We all have our go-to chowder or fish n’ chips on the Oregon Coast, those tasty stand-bys that never let us down. But every so often, it’s fun to change it up a little — and luckily there’s always something new in the Oregon Coast dining scene.

Whether it’s local albacore tuna poke, grilled oysters, a killer burger or fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, you can find it at these seven new fabulous eateries along the Coast. Each is true to its Oregon roots and comes with a serious dose of beach vibes.

Harding Trading Co. in Cannon Beach

From handmade pasta to a perfectly seared steak, blackberry pie and fresh-roasted coffee from Sleepy Monk Coffee on the other end of town, this rustic French-inspired bistro ups the game here. Cheery flowers, homey furniture and inviting sidewalk seating make for a blissful meal on the north end of town, across from the Kite Factory.

Kendra’s River Inn in Nehalem

Right on the bank of the Nehalem River, this scenic outpost offers up some of the most satisfying chowder around — homemade and creamy, served in a bread bowl. Also find more than a dozen house burgers (including a Willapa Bay oyster burger), and playful approach to local seafood, like “crabby cakes” and grilled oysters with homecut fries.

Handy Creek Bakery in Wheeler

This is everything Coastal dining should be — a cozy nook along the river serving up a simple eggs, bacon and hash brown breakfast with a view. Or fill up your picnic basket with some of the heavenly cinnamon rolls and scones, pillowy brioche and sandwich-ready baguettes.

Source Oyster and Wine Bar in Garibaldi

This exciting new spot is an oyster-lover’s paradise. Order a half dozen (or one or two dozen) local Netarts oysters on the half shell, with a trio of lovely accompaniments: horseradish cocktail sauce, mignonette and ginger lime sauce. A few light salads and sandwiches round out the menu. If you want to indulge — and you should — there’s an extensive wine list and a few local beers that will pair perfectly and quench your thirst.

Samphire Restaurant at Salishan Lodge in Gleneden

Executive Chef Andrew Garrison does something wonderful here at the new dining room of the Salishan Lodge, an Oregon Coast icon. He makes makes ordering easy with a three-course tasting menu, designed to highlight the local bounty of the region’s farms, ocean and ranches. Along with Netarts Bay oysters, you’ll find a cured ivory chinook, Painted Hills beef tartar, Anderson Ranches lamb and Finnegan Creek striploin.

Clearwater Restaurant in Newport

From the large wall of windows at this light, bright, stunning and modern restaurant, you can see the sea lions basking in the sun at Port Dock One, the Yaquina Bay Bridge in the distance. Or sit dockside — but make sure to check out the quirky decor inside, like the nautical chandeliers and indoor fireplace. Try the bay shrimp and bacon omelette for brunch, local albacore tuna poke bowl for lunch or local black cod with crab ravioli for dinner.

Catalyst Seafood in Brookings

The menu here says “fresh caught,” and this family-run fishing boat plus restaurant operation is true to its word. The locally caught tuna, salmon and crab here lands on your dinner plate in the form of crave-worthy fish tacos, tuna melts and calamari. Look for it just south of Brookings Harbor, a short walk from the Chetco River. Come hungry.

Story by Jen Anderson

Photo courtesy of Salishan Lodge