4 Best Restaurants in The Willamette Valley and Wine Country, Oregon

Salem politicos flock to this two-story downtown gathering spot for Italian-inspired dishes cooked in a wood-burning oven. No shortcuts are taken in the preparation, so don't come if you're in a rush. But if you're in the mood to linger over seafood and fresh pasta that's made on the premises, this may be your place. The wine list features a wide selection from the Northwest and Italy, and includes a good selection of wines by the glass. 

This exquisite hotel dining room is named after one of the soils in the Oregon wine country. The kitchen source the majority of their ingredients locally, and many of the vegetables come straight from the on-site garden. The menu changes according to season, but always features fresh seafood and an abundance of local veggies. Ask for a seat at the counter overlooking the open kitchen if you want to see the chefs in action. Naturally, the restaurant has an expansive wine list focused on Oregon wines.

A rotating menu at this fine bistro in Albany's historic downtown changes monthly and features flavorful cuisine at reasonable prices. The restaurant strives to ensure that most of the ingredients, including the lamb, eggs, and vegetables, are raised within 10 miles. The wine list includes worldwide classics, but is strong on local Oregon wines, too.

Opened back in 1991, this Dundee institution has long been known for luring Portlanders away from their own restaurant scene, offering country-French fare cooked lovingly with locally grown produce. Service is as intimate and laid-back as the interiors; a double fireplace divides the dining room, with heavy glass brick shrouded by bushes on the highway side, so you're not bothered by the traffic on Highway 99.