Our dinner at Jory, located in the beautifully designed, eco-friendly Allison Inn and Spa, was not only the best meal we had in Oregon but quite possibly the best meal we had in 2009.

Named for the rich vineyard soil that is a trademark of Oregon’s wine country, Jory’s menu is deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural bounty. Our favorite dishes included “Glacier” lettuce, a crisp succulent, with buratta cheese; crispy potato-crusted halibut over sautéed broccoli rabe; and boneless rack of lamb with eggplant and chilies. We indulged in not one, but two desserts, seeking a balance of textures and tastes. Our choices: a deep, dark chocolate mousse and a toothsome pear tart tatin accompanied by a heavenly scoop of ice cream.

The food is complemented by an impressive 700-bottle wine list featuring Willamette Valley’s famed Pinot Noirs as well as a considered selection of wines from around the world. We focused on the Oregon offerings (when in Rome…), sipping glasses of the Soter Brut Rosé (a favorite producer of ours) and sharing a bottle of the Bergstrom Vineyard Pinot, an elegant biodynamic wine from Chehalem Mountain.  

The restaurant’s décor is warm and inviting, and one can sit indoors (note: there’s a private chef’s table for 8 with a bird’s eye view of the kitchen) or out (with a breathtaking view of the hills beyond). Decisions. Decisions. Decisions.

The service was outstanding, with wait staff that was both professional and charming. And, that charm wasn’t just reserved for the human guests! While we enjoyed dinner, our pup was happily ensconced in our room (we were fortunate to be staying at the Inn), chowing down on a meal prepared just for him!