Located in the heart of The Dalles, Oregon, Cousins Restaurant has become a cherished destination for locals and travelers alike. Its menu, a vibrant tapestry of classic American comfort food and innovative twists, is at the core of its enduring popularity.
From hearty breakfasts that greet the early riser to satisfying dinners perfect for families and friends, Cousins offers something for every palate. The restaurant’s rustic charm and commitment to homemade goodness have earned it a loyal following, and the menu is a testament to the love and care poured into every dish.
The Dalles region is known for its agricultural bounty, and Cousins takes full advantage by sourcing fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. Patrons can expect generous portions, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that feels like home.
Whether you’re fueling up for a day of adventure along the Columbia River Gorge or seeking a comforting meal after a long journey, Cousins’ menu stands ready to deliver. It’s more than just a place to eat—it’s a gathering spot where memories are made, and every meal is a celebration of community and tradition.
Breakfast Delights at Cousins
Few things rival the joy of starting your day with a hearty, satisfying breakfast. At Cousins in The Dalles, the morning menu is crafted to offer both classic staples and unique creations that set the tone for a memorable day.
The breakfast selection balances traditional comfort with inventive flavors, ensuring every guest finds something to love.
One of the defining features of Cousins’ breakfast is its commitment to homestyle cooking. Fluffy pancakes, perfectly seasoned omelets, and crispy hash browns showcase the kitchen’s attention to detail.
The use of fresh, local eggs and farm-fresh dairy elevates even the simplest dishes, giving them a distinctively wholesome taste.
For those craving something hearty, the “Farmer’s Breakfast” is an enduring favorite. This dish features eggs cooked your way, thick-cut bacon or sausage, golden hash browns, and a choice of freshly baked toast or a homemade biscuit.
The hearty portions ensure no one leaves the table hungry, and the flavors evoke the essence of traditional American breakfasts.
Vegetarian guests and lighter eaters are also well-catered for. The seasonal vegetable omelet is a vibrant option, bursting with locally sourced produce and tangy cheese.
Oatmeal bowls, fruit platters, and yogurt parfaits round out the menu, providing nutritious starts for all preferences.
- Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with real maple syrup
- Country Fried Steak & Eggs with creamy sausage gravy
- Homemade Biscuits served with local jams
- Healthy Options like yogurt parfaits with granola
“At Cousins, breakfast isn’t just a meal—it’s a tradition. We believe in starting the day with warmth, flavor, and a sense of belonging.” — Cousins Chef
Lunch Favorites and Midday Specials
The lunch menu at Cousins The Dalles is a tribute to American comfort food, elevated by fresh ingredients and creative touches. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the options cater to diverse appetites and tastes.
Local workers, families, and travelers alike find respite in the welcoming ambiance and the satisfying midday offerings.
Signature sandwiches and burgers form the backbone of the lunch menu. The “Cousins Club” is layered with roasted turkey, ham, crisp bacon, and fresh vegetables, all piled high on toasted bread.
For burger enthusiasts, the classic “Dalles Burger” stands out, featuring a juicy beef patty, cheddar cheese, and the restaurant’s special sauce, all served on a freshly baked bun.
Salads are given equal care, with vibrant greens and house-made dressings. The “Columbia Gorge Salad” features grilled chicken, dried cranberries, candied pecans, and crumbled blue cheese over mixed greens, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Lighter lunch options, such as homemade soups and half-sandwich combinations, provide flexibility for every appetite.
- Cousins Club Sandwich with house-roasted meats
- Dalles Burger with all the fixings
- Columbia Gorge Salad with local produce
- Soup & Sandwich Combos for smaller appetites
| Menu Item | Main Ingredients | Unique Feature |
| Cousins Club | Turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo | Triple-layered, house-roasted meats |
| Dalles Burger | Beef patty, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, sauce | Special house sauce, locally baked bun |
| Columbia Gorge Salad | Chicken, cranberries, pecans, blue cheese | Seasonal, local ingredients |
Hearty Dinners and Signature Entrees
As evening settles in The Dalles, Cousins transforms into a haven for those seeking comforting, satisfying dinners. The dinner menu is renowned for its generous portions and robust flavors, drawing inspiration from classic American and Northwest cuisine.
Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring a memorable experience for every guest.
Signature entrees include slow-roasted prime rib, grilled salmon, and country-fried steak, each prepared using time-honored techniques. The prime rib, seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and spices, is slow-cooked to perfection and served with a choice of sides.
The salmon, sourced from the Pacific Northwest, is expertly grilled and complemented by seasonal vegetables and rice pilaf.
Vegetarian and gluten-free diners are not overlooked. The kitchen offers creative alternatives such as vegetable stir-fries and gluten-free pasta options, making Cousins inclusive and accessible.
The menu’s variety ensures that everyone, from families to solo diners, finds something to savor at dinnertime.
- Slow-Roasted Prime Rib with au jus
- Grilled Pacific Salmon with lemon dill sauce
- Country Fried Steak with creamy gravy
- Vegetarian Stir Fry with seasonal vegetables
“Our dinners are meant to bring people together around the table, with flavors that feel both nostalgic and exciting.”— Cousins General Manager
Homemade Pies and Sweet Treats
No visit to Cousins The Dalles is complete without indulging in dessert. The restaurant’s reputation for homemade pies and sweet treats is well-deserved, thanks to a dedicated team of bakers who create each dessert from scratch.
The dessert menu is a delightful mix of nostalgic classics and innovative new favorites.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the homemade pie selection. Flavors rotate seasonally but often feature apple, marionberry, pecan, and chocolate cream.
Each pie boasts a flaky, buttery crust and generous fillings, made with locally sourced fruit whenever possible. Served warm and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these pies capture the essence of homemade goodness.
For those seeking a lighter finish, the dessert menu offers fruit crisps, bread pudding, and cheesecake. Gluten-free guests can also enjoy specially crafted treats, ensuring everyone can find a sweet ending to their meal.
The bakery’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making dessert a must-order at Cousins.
- Homemade Apple Pie with cinnamon and nutmeg
- Marionberry Pie using local berries
- Pecan Pie with rich, gooey filling
- Bread Pudding served warm with caramel sauce
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Gluten-Free Option |
| Apple Pie | Apples, cinnamon, pie crust | No |
| Marionberry Pie | Berries, sugar, pastry | Yes (on request) |
| Bread Pudding | Bread, eggs, cream, caramel | No |
| Cheesecake | Cream cheese, eggs, sugar | Yes (gluten-free crust) |
“Our pies are more than desserts—they’re a slice of tradition, made with love and the best local fruit we can find.” — Cousins Baker
Local Ingredients and Farm-to-Table Philosophy
One of the hallmarks of Cousins The Dalles menu is its unwavering commitment to sourcing local ingredients. The farm-to-table approach not only supports local agriculture but also ensures that every dish bursts with freshness and flavor.
By forging partnerships with nearby farms and producers, Cousins strengthens community ties and delivers exceptional quality to its guests.
Produce such as berries, apples, and greens often comes straight from the orchards and fields surrounding The Dalles. Dairy products and meats are sourced from trusted local suppliers, further enhancing the menu’s authenticity.
This focus on local sourcing doesn’t just elevate the taste—it also aligns with sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
The kitchen’s flexibility allows for the incorporation of seasonal ingredients, resulting in rotating specials that highlight the best of the region. Diners can expect to see menu items featuring asparagus in spring, heirloom tomatoes in summer, and hearty root vegetables in fall and winter.
This dynamic approach keeps the menu fresh and exciting throughout the year.
- Seasonal Specials featuring local produce
- Partnerships with regional farmers
- Sustainable sourcing practices
- Support for local food systems
“We believe that food tastes better when you know where it comes from. Our relationships with local farmers are at the heart of our menu.” — Cousins Owner
Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Special Menus
Walking into Cousins The Dalles, guests are greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance that feels like an extension of home. The restaurant’s family-friendly ethos is evident in both the setting and the thoughtfully designed menus.
Every detail, from the décor to the service, is intended to make visitors of all ages feel comfortable and valued.
Children’s menus are tailored to young diners, offering familiar favorites such as chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese, and mini burgers. Each meal comes with a side of fruit or veggies, ensuring a balanced approach even for the pickiest eaters.
The staff is attentive to families’ needs, providing high chairs, crayons, and coloring sheets to keep little ones entertained.
Specialty menus extend beyond kids’ offerings. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests will find clearly marked options, making it easy to navigate the menu.
Additionally, Cousins frequently introduces limited-time holiday menus, featuring festive dishes that capture the spirit of the season.
- Kids’ Meals with healthy sides
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Gluten-free entrees and desserts
- Holiday and seasonal menus
| Menu Type | Key Features |
| Kids’ Menu | Healthy sides, fun activities, familiar dishes |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Clearly marked, diverse choices |
| Gluten-Free | Adapted entrees and desserts |
| Holiday Specials | Seasonal flavors, festive presentation |
Beverages and Local Libations
A well-rounded meal isn’t complete without the perfect beverage, and Cousins The Dalles offers an impressive selection to complement its menu. The beverage list features everything from classic diner coffee to craft cocktails, ensuring there’s a refreshing option for every taste and occasion.
The coffee program is a point of pride, with freshly brewed local beans served throughout the day. Morning guests can enjoy bottomless cups, paired perfectly with breakfast fare or pie.
For those seeking something different, a variety of teas, fresh-squeezed juices, and hand-spun milkshakes are available.
Lunch and dinner guests often gravitate toward the curated selection of regional wines and craft beers. The bar area also offers a rotating menu of signature cocktails, many of which incorporate local spirits and fresh ingredients.
Whether toasting to a special occasion or simply unwinding after a long day, the drink menu adds another layer of enjoyment to the Cousins experience.
- Freshly brewed local coffee and espresso drinks
- Hand-spun milkshakes in classic flavors
- Regional wines and craft beers
- Signature cocktails with local spirits
“Every drink we serve—from our morning coffee to our evening cocktails—reflects the spirit of The Dalles and the community we cherish.” — Cousins Bartender
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Visiting Cousins The Dalles is more than just enjoying a meal; it’s about embracing the full experience. With a few simple strategies, guests can make the most of what the restaurant has to offer, whether dining solo or with a large group.
The warm, attentive staff is always ready to offer recommendations and ensure every visit feels special.
Arriving early, especially on weekends, is a smart move—breakfast and dinner crowds can be brisk, and grabbing a table without a wait is always a bonus. Don’t hesitate to ask about daily specials or off-menu items, as the kitchen often crafts unique dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients or customer favorites.
For those celebrating a special occasion, advance reservations and custom dessert orders are welcome.
Take advantage of the bakery counter, where guests can purchase whole pies or baked goods to-go. This is an excellent way to bring a taste of Cousins home or share it with loved ones.
The staff is also happy to accommodate dietary needs, so guests should feel encouraged to communicate any preferences or restrictions.
- Arrive early to avoid peak crowds
- Inquire about daily specials for unique flavors
- Order desserts to-go from the bakery counter
- Communicate dietary needs for customized options
“Our guests are family, and we go the extra mile to make every visit memorable. Don’t be shy—let us know how we can make your meal perfect!” — Cousins Host
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Cousins The Dalles Menu
Cousins Restaurant in The Dalles is much more than a beloved local eatery—it’s a cornerstone of the community, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly on every plate. The menu’s breadth and depth reflect a genuine commitment to quality, hospitality, and the unique flavors of the Columbia River Gorge region.
Through hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, memorable dinners, and irresistible desserts, Cousins has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers and families alike.
From the thoughtful sourcing of local ingredients to the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, every detail is designed to make guests feel at home. The menu balances classic comfort with creative flair, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
Whether enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, a quick lunch stop, or a festive holiday feast, diners are embraced by the warmth and authenticity that define Cousins The Dalles.
Ultimately, it’s the sense of connection—between kitchen and community, staff and guests—that makes Cousins truly special. As you explore the diverse offerings and savor each bite, you become part of a longstanding tradition that celebrates good food, good company, and the enduring spirit of The Dalles.
For those seeking a taste of home and a place to create lasting memories, Cousins’ menu offers a welcome invitation time and again.
