The Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and warm hospitality in the heart of the community. Known for its inviting ambiance and thoughtfully curated menu, it has become a favored destination for locals and travelers alike.
The restaurant’s menu is a reflection of its commitment to quality, featuring a diverse array of dishes that celebrate fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavors. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal, a light bite, or a perfectly crafted cocktail, the Dalles House delivers with precision and passion.
From traditional comfort foods to contemporary creations, every item on the menu tells a story of dedication and creativity. The lounge adds an additional layer of appeal with its selection of fine wines, craft beers, and signature drinks designed to complement the food offerings.
Guests can expect not only a satisfying dining experience but also a relaxed atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment.
Exploring the Dalles House menu reveals a thoughtful balance of classic favorites and seasonal specials, all prepared with an eye for detail and a palate for bold yet approachable flavors. This dedication to excellence makes every visit memorable and every meal a celebration of taste.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge set the tone for a delightful dining experience. Crafted to awaken the palate, these starters blend traditional flavors with creative twists.
The selection is designed to cater to various preferences, from light and fresh to rich and indulgent.
Signature appetizers include house-made dips, crispy fried delights, and fresh salads that showcase the best of local produce. These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a prelude to the main course.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to balance textures and flavors, ensuring that the first course excites the senses.
Popular choices like the Smoked Salmon Crostini and the Spiced Calamari Rings exemplify the kitchen’s commitment to quality ingredients and precise seasoning. These starters are paired well with selections from the lounge, offering a harmonious beginning to your meal.
Featured Starters
- Smoked Salmon Crostini: Thinly sliced smoked salmon atop toasted baguette slices, served with capers and a lemon-dill aioli.
- Spiced Calamari Rings: Lightly battered and fried calamari with a house-made spicy dipping sauce.
- Seasonal Garden Salad: Fresh greens from local farms, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and garnished with seasonal vegetables.
- House-made Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy dip served warm with freshly baked pita bread.
“Our appetizers are designed to offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture, inviting guests to savor the very start of their dining journey.” – Executive Chef
Main Courses
The main courses at Dalles House are a celebration of culinary craftsmanship. Each dish is prepared with precision and care, showcasing a blend of classic and contemporary influences.
The menu is crafted to satisfy a wide spectrum of tastes, ensuring that everyone finds something to delight their palate.
From succulent steaks to delicate seafood and hearty vegetarian options, the main courses emphasize fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The kitchen sources its produce and proteins from trusted local suppliers to ensure quality and sustainability.
Seasonal specials often highlight the best offerings available at any given time, making each visit unique.
Signature dishes such as the Grilled Ribeye Steak and the Pan-Seared Pacific Salmon are favorites among regular patrons. These entrees are complemented by carefully chosen side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.
Popular Entrées Comparison
| Dish | Main Ingredient | Preparation | Recommended Pairing |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | Grass-fed Beef | Grilled to order with herb butter | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Pan-Seared Pacific Salmon | Fresh Wild Salmon | Seared with lemon and dill sauce | Chardonnay |
| Vegetarian Risotto | Seasonal Vegetables | Creamy Arborio rice with fresh herbs | Sauvignon Blanc |
Sandwiches and Burgers
For a more casual yet satisfying meal, the sandwiches and burgers at Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge offer bold flavors and fresh ingredients. These dishes are perfect for guests seeking comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Each sandwich and burger is crafted to provide a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
The menu features a variety of options, from classic cheeseburgers to inventive combinations that incorporate seasonal ingredients. The house-made buns and freshly prepared toppings elevate these offerings beyond typical pub fare.
Whether enjoyed in the lounge or at the dining table, these dishes provide a fulfilling and flavorful experience.
Popular items like the Bacon Avocado Burger and the Grilled Portobello Sandwich highlight the kitchen’s creativity and attention to detail. Each sandwich is served with a choice of crispy fries or a fresh side salad, ensuring a balanced meal.
Signature Sandwiches
- Bacon Avocado Burger: Juicy beef patty topped with smoked bacon, ripe avocado, cheddar cheese, and house-made aioli.
- Grilled Portobello Sandwich: Marinated portobello mushroom with roasted peppers and melted mozzarella on a toasted bun.
- Turkey Club: Sliced turkey breast, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted whole wheat bread.
- Classic Reuben: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye bread.
Seafood Selections
The seafood offerings at Dalles House highlight the freshest catches and expertly crafted preparations. Drawing inspiration from coastal flavors, these dishes emphasize clean, vibrant tastes that celebrate the ocean’s bounty.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainable sourcing ensures that every seafood dish is both delicious and responsible.
From delicate shellfish to hearty fish entrees, the menu offers a variety of choices that cater to seafood lovers. Each preparation is designed to enhance the natural flavors while incorporating complementary ingredients and seasonings.
The use of fresh herbs, citrus, and light sauces creates a balanced and memorable dining experience.
Signature dishes such as the Garlic Butter Shrimp and the Blackened Cod are favorites, praised for their perfect execution and inviting flavors. These meals can be paired with selections from the lounge to elevate the dining experience further.
Seafood Highlights
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce, served with rice pilaf.
- Blackened Cod: Cod fillet seasoned with Cajun spices and pan-seared to perfection.
- Crab Cakes: Lump crab meat mixed with herbs and spices, lightly fried and served with remoulade sauce.
- Clam Chowder: Creamy New England-style chowder loaded with clams and potatoes.
“Our seafood dishes are crafted to honor the natural flavors of the ocean while embracing local, sustainable practices.” – Head Chef
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The Dalles House is attentive to the needs of guests seeking vegetarian and vegan dishes, offering a thoughtful selection that emphasizes flavor and nutrition. These options are crafted to ensure that plant-based diners enjoy meals as satisfying and delicious as their omnivorous counterparts.
Menu items incorporate a variety of fresh vegetables, legumes, grains, and plant-based proteins, prepared with creativity and care. The kitchen excels at balancing textures and flavors, ensuring that every dish is rich and fulfilling.
Seasonal ingredients play a significant role, allowing the menu to evolve throughout the year.
Standout dishes like the Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad and the Vegan Lentil Stew exemplify the restaurant’s commitment to inclusive dining. Each dish is thoughtfully presented and seasoned to highlight the natural goodness of the ingredients.
Plant-Based Favorites
- Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables tossed with quinoa and a light vinaigrette.
- Vegan Lentil Stew: Hearty lentils cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, served with crusty bread.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and vegetables, topped with tomato sauce.
- Grilled Tofu Skewers: Marinated tofu cubes grilled and served with peanut dipping sauce.
Desserts
The dessert menu at Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge offers a sweet conclusion to any meal. Crafted with the same attention to quality and flavor as the savory dishes, these desserts are a perfect balance of indulgence and refinement.
The menu features both classic and contemporary options, appealing to a variety of tastes.
Pastry chefs focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create desserts that are visually appealing and delicious. Whether you prefer rich chocolate, fresh fruit, or creamy custards, there is something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Portion sizes are carefully considered to provide just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
Popular desserts like the Chocolate Lava Cake and the Lemon Poppy Seed Tart have become signature offerings. Each dessert pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a dessert wine from the lounge’s extensive list.
Sweet Endings
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Tart: Tart and sweet lemon custard in a crisp pastry shell.
- Seasonal Berry Crisp: Fresh berries baked with a crumbly oat topping, served with whipped cream.
- Classic Cheesecake: Creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with fruit compote.
Beverages and Lounge Specialties
The beverage menu at Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge complements the food offerings with an impressive selection of drinks. From carefully curated wines to craft beers and handcrafted cocktails, the lounge is a destination for those who appreciate fine drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
The cocktail menu features classic drinks alongside innovative creations inspired by seasonal flavors and local ingredients. Bartenders take pride in their craft, using fresh herbs, house-made syrups, and high-quality spirits.
The wine list has been thoughtfully assembled to include varietals that pair well with the diverse menu, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Non-alcoholic options are equally enticing, with fresh juices, artisanal sodas, and specialty coffees and teas available. Whether you’re looking for a pre-dinner drink, a nightcap, or a refreshing accompaniment to your meal, the lounge offers something for every preference.
Drink Highlights
| Drink | Type | Key Ingredients | Pairing Suggestions |
| House Margarita | Cocktail | Tequila, lime, triple sec, agave syrup | Spicy Calamari Rings |
| Pinot Noir | Red Wine | Cherry, raspberry, earthy notes | Grilled Ribeye Steak |
| IPA Craft Beer | Beer | Hoppy, citrus, floral aromas | Bacon Avocado Burger |
| Fresh Lemonade | Non-alcoholic | Lemon juice, sugar, sparkling water | Seasonal Garden Salad |
“Our goal is to create a beverage program that not only complements the food but also stands on its own as an experience worth savoring.” – Bar Manager
Private Dining and Catering Options
Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge offers private dining and catering services designed to accommodate a range of events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. The team works closely with guests to tailor menus that suit specific tastes and dietary requirements, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.
Private dining spaces provide an elegant setting with attentive service, ideal for business meetings, family celebrations, or special occasions. The catering team brings the same level of culinary expertise and presentation to off-site events, offering customizable menus that reflect the restaurant’s signature style.
Whether choosing a plated dinner, buffet, or cocktail reception, clients can expect the highest quality food and professional service. The flexibility and creativity of the team allow for seamless event planning and execution, making Dalles House a trusted partner for memorable dining experiences.
Catering Package Overview
| Package | Menu Style | Guest Capacity | Price Range |
| Intimate Dinner | Plated 3-course meal | Up to 20 | $$$ |
| Buffet Style | Variety of hot and cold dishes | 20-100 | $$ |
| Cocktail Reception | Passed appetizers and drinks | Up to 150 | $$$ |
“We pride ourselves on making every event unique, with menus and service tailored to reflect our clients’ vision and taste.” – Events Coordinator
From the welcoming appetizers to the decadent desserts, the Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge menu is thoughtfully designed to provide a complete and satisfying dining experience. Each section of the menu reveals a dedication to quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction, making it a standout destination for food lovers.
The combination of expertly prepared dishes, attentive service, and a warm atmosphere ensures that every visit is more than just a meal—it’s a memorable occasion.
Whether dining casually in the lounge or celebrating a special event, guests can trust the Dalles House to deliver excellence from start to finish. The careful balance of classic and contemporary flavors caters to diverse tastes, while the focus on fresh, local ingredients reinforces the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community.
This thoughtful approach to dining elevates the entire experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who walk through its doors.
For those seeking a place where quality, comfort, and culinary innovation converge, the Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge stands ready to welcome you with open arms and a menu that promises to delight at every turn.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal patron, each dish serves as a testament to the passion and expertise that define this exceptional establishment.
