Downtown Bend is constantly bustling with people looking for the best restaurants, top wine bars, and highly rated happy hours. But what many people don’t know is that a “secret” rooftop bar and dining experience is hiding in plain sight on Wall Street.
Parasol Bar, operated by Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails, offers a unique look at Downtown Bend from four floors up. The quaint courtyard patio has sweeping views of Bend and beyond, with the Cascades stealing the show.
Here’s the scoop: Parasol Bar takes no reservations, is only open two days a week, and—if it’s a smoky or rainy day—the bar is closed. Luckily, I was able to get in on a gorgeously sunny Bend afternoon to scope out the menu and the vibes, and I was impressed.
Parasol Bar menu
The best way to enjoy Parasol Bar is with a fantastically summery spritz or floral cocktail. They offer select signature drinks alongside the wine menu, which includes my favorite (for both taste and aesthetics), Tiddlywinks. Picture a large white wine glass filled with elderflower liqueur, grapefruit, and cava. It’s pure summer feels! Of course, you can still get wine and beer by the glass.
The food menu at Parasol Bar is the highlight reel of Zydeco’s menu. You’ll find small and share plates like the smoked trout dip, halibut ceviche, and (of course) the famous BBQ shrimp. On the lighter side, I’d opt to share the little gem Caesar or the citrusy beet salad with goat cheese. These two dishes make a great share plate!
Parasol Bar offers a handful of main dishes as featured on Zydeco’s dinner menu. You’ll find the shrimp and crawfish jambalaya (a Zydeco star), duck leg confit, and Carolina Gold rice grits “risotto” with Humboldt Fog, among a few others.
How to visit Parasol Bar
Now, to the most important piece of information—getting into Parasol Bar! Admittedly, it’s not always easy. They open twice a week, weather-permitting, with two to three table turnovers per evening. And, with only about 10 tables on the patio, getting a spot can be tricky.
Here’s how to get into Parasol Bar:
- Head to Zydeco on Wednesdays or Thursdays starting at 4:30 p.m.
- Visit the hostess stand to request a table at Parasol Bar.
- If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, the hostess will escort you to the private elevator and to the top of the building.
- If there are no tables, hang at Zydeco’s bar or patio for a cocktail and get on the waitlist.
Follow Zydeco on Instagram for updates, hours, and closures at Parasol Bar.
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