Photo Courtesy: Sun Valley Resort, by Kevin Syms

Savor the Season

Holiday dining experiences bring warmth to winter nights

by Heidi Hausler

Huber’s Cafe in Portland has served plates piled high with turkey and all the trimmings every day of the year since 1879, a testament to the most enduring of holiday traditions. Gathering in community to share a meal is the center of cultural celebrations throughout the year, yet shines especially bright during the winter. So while Jack Frost is busy casting his spell across the Pacific Northwest, restaurateurs pull out all the stops to curate festive menus and settings rooted in the joy of breaking bread together. Discover new ways to celebrate the foods of the season combined with winter activities—from sleigh rides to charming cabins and dinner cruises illuminated by the Northern Lights to historic lodges lit by firelight and a yurt amidst snowy wilderness. All set in communities brimming with holiday spirit, these culinary destinations mark only the beginning of the surrounding seasonal magic.

1. HUBER’S CAFE

Portland, Oregon

Huber’s Cafe transports guests to a bygone era with its stained-glass ceiling and Old World holiday decor. Visit during the Portland Winter Light Festival to stroll through downtown to see bedazzled boats float along the Willamette River. See hubers.com.

2. SUNRIVER RESORT

Sunriver, Oregon

For more than 50 years, Sunriver has transformed into a holiday wonderland. Amidst boughs of greenery, seasonal favorites await for the whole family in the historic Great Hall. See sunriverresort.com/traditions.

3. TIMBERLINE LODGE

Mt. Hood, Oregon

A roaring fire and majestic alpine views accompany multicourse dinners in the Cascade Dining Room. Enjoy locally sourced Northwest flavors and traditions such as Santa’s rooftop arrival. See timberlinelodge.com.

4. JUG MOUNTAIN RANCH

McCall, Idaho

Casting a glow on the forested landscape, Blue Moon Yurt awaits at the end of a 1-mile path. Cross-country ski or snowshoe to a feast inspired by Thai, Cajun, Caribbean, Moroccan and Pacific Northwest flavors. See bluemoonyurt.com.

5. LAKE COEUR D’ALENE

Coeur D’Alene, Idaho

Sail into the magic of the season with the Northern Nights Dinner Cruise. Cuisine from the chefs at The Coeur d’Alene Resort complement sweeping winter lake views. See cdacruises.com.

6. TRAIL CREEK CABIN

Sun Valley Resort, Idaho

Feel the crisp winter air on a magical sleigh ride through Sun Valley’s winter wonderland before arriving at a charming log cabin for a hearty meal. See sunvalley.com.

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