughnut topped with chocolate frosting, Oreo cookies, and peanut butter), there’s something for everyone at Voodoo Doughnuts.

But what really makes this place special is its quirky, eclectic atmosphere. From the neon-lit storefront to the eclectic decor inside, every detail at Voodoo Doughnuts has been carefully considered to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience. 

And, of course, there’s the famous “Voodoo Room,” a private event space where you can enjoy a few drinks and some sweet treats with friends.

Despite its growing popularity, Voodoo Doughnuts has remained true to its roots as a fun, independent, and unapologetically quirky business.

 And as the company continues to expand, with locations across the United States and even overseas, it’s clear that the appeal of these delicious and delightful doughnuts shows no signs of waning.

So whether you’re a lifelong fan of Voodoo Doughnuts or you’re hearing about it for the first time, be sure to pay a visit to one of their locations and experience the magic for yourself. 

With its bold flavors, imaginative designs, and unique atmosphere, it’s a place that’s sure to leave a lasting impression – and a sugar high that you won’t soon forget!

FAQs: Oregon State Food

Are there any famous restaurants or food establishments in Oregon?

Yes, there are several famous restaurants and food establishments in Oregon, such as the James Beard Award-winning restaurant Le Pigeon in Portland and the Oregon Farm-to-Fork Restaurant Program.

What is the Oregon craft beer scene like?

Oregon has a thriving craft beer scene, with over 200 craft breweries located throughout the state. In addition, the state is known for its microbreweries and beer festivals, such as the Oregon Brewers Festival.

Are there any famous food events or festivals in Oregon?

There are several famous food events and festivals in Oregon, including the Oregon Brewers Festival, the Oregon Cheese Festival, and the Feast Portland Food & Drink Festival.

Conclusion: Oregon State Food

Well, folks, we’ve come to the end of our culinary tour of Oregon state food, and what a delicious journey it’s been! 

From the juicy, juicy marionberries to the hoppy, hoppy craft beers, from the rich and velvety Pinot Noirs to the sweet and quirky Voodoo Doughnuts, we’ve seen just how diverse and flavorful the food scene in the Beaver State can be.

But as much as we’ve explored the tastiest treats that Oregon has to offer, we’ve also seen how deeply the state’s food culture is tied to its people, history, and unique geography. 

From the small family farms that have been growing berries for generations to the passionate homebrewers who have transformed the craft beer scene, the food in this state is a true reflection of the people who make it.

So whether you’re a lifelong resident of the Beaver State or a newcomer just discovering the wonders of its food culture, we hope that you’ve enjoyed this little taste of what makes the Oregon state food scene so special. 

Whether you’re sipping on a cold brew, nibbling on a doughnut, or savoring a glass of Pinot Noir, we hope that you’ll appreciate the creativity, passion, and sense of community that goes into every bite and sip. So here’s to the food of Oregon – may it continue to delight and surprise us for many years to come!

Visiting other destinations in Oregon? Check out our other guides:

• The Best Places to Eat in Troutdale, Oregon
• 13 Best Things To Do In Sisters Oregon
• 10 Must-Try Portland Burger Restaurants
• The 10 Best Restaurants In Bend Oregon