For your next date night, why not mix it up with some fun date ideas? Whether looking to impress a new interest or going out with your loved one, we highly recommend considering one of these date nights in Bend, Oregon. From budget-friendly to fine dining, consider these fun and unique experiences when planning your next evening out.
1. The Hook & Plow
If you love happy hour, you’ll love a date night at The Hook & Plow. Located in the ever-evolving Westside Yard in Bend, The Hook & Plow offers an exceptional date night experience. Whether you’re seated at the lively bar or on the outdoor patio, the cozy yet elegant atmosphere sets the stage for romance.
However, its impressive happy hour truly sets The Hook & Plow apart. Mixologists concoct lively cocktails like the Huckleberry Mule and Lavender Gin Fizz, while the snack menu offers small plates such as Dungeness Crab Cakes and Ahi Poke Nachos.
From freshly shucked oysters and a raw bar menu to seafood paella, The Hook & Plow’s menu caters to taste buds seeking a burst of freshness and flavor.
2. Axe Throwing
If you want to mix it up, Unofficial Logging Co. will do the trick. This axe throwing and taphouse is not your average date night destination—it’s even better. With 18 rotating taps and a full kitchen, there’s more than hatchets and targets for your date night.
Reserve a cage at Unofficial Logging Co. and enjoy axe throwing by the hour while you eat and drink. First, place your food and beverage order. Then, get situated at your designated spot where a coach will walk you through some rules and safety precautions.
Here, the menu is casual and the beers are local. Grub on shrimp and hushpuppies, the ULCO cheeseburger, and fried pickle spears before polishing off the meal with a chocolate stout brownie. This unique date night in Bend, Oregon, will impress your new date or main squeeze—and guarantees a memorable afternoon or evening.
3. Spork
With a menu inspired by global street food, Spork offers unique flavors and dishes perfect for splitting. After all, what’s more romantic than sharing a meal? With its international and fusion cuisine, Spork provides a fun and interactive dining experience.
Spork stands as one of Bend’s longest-standing popular restaurants, making it a top choice for date night. Each dish showcases a fusion of culinary traditions, from creative tacos and vibrant salads to their famous Korean fried chicken.
The atmosphere is casual yet intimate, and the eclectic decor adds to its charm. Paired with imaginative cocktails, Spork provides a memorable backdrop for a romantic evening.
Even better, it’s a neighbor to frozen yogurt shop Cuppa Yo. After dinner and drinks at Spork, enjoy a cup of seasonal fro-yo and a variety of toppings just steps away.
4. Dear Irene
You’ll impress your beloved at this upscale Brooks Alley restaurant and cocktail bar. Every inch of Dear Irene has been touched by the vivacious and striking decor, from the vibrant marigold barstools to its lavish wallpaper (yes, even in the restrooms).
Dear Irene positions itself as one of the top date night destinations in Bend, and for good reason. Mixologists have curated a lively cocktail menu, while Chef Johnny Buckland brings his decades-long experience to the kitchen for seasonal and contemporary share plates.
Here, guests can expect a jovial evening out, as it caters only to 21+ patrons. Furthermore, the Downtown Bend date night spot is an exceptional destination for late-night Champagne, desserts, and signature drinks.
5. Cooking Classes in the Old Mill District
As the old saying goes, the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Impress with a romantic night learning to cook dishes together like handmade pasta and springtime risotto. Kara’s Kitchenware in the Old Mill doubles as a culinary and learning hub for those looking to discover new kitchen skills.
After cooking (and eating!) your meal in tandem, pop over to the Old Mill’s Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge for some fun post-dinner drinks. Sip on tropical cocktails inspired by the islands while overlooking the Deschutes River.
6. Mt. Bachelor Sunset Dinner at Pine Marten Lodge
What could be more romantic than enjoying dinner at the top of Mt. Bachelor as the sun sets over Central Oregon’s alpine landscape? Open from late June through early September, this summertime experience is a date night bucket list for anyone seeking a unique date night in Bend, Oregon.
Arrive at Mt. Bachelor and take a leisurely ski lift ride up to Pine Marten Lodge. From there, enjoy a drink at the bar and stroll along the wraparound balcony. Here, you can take in the views from 7,800 feet overlooking Central Oregon.
Mt. Bachelor Sunset Dinner serves a prix fixe dinner with an amuse bouche, starter plate, entree, and dessert. Whether mid-course or just arriving, grab your drink and loved one to watch the sunset from the outdoor veranda. If you’re lucky, you may just run into the ski resort’s avalanche dogs.
7. Rancher Butcher Chef
Bend’s Northwest Crossing steakhouse, Rancher Butcher Chef, offers a range of date night experiences. Meeting up with your newly-matched date? Swipe right on RBC’s bar, where guests can enjoy a casual chic evening with cocktails and share plates. The bar is first come, first served.
Celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a fancy evening out with your hunny? Snag a reservation and enjoy a leisurely dinner, from cocktails and starters to dry-aged steaks and housemade desserts.
For a performative date night experience, reserve seats at the chef’s counter. Feel the heat from the kitchen while dining with your date and watching chefs fire up steaks. During the warmer months, RBC opens its Grove patio for walk-ins and al fresco dining.
8. Bar Rio
The newly renovated cocktail and tapas bar invites guests to enjoy happy hour and late-night provisions in Downtown Bend. Still, Bar Rio isn’t your average bar or date night spot. The 21+ establishment offers small plates and drinks with Mexican, South American, and Mediterranean influences.
Serving up lively cocktails like their famous pineapple Mezcal and tequila-infused “chips and salsa” libation, Bar Rio offers an intimate yet relaxed setting for date nights any night of the week. And, when the girls need a night out, check out Ladies’ Night on Thursday evenings for drink specials.
Nibble on small plates like shrimp and mango ceviche, chicken shawarma tacos, and seafood paella. Whether searching for pre-dinner drinks, a nightcap, or dinnertime sipping and snacking, Bar Rio ensures a high-end date night feel without the high-end prices.
9. Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
If you’re dining to dazzle your date, book a table at Zydeco in Downtown Bend. This longstanding kitchen and bar has been a favorite among locals for years. Walking in, you’ll immediately notice the moody and sophisticated vibes trailing throughout the bar and dining rooms.
The menu melds Northwest cuisine with a Southern twist—a place where diners can expect dishes that are both comforting and upscale.
Unique and popular plates like BBQ shrimp and high-quality steaks, and the warmth of their service, leave a lasting impression on couples and dates.
After dinner, mosey over to the bar for a nightcap or head next door to Domaine Serene Wine Lounge for a glass of Pinot Noir or sparkling Rosé.
10. McMenamin’s Old St. Francis School
For a one-of-a-kind date in Bend, take your betrothed to the historic and eccentric McMenamin’s. Found in the old St. Francis Catholic School buildings near Downtown, McMenamin’s offers a range of unconventional date night experiences.
Start in the soaking pools, surrounded by lively blue tile walls and avant-garde designs, to unwind and relax. Later, venture to O’Kanes fireside courtyard pub and eatery. Grab a cocktail, some pub fare, and lounge in the heart of McMenamin’s (PS—cigar smoking is permitted in this area).
After dining, seek out the infamous Broom Closet—a hidden bar seemingly straight out of Hogwarts. Or, venture a few blocks over to Tin Pan Theatre and indulge in the arts. Cozy up watching indie films before wrapping up the evening with a nightcap at the bar next door, San Simón.
Ideas for a Date Night in Bend, Oregon
Here in Central Oregon, there’s no shortage of date night ideas. After checking one or more of these spots off your list, visit some other date night spots throughout Bend and beyond.
- 900 Wall: known for its incredible happy hour, cozy bar area, and elevated dishes.
- Pine Tavern: overlooking Mirror Pond, this rustic and historic tavern is the go-to for Irish Coffee, French onion soup, and steak frites.
- Five Fusion: Downtown Bend’s premier sushi bar with some of the most unique rolls and mocktails in town.
- Brickhouse: Redmond’s original steakhouse, serving up iconic steaks and incredible wine pours.
- Sen Thai Noodles & Hot Pot: an immersive experience with authentic hot pot, Thai dishes, and lavish cocktails.
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