Painted Hills

Brewery Boom

Terminal Gravity Beers
Written by Oregon Media

Brewery Boom

oregon’s rugged country makes its mark in craft beer

The story of Prodigal Son Brewing lives up to its name. Tim Guenther started the brewery with two friends. All three of them had grown up together in Pendleton, moved away, then returned to follow their passion for craft beer. Opened in 2007, Prodigal Son was the first craft brewery in Pendleton. Since Prodigal Son opened, more craft breweries have cropped up in the region. Dragon’s Gate Brewery in Milton-Freewater is a farmhouse brewery that focuses on small-batch brews that use estate-grown hops and spring water tapped from a deep natural spring located beneath the brewery. In downtown Hermiston, stop at Hermiston Brewing Company for a sip of their delicious brews. Boardman boasts Ordnance Brewing, with a taproom for sampling their great beers. Burnt Field Brewing is nearby, offering tasty brick-oven baked pizzas alongside their brews.

oregon grain growers brand distillery

Two Pendleton natives moved back home to raise their family. They showcased their appreciation for homegrown products by using local grains to make distilled spirits.

hale’s restaurant

This laid-back pub in Hermiston offers an extensive selection of generous plates of classic all-American fare, with fresh-made cocktails and local craft brews on tap. Open all day!

delish bistro 

In Hermiston, Delish Bistro serves everything from teriyaki chicken to macaroni and cheese to crab burgers. The real treat is the housemade gelato served in a wafflecone. In the summer, eat on the charming outdoor patio.

plateau cheese

plateau

With sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and an upscale yet comfortable ambience, Plateau offers Northwest fare featuring the best cuts of meat and freshest ingredients. Upstairs in Wildhorse Casino, Plateau’s dining menu is accompanied by regional wines and cocktail creations.

UMAPINE CREAMERY

Brent and Yvonne Carrol, of Brevon Farm, have a long history in the dairy business. The cheese made from the milk of their cows can be purchased directly from Umapine Creamery.

Hamley's Steakhouse fine western dining

Opening in 2006, Hamley’s Steakhouse became a mainstay in downtown Pendleton. The Western-style restaurant is a step back in time with great food. Virgil’s at CIMMIYOTTI’S, also downtown, has been a Pendleton tradition since 1959. Famous for steaks, this iconic restaurant is most loved for impeccable food and legendary service.