Tucked away in the serene beauty of Central Oregon’s Metolius River Basin, Lake Creek Lodge is much more than just a rustic getaway—it’s a historic landmark. Originally established in 1924 by Martin and Lena Hanse, the lodge has been a cherished retreat for generations of visitors. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Creek, the lodge evokes a sense of stepping back in time, while providing all the modern comforts that make for a relaxing escape.
Over the years, Lake Creek Lodge has transformed from a small fishing retreat into a beloved year-round destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. With its cozy cabins, proximity to stunning trails, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s become a desirable place for those seeking a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, it’s not just the natural surroundings that draw visitors back—it’s also the lodge’s commitment to offering a unique and elevated lodging experience.
Recently, the lodge’s restaurant has undergone an impressive revival after over 3 years of being closed. On a recent visit, I had the privilege of sampling a variety of their signature dishes, and each one left a lasting impression. This should be a destination on any foodie crawl in Central Oregon.
We started our journey through the menu with rustic House-Baked Artisan Bread, an assortment of bread accompanied by pistachio dukkah, Feta, and Smoked Olive Oil. The bread, was the perfect vehicle for the rich, Feta and pistachio dukkah, setting a comforting tone for the rest of the meal.
After the warm fresh bread we tried the Diver Scallops, a dish that embodies the lodge’s emphasis on high-quality, locally-sourced and ethical ingredients. These colossal scallops, known to be the largest in Central Oregon, were seared to perfection—crisp on the outside, tender and buttery inside. Paired with pork belly, spring pea, mint and micro greens, the dish was a delightful appetizer to the meal.
We then enjoyed a comforting bowl of seasonal soup. On this particular evening, it was a velvety Butternut Squash. The balance of sweetness from the squash, warmth from the spices, and a hint of creaminess created a harmony of flavors. Topped with a swirl of creme fraiche, it was a cozy, satisfying dish that went well with everything we had so far.
Next came the Polpettes, these Bison/Pork meatballs, which were a true highlight. Tender and robust in flavor, the meatballs were paired with a Rogue smoky blue cheese, pepper relish, and polenta that added a rich, creamy counterpoint to the bison and porks earthy taste. Every bite was an indulgent, well-rounded flavor experience.
The Salmon, served as one of the main courses, was beautifully prepared. Fresh, crispy and flaky, it was accented with Swiss chard, and a citrus glaze that brightened the dish and highlighted the salmon’s natural flavors. Light and perfectly cooked, this dish offered a refreshing contrast to the more robust, heavier flavors of the meal.
But the standout dish of the night was the Lamb Osso Buco. This slow-braised lamb was incredibly tender, falling off the bone with ease. Its deep, rich flavors were complemented by a savory jus that showcased the chef’s skill in slow-cooking with a Marionberry, walnut & mint pesto that set the dish to a new level of flavor and indulgence. This sweet and savory collection of sauces made the braised lamb stand out.
For dessert, we indulged in a classic Citrus Crème Brûlée, flawlessly executed with its crunchy, caramelized sugar top and smooth custard beneath. But the star of the dessert course was the whimsical Chocolate Mousse S’mores—a playful twist on the traditional campfire treat. With layers of rich chocolate mousse, toasted marshmallows, and graham cracker, this dessert was both nostalgic and decadent, leaving us completely satisfied and everything was made in-house and the best quality.
Lake Creek Lodge’s restaurant is open and a must stop on any foodie tour of Central Oregon, with both indoor and outdoor seating available so you can enjoy the rustic cabin like dining room or be out in nature listening to Lake Creek. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an escape into nature, the lodge offers a dining experience that combines the best of rustic elegance with locally-inspired cuisine. Be sure to make reservations, as the lodge fills up quickly with guests and visitors alike.
The dining experience at Lake Creek Lodge extends far beyond the meal itself. The lodge’s rustic, cozy setting—with its wood-beamed ceilings and warm fire—adds to the charm and creates an atmosphere where guests can truly relax and savor each bite. After dinner, we took a stroll around the grounds, taking in the peaceful surroundings of the lodge. The towering pines, the babbling creek, and the fresh mountain air created a sense of calm and connection to nature that perfectly complemented the dining experience.
For those looking to immerse themselves in Central Oregon’s natural beauty while enjoying a world-class meal, Lake Creek Lodge is the perfect choice. From the buttery Diver Scallops to the fall-apart-tender Lamb Osso Buco, this is a culinary adventure that truly embodies the essence of rustic fine dining.
