Carlton, Oregon, is a small town with a big reputation, thanks to its wineries and the acclaimed Yamhill-Carlton American Viticultural Area (AVA). But beyond the tasting rooms, Carlton’s culinary scene is also worth exploring.
From casual bites to fine dining, Carlton has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best Carlton Oregon restaurants, including spots for French, Mexican, and good old American fare.
Exploring Carlton’s Diverse Culinary Scene
Carlton, Oregon, may be known for its wineries, but it also has a pretty great food scene, with everything from cozy bakeries to fine dining experiences.
Bakeries and Casual Bites
Carlton Bakery uses local ingredients like Shepherd’s Grain Flour and seasonal berries and jams from The Republic of Jam to create traditional pastries and breads.
For something more savory, Martha’s Tacos & More is a favorite spot among winemakers and cellarhands. You’ll find classic Mexican dishes like tacos, chile relleno, tamales, and tortas.
Fine Dining and Unique Experiences
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Cuvée Restaurant serves French cuisine crafted with local ingredients. The restaurant is owned by a French chef, and the menu includes dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and Cassoulet.
Earth & Sea Restaurant offers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. You can choose from a la carte, prix fixe, and grab-and-go menus. And if you’re there on a Monday, don’t miss their $1 oysters!
Wine and Cheese Pairings
The Horse Radish is a wine and cheese bar and restaurant that’s known for its sandwiches and its wine and cheese pairings, which are perfectly suited to the local wine region.
Carlton’s Connection to the Yamhill-Carlton AVA
Carlton’s restaurants sit right in the heart of the Yamhill-Carlton American Viticultural Area (AVA), making them ideal spots to grab a bite during a wine-tasting tour.
Many of these restaurants pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients, supporting the farmers and producers in the area.
The food scene in Carlton beautifully complements the wine experience. Together, they offer visitors a complete sensory immersion into the best of Oregon’s wine country, which makes it a big draw for wine tourists.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, Carlton, Oregon, has something to offer every palate. And with its location in the heart of the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, you can expect fresh, locally sourced ingredients that perfectly complement the region’s world-class wines.
So, come explore the restaurants and wineries of Carlton, and discover the tastes of Oregon wine country!