The best way to get to know a place is through the food. Eating like a local is easy in Eugene with this guide to 5 favorite downtown restaurants. Discover new flavors and enjoy rich experiences in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  

Lion & Owl

Lion & Owl offers a luxurious brunch and lunch that is surprising and delightful. Visitors may even dine inside the classic Airstream where the restaurant got its start. Their menu is seasonal and ranges in price to fit your taste. Chef and co-owner Crystal Platt was nominated for the James Beard "Best Chef" award in 2023. Reservations are recommended as this place is popular. 

Lion & Owl

Lion & Owl serves up brunch and dinner for the fierce and wise. They started out serving out of a…

Falling Sky Brewpub

Falling Sky Brewpub first opened in 2012. Since then, Falling Sky has won many awards including being named "Best Brew Pub in Oregon" by New School Beer Magazine. Don't miss the delicious Back Alley Burger which is a Falling Sky staple. Order a flight to get a small sampling of the 400 + unique beer recipes on rotation. Favorite pints to try when available are the Daywalker Irish Red, Yell-O IPA, Dreadnut Stout and Blue Balloon Belgian. However, there are no bad drink choices at this essential Eugene brewery.

Jazzy Ladies Cafe

Hot food, warm smiles, cool jazz in their new, expanded location in the Market District. Enjoy the music that gives this cafe its name and conversations with the friendly staff. Order a latte (make it jazzy) and their breakfast chicken fried steak. This is a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.

Party Bar

Party Bar offers upscale dining experiences in a casual bar setting at affordable prices. With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, Party Bar is the perfect place to get a feel for the vibe of Eugene. Shop their market in the back to take home some of your favorite flavors from your dining experience. Party Bar is one of many restaurants in Eugene that got its start as a food cart before outgrowing the tiny kitchen. Try a specialty cocktail and their fried chicken sandwich with shaved black truffles for an unforgettable culinary experience. 

Party Bar Downtown by Melanie Griffin

Party Bar Downtown

Off the Waffle

Off the Waffle has been a hit in Eugene since the two brothers Omer and Dave first started selling their Liege waffles out of their home in 2008. Off the Waffle is known for its unexpected combinations that make for an exciting dining experience. Try the savory "Goat in Headlights" waffle — a local favorite — or "The Wiffle" for a sweet tooth and their bottomless coffee from Coffee Plant Roasters of Eugene.

Off the Waffle Downtown Eugene by Melanie Griffin

Off the Waffle Downtown Eugene

Continue your culinary adventures with the South Willamette Valley Food Trail. With over 50 exciting locations for the hungry traveler, this food trail covers a variety of must-try spots to satisfy any craving.