Finding great restaurants near Multnomah Falls is easier than you might think. You just hiked 1.2 miles to the top of Oregon’s tallest waterfall, your legs are a little shaky, and you’re absolutely starving. The good news? The Columbia River Gorge has some seriously good food within a short drive of the falls.
Whether you want a quick bite right at the trailhead or a full sit-down dinner with craft beer views, this guide covers the best spots to eat after visiting Multnomah Falls. Most of these places are within 20 minutes of the falls, and a few are right on your way back to Portland.
Multnomah Falls Lodge
The most obvious option is also the most convenient. Multnomah Falls Lodge sits right at the base of the falls, and it’s been serving visitors since 1925. The dining room is surprisingly decent for a tourist-heavy spot. The building itself is gorgeous, built from Gorge stone with huge windows looking out at the waterfall.
Breakfast is the move here. The pancakes and eggs Benedict are solid, and you’ll beat the midday crowds if you eat early. Lunch and dinner lean toward Pacific Northwest comfort food. Think salmon, burgers, and hearty salads.
Fair warning: reservations are strongly recommended in summer. This place gets packed from June through September, and walk-in waits can stretch past an hour on weekends.
Hood River: The Real Food Destination (20 Minutes East)
If you’re willing to drive 20 minutes east on I-84, Hood River is hands down the best food destination in the Gorge. This little mountain town punches way above its weight when it comes to restaurants, breweries, and wine bars. It’s where the locals actually eat.
pFriem Family Brewers
This is the best brewery food in the entire Columbia River Gorge. pFriem’s kitchen goes well beyond typical pub fare. The menu changes with the seasons, but expect things like steak frites, duck confit, and wood-fired mussels alongside Belgian-inspired beers. The outdoor patio overlooks the Columbia River and Hood River Bridge. It’s one of those places where you sit down for one beer and end up staying for three hours.
Double Mountain Brewery
If you want pizza and beer after a long hike, Double Mountain is your spot. Their wood-fired pizzas are some of the best in Oregon, and the brewery has a loyal local following. The taproom is casual and a little loud, which is exactly the vibe you want after a day outdoors. The IRA (India Red Ale) is a must-try.
Celilo Restaurant
For a nicer dinner, Celilo is the farm-to-table option in Hood River. They source from local farms and ranches throughout the Gorge and the menu reflects what’s in season. It’s the kind of place you go to celebrate finishing a big hike or to impress someone on a date night. Reservations are a good idea, especially on weekends.
Strata
Strata does breakfast and brunch really well. If you’re spending the morning at Multnomah Falls and driving to Hood River for a late breakfast, this is the place. The menu is creative without being fussy, and they use locally roasted coffee. Expect a wait on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
For more on the breweries in the Columbia Gorge and Hood River, we have a full guide.
Cascade Locks: Thunder Island Brewing
Cascade Locks is just 15 minutes east of Multnomah Falls, and Thunder Island Brewing is the main reason to stop. This small-town brewery sits right on the Columbia River with outdoor seating that looks out at the Bridge of the Gods. The food is solid pub fare, and the beer is better than you’d expect from such a tiny operation. It’s a great low-key option if you don’t want to drive all the way to Hood River.
The whole town has a mellow, small-town vibe that’s a nice contrast to the crowds at the falls. Walk around the Marine Park after your meal and soak in the views.
Troutdale: On the Way Back to Portland
If you’re heading back toward Portland after your visit, Troutdale has two standout stops that are worth pulling off the highway for.
Sugarpine Drive-In
Sugarpine Drive-In is the perfect post-hike stop. This retro roadside spot serves burgers, fries, and soft serve right off the highway at the west end of the Gorge. The vibe is pure Americana: picnic tables, string lights, and a walk-up window. Their burgers use local beef, and the soft serve is made in-house. On a warm day, this place is absolutely packed, and for good reason.
McMenamins Edgefield
McMenamins Edgefield is a massive property with multiple restaurants, bars, a winery, a brewery, a distillery, gardens, and even a golf course. It’s a former county poor farm that the McMenamins brothers converted into one of their signature properties. You could easily spend an entire evening here. The Black Rabbit Restaurant is the nicest dining option on site, but there’s also a pub, a wine bar, and several outdoor spots. It’s a solid day trip from Portland destination on its own.
Quick Bites Along the Historic Highway
If you’re driving the Historic Columbia River Highway, there are a few smaller spots worth knowing about. Vista House at Crown Point has a small snack bar with coffee and pastries. It’s nothing fancy, but the views from the rotunda are unbeatable. Along the old highway, you’ll also find a handful of small cafes and seasonal food stands, though options are limited and hours can be unpredictable outside of summer.
For a full breakdown of the drive, check out our Portland to Hood River road trip guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there food at Multnomah Falls?
Yes. The Multnomah Falls Lodge has a full-service restaurant right at the base of the falls. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner year-round. There’s also a small snack bar and gift shop nearby with grab-and-go options like sandwiches and drinks.
What is the closest restaurant to Multnomah Falls?
The closest restaurant is the Multnomah Falls Lodge dining room, which is literally at the base of the waterfall. Beyond that, Cascade Locks is about 15 minutes east and has Thunder Island Brewing. Troutdale and its restaurants are about 20 minutes west toward Portland.
Are there restaurants in the Columbia Gorge?
There are plenty of restaurants throughout the Columbia River Gorge. Hood River has the best concentration of dining options, including pFriem, Double Mountain, and Celilo. Cascade Locks and Troutdale also have good spots. The Gorge is a real food destination, especially if you like craft beer and locally sourced ingredients.
Where do you eat after visiting Multnomah Falls? I’m always looking for new Gorge favorites. Drop your recommendations below or check out what food Portland is famous for if you’re heading back to the city.
Planning your Multnomah Falls day trip? Read our full guide to beating the crowds and making the most of your visit.
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