Sawtooth Roadhouse is Cutting Edge

More pithy ditherings from http://www.travelthegorge.com/

Just kidding there – but the Sawtooth Roadhouse IS a very pleasant place for some good food and good company. Just in front of the old Hanel Mill site, on Highway 35, 9 miles south of I-84, the Sawtooth gives you an excuse – if you’re the type who needs one – to drive this National Scenic Byway into the foothills of Mt. Hood. The views of Mt. Hood and upper valley orchards would be reason enough for the drive; add a great lunch with warm service to the trip and you’ll become a regular.

The TTG Team feasted here on what could have been a dreary Friday. Skies were overcast, Mt. Hood appeared fleetingly, and it was too cold to want to get out of the car. But the lure of fresh-baked lasagne, an authentic Reuben and crisp-crust pizza was inescapable and we ended up sitting in their cozy bar, being waited on by the owner and regaled by the chef.

It’s hard to define exactly what about the food sets the Sawtooth apart from standard roadside fare – it’s an unexpected mix of California fusion with northwestern cowboy that really works. The Thai Pizza was full of oriental flavor and crunch, and the potato soup – not two things you would expect to find on the same menu, was rich and full-bodied with bacon and onion. Beer and wine were reasonably priced.
It isnt always obvious that they are open for lunch most days of the week. You might want to call first - 541.354.2511 - just to make sure they’re ready to welcome you.

The TTG Team
For a complete directory of dining in The Gorge, go to www.TravelTheGorge.com/casual.asp