This month, we’re excited to kick off our series of local international cuisine with a beloved local favorite – Blue Heron Bistro. Nestled in the heart of Coos Bay, Blue Heron Bistro has been delighting residents and visitors with its authentic German cuisine for years. Join us as we explore the rich, hearty flavors of Germany right here in our coastal town.
Sauerbraten
Blue Heron Bistro has been a fixture in Coos Bay since its founding in 1978. Adam Palmer, the current owner, continues the tradition of serving fresh, handmade dishes that capture the essence of German cuisine while also incorporating the bounty of the Pacific coast.
“We make almost our entire menu right here in this building from our pasta, desserts, smoked meats, right down to our bread,” says Palmer. “It is really rare to say, ‘hey, we make 95 percent of everything we serve,’ especially in this day and age.”
Q: What type of cuisine do you specialize in? What are your signature dishes, and what makes them special?
A: We are a German and seafood restaurant. Being right here on the coast, it makes sense to serve fresh seafood, so we just had to have a splash. The German is quite special as you just don’t see many of them anymore. As things tend to be handmade and can’t be found in the frozen aisle, most people don’t want to fuss with it, so there aren’t a lot of us left.
Q: How would you describe the atmosphere of your restaurant?
A: Think Gaston’s cabin from Beauty and the Beast; that’s what we were going for with a touch of Coos County flair and a hint of the Black Forest in Germany.
Q: Do you have any special events, promotions, or happy hour deals that customers should know about?
A: We have a fabulous happy hour we just implemented featuring Clausen’s oysters, homemade brats and knackwursts with real German sauerkraut, and of course, our award-winning (23 times!) clam chowder paired with signature cocktails.
New Happy Hour Menu
Award Winning Chowder
Q: How do you engage with the local community? Do you participate in any community events or charitable activities?
A: We hosted and donated over $20,000 in donations last year alone and are on track to do about the same again this year. Whether it’s the pregnancy resource center, youth sports, or Riverview or Kingsview schools, we are more than happy to help when we are able. After all, a strong community is a great community.
Q: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about your restaurant?
A: Try the brunch!
Raspberry Cake
Blue Heron Bistro is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Germany and the bounty of the Pacific coast. With its commitment to homemade, high-quality dishes and strong community ties, it’s no wonder this restaurant has been a Coos Bay favorite for decades. Be sure to try their brunch, and don’t miss their happy hour specials!
Next month, we’ll continue our culinary journey. Stay tuned!
Congratulations Adam and the Team at Blue Heron Bistro! Rosey T