3 Best Restaurants in Mt. Hood, Oregon

"Serious food in a not-so-serious place" is the slogan of this casual roadhouse with a surprisingly sophisticated menu—it's been a locals' favorite since it opened back in the mid-'90s. For a joint many miles from the coast, the 'Vous sure does a nice job with seafood, turning out appetizing plates of sautéed shrimp, Willapa Bay oysters, Dungeness crab, and sake-glazed wild salmon. Steaks, burgers, and salads round out the menu. Grab a seat on the leafy patio in warm weather. In the adjacent taproom, ask about the seasonal, house-infused spirits, including vodkas and gins.

Vaulted wooden beams and a wood-plank floor, handcrafted furniture, handwoven drapes, and a lion-sized stone fireplace set the scene in Timberline Lodge's esteemed restaurant, from which views of neighboring mountains are enjoyed, except when snow drifts cover the windows. The atmosphere is traditional and historic, and the menu emphasizes local and organic ingredients in dishes like Oregon razor clam ceviche with yuzu and cilantro, and confit of duck and pork belly with a hominy and red-chili broth. The daily breakfast and lunch buffets highlight different seasonal ingredients and purveyors each week.

This lively gastropub in the center of Government Camp serves tasty, elevated comfort fare, such as ahi tartare, habanero-infused-cheddar burgers, and Cubano flatbread pizzas. It's a great go-to before or after a day of skiing or summer outdoor fun, and there's a great list of local wines and craft beers.