This week we’ve got a mix of savory specials, standout desserts, and a full lineup of weekend happenings (that include food and drink)—from tulip strolls to trail fundraisers. Plus a few new sips and seasonal favorites popping up around town.

Tonight’s special at Apple Valley BBQ (Parkdale) is house-made gnocchi with spinach and cherry tomatoes in a pesto Alfredo sauce—perfect as a vegetarian dish or topped with grilled chicken.

Now, let’s talk sweets (and a few can’t-miss happenings around the Gorge, including an Earth Day tie-in)…

Pixan Taqueria & Cantina (White Salmon) has a new dessert on the way: the Plantain Pot de Crème—a silky plantain custard layered with malted vanilla mousse, polvorón, and plantain brûlée. Rich, thoughtful, and worth keeping an eye out for.
Over at Solstice Wood Fired Pizza(Hood River), their Budino is back on the specials menu: salted caramel, house-made butterscotch pudding, candied pecans, and whipped cream.
And Riverside Restaurant (Hood River) is calling all chocolate lovers with two decadent options: a dark chocolate mousse with cherry compote and a triple chocolate cake with raspberry cream and dark chocolate ganache.

A few quick updates around Hood River…

Edeske Patisserie is back to being open five days a week (Thursday–Monday, 9 am–3 pm).
Thai Noodle Salad is back in rotation at Love and Hominy.
Full Sail Brewing’s Friday lunch special features grilled tandoori chicken and sweet potato curry. And new on tap: Off Trail Pale Ale 🚨—a bright, citrus-forward pale ale available as a pub exclusive.
Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen (Hood River) has rolled out a fresh lineup of spring drinks.

Looking ahead…

Packer Orchards is hosting a Sip, Savor, and Stroll through the tulips on April 17—expect light bites, two glasses of wine or beer, and a bundle of 10-cut tulips. Tickets are available online.

This Saturday, Grasslands Barbecue will be at the waterfront and at the Hood River Farmers Market(last winter market at the breezeway, 403 Portway Ave). Come hungry.
And mark your calendars—their 5-year Hootenanny celebration is coming up May 2.

On Sunday, head upstairs to Ferment Brewing (5–9 pm) for a fundraiser supporting HRATS. There will be live music, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and $1 from every pint after 5 pm will be donated to help maintain our local trail systems.

pFriem Family Brewers has a new Earth Day IPA—a crisp West Coast style where every sip supports river conservation and wild fish populations.
They’re also partnering with the Native Fish Society for a river cleanup on April 26.

Domaine Pouillon has something fresh and fizzy on the horizon—their 2025 Pét-Nat is nearly ready to debut (April 24).
Bistro hours are Thursday–Sunday, 11 am–6 pm.

Gorge Farmer Collective has welcomed a new farm, Hayshaker Farm. Look for dried peppers, chili powder, and fresh vegetables available online starting this week.
(And if you haven’t ordered yet, visit @gorgefarmercollective or www.gorgefarmers.com and use promo code HRE20 at checkout for 20% off your first order.)

And one more thing…

Mother’s Day is around the corner! Riverside Restaurant is offering a buffet from 9 am–7:30 pm on May 10, and reservations are going quickly. Call to reserve: 541.386.4410.

Thursday Tidbits

Hood River Eats