Best Restaurants in Manzanita, Oregon: Our Local Guide to the Three Villages and Beyond
Updated: Sep 14
Looking for the best restaurants in Manzanita, Oregon? Start with Manzanita, but do not stop at the city limit. Locals often think of Manzanita, Nehalem and Wheeler as the Three Villages. They sit only minutes apart, and together they offer far more choices than first time visitors may realize: memorable breakfasts, fresh seafood, Mexican favorites, wood fired pizza, waterfront dining, bakeries, dog friendly patios and food prepared especially for your beach house stay.
Hint: Look for our local tips - THOMB Insider Tip - from The Houses On Manzanita Beach, below. and if you’re new to the area, our Manzanita Oregon 101 guide is a good place to start.
I'm Kim, the longtime owner and host of The Houses on Manzanita Beach. Since 1997, I have helped guests at our oceanfront vacation rentals decide where to eat and which nearby stop fits the day they have planned. This is not a ranked list based on an algorithm or a collection of paid placements. No influencers here. This is a practical local guide to places we recommend in Manzanita and the surrounding North Oregon Coast communities.
THOMB Insiders Tip: Manzanita restaurants are independent, popular and often small. Hours can change seasonally, and some kitchens sell out. Check the restaurant's current website, social page, or even an old fashioned phone call before you go, especially in winter, on holidays or with a large group.
Short on Time? Find the Right Restaurant Near Manzanita
Use this quick guide when you know what you want but not where to go. Details and links for each business appear below.
What are you looking for? | Try these local favorites | Where |
Best breakfast or brunch in Manzanita | Manzanita | |
Breakfast and bakeries near Manzanita | Nehalem and Wheeler | |
Fresh Mexican food | Manzanita | |
Seafood restaurants near Manzanita | Manzanita, Nehalem and Bay City | |
Fresh Dungeness crab experience | Rockaway Beach area | |
Waterfront dining | Wheeler and Nehalem | |
Dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating | Manzanita, Nehalem and Wheeler | |
Family friendly restaurants | Manzanita area and Rockaway Beach | |
Pizza near Manzanita | Manzanita, Wheeler and Garibaldi | |
Burgers | Three Villages area | |
Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free choices | Manzanita and Nehalem | |
Coffee and casual cafes | Manzanita and Wheeler | |
Private chef or catering | PicNic Eats and the local caterers below | Tillamook County area |
Prepared meals for a vacation rental | ManJa Creations - ask for Mama's Meals to You | Tillamook County area |
Food stops on the way to the Tillamook Cheese Factory | Bay City and Garibaldi | |
A fun Oregon Coast food stop | Rockaway Beach |
Best Restaurants in Manzanita, Oregon
Manzanita's cozy downtown makes it easy to pair a meal with beach time or shopping along Laneda Avenue. These restaurants cover breakfast through dinner, casual takeout and drinks.
For fast, fresh Mexican food in Manzanita, Left Coast Siesta is a longtime favorite. Guests come back for generous burritos, organic rice and beans, chips, fresh salsas and guacamole. Its loyal following reaches well beyond the coast, and some fans make a point of making a day trip from Portland just to enjoy a meal of their favorites. Left Coast Siesta has a has a pet-friendly deck. THOMB Insider Tip: For our non-vegetarian guests, the tequila lime chicken is freshly made with all white meat, and is out of this world!
If you are searching for breakfast or brunch in Manzanita, put poach503 near the top of your list. The restaurant many returning visitors remember as Yolk is known for imaginative breakfast fare and a loyal local following. Go early on busy weekends and confirm current service days before making it the star of your morning plans. THOMB Insider Tip: If you enjoy cocktails, their Espresso Martini has an added kick with Kahlua and cocoa bitters.
Big Wave Cafe is a relaxed family friendly choice for familiar coastal comfort food. It is useful when a group wants broad appeal, hearty portions and a casual atmosphere rather than a formal dinner. They typically feature fresh catch of the day and homemade pies.
THOMB Insider Tip: Have a hearty eater in your group? They'll love the cheddar cheese, ham, fried egg and bacon one-third-pound fresh hand-formed Black Angus hamburger with mayo, relish, pickles, onion, lettuce and tomato.
Offshore Grill and Coffee House focuses on seasonal food from local farmers and fishers. They also bake their own pastries. It is also a good place to ask about vegan or gluten-free options. Offshore also offers catering, which can be especially helpful for a family gathering or group staying in a larger Manzanita vacation rental without having to cook for everyone.
If you're familiar with the Manzanita restaurant scene, you will probably remember The Mighty Thai. It is now The Happy Elephant. They've also expanded into the former Sister Pete's Pie and Treats space, adding more seating while continuing to offer Sister Pete's pies. The Happy Elephant serves Thai and Vietnamese dishes, sushi and several vegetarian or vegan-friendly choices. It is a good solution when everyone in the group has different dining needs. The Happy Elephant has a pet-friendly patio.
Marzano's is a yummy answer to one of those inevitable vacation questions: “Where can we get pizza in Manzanita?” It works well for an easy dinner after a long beach day, whether you eat out or bring pizza back to the house. THOMB Insider Tip: Order ahead. Their made from scratch pies are yummy and take time. Try the loaded Greek Salad as an entree or to share with your group.
Steeplejack combines house beer with pub food in a polished but easygoing setting. It is a practical option for families or mixed age groups looking for burgers, sandwiches and a local beer in central Manzanita. In the former Neahkahnie Bistro space, they offer both indoor and outdoor dining. The outdoor seating is pet-friendly.
San Dune Pub is an over 21 Manzanita restaurant for pub food, drinks, live music and karaoke. Its outdoor area is a hot spot for visitors traveling with dogs. Check the current entertainment schedule if live music is part of your plan.
Rusty Moose is an intimate bar serving craft cocktails, quality spirits and light food. Its dog-friendly patio in the back makes it another option when traveling with your pet. Guests must be 21 and over.
Situated along the main street of town with patio seating, The Winery at Manzanita offers Oregon wine, beer and casual food in a setting made for lingering. It is a natural stop for an afternoon tasting or an easy evening with friends. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly.
The Spinn Cafe moves easily from coffee to cocktails. You'll find crepes and lighter fare such as salads and charcuterie, in addition to wine, beer and a full bar. One of Manzanita's newer restaurant additions, it has a casual, hip feel.
El Trio Loco advertises itself as a traditional Mexican restaurant, similar to an Azteca. They typically have a lively crowd, and it's a popular place for many vacationers in Manzanita.
More Casual Manzanita Options
For additional quick choices, consider Manzanita Mudd Dogs for a playful hot dog stop that also supports the Mudd Nick Foundation, a worthwhile local charity that has provided more than 4,500 opportunities for area children and Umi Bento for Japanese-inspired takeout.
Since this is the Pacific Northwest, coffee deserves its own guide. Of course! For a deeper look, The Best Coffee Shops in Manzanita, Oregon.
Restaurants in Nehalem and Between Manzanita and Nehalem
Nehalem is only minutes from Manzanita, making its cafes and restaurants part of the same practical dining area for visitors. Do not let the change in town name make a good option feel far away.
Located between Manzanita and Nehalem, Porchlight is family-friendly and serves burgers, sandwiches, pizza, crispy fries, vegetarian and vegan options, cocktails and draft beer. In the former Lighthouse Tavern space, it also has outdoor seating that makes it especially appealing on a pleasant day. We have seen dogs there, but call or check the current policy before arriving with one.
Wanda's is a warm Nehalem breakfast and lunch stop known for Oregon Coast comfort food, baked goods and homemade bread. It is a popular choice for a leisurely breakfast, a cinnamon roll or something to go for the road. Just look for the lines - you can't miss it!
THOMB Insider Tip: The waits can be long, especially during the high season. Come early and put your name on the list, then stroll a couple blocks east to the kayak launch on the Nehalem River.
Buttercup makes local, seasonal and organic gourmet ice creams, frozen vegan treats, and chowders. Even better, they make their own gourmet cones especially made for each particular frozen treat flavor. They even have frozen dog treats! Their rotating menu of chowders is also pretty wonderful, with everything from local seafood to local vegetable chowders and other seasonal combinations. The finishing touch is crusty bread from a local baker.
THOMB Insider Tip: Try it. You won't regret it! Julie, the owner, is a renowned restaurateur in the area. Those of us who have been around Manzanita long enough may remember her from Blue Sky Cafe and Bread + Ocean Bakery. Be sure to ask about the current takeout catering menu if you're feeding a group.
Riverside Fish n' Chips pairs casual seafood with a waterside Nehalem setting. It is an easy lunch stop when fish and chips, outdoor scenery and an informal atmosphere are exactly what the day calls for. Riverside Fish n’ Chips was recently named by Eater Portland as one of the “Best Fish and Chip Spots Worth Their Salt on the Oregon Coast.”
Along the scenic Nehalem River is Mamma Mia's Italian Hand Made Cuisine. Check their current menu for the day's offerings. You'll find everything from traditional Italian favorites to specialties such as Crab Ravioli and Spicy Prawns. And pizza!
Places to Eat Between Nehalem and Wheeler
Big Shaun's is a local destination for smash burgers, including creative specials and meatless options when available. You'll find Big Shaun's Smash Burgers in the local Mohler CoOp Store and the Bayocean Food Court. They also serve Cake Cup Cartel's single serve desserts, layered cakes with creamy fillings. So burgers and luscious homemade cake can both be part of the plan. Yum!
Best Restaurants in Wheeler, Oregon
Handy Creek Bakery and Cafe is a local Wheeler stop for coffee, fresh homemade pastries and cafe fare. It also offers catering, making it worth checking when you want breakfast pastries or food for a beach house gathering, or even a breakfast or brunch picnic on Manzanita Beach!
The Roost is a cute, homey Wheeler cafe for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, sandwiches and quiche, either to dine in or take away. Heidi Cummins also offers catering.
The Salmonberry is our pick for relaxed waterfront dining near Manzanita. Its wood-fired pizza and seafood come with a beautiful Wheeler waterfront setting. The pet friendly deck is a favorite when the weather is right, but confirm seating availability and the current dog policy first. THOMB Insider Tip: Come early on beautiful Oregon Coast days. Word has spread and it can become very busy!
Rockaway Beach Restaurants and Food Experiences
Continue south from Manzanita on Highway 101 and you'll reach Rockaway Beach, another worthwhile food stop along the North Oregon Coast. These stops expand the guide past the boundaries of Manzanita itself. They aren't places we'd send you to simply because you need lunch. They're stops worth knowing about when you're exploring south of Manzanita.
If you’re making a day of it, see our guide to things to do in Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
Old Oregon Smokehouse is a casual Rockaway Beach favorite for fish and chips, clam chowder, oysters and smoked seafood. This tried-and-true visitor favorite is a good choice for classic Oregon Coast seafood without a formal meal.
Kelly's Brighton Marina offers more than an outdoor Oregon Coast restaurant meal. You can catch or purchase live Dungeness crab and have it cooked for you on the spot, with clams and oysters also available according to season and supply. For seafood loving visitors, and there's a ton, eating just cooked crab by the bay can become one of the most memorable food experiences of the trip! THOMB Insider Tip: We highly recommend renting a boat along with the crabbing equipment. They'll walk you through it. There's nothing like motoring around Nehalem Bay on a beautiful day. But as always at the Coast, bring layers. It can be chilly.
Bayocean Food Court brings several food carts into one easy stop. Depending on the current vendor lineup, a group may find Thai food, Amore Italian-O, Asian fusion, Big Shaun's Smash Burgers, breakfast or coffee in the same place. Sounds handy for families who disagree about what to eat, doesn't it?
Beach Bakeshop is a good morning or lunch stop for sweet and savory baked goods, hand pies, soup and sandwiches. Pick up something portable before exploring the beach or continuing exploring this stretch of Highway 101. After all, how can you resist "The Home of the Sand Dollar Hand Pie?"
Original Pronto Pup is a fun, nostalgic Oregon Coast stop with a giant rooftop corn dog that is hard to miss. Local history credits George and Versa Boyington with creating the Pronto Pup in Rockaway Beach in the late 1930s, although broader corn dog origin stories are debated. Either way, it is a quick food stop with a memorable local story.
THOMB Insider Tip: What a great photo op! It's worth the stop.
Food Stops on the Way to the Tillamook Cheese Factory
Many Manzanita visitors make a day trip to the Tillamook Creamery -- better known as the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Bay City and Garibaldi are directly on the route, so these can be practical meal stops rather than a separate food mission. Unless you choose to accept the challenge!
If you’re continuing farther down the coast, our Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip has more stops and ideas along Highway 101.
The Fish Peddler is both a seafood market and a counter service restaurant. Stop for hand-breaded fish and chips, clam chowder, fresh-shucked oysters, smoked salmon dip or Northwest seafood to take back to your vacation rental. Its Bay City location makes it especially convenient on a Tillamook day trip.
This gem across from sparkling Tillamook Bay definitely deserves a place in our THOMB Insider Tips. One example from their rotating menu: grilled Coho fillet with roasted Badger Flame beet salad, lentils, soft herbs, smoked salmon and green goddess dressing. They also offer rotating salads and sandwiches if you have a smaller appetite.
Craving something different from the usual seafood lunch? Fornax Pizza Truck in Garibaldi makes Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas in a wood-fired oven, with a rotating lineup of seasonal specials built around local ingredients. One recent was a creative Mexican Street Corn Pizza. If pizza sounds better than another seafood stop on the way to Tillamook, this is well worth knowing about. Are you hungry yet?
Takeout, Prepared Meals, Private Chefs and Catering in Manzanita
Sometimes you want a restaurant meal without the restaurant. Maybe the kids have had enough for the day, everyone wants to watch the sunset, you're feeding a houseful of people, or no one wants to give up an evening at the beach just to wait for a table.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to eat well in Manzanita without dining out.
Restaurant Takeout for Your Manzanita Beach House
Many of the restaurants we've recommended above offer food that works beautifully back at your vacation rental. Offshore Grill is a good choice when you want a full restaurant dinner to go, while Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders makes it easy to bring specialty dinners in addition to their homemade chowder, soup and something sweet. Pizza from Marzano's, Mexican food from Left Coast Siesta, Japanese-inspired takeout from Umi Bento, burgers from Big Shaun's, and food from Porchlight are other options when everyone wants something delicious without another sit-down meal.
For larger groups, takeout can also solve one of the practical problems of a busy Manzanita weekend: finding a restaurant table large enough for everyone.
THOMB Insider Tip: One of our favorite vacation strategies is to mix restaurant nights with dinners at the house. Pick up dinner locally, set the table, open a bottle of wine and enjoy the ocean view. You get the food without giving up the evening at the beach.
Prepared Food, Groceries and Easy Vacation Meals
If you're looking for something between restaurant takeout and cooking from scratch, Manzanita's local markets can make vacation meals much easier.
The Little Apple has deli sandwiches and picnic supplies, while Wild Grocery & Cafe offers grab-and-go foods, baked goods and choices for a variety of dietary needs. Manzanita Fresh Foods is another convenient stop for groceries and deli items when you're stocking the beach house or assembling an easy lunch.
For visitors who want something more home-cooked without doing the cooking themselves, ManJa Creations is worth knowing about. Ask about current prepared-meal options, including Mama's Meals to You, for food you can enjoy back at your vacation rental.
This can be particularly handy for arrival night, when everyone is hungry but nobody wants to unpack the car and then head straight back out to dinner.
Private Chefs and Catering in Manzanita
For a special occasion -- or a large group that would rather gather around its own dining table -- a private chef or local caterer can turn dinner at the beach house into an event of its own.
PicNic Eats, from Chef Gabe Kieffer, offers private dinners, parties and catered events with an emphasis on seasonal, locally influenced food. For birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions and other celebrations, having the meal come to you can be considerably more relaxing than trying to move an entire group through a restaurant.
Other Oregon Coast options worth checking include The Wandering Fork, a Tillamook County private-chef service that specializes in vacation stays, family reunions, retreats and intimate gatherings, and Sage Bleu Catering, which serves Manzanita and the Northern Oregon Coast and can cater at private homes and vacation rentals.
For larger catered gatherings, Garibaldi Portside Bistro offers off-site catering throughout Tillamook County, including seafood, smoked meats, plated or buffet meals and delivery by arrangement. Popular dates can fill far in advance, so contact them early.
If the local chefs are booked, Take a Chef is another way to search for private chefs who will travel within Tillamook County and prepare a customized meal at your vacation rental.
THOMB Insider Tip: If a catered dinner or private chef is part of your vacation plans, book early, especially for summer weekends and holidays. And if you're staying in a vacation rental, check the home's occupancy and gathering rules before inviting additional guests.
Beach Picnics and Meals to Go
And then there's one of the simplest dining rooms in Manzanita: the beach.
Sandwiches from the Little Apple, something fresh from Wild Grocery & Cafe, pizza, burritos, burgers, chowder, bakery treats or a collection of everyone's favorites can all become a memorable beach picnic. Pick up what sounds good, grab something to drink and head toward the sand.
Planning more time on the sand? See why we think a Manzanita, Oregon beach vacation is so special.
THOMB Insider Tip: If you're planning to eat on the beach, remember that a perfectly calm afternoon downtown can be breezier beside the water. Bring layers, choose food that travels well and have something with a little weight to hold down napkins.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Manzanita, Oregon
What are the best restaurants in Manzanita, Oregon?
It depends on what you're looking for. For breakfast or brunch, try poach503; for seafood and dinner, Offshore Grill; for Mexican food, Left Coast Siesta; and for pizza, Marzano's. Don't limit yourself to Manzanita proper, though—nearby Nehalem and Wheeler add some of our favorite breakfast, waterfront dining and seafood options.
What are the best restaurants near Manzanita with waterfront dining?
For waterfront dining near Manzanita, head to Wheeler and Nehalem. The Salmonberry in Wheeler combines food with beautiful water views, while Riverside Fish & Chips in Nehalem is a casual choice overlooking the Nehalem River. Both are just a short drive from Manzanita.
Which Manzanita restaurants are dog-friendly?
Several restaurants in and around Manzanita offer dog-friendly outdoor seating, including The Happy Elephant, Porchlight, San Dune Pub, The Rusty Moose and The Salmonberry. Outdoor seating and pet policies can change seasonally, so check with the restaurant before bringing your dog.
Where is the best breakfast or brunch near Manzanita?
In Manzanita, poach503 is one of our picks for breakfast and brunch. Nearby, Wanda's Cafe + Bakery in Nehalem and The Roost and Handy Creek Bakery & Cafe in Wheeler give you even more breakfast, coffee and bakery choices within a short drive.
Where can I get seafood near Manzanita?
For seafood near Manzanita, start with Offshore Grill in Manzanita or Riverside Fish & Chips in Nehalem. Farther south on Highway 101, The Fish Peddler at Pacific Oyster in Bay City is both a seafood market and restaurant. For a true Oregon Coast experience, Kelly's Brighton Marina offers fresh Dungeness crab and other shellfish on Nehalem Bay.
Can I get takeout or prepared meals for a Manzanita vacation rental?
Yes. Many Manzanita-area restaurants offer takeout, including pizza, Mexican food, burgers, seafood and other meals that travel well back to a beach house. The Little Apple, Wild Grocery & Cafe and Manzanita Fresh Foods are useful for deli and grab-and-go food, while Buttercup, Offshore Grill, and ManJa Creations are worth checking for current prepared-food or takeout options.
Are private chefs and catering available in Manzanita?
Yes. PicNic Eats offers private dinners and catered events, and other Northern Oregon Coast providers serve vacation homes and gatherings in the Manzanita area. Private chefs and caterers can book well in advance during summer and holidays, so arrange special meals early.
Where can families eat near Manzanita?
For casual family-friendly meals, consider Offshore Grill, Porchlight, Big Wave Cafe and Steeplejack around the Three Villages. If your family can't agree on one cuisine, Bayocean Food Court in Rockaway Beach can be a fun option because multiple food carts operate in one location.
What restaurants are open late in Manzanita?
The short answer? It can be hard to predict. Manzanita's restaurants are truly independent small businesses small businesses, not national chains. Family commitments, staffing shortages, running out of food during busy seasons, weather, and even the owners' own much-deserved vacations can sometimes affect hours or cause an unexpected closure.
That's part of life in a small Oregon Coast community. Check current hours before heading out, but bring a little patience and flexibility too, especially during busy summer weekends and the quieter off-season. Having a second choice in mind is always a good idea.
THOMB Insider Tip: Don't wait until everyone is starving to decide where to eat. On the Oregon Coast, “Google says they're open” isn't always the last word. You'll find many businesses don't even have Google listings. Many local businesses post their most current updates on Facebook.
Eating Well Is Part of a Manzanita Beach Vacation
One of the things we love about staying in Manzanita is that a memorable meal can take many forms: breakfast downtown, fish and chips beside the Nehalem River, pizza overlooking the water in Wheeler, fresh Dungeness crab from the bay, or something delicious picked up locally and carried down to Manzanita Beach.
After nearly three decades of welcoming guests to The Houses On Manzanita Beach, we've learned that “Where should we eat in Manzanita and the area?” is one of the first questions visitors ask. We hope this guide helps you find an answer that fits your day, and perhaps discover somewhere you wouldn't have found otherwise.
Planning a Manzanita Beach Vacation?
Explore The Houses On Manzanita Beach and our oceanfront vacation homes, then come back to Manzanita Beach Life for more of our favorite things to see, eat and do on the North Oregon Coast.
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