​Before diving into our usual tidbits of food and drink, we’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the heartbreak so many feel after the devastating fires in California. Our thoughts are with those who have lost so much. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to care for one another, especially in hard times.

Food has this incredible way of bringing comfort and connection, a way we can show love, even from afar. This week's tidbits begin with a quick shout-out for volunteerism, plus some love shown to the service industries.

Solstice's founder is in LA to donate time and skills to those in need. If you are wondering how to help, check out @sliceouthunger @wckitchen.

Also, at Solstice, the cauliflower small plate gets a January makeover starting this Friday. Wood-fired cauliflower, house-made salsa verde, smoked paprika-date chutney, and fresh pomegranate seeds. (Pictured above, photo credit: Solstice).​

Gander and Goose have Nurse Night every 3rd Thursday of the month. Join them to receive 15% off for all healthcare professionals.

Also, at Gander and Goose on Sunday, Jan 26th, get 15% off if you are a service industry professional!  See the full rundown on the Gram: https://www.instagram.com/_ganderandgoose_/

Idiots Grace Winery has opened back up after a winter break. They’re offering free tastings, and bottles are 20% off their listed price for these cold and quiet January days. Also, for the next two Sundays, January 19th and 26th at 12:30pm, Brian McCormick will present a few wines in the tasting room to talk about in their discussion: What We Talk About When We Talk About Wine.
 
Freebridge Brewing in the Dalles will have $5 glasses of wine and pints of beer (and NA beers as well) every Wednesday starting at 4 pm.
 
Save the date for February 4th! @drewmarquis from Grasslands BBQ will serve his delicious Goulash at Cork Wine Shop. To compliment this dish, Cork Hood River is putting together an amazing selection of wines from Hungary.

The Three Rivers Grill will open up for service on Friday, January 17th. 

The Hood River Farmer’s Market will be open this coming Saturday the 18th.

Tierra Del Lobos Winery's tasting room is back open and ready to serve you S’mores and mulled wine by the fire every Friday from 4-7pm. 

Do you have baking goals? Dani’s Kitchen Shop is now sharing baking expertise digitally through baking adventures online. The belief that food brings people together is behind the inspiration. What’s in store? Pretzels & Beer Cheese with Michelle, Valentine cookie decorating workshops, handmade pasta classes, St. Patrick’s Day cookie fun. Registration is open.

Thank you for following along!

We're brightening things up on these dark winter days with tidbits highlighting hot local specials for almost every day of the week, favorite wines to cozy up with, hours updates, and even a class to consider. Enjoy!
 
Kaile’a Coffee Co is back in Cascade Locks, and they have a new menu to go with the new year. Try the Keto Coffee, Toffee Shaken Espresso, PB Protein Shake, Protein Smoothie Bowl, and Avocado Toast! 
 
RiverTap in The Dalles has $10 Tuesdays starting at 5 pm: $10 Tacos and $10 Margaritas!
Dine-in only. 

Tuesdays are BOGO nights at Kickstand Coffee and Kitchen. Buy one “hand eater” or “entree” and get the second of equal or lesser value 1/2 off. 4 pm-close. 
 
Solstice Pizza will start offering Buy One Get One 1/2 off on ALL of its pizzas every Wednesday in January and February! This offer is available for both dine-in and take-out guests. Stay tuned for the discount code to receive this winter exclusive deal.

 Join Phelps Creek at their tasting room on Country Club Rd. for wine, jazz, and fondue tonight, Thursday, 5-7 pm. Join them every Thursday for All Jazz Considered.
 
Ferment Brewing has fresh new releases waiting for you to try. Sip on them in their cozy yurts on the deck. And don’t forget they are doing weekend brunch with zero-proof drink options too.
 
Have you tried Kirpa’s Indian Cuisine? Check out the menu and ordering platform on the website. They are located in the old White Buffalo building. 4040 Westcliff Drive.
 
Want to mix activity with sipping? Beginning January 25th, Hawkins Cellars is launching its first-ever Winter Wine School! The series will be held January through March. Learn more at Explore White Salmon.
 
Cathedral Ridge Winery is showcasing personal wine favorites from their team: 2019 Rock Star Red Reserve: A bold blend of Reserve Cabernet and Syrah with notes of strawberry, black currant, and leather. Dry, robust, and unforgettable. 2019 Barbera: From McKinley Springs, this wine offers vanilla, blackberry, and herb aromas with a juicy, balanced finish. 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon: Columbia Valley-sourced, with flavors of cedar, dried blueberry, and spice. Smooth, full-bodied, and versatile. 2019 Cabernet Merlot: A Bordeaux blend with blackberry, vanilla, and a silky finish.
 
Backwoods Brewing has new winter hours for their three locations. Join them for a beer and a bite soon! The Carson taproom is open Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am-8 pm, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, 8 am-8 pm. 
 
Crush Cider Café has new winter hours, plus food specials every weekend, hot cider, and Latin dancing every Wednesday. OPEN: Wed to Fri: 4-8 pm, Sat + Sun: 12-8 pm.

​Thank you for following along and have a wonderful week!

syncline (‘sin-klin) a trough of stratified rock in which the beds dip toward each other from either side.

Syncline Winery and Estate Vineyards are located in Lyle along the Columbia Gorge AVA’s eastern edge in southern Washington State. 

Directly west of the vineyards and winery is a massive 2,100-foot formation of columnar basalt cliffs rising into the surrounding Cascade mountain range out of the Columbia River. Locally known as the “Coyote Wall Syncline”, it is one of the Gorge’s most recognizable features from all directions.

This dramatic feature gives the winery its name. It is at this point that the rainy western Gorge transitions to the semi-arid eastern Washington desert.

Poppie and James met during the harvest of 1997 while working together in the cellar in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, where James had been winemaking since 1994. Shortly after, they fell madly in love and began plans for a new endeavor: a vineyard of their own.

Lured by the majestic wildness of the mountains and whitewater rivers, they relocated their home to the Columbia River Gorge. Their passion for Rhône and sparkling wines led them to explore the emerging potential of vineyards in Washington State.

Inspired by the early efforts of Rhône and Burgundy-style wines sampled from Washington vineyards, Syncline’s first vintage in 1999 consisted of 76 cases of Celilo Vineyard Pinot Noir from vines planted in 1973. They were part of the small group that founded the Columbia Gorge AVA in 2004.

They have built a strong reputation as a creative, limited- production, autonomous estate winery with a vision of creating world-class wines while maintaining biodynamic estate vineyards, green building practices, and innovative wine growing.

​With 19 acres of estate vineyards in the Columbia Gorge and winegrower partners in Red Mt, Yakima, and Horse Heaven Hills, production is kept under 5,000 cases annually to ensure intimacy with each barrel and vine.
 
Join them for tasting and bottle service in the gardens.
Walk-ins welcome!
Open Friday through Sunday, 12 – 5 pm
111 Balch Road, Lyle, Washington 98635
[email protected]
509.365.4361

It’s a New Year and a chance for a fresh new beginning, a perfect time to set new culinary intentions. Maybe that means planning to cook one new dish a month, prioritizing cooking with locally produced foods, eating local (or eating healthier), or trying a new method of planning meals and reducing food waste. Whatever your food-related intentions for 2025, here are some Thursday tidbits to kickstart the year.
 
Healthy Food and Energy Tip
​Not able to plan your lunch when things get busy? I am bad at it, too. When in doubt, have a smoothie. It has saved me many a workday when my brain starts becoming mush. There’s nothing easier than grabbing some veggies or fruit and throwing them into a blender with your favorite protein powder. You feel full and can get your fruit and vegetable servings in just one drink!

Where to Find Smoothie Fixins, or Buy One

• Remedy Juice Café has plenty of smoothie and juice options. Fend off winter bugs with their Harmony Juice–a great addition to your arsenal of crud-fighting weapons. Freshly juiced organic cucumber, celery, carrot, apple, parsley, jalapeño, garlic, and lemon juice. Don’t feel like drinking anything cold? No problem. They can steam it for you.
• The Hood River Farmer's Market is open this Saturday, 01/04, from 10-noon. Find your local produce here and much more. Shopping at the market supports local farmers and producers and allows valuable connections between them and consumers and neighbors.

 
Winter Libations

• Pixan Tacos has a new hot drink, the Manzana, crafted using their spiced cider and Puerto Rican rum. Mmmmmm....
• Full Sail Brewing has some new, refreshing non-alcoholic mocktails: Green Tea Not Toddy and Cranmary Fizz—and of course, their wide selection of award-winning craft brews, hard cider, kombucha, and local wines.
• Arome has featured a delicious and warm Drømme mocktail recipe, a great winter drink without the alcohol, but with all the flavor.

​
​Bringing It Back to Comfort Food (It’s Winter After All)

• Riverside Restaurant in the Best Western Hotel will continue their 2-for-1 pasta special Sunday-Thursday, and Tuesday night is wine night! Get ½ off a bottle of wine to go with your pasta special.
• Baseline Biscuits has healthier breakfast options if your New Year’s resolutions have you looking for them. But if not, they still have their delicious house-made gravy! Open 7 am to 2 pm, Thursday to Monday.
• Oregon Growers highlights their Strawberry Pinot Noir Jam, which goes well with a batch of vanilla bean panna cotta.
• Mount Hood BBQ is at Mt Hood Meadows serving up delicious and hearty dishes like the new Vegan Veggie Mix with Portabella Mushrooms and Jasmine Rice.

Thank you for following along!

Seasonal Treats & Baked Goods

• Petite Provence in The Dalles is having a Santa Bread and Yule Log sale! These are the ultimate holiday centerpieces, with decadent chocolate ganache or fruity raspberry-orange mousse rolled with white cake and dressed to impress. Pair a Santa Bread with a Yule Log and save $10. Find out more online.
• Edeske Patisserie has their own version of la bûche de Noël! Chocolate biscuit with a citrus syrup drizzle rolled up with yuzu cremeux and caramelized milk chocolate mousse, cuddling a center of yuzu and mandarin compôte. Glazed to shine. A perfect jewel for your dinner table.
• Pine Street Bakery has posted its Christmas Preorder menu. Rolls, Bundt cakes, Babka, and more are available. Pick up on Tuesday, 12/24, between 9 and noon, closing at noon for the holiday. Email orders to [email protected]. Feel free to include any other bread/pastry orders you may want to pick up that day.

 
Winter Drinks to Sip

• Kings & Daughters Brewery has launched the Praying Mantis–a Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout made with vanilla beans. find it online, and it's currently out for delivery in greater Portland. Due to the delicate nature of the beer, it is only offered for Hood River area delivery or local pickup. Use the code LOCALPICKUP.
• The Pines is having a Library wine sale Dec 20-22. A great gift for those with the most discerning tastes. Rare, delicious, and aged to perfection.  
• Sometimes, even when it’s cold outside, an iced latte hits the spot. Find them iced or hot at Kaile’a Coffee Co. They are located near the Mt Hood Railroad Depot for the season.
  ​

Entertaining Delights

• Celebrate the winter solstice with Skamania Lodge this Dec 21. Their outdoor celebration kicks off with a spectacular NASA Gorge Skies presentation by Les Hastings, enjoy festive food and drink and listen to music by Sunny Pach. Reservations required.
• Moby Coffee Roasters can help you with your breakfast catering needs over the holidays. Order ahead to get hand pies and coffee to go.
• Last chance ordering for the Holidays at these places:
  • Local Rhoots has tamales, lasagnas, cinnamon buns + more on the menu. The Order Deadline is Midnight on 12/19.
  • Put in your holiday order with White Salmon Baking Co. soon! The pick-up date is Monday the 23rd. They will remain closed through the 26th and will open back up on Friday the 27th.
  • Domaine Pouillon is serving the last dinner of the year this Friday! (and will resume dinner service in January). Belgian Endive salad, Duck and Andouille Cassoulet, Citrus Olive Oil Cake with Creme Anglaise. 
• Apple Valley BBQ is cooking up some delicious specials this week: 12/20-21 features Smoked Prime Rib, 12/22 Philly Cheesesteak with slice prime rib.
  
  

Foodie Gift Ideas

• Arome’s Cinnamon Pear is a great seasonal flavor for your holiday menu! Try it with our Walnut Specialty Oil for a warm & sweet salad dressing, drizzled over brie for dipping, or use it as a marinade for pork chops.
• Cathedral Ridge Winery’s Cheers To Chocolate Collection is just one of many gift-ready sets for wine lovers. 2018 Rusty Red Reserve (14.1% ABV): Bold, luscious, and a true favorite. 2020 Zinfandel Reserve (15.8% ABV): Warm, cozy, and full of jammy flavors. Arbor Hill Chocolate Cabernet Wine Sauce: A decadent touch for any dessert!
• Phelps Creek will have a Festival of the Last Minute on Sunday, Dec 22, 11 – 5. Sip some wine and check out local artist’s wares.
• Backwoods Brewing Stouts make a great pairing with Christmas desserts. The Stumbler, a barrel-aged Russian Imperial Stout, 12.5% ABV, is aged one year in Westward American Single Malt Whiskey barrels and features deep notes of chocolate, resin, charred oak, and vanilla.
• Everybody’s Brewing is having a Holiday Bundle sale. Bundles include a six-pack, a pint glass and a tee (or a hat). For details, visit their online store.
• Packer Orchards carries on the tradition of the Christmas Pickle! Find out more on Dec 21, 12-4. Take part in this fun all-ages holiday scavenger hunt while shopping for pies, select jams, or gift boxes, and picking out your produce and seasonal specials for the holidays. The last day of the season is Dec 22.
• Dani’s Kitchen Shop’s final cookie sale of the year happens Friday and Saturday, Dec. 20-21, 10 am - 2 pm. Fill a box of your choice of designs or buy individually. Other last-minute gifts will be available! 1545 Osprey Drive, Hood River, OR 97031

This Thursday, we hope you find:

• The time to enjoy some delightful dishes being served at Gorge area restaurants,
• Inspiration for your holiday meals or gatherings,
• And thoughtful food-related gift ideas.

 
Local flavor highlights:

• Brigham Fish Market Grilled Halibut with a side of Ceviche and chips!
  681 Wa Na Pa St, Cascade Locks, OR 97014
  
  
• Minty Matcha Magi’s Smoothie from Remedy Café is a refreshing way to fuel your holiday. Matcha powder, doTerra peppermint oil, avocado, spinach, okra, chia seeds, almond milk, vegan protein powder, banana, and ice.
  112 3rd St, Hood River, OR 97031
  
  
• Moroccan Beef Stew is on the winter menu at Solstice Wood Fire Pizza. Served with Highland beef from L77 Ranch, house-made mashed potatoes, and focaccia bread.
  501 Portway Ave, Hood River, OR 97031
  
  
• Speaking of Solstice, They are having a great gift card discount happening now. Buy a $50 gift card, get 10% off, buy $75 and get 15% off, or buy $100 to get 20% off. Use these codes at checkout on their website: GC_SOLSTICEGIFT10, GC_SOLSTICEGIFT15, or GC_SOLSTICEGIFT20.
  
  
• Speaking of gift cards, ‘tis the season to give one! Other food and drink establishments in the area offering holiday deals on gift cards include Ferment Brewing Company, Jacob Williams Winery, Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen, and Stave and Stone Wine Estates. 

 
Get your cookie on:

• Pine Street Bakery has made the most amazing Christmas shortbread cookies available right now! Handmade and decorated by their talented cookie fairy, Cadia. They are so beautiful, it’s hard to eat them. The flavor is just as good as they look. Buttery shortbread with sweet lemon icing. Boxed and ready for giving...or eating. 1103 12th St, Hood River, OR 97031

 
Or your berries on:

• Add some sweetness to your holiday gift-giving with these beautiful chocolate-dipped strawberries from Berries by Felice. They are also making custom-name chocolate bars! Perfect for stocking stuffers or surprise your coworkers with a chocolate bar with their name on it for the holidays. See the link to their holiday preorder form on Instagram. 
  212 Washington St, The Dalles, OR 97058.

 
Holiday food and drink paired with shopping opportunities:

• Cupcakes by Cyndi will be providing 300 mini cupcakes plus mixed packs of muffins and cupcakes for sale during The Dalles Sip and Shop on Saturday, Dec 14. Enjoy discounts and snacks, sips, and shopping. Also, Rustic Roots will be there selling Christmas goodie boxes, sourdough bread, and bagels. 116 E 2nd St., The Dalles, OR 97058

• Cork Wine Shop is having a Cork Holiday with Analemma wines Friday, Dec 20. Annalemma will pour their beautiful, estate-grown, biodynamically farmed wines. 1106 12th St, Hood River, OR 97031
• East Fork Baking Co will offer baked donuts, granola, cookies, and more for everyone who comes to Doug’s Hood River for their Holiday Bazaar (Dec 12th at 5 pm). They will also join Moby Coffee Roasters on the 14th from 8-11 am for the 2nd annual kids holiday craft market.
• Don’t miss Draper Girls Country Farm’s small-batch handmade apple cider in many great flavors. Enjoy some hot apple cider while you shop for many tasty gifts for the foodie in your life. Open daily 10-4, 6200 HWY 35 Mount Hood Parkdale, OR 97041.

 
Shout out:
Celilo made 100 lbs of lasagna–a donation for the Mosier school fundraiser. Made with house-recipe fresh pasta and lots of love. Thank you, Celilo!
16 Oak St, Hood River, OR 97031
 
Holiday catering idea:
Soth Kitchen has a winter catering menu for your holiday catering needs. Menu items include Lumpia, Kale Ceasar, and Filipino Street BBQ skewers.
Call/text at 858-254-0781, Email us at [email protected]
2882 Van Horn Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
 
Celebrating brews:
Volcanic Bottle Shoppe will host the 2nd annual Columbia Gorge Brewers Holiday Revel presented by Kings & Daughters Brewery, on Thursday, Dec 19th. All the Gorge breweries come together to celebrate the local beer community. Mingle with the people who are usually behind the scenes and enjoy their tasty seasonal creations! 
1410 12th St, Hood River, OR 97031

Thank you for following along!

Wines Made with Intention & Soul
Our Mother & Daughter team of winemakers focus on vintage and terroir, all beholden to an exploration of uniqueness.
 
Family Owned and Operated
Named after the the head winemaker’s children, AniChe Cellars has been powered by the hard work of friends and family.

​Rediscovering wine since 2009
Rachael made her first experimental vintage in 2008, having embarked on an adventure midlife, with a whispered dream and mason jar of change to fund her new project and ancient passion. The real adventure began in 2009 with a commercial license, tiny equipment and family and friends poised with 5 gallon buckets and fun loving energy. AniChe has grown over the years, but the adventure is still fresh and ongoing in a discovery of wines and family and friends.

Meet our Winemakers
Rachael Horn
Founder / Head Winemaker WSET 3 Certified, WSU V&E Graduate
 
Anaïs Mera
Winemaker / Heir / Operations WSET 3 Certified & WSU, V&E Graduate
​
​Our Mission
As part of our ethos, we strive to bring wine that is not only artisan in quality, but true to the ideology of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love. Our mission trancends wine, as we dive into our community with open hearts and compassion.
 
Come for a taste
Find us on our tiny mountain and enjoy some of the best wines the Columbia Gorge offers.
 
71 Little Buck Creek Rd, Underwood, WA 98651 Open Weds-Sun 12-6pm (last tasting 5pm). 
​
A wine club worth traveling for
If you feel at home in our tiny abode, then our wine club is for you! With bustling pick up parties, industry leading discounts and free wine tasting for you and friends.

This week’s Thursday Tidbits highlights local holiday specials, discounts, and upcoming weekend markets. The holidays are here (and so is ski season)! Enjoy!

With @mthoodmeadows open, businesses are celebrating ski season with food and drink discounts around town. Here are a few:
 

• Sixth Street Bistro wants to know, did you go to the mountain? If you did, enjoy a half-price appetizer with an entree purchase. Only valid for dine-in.

• “Flash your Pass” deals! Get 10% off when you flash your 24-25 season pass or snow park pass at these fine establishments: Full Sail Brewing, Stave and Stone Winery, Grateful Vineyard, and Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen.

Here's a glimpse of businesses taking holiday meal preorders: 

• Grasslands Barbeque: Cajun Christmas Pre-Orders are live on the website! Whole Briskets, Gumbo, Étoufée, Brisket Boudin Sausages…All food will be frozen with simple instructions to reheat at home. Pick-up only on Sat, Dec 14, at the food truck here in Hood River.

• Time to pre-order tamales for the holidays from Local Rhoots. The pre-order window closes on Dec 19th. Pick-up or delivery Dec 23rd.
  
• Boda's Kitchen is taking orders for your holiday feast and it’s coming up fast! Orders are due on the 17th. Stop by to grab an order form.

Winter specials to tempt your tastebuds include these yummy insights:

• Thunder Island Brewing began weekly specials this week. The kitchen crew will be flexing their creativity with a new dish weekly.⁠ Their first special is from Chef Dan called Char Siu Silog. This dish combines his Chinese background using our popular Char Siu Pork and a Filipino-style breakfast called Silog (SEE-LOG) which is garlic rice, cucumber, tomato, and a sunny-side-up egg.

• Egg River Café has brand new dinner items. View the full menu on their website!
  
• 10 Speed Coffee Bar: Holiday coffee/tea drink specials are here with some fan favorites. Stop by for a cup of holiday cheer to warm you up on these cold winter days! 
• Love and Hominy has a new drink to try! Warm up with the Cider Toddy!
  

Markets this weekend:

• Hood River Farmer’s Market will be at its winter location 10am - 12pm, 403 Portway Ave, this Saturday. This week they’re welcoming (back) vendors like @heathersflowerfarm @thefarmerinodell @gorgegreens_ and @sakura_ridge/ @nashi_orchards. Find them at the market on 12/7!

• McCurdy Farms will be pressing pears for their 2025 Perry this coming weekend 12-7/8-2024 and will have the cidery open from 10 am to 3 pm so that you can purchase hard cider & Perry for the upcoming holidays.
• Sunshine Mill Winery in The Dalles is hosting their Winter Warmer Holiday Market this Saturday, Dec 7. They will be selling wine, warm mulled wine, sangria, beer from @freebridgebrewing, cider from @workinghandsbeer, and serving tamales from @magicjuices_ and Pizza from @pizzathegathering. Downtown The Dalles store fronts will be under one roof for all your shopping needs while you sip on mulled wine. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole from 1pm-6pm and The Grinch will be visiting from Whoville from 1pm-4pm!
  
• The Dalles Workshop will celebrate its fifth anniversary this Saturday, December 7th from 10-4.  Enjoy a delicious bagel with all the fixings from @rustic_roots_baking, sip on a mimosas or mock-tail, grab a coffee from @thedallescoffeeshop, indulge in a sweet treat by @cupcakesbycyndi, and get creative with ornament decorating! 
  

PLUS!

• Today marks the grand opening of The Sweet Spot, a brand-new candy store located in the former Darling Boutique space. After three months of hard work transforming the space into a delightful candy haven, they’re ready to welcome the community! Stop by today, December 5th, to check out their sweet offerings and say hello to the team. 104 Oak St, Hood River.
• The Annual Community Holiday Tree Lighting and Street Festival is this Friday evening! Visit downtown Hood River for an evening of lights, music, food and shopping! Suspected tree lighting may occur between 5:45-6:15 pm. Go to the Visit Hood River website for more info.

Thank you for following along! Be sure to use the hashtag #hoodrivereats in your posts. We hope this season brings you moments of magic and delicious holiday flavors! 

By Registered Dietitian Sarah Harper

​Savor the sweetness of the season with these chocolate chip marshmallow cookies, a mouthful of gooey, chewy perfection.

Start with your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough, either homemade or store-bought, and fold in fluffy marshmallows for an added layer of sweetness. The marshmallows melt as they bake, creating pockets of gooeyness that perfectly complement the rich chocolate chips.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or a fun baking activity with kids, these cookies bring joy wherever they're shared. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven at home, paired with a cold glass of milk or a cozy mug of hot cocoa for a little moment of holiday magic.

Chocolate Chip & Marshmallow Cookies
Servings: About 16 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
Cook Time: 9–11 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Ingredients:
1 stick salted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
16 marshmallows (regular sized)

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Beat in the egg and vanilla.
3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined, then fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Chill Dough: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Shape Cookies: Scoop a rounded tablespoon of dough, flatten it in your palm, place a marshmallow in the center, and wrap the dough around it, exposing some marshmallows. Arrange on baking sheets, spacing each cookie 2 inches apart.
6. Bake and Cool: Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are golden. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the abundance that surrounds us here in the Columbia Gorge. From our incredible orchards along the Fruit Loop to local farms, wineries, bakeries, and restaurants, our community is rich with flavors worth celebrating. This year, we give thanks not just for the food on our plates but for the people and places that do the work to make it possible, celebrating and supporting the people who grow, harvest, and craft the foods we love. We wish you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, connection, and delicious eats!
 
Enjoy these Turkey Day tidbits:

• Local Rhoots has been busy prepping not only for you – their paid customers, but also they’ve prepped, cooked, and packed 300 single-serving meals to the Indigenous community in the Gorge. On Thanksgiving, they’ll bring 26 dinners to the warming shelter in Hood River. Your support not only puts dinner on your table without the stress of shopping, prepping, or cooking, but also helps them put dinner on the table of someone in need in your community.  Facebook, Insta.
• Volcanic Bottle Shoppe is working with Hood River County Christmas Project to bring some sweet joy to families at Christmas. You can help by bringing in donations of pancake mix and syrup when you come in for beer! Help us spread some Christmas cheer this year! Facebook. Insta.
• Bridgeside Dining is welcoming the holiday season with delicious seasonal desserts. Whole pies and individual slices are available. Or check out their holiday cookie decorating kits, and a cookie decorating evening on Dec 6 from 4pm-6pm! They are also accepting whole pie pre-orders for the holidays. Place orders five days before pick-up and choose from cherry, apple, or marionberry pies for $20, pumpkin or pecan pies $23, and Cheesecake $26. Order at the restaurant or call 541-374-8477. Instagram. Facebook.
• Lake Taco will host a Christmas Posada on December 6th in which a percentage of sales that day will help support local families through the Hood River County Christmas Project. Free tamales, champurrado, hot cocoa and piñatas for all the children that attend, starting at 5pm. Follow on the Gram. 
• Skamania Lodge has discounted rates Sunday-Thursday from November through January! Enjoy 20% off in our Cascade Dining Room plus River Rock Lounge (holiday blackout dates do apply). Join them for the Gingerbread House Workshop on Saturdays starting November 30th - December 21st, and December 24th, to decorate your gingerbread house with tasty frosting and unlimited candy buffet trips. Insta, Facebook.
• Pre-order your cookies for the Christmas Holiday through Dani’s Kitchen Shop’s website before Dec 1st, when they switch their focus to baking! They’ll be open for in-person shopping on Fridays and Saturdays in December - first come, first serve. Follow on the Gram, on fb.
• Votum Restaurant shared a beautiful image of their Hachiya Persimmon Pâte de Fruits.
  From Votum: The Pâte de Fruits are a part of our candy service–the tasting menu's denouement. It is fun to play with a diner's expectations. It is also fun to give people candy. Happy Thanksgiving. Follow on the Gram.
• Leave the turkey leftovers behind and come to Backwoods Brewing Company on Black Friday! They're releasing Boozy Woozy, a barrel aged take on the Comfy Womfy, plus get 10% off all gear. Check out the local vendor mart at Backwoods in the Gorge, where they'll have a "totally bomb" Bacon Jam Burger on special. A portion of proceeds from the Comfy Womfy, Boozy Woozy, and the Bacon Jam Burger in Carson benefit the Backwoods Foundation which provides weekend meal packages for kids in need. Follow on Instagram or on Facebook.
• Stop by Pearls Place Fruit this weekend, open Friday 12-5, Sat/Sun 10-5, and Mon 12-5 for egg nog, cider, fruit, and gifts for the holidays. Stop number one on the Hood River Fruit Loop. Follow on Facebook, on Insta.

Festivities are plentiful this time of year and so is the food! As we come together to enjoy all the delights that make the holidays special, it’s also a time to reflect on how we can extend that joy to others.

A chance to give:
That’s why we start this Thursday Tidbits with information about  Fish Food Bank’s turkey and ham drive happening right now. Together, we can help them bring joy and nourishment to our food-insecure friends and neighbors. Donate on the FISH website, provide a turkey for one family, enough ham for four families, or turkey for eight families. Click here to learn more. And thank you in advance for giving!
 
Last chance orders:
Get your orders in for Thanksgiving desserts, pies and sides. The last day to order at these locations is:

• Local Rhoots: Nov 21, Pickup or delivery Wed Nov 27.
• Edeske Patisserie: Nov 24, pickup on Nov 28, Thanksgiving Day, 10 am to 1 pm.
• Packer Orchards: Nov 24, Pickup Nov 27, 12-6 pm.
• Pine Street Bakery: Nov 23, paid in full.
• Bette’s Place Restaurant: Nov 25.
• White Salmon Baking Co: Nov 23.

 
Another option for Thanksgiving: Add a taste of Italy to your feast!

• Bring Italy to your Thanksgiving table with a delicious Italian dish from PESCO. They’ll be open on Thanksgiving, and are still taking T-day preorders for anything on their current menu. Find them at 108 OR-35, Hood River. Preorders must be in by 11/25. Hours 1130-7.

 
Hosting family?

• Oregon Growers Sides’giving is a holiday in itself, and your friends at @oregongrowers are here to help you celebrate. Fruit Pâtés are 10% off online, 11/17 to 11/24. Create amazing apps, breakfasts, and more with free and exclusive recipes available by joining their club online. Try their Sour Cherry Fruit Pate atop Mini Dutch Baby Pancakes!
  

 
The Mountain is open!

• Solera will now be open at noon every day except Wednesdays year-round! Come visit us for lunch or for your Après-ski Beers and Grub.
• Mount Hood BBQ will move up to the HRM lot at Mount Hood Meadows for the ski season. Stop by the truck for some mouthwatering BBQ to fuel your day on the slopes or recharge apres-ski.

 
And other yummy tidbits:

• COR Cellars is offering library wines available for sale on Saturday, Nov. 30th just in time to deck your table and treat your loved ones, These are limited wines and we are cracking a few open to taste to bring in the holiday season
• Book your holiday party at Feast Market! We host events big and small with tasting menus, buffets, party platters, and more. Give us a call for details! 
• Don’t miss breakfast happy hour at The Riv Cafe in The Dalles! Monday-Friday from 8 am-10 am, all drinks are buy one, get one 50% off! Offer lasts until the end of the year.
• Ferment Brewing Brunch is back! Served weekends 10-noon. Also, the Ferment Beer Hall has a private event space ready to welcome your holiday gathering, rehearsal dinner, reception, or daytime office meeting. Available 7 days a week, 9-9. Inquire at: [email protected].

Sip into the season and explore these irresistible wine specials
Festive times call for festive measures, and luckily, local wineries are offering exclusive seasonal specials that make gifting (and sipping) even more memorable. Here’s what’s uncorking nearby:

• Riverside Hood River has a select list of wines on sale for half off, seven days a week til they're gone. Stop by to peruse the selection. 
• Phelps Creek has holiday wine packages in festive wrap with an exclusive Phelps Creek Coutale Sommelier corkscrew, plus personalized gift cards.
• The Pines Thanksgiving weekend sale starts the Friday after Thanksgiving beginning with the 40% off power hour at noon! Enjoy incredible deals through the weekend (11/29-12/2), plus blind wine tastings on Saturday.
• Stop by Syncline Winery’s Thanksgiving Open House on Saturday, Nov. 30, 12-5pm, for sips and pizza from Stovepipe Sourdough. Stock up for the holidays with their case sale and sparkling wine magnum release.
• Idiot’s Grace in Mosier is offering a special gift deal for Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 29 - Dec. 1): Buy two bottles in their tasting room to give as gifts and take 50% off a bottle for yourself. Any wine on the tasting flight is eligible.
• Marchesi Winery is roasting chestnuts and celebrating the release of their 2024 Novello. A seasonal Italian tradition of enjoying chestnuts and Novello at local markets and festivals has inspired Marchesi to do the same, roasting chestnuts each weekend until they're gone. Visit and enjoy these wonderful traditions with them!

​
Local wineries invite you to experience their best pours…
Explore White Salmon’s annual White Salmon Wine Walk this Saturday, Nov. 23, from 2-6 pm. Sip and stroll through the charming streets of downtown White Salmon, celebrating Gorge wines and artisan makers at the Holiday Artisan Market. Featured wines include:
​Aitia
Ananke Mead
Cascade Cliffs Winery
Clyzm
Domaine Pouillon
Estelbrook Farms & Vinyards
Jacob Williams Winery
Le Doubble Troubble Wine Co
Loop de Loop
Lushington Wines
Maryhill Winery
Melchemy Craft Mead
Poberaj Wines
Ridge of Wonders Wine
Savage Grace Wines
Willow Wine Cellar

Learn more about these wineries and their offerings here.
Cheers!

Tidbits this week include more Turkey-Day meal-planning options, date night and holiday gathering spots, operating-hours updates, and even holiday cookies. Enjoy!
​

• Grateful Vineyard is delighted to host your holiday gathering, and it’s time to book! Packages are available to suit an intimate gathering or to host everyone in your office.
• Packer Orchards is taking Thanksgiving pre-orders for tasty holiday pies, desserts, jams, sauces, and roasted holiday sides featuring farm-grown squash and other seasonal produce. Pre-order from now until Nov. 24. Pickup at Packer Orchards Nov 27, 12-6 pm. Visit the Holiday Table Tasting on Nov. 16-17 & 23-24 to sample the goods!
• Feast Market & Delicatessen in White Salmon has order forms at the ready, offering sides, birds, pies, and more to help make your Thanksgiving holiday a breeze. Stop by to pick up an order form or call to order soon!
• Local Rhoots is talking Turkey by offering to cook your whole Thanksgiving meal! Or, pick just the items that you don’t want to cook. Order deadline is Thursday, Nov. 21. Pickup or Delivery is Wednesday, Nov. 27.
• Cozy up to the firepit at Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen with a beverage off the new fall cocktail menu. Oaxacan Old Fashioned is served in your own personal smoking box! Batanga reposado tequila, cardamom simple & aztec bitters. They also have happy hour weekdays 4-6.
• Crush Cider Café announced there’s still time to pick up cider for your holiday get-togethers. Cans, bottles, and growlers are available to fill with any cider or beer from the taps. They'll be closed for Thanksgiving break from Nov. 26-30.
• Stonehedge Gardens is serving three-course date-nite dinners again! Tuesday-Friday $60. Includes fresh baked focaccia with balsamic dipping sauce, house salad, choice of portobello ravioli, spaghetti and meatballs, pork scallopini, crab cakes, and choice of chocolate torte or bread pudding for two. Oh, and of course, a glass of beer or wine.
• Sixth Street Bistro is Open Friday-Monday, 12-8, and is serving up hearty specials for the season. Check out their Pumpkin Cheesecake for dessert before it’s gone!
• Domaine Pouillon Wine Bistro will celebrate its One-Year Anniversary on November 16th. Open from 11 to 6, experience beautifully balanced wines and delicious food paired with an extraordinary lineup of talent and local artisans until 5 pm. 
• NYC Sub Shop announces their fall/winter hours. They’ll be slinging subs 10-6, seven days a week. And who can resist a hearty steak and cheese on these cooler days?
• Dani’s Kitchen Shop’s Christmas cookie pre-order is live on their website. They’ll also be open Fridays and Saturdays in December ahead of Christmas for in-person shopping.

We appreciate you following along! Be sure to use the hashtag #hoodrivereats when you post about your culinary adventures!

This week, we're highlighting helpful Thanksgiving planning tidbits and top menu updates:

• Getting ready for Thanksgiving? Let Boda’s Kitchen make it easy with their Thanksgiving 2024 Take & Bake Menu! Choose from delicious options like a Sage and Butter NW Natural Turkey, brined overnight and stuffed with fresh herbs and citrus, or a Turkey Roulade, butterflied and filled with savory herbs and dried fruits. Place your order by noon on November 20th! See more menu items and ordering info online.
• Pine Street Bakery is taking Thanksgiving Pre-orders for goodies like mouthwatering pies, rolls, and quickbread. The last day to order is Saturday, Nov 23rd.  Make sure your order is confirmed and paid for before then. 

• White Salmon Baking Company is taking orders for bread, baguettes, buns, pies, and other tasty desserts. Stop by to take a look at their menu. Orders must be placed by 3 pm on Saturday, Nov. 3rd.
• Golden Goods Vegan Sandwich and Bake Shop is taking orders for amazing Thanksgiving desserts, including pumpkin cheesecake, berry cheesecake, and apple miso pie. Stop by their shop at 111 Oak St, Hood River, OR. Open Thurs-Mon 9-3.

 
Discover delicious new autumn menu offerings local businesses are serving up to celebrate the season:

• Backwoods Brewing posted: Now that Halloween has passed, it is officially the best season of all: Pecan Pie Season! The Pecan Pie Porter is back, along with their pumpkin cheesecake, complete with a ginger snap cookie.
• Solstice Pizza is serving up Detroit-style pizza this Fall featuring Pepperoni, Sweet & Spicy + Ryan’s special every Wednesday & Thursday at the cafe, or Friday nights at the Common House! 
• Stave and Stone Wine Estates is having their Weekends-Only Fall Special Library Wine Flight. For $15.00, enjoy these luscious reds: 2017 Zinfandel, 2017 Cabernet, and the 2017 Quiver. They’re also dishing out their Fall favorite seasonal soup, back to make spirits bright, merry and warm. 
• Domaine Pouillon begins offering dinner on Fridays starting with this Friday, Nov. 8th. Make reservations early to ensure your seat at these fabulous meals! Chef Kelly Alexander will dazzle you with a prix-fixe menu set in the Bistro. The Menu for Nov 8th, 2024? Winter salad from @roobaloofarm with apple, bleu Auvergne, and walnuts, Coq au Vin with wild mushrooms, citrus olive oil cake with crème anglaise. Freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell will also be available. 
• Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa is hosting its Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet on Nov. 28. Seating times are 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, & 2 pm. 
• Riverside Hood River will host Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 28 from noon-7:30 pm. See the delectable delights online at riversidehoodriver.com/thanksgiving.
• Celebrate Thanksgiving at Cooper Spur for a mountain-inspired feast featuring delicious, locally sourced classics: Roast Turkey, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Traditional Stuffing, Roasted Veggies, and Pumpkin Pie. With three seating times, you’ll find the perfect fit for family and friends. Little ones under 6 eat free.

Celebrate Halloween with these delicious tidbits from spine-tingling sips to frightfully good treats. There’s something for every ghost and ghoul! 

• Have a safe and happy Halloween walking the streets of downtown Hood River where businesses will be out with their baskets of candy to lure trick-or-treaters from 4-7pm. 
• AniChe Cellars welcomes the darker half of the year starting this weekend with their spookiest wines--Three Witches, The Devil, and Goat Boy. Plus, taste the new release of Arachne—a gorgeous Nebbiolo from Klipsun Vineyard. Join them Friday to Sunday (Nov. 1-3) to sip wine and light a candle on the altar for your ancestors. A little treat for those in their spookiest costumes! 
• Pine Street Bakery will have spooktacular sourdough and fougasse this week. From Pine Street: It might be a frightful surprise! Mwahahahahaaa!! 

Pumpkin season continues even after the spookiness subsides, so here are tidbits from businesses happy to help you plan your Thanksgiving meal, stock your pantry, or enjoy comfort food with your favorite libation: 

• Starting November 1st, Farm Stand In The Gorge will have turkey sign-up sheets at both the Hood River and The Dalles locations. Don’t forget to stop by and sign up! 
• Gorge Grown Food Network’s Fill Your Pantry Market is coming up on Sunday 11/3. Bulk quantities of fall produce, meat, and storable food items will be available. 
• Mountain View Orchards still has pick-your-own apples and pears $1/pound. Get yours soon! Calling all cider lovers, they've also announced Bobby’s Crisp Cranberry Hard Cider is back for the autumn and holiday season.  
• McCurdy Farms’ last day this season will be November 2nd (Saturday). Be sure to stop by and check out their selection. They have d'Anjou and Bosc pears, Newtown Pippin, Granny Smith, and Golden Delicious apples.  
• Looking for more fresh produce options? Visit Cody Orchards Farm Stand/The Farmer in Odell for lots of choice squash varieties and other produce. Open Friday-Sunday 10-5.
• Draper Girls Country Store is packed with fall goodness including a variety of apples, squash, and everything you need for the season. Don’t miss their famous non-pasteurized cider, plus hard cider flavors on tap! It’s the perfect way to embrace fall at the farm.
• Domaine Pouillon’s 2021 Fleur de Lyle is an exceptional blend of Cabernet, Syrah, and Merlot. Swing by for a taste! Their Wine Bistro is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm.  
• Full Sail Brewing has brought back their house-made meatloaf special. Stuffed with bacon and smoked mozzarella and topped with a rich Bourbon Porter glaze, pair it with a pint of their smooth Nut Brown Ale for the ultimate comfort meal. Served with creamy Boursin cheese mashed potatoes and a fresh mixed green salad. Come by and dig in!
• Thunder Island Brewing's Winter 2024 Menu is here! They’ve rolled out new menu items and can't wait for you to give them a try.
• Feast on smoked meats at Grasslands Barbeque on Saturdays now through December 14th down at the waterfront. Stay tuned for their Thanksgiving preorder information which will include whole briskets and more, chilled and ready with super simple reheating instructions. Pick-up will be on Wednesday, 11/27.

 Whether you’re picking apples or enjoying local bites, there’s no shortage of delicious experiences waiting for you. Feel free to tag us in your posts using #HoodRiverEats .

•Foodies, don't miss out on Celilo Restaurant’s Saur Farming spinach salad. Roasted radishes, turnips, delicata squash, and burnt honey vinaigrette make it farm-fresh deliciousness!

• Goldengoodshr is turning two! This Friday from 5-8 PM, celebrate with special sandos, tasty bev's, and a dessert spread to satisfy every sweet tooth. Join the fun and good vibes!

• Kiyokawa Family Orchards’ famous apple tasting is back this weekend, October 19-20. For $10, enjoy apple tasting, free hay rides, and food from Pacos Tacos.

• AniChe Cellars hosts a fundraiser this weekend. Enjoy painting, wine, and stunning views. Includes guidance from Joy’s Art Studio, a complimentary glass of wine, and a grazing board. Join AniChe for a night of creativity and community support.


Cheers to these fantastic spots!

• Hood River Harvest Fest returns from October 11-13, featuring a mouthwatering selection of food vendors like Mount Hood BBQ, live music, and autumn activities. Get your tickets now! Address: Hood River Event Site - Portway Ave
• Everybody’s Brewing presents the Mountain Town Throwdown on October 12, transforming downtown White Salmon from 3-8 PM into a bustling hub of food and fun. Sample bites from local vendors while enjoying live music! Address: 177 East Jewett Boulevard White Salmon, WA 98672
• Join Gander & Goose on October 26 to celebrate their one-year anniversary! The festivities kick off at 6 PM with BBQ from Get Husum, followed by a costume contest at 7 PM and dancing to Orquestra Pacifico Tropical at 8 PM. Address: 216 E Jewett Blvd suite 1, White Salmon, WA 
• The Hallowine Walk on October 26, will feature an Animal Costume Contest, hosted by Upside Down Wine at 3 PM at their tasting room. Dress your pets for a chance to win prizes during this fun-filled afternoon of wine tasting! Address: 311 Oak St #2181, Hood River, OR
• Cork Hood River will feature pizza from Pine Street Bakery every Thursday night. Enjoy fresh, artisanal pizza paired with a great selection of wines! Address:  1106 12th Street Hood River, OR 

We appreciate you following along! Be sure to use the hashtag #hoodrivereats and check out our blog on the website for more tasty updates.

​By Registered Dietitian Sarah Harper

​This cozy autumnal recipe, ready in about an hour, transforms a can of pumpkin purée and cooked chestnuts into a rich, aromatic bisque. 

The buttery, slightly sweet chestnuts add a silky smoothness, delivering a velvety mouthfeel with every bite. Bay leaf, thyme, and sage contribute layers of savory and herbal notes. If you have the time, roasting your own sugar pumpkin, or even opting for butternut or acorn squash instead of canned pumpkin, can bring an extra layer of freshness and complexity to the recipe. 

This Pumpkin Bisque with Chestnuts recipe is an ideal addition to a festive meal or a light lunch on a cool autumn day. For additional texture and freshness garnish with roasted chestnuts, pepitas, and fresh parsley. A drizzle of coconut milk enhances the creaminess of the bisque. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping and savor every last drop.
​
Pumpkin Bisque with Chestnuts
​Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients
1 tbsp avocado oil
1 onion, diced
15 oz pumpkin puree (1 can - not pumpkin pie filling)
2 cups cooked chestnuts (roasted or pre-packaged cooked chestnuts)
4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
1 ½ tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1 dried bay leaf
1 tsp Kosher salt - more or less to taste
¼ tsp black pepper - more or less to taste
Optional: 15 oz coconut milk (1 can)

Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat oil in a pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add canned pumpkin and cooked chestnuts, stirring until warmed through.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings and Simmer
Pour in vegetable stock and add herbs and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Remove bay leaves. Blend the soup until smooth using a blender or immersion blender until smooth.

Step 5: Seasoning Adjustment
Return the blended soup to the pot and cook on low for 15 minutes. Option to add coconut milk if desired. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the Pumpkin Bisque into bowls. Garnish with a swirl of coconut cream, fresh herbs, or a dash of pepper if desired. Serve with crusty bread, a sandwich or a salad and enjoy!

​Sarah Harper is a Registered Dietitian, creator, and one of many eaters behind The Addy Bean. She is also an avid hiker, a registered yoga instructor, and a former nursing home dietitian. Based in Hood River, Oregon, Sarah lives with her husband Jacob, her dog Huey and her blog’s namesake – her cat Adeline.

​Get ready to dive into an exciting week filled with delicious happenings in the Gorge! 

This week, Pearls Place Fruit is fully embracing the fall season with new hours! Visit from Friday to Monday, 9-6, or Tuesday to Thursday, 11-5. Whether you order online for a quick pick-up or browse in-store, this spot is perfect for satisfying your autumn cravings.
1860 Hwy 35, Hood River OR 97031

Draper Girls Country Farm is kicking off U-Pick apple season this week with their Winter Banana Apples! These versatile apples are perfect for snacking, tossing into salads, pairing with nuts, or even using in desserts. You can pick your own from the orchard or grab some already picked in the Country Store, which is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. U-Pick hours run from 10 AM to 4 PM.
6200 HWY 35 Mount Hood Parkdale OR, 97041

October is packed with excitement at Upside Down Wine! Don’t miss the Suncadia Harvest Taste Tour on October 5th. Plus, live music on the 11th will set the perfect vibe, and the Halloween Wine Walk on the 26th is just around the corner. Great sips and good times are on the horizon!
205 E 1st St, Cle Elum, WA 98922 

Wilderton is making waves this week! Starting October 1st, their tasting room will be open Friday through Sunday from 12-6. 
407 Portway Ave, Hood River, OR 97031

Gander & Goose has an upgraded Happy Hour waiting for you this week! Swing by from Wednesday to Sunday, 4 to 5:30 PM, for fresh oysters and expertly crafted cocktails.
White Salmon, WA

Big news at Tierra de Lobos Winery! @mannyslonchera is serving up their delicious Mexican food at the winery, along with some tasty house specialties. 
201 Osprey Lane West, The Dalles, OR

Whether you’re picking apples or enjoying local bites, there’s no shortage of delicious experiences waiting for you. #HoodRiverEats

Enjoy the Salsiccia at Riverside Hood River, a beloved dish for over 20 years and a perfect comfort food for those crisp fall days!

The Hood River Harvest Fest is just around the corner, running October 11-13. Over 20 local vendors will showcase the valley's finest produce, including Pear Bloom Farm! Indulge in fresh apples, pears, and squash, or savor mouthwatering dishes from food trucks offering tacos, BBQ, and dairy-free soft serve!

Don’t miss the Siragusa Pear Salad at Solstice Pizza. This is a must-try, along with other pear dishes they serve which are sure to impress.

Dani’s Kitchen Shop is gearing up for October with fun classes and delightful cookie decorating events and pop-ups!

This fall, dive into the flavors of the Columbia Gorge at the first-ever Taste of the Gorge! Running through November, over 70 businesses from Vancouver to Goldendale invite you to explore local restaurants and shops like French’s Farm in Lyle!

​Enjoy your week and thanks for following along.

Don’t Miss These Awesome Events!

• Join Freebridge Brewing on September 21 from 11 AM to 9 PM for a fantastic Oktoberfest celebration! Enjoy German-style beers, Bavarian pretzels, and sausages from We’re the Wurst, plus games, contests, and collectible mugs.
Location: 710 E 2nd St, The Dalles, OR 97058

• Head to PFRIEMTOBERFEST on September 21 from 2 PM to 7 PM for a great mix of Bavarian games, music, and a special beer collaboration between Pfriem Family Brewers and Grasslands Barbecue. Indulge in steak tartare, sausages, and more.
Location: 650 Portway Ave, Hood River, OR 97031

• On September 28, enjoy a special brewery dinner hosted by Everybody’s Brewing at Mt. Hood Meadows. Relish locally-inspired dishes and craft brews while taking in breathtaking mountain views, curated by Chef Matthew Grimsley.
Location: 14040 Highway 35, Mt. Hood, OR

• Celebrate the harvest season with a farm-to-table feast at Mountain View Orchards on October 6. Chef Ben Stenn will prepare a delicious meal with local ingredients, and you can sip on local wines while supporting Gorge Grown.
Location: 6670 Trout Creek Ridge Rd, Mt. Hood, OR 97041

Which events are you excited about? Share your plans in the comments or tag your event photos with #hoodrivereats! 

​Check out this week’s food events! 
Thursday Tidbits 

Draper Girls Country Farm is the place to be this weekend for a harvest of pumpkins, squash, and gourds. Don't miss the chance to pick McIntosh and Tokyo Rose apples, as well as U-Cut dahlias. While their peach and pear u-pick season has ended, you can still purchase these fruits at their country store.
Address: 6200 HWY 35, Mount Hood Parkdale, OR 97041

Hood River U-Pick Organic reopens on September 13th, featuring Honeycrisp and Gala apples ready for picking. Enjoy harvesting apples and all the necessary gear provided.
Address: 4320 Royal Anne Dr, Hood River, OR 97031

Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon at COR Cellars! This Saturday, September 14, from 2 PM to 6 PM, join the COR Carnival for games, carnival treats, and new wine releases. Enjoy the hillside games, sample delicious carnival foods, and sip on the latest vintages from COR Cellars. No reservations needed!
Address: 151 Old Highway 8, Lyle, WA

This week, Hood Crest Winery is serving up a storm with their special pizzas! Try the Carnivore’s Delight or Foghorn Leghorn Out in the Berry Patch. Pair these with seasonal cocktails like the Bramble Patch and Siam Sunray for a true taste sensation. 
Address: 2291 Highway 35, Hood River, OR

Elevate your tomato dishes with Cascadia Creamery’s Sleeping Beauty cheese. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to fresh basil and garden tomatoes, this local cheese is a game-changer. 
Address: 1210 7th Street, The Dalles, OR

Don’t miss Freebridge Brewing’s Pasta Night every Wednesday. Enjoy delicious pasta dishes paired with their craft brews for the perfect midweek meal.
Address: 2300 W 2nd St, The Dalles, OR

Enjoy your culinary adventures! 

As fall settles in, Hood River is buzzing with exciting events and flavors. Dive into the details and discover what’s happening around town!

Thursday Tidbits

• Mushroom season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate one of the season’s finest forest-to-table ingredients: the chanterelle. This week, Riverside Hood River will begin showcasing dishes featuring these mushrooms, thanks to the expertise of local forager Colin. Diners who visit the restaurant and might be fortunate enough to enjoy a special dish highlighting these fall gems.

Address: 1000 Riverside Dr, Hood River, OR 97031.

• Oak Street will be transformed into a lively marketplace with a variety of foods and vendors on September 6th at the First Friday Latino event. There will be live music and by donating two non-perishable food items to the FISH Food Bank, attendees can enjoy a free mechanical bull ride.

Address: Oak Street, Hood River, OR 97031.

• Double Mountain Brewery’s Block Party on September 7th offers a fantastic way to kick off September. This event will feature an array of delicious food, live music, and games, making it a great way to embrace the start of the month with a festive atmosphere.

Address: 8 4th St, Hood River, OR 97031.

• While Dani’s Kitchen Shop takes a short break from pop-up events, fall flavors are still available through custom orders. Those interested in enjoying seasonal treats can reach out to Dani’s Kitchen Shop to place their orders and savor the tastes of autumn.

Address: 1234 Market St, Hood River, OR 97031.

• Freebridge Brewing’s Oktoberfest on September 21st promises an evening of hearty sausages, seasonal brews, and a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal event for anyone looking to enjoy a substantial feast and a festive celebration.

Address: 1615 2nd St, Hood River, OR 97031.

Thanks for following along! Please continue to tag Hood River Eats in your photos and use the hashtag #hoodrivereats on social media. ​

By Registered Dietitian Sarah Harper

If you enjoy banana bread, pumpkin bread, or zucchini bread, you’ll love the unique twist of acorn squash bread. Moist, tender, and mildly flavored acorn squash comes together harmoniously with cinnamon and vanilla to create a sophisticated twist on traditional quick bread.

This is a great recipe to celebrate the transition into fall. With just one bowl and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s equally delightful for breakfast or dessert. Bump up the flavor by adding a handful of chopped bittersweet chocolate, walnuts, or both!

I recommend serving this cozy bread warm with a pat of butter alongside your morning coffee or tea for a comforting start to the day. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent evening treat.


One-Bowl Acorn Squash Bread
Yield: One 8½-by-4½-inch loaf cake
Total Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Ingredients:1 acorn squash (about 2 cups pureed) 
½ cup/ 1 stick  unsalted melted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup greek yogurt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
​Step 1: Prepare Squash
Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. 

• Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
• Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (190°C). Cut the halves into smaller pieces to fit in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. 

Allow the acorn squash to cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh. In a large bowl, mash squash with a potato masher until smooth. Alternatively you can puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 8½-by-4½-inchloaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together approximately 2 cups of pureed squash, eggs, sugar, melted butter or oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined. 
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In the same bowl, sift in the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
Optional: Add a handful of chopped bittersweet chocolate or walnuts to the batter before baking for extra flavor and texture. 

​​Sarah Harper is a Registered Dietitian, creator, and one of many eaters behind The Addy Bean. She is also an avid hiker, a registered yoga instructor, and a former nursing home dietitian. Based in Hood River, Oregon, Sarah lives with her husband Jacob, her dog Huey and her blog’s namesake – her cat Adeline.