Chris Piercey is the founder of Desert Current and a regular contributor, sharing stories that celebrate the best of Central Oregon’s food, drinks, outdoors, and entertainment scene. He’s also the owner of BullDog Brand Solutions, a creative agency helping local businesses grow through branding, social media, and digital strategy. Chris brings a deep love for the region to everything he does — whether it’s collaborating with chefs, discovering new trails, or spotlighting the people and places that make this community special.
A Redmond favorite has arrived in Bend. Junction Roastery’s new east side location blends familiar quality with a fresh, light-filled space—perfect for work sessions, slow mornings, or a quick macchiato done right.
Tucked beside Wild Ride Brew, Wild Catch is a food truck built on family heritage and high-quality seafood. From hand-breaded shrimp to perfectly fried cod, this is a stop that proves great flavor can thrive anywhere, even in the high desert.
Papi Chulo’s is known for its energy, but tucked behind the music and the margaritas is a dish with centuries of history. Their Pozole is bold, honest, and rooted in tradition, a bowl that carries the story of ancient kitchens and modern craft. If you have walked past it on the specials board, this is the dish you should not be skipping.
The Beermuda Triangle inside Worthy Brewing on Bend’s east side is one of the best places in town to watch the game. With six big screens, great beer, and a lineup of game-day food that actually delivers, it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends and cheer on your team.
Celebrate friendship over sizzling fajitas and margaritas at El Caporal in Bend, Oregon. A heartfelt look at why sharing a meal is one of life’s most powerful ways to reconnect in a disconnected world.
Discover the beauty and history of Pilot Butte in Bend, Oregon—an ancient volcano offering 360° views, scenic trails, and personal reflection.
If you’re looking for a happy hour that actually fills you up, look no further than 10 Barrel Brewing West Side.
Their new “Cheap Fun” Happy Hour lets you mix-and-match two huge items for just $20. We’re talking a Giant Personal Pizza and a massive plate of Loaded Nachos—plus, you can grab any of their top-tier craft beers for just $5 a pint. This is the best value meal in Central Oregon.
Read the full review for the hours and menu details!
Downtown Bend just got a serious kick—and it comes with a mechanical bull! We review The Coyote, Downtown Bend’s newest country bar that is equal parts elegant, playful, and instantly welcoming. With masterfully executed cocktails (try the Cactus Rangel!), stunning local art, a dance floor, and a menu that goes way beyond bar food (you MUST try the spicy, surprising Snake Bites), The Coyote is the new destination you won’t want to live without. Read our full review to see why this spot is the start of something lasting.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization that began in 2012 in Twin Falls, Idaho, when founder Luke Mickelson built a bunk bed for a family in need using leftover wood from a home improvement project. He quickly realized the demand for beds was far greater than he imagined. From that humble beginning, SHP has grown into a nationwide movement with over 300 chapters across the U.S. and Canada. Their mission is simple and powerful: “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town.” To date, they’ve delivered more than 273,000 beds to children who previously had none.
We checked into McMenamins Old St. Francis School for a midweek staycation and found way more than just a place to sleep. From soaking under a skylight and exploring secret rooms to sipping cocktails in a hidden bar, this historic property in downtown Bend gave us a full reset—without ever leaving town.
Junction Roastery Brings Its Signature Vibe to Bend 
A Taste of Tradition: Dining at Wild Catch in Central Oregon 
A Traditional Dish With Deep History, Found Right Here at Papi Chulo’s 
Game Day Starts at Worthy Brewing: Inside the Beermuda Triangle on Bend’s East Side 
Steak Fajitas, Margaritas, and the Kind of Friends Who Matter Most 
Pilot Butte: My Backyard Volcano and Bend’s Beating Heart 
The Best Happy Hour on Bends West Side 
Downtown Bend Just Got a Little Country 
Building Beds, Building Hope: A Day with Sleep in Heavenly Peace in Bend 
A Midweek Getaway at McMenamins Old St. Frances