15 Best Cannon Beach Restaurants

If you plan a trip to Oregon’s picturesque Cannon Beach, you’re in for a treat! This quaint coastal town not only offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities, but it also has a vibrant cuisine scene. The Cannon Beach restaurant caters to all tastes and preferences, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine.

It might be difficult to determine where to eat when there are numerous options.  We have compiled a list of the 15 Best Restaurants in Cannon Beach, considering food quality, ambiance, and overall eating experience. 

We’ve got you covered for a romantic evening with your significant other or a casual lunch with friends. So make sure to read until the end. 

Best Cannon Beach Restaurants

1. Best French and Italian Dishes-  Newmans at 988

Newmans at 988 is one of the upscale restaurants in Cannon Beach, Oregon. The restaurant, named after its address, is well-known for its superb Pacific Northwest food and impeccable service.

Newmans serves French and Italian meals prepared with the best Oregon and Pacific Northwest ingredients.

Summer is the greatest time to visit Newmans at 988 because the weather in Cannon Beach is mild and pleasant. The small and private environment of the restaurant makes it ideal for a romantic evening or a memorable occasion.

In addition to their normal menu, Newmans at 988 provides a Chef’s Tasting Menu with a four-course meal and wine pairings. This choice is ideal for individuals who want to sample various dishes and learn about the restaurant’s culinary expertise.

What to Eat:

Newmans at 988 have a carefully crafted menu that features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For entree options, get their Jumbo Prawn Saute served with rum, shallots, leeks, & mushroom risotto cake. 

They also offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as their seasonal vegetable risotto and a beet salad with Oregon hazelnuts and goat cheese and their King Fisher Farms Red Leaf Salad with walnuts, gorgonzola & shallot vinaigrette. For dessert, their berry cobbler is a must-try.

2. Best for Smoked Meals- Cannon Beach Smokehouse

Cannon Beach Smokehouse is a popular seafood restaurant and one of Cannon Beach’s best restaurants, popular for its fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes and relaxed atmosphere. 

It features a casual and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for a quiet meal with family or friends. The restaurant is only a block from the beach, and the outdoor patio offers breathtaking ocean views and Haystack Rock. The restaurant’s décor is warm and inviting, with rustic design and comfortable seating. 

The Cannon Beach Smokehouse is open all year, but the best time to visit is in the summer when the weather at Cannon Beach is mild and pleasant. However, the restaurant can get busy during peak season, so arriving early or making a reservation is recommended.

In addition to its regular menu, Cannon Beach Smokehouse also offers a daily specials menu featuring seasonal seafood dishes and rotating specials.

What to Eat:

Cannon Beach Smokehouse is known for its smoked salmon, available in several preparations, including smoked salmon tacos and smoked salmon chowder.

They have classic Fish and Chips, made with locally caught fish, and their crowd-favorite Clam Chowder, a creamy, hearty soup filled with tender clams, bacon, and potatoes.  Another must-try is their Dungeness Crab Cake, made with fresh Dungeness crab meat. It is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. 

3. Best Seafood Joint- Ecola Seafoods Restaurant

Another popular seafood restaurant in Cannon Beach, Oregon, is Ecola Seafoods. This restaurant is a local and tourist favorite for its fresh and sustainable seafood choices.

They create a casual and welcoming ambiance with a rustic design and comfortable seats. Vintage Oregon coast images cover the walls, giving the place a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere. 

The restaurant’s outside patio is a feature, with panoramic views of the ocean and Haystack Rock. The terrace has heaters and blankets to keep customers comfortable on cooler days, making it a great area to enjoy a meal while admiring the scenery.

They are open year-round, and the best time to visit depends on your preference. The restaurant can get quite busy during the summer, so arriving early or making a reservation is recommended. The restaurant is less crowded during the off-season, making it a great time to visit if you want a quieter dining experience.

What to Eat:

Ecola Seafoods Restaurant offers a variety of delicious seafood dishes, including clam chowder, fish and chips, grilled salmon, halibut fish, and crab cakes.

They also offer a range of salads, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, such as their vegan quinoa bowl and roasted beet salad. One of their most popular dishes is their seafood cioppino, a flavorful stew filled with clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, and fish.

4. Best Pacific Northwest Cuisine- Stephanie Inn Dining Room

Stephanie Inn Dining Room, located in Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a fine-dining restaurant recognized for its superb Pacific Northwest food and upscale environment.  

It has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the “Best Restaurants in the Northwest” by Northwest Travel Magazine and receiving a AAA Four Diamond rating.

The ambiance is stylish and polished, with exquisite decor and comfy seats. The restaurant has breathtaking ocean views, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or a memorable occasion. The attentive and professional staff provides outstanding service, resulting in a great dining experience.

The Stephanie Inn Dining Room is open all year, but the most incredible time to visit is in the summer when the weather in Cannon Beach is mild and pleasant. 

What to Eat:

You can never go wrong with their Oregon Black Cod, grilled to perfection and served with roasted seasonal vegetables and a miso glaze. They also have the Wild King Salmon, which is Pan-seared and served with a citrus beurre blanc and seasonal vegetables.

Another must-try is their Vegetable Risotto made with arborio rice, seasonal vegetables, and parmesan cheese. Save time for dessert and try their Huckleberry Cobbler, a seasonal dessert made with fresh huckleberries and topped with a buttery crumble crust.

5. Best American Seafood Restaurant- Wayfarer Restaurant

Wayfarer Restaurant is a well-known restaurant in Cannon Beach, Oregon. It has been a fixture in Cannon Beach for over 40 years and is well-known for its commitment to environmentally responsible and environmentally friendly operations. 

The restaurant is family-owned, and it takes pleasure in its friendly and welcoming environment. They have received various honors and awards, including being named one of the “Best Seafood Restaurants in America” by Travel + Leisure magazine.

With rustic design and comfortable seating, Wayfarer Restaurant boasts a nice and relaxing ambiance. Vintage images and nautical-themed artwork surround the walls, giving the place a quaint and nostalgic air.

They are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer when the weather in Cannon Beach is mild and pleasant. 

What to Eat:

One of their must-try dishes is their Seafood Linguine, a flavorful pasta dish made with clams, mussels, shrimp, and scallops, served in a garlic and white wine sauce.

They also serve classic seafood dishes such as their Seafood Chowder, Fish and Chips,  Dungeness Crab Cakes, and Grilled Wild King Salmon.

6. Best Steaks and Seafood- Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge

The Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge is a popular dining establishment in Cannon Beach, Oregon. For almost 70 years, this family-owned and run restaurant has served great food to locals and tourists.

The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of seafood, steak, pasta, and vegetarian options, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. 

The vibe is pleasant and warm, with a traditional coastal feel. Wood paneling and vintage pictures cover the inside, giving a friendly and nostalgic ambiance. The restaurant also includes a fireplace on a winter day, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal.

The best time to visit Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge is during the offseason (fall and winter) when the crowds are smaller and the restaurant is less busy. However, if you plan to visit during the peak summer season, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance.

What to Eat:

Driftwood’s must-try dishes include the Dungeness crab cakes, clam chowder, and pan-seared scallops. 

The restaurant’s steak options are another must-try with ribeye steak and a pork chop. The steak has delicious sides like mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and garlic butter.

7. Best Cajun and Creole Dishes- Castaways

After a day of experiencing the city’s wonders, indulge in a culinary delight at Castaways, a renowned family-owned and run restaurant in the center of Cannon Beach. Its warm and welcoming ambiance provides a dining experience that will make a memorable impression.

The tempting scents of Cajun and Creole cuisine floating through the air will meet you as you enter.  From traditional Louisiana gumbo to savory jambalaya, the tastes are deep, solid, and authentic.

The ambiance at Castaways is cozy and intimate, with charming decor that reflects the restaurant’s coastal location. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and friendly service create an atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed gathering with family and friends.

The diverse menu at Castaways ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seafood lover, a meat connoisseur, or a vegetarian.

What to Eat:

Get their delicious and satisfying Nawlins Style Jambalaya, an authentic Cajun and Creole classic. This hearty dish is a flavor-packed medley of smoked pork shoulder, andouille sausages, succulent jumbo prawns, onions, sweet peppers, and tomatoes, all cooked to perfection in a savory broth. 

What sets Castaways’ jambalaya apart is that you can customize the spice level to your liking, allowing you to enjoy the dish with just the right amount of heat. Served with fragrant basmati rice, this dish is a comfort food that will leave you craving more.

8. Best Local Brewery- Cannon Beach Distillery

The Cannon Beach Distillery is a prominent and one-of-a-kind enterprise in Cannon Beach, Oregon. This distillery is well-known for its handcrafted spirits, locally sourced ingredients, and pleasant atmosphere, which appeals to locals and visitors.

They are open all year, making it an excellent spot to come at any time of year. It’s worth mentioning that the distillery can get crowded during high tourist seasons, so going on weekdays or during the off-season can provide a more relaxing and private experience.

The distillery is set in a small, nice building with a tasting area with a rustic bar, barrels loaded with aged spirits, and a fireplace that contributes to the warm and pleasant atmosphere. 

It also features an outdoor patio area where visitors can relax and enjoy their drinks in the fresh seaside air and the tasting room. The distillery is just a short distance from the gorgeous Cannon Beach coastline, with views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock that add to the overall beauty and attraction of the site.

What to Eat:

The Cannon Beach Distillery crafts small-batch spirits using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. They offer a variety of spirits, including whiskey, rum, vodka, and gin, which are carefully crafted to deliver exceptional flavors. 

9. Best for Brunch- Lazy Susan Cafe

The Lazy Susan Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Cannon Beach, featuring a modest diner in Cannon Beach, Oregon. The cafe, noted for its superb homemade cuisine and casual coastal environment, is a local favorite and a popular stop for visitors to the area.

They have a comfortable and laid-back coastal vibe. The inside is designed with a beach cottage theme in mind, with light colors, wooden accents, and nautical details, creating a calm and casual feel. 

The outdoor seating area features a beautiful patio with picnic tables, ideal for soaking in the coastal wind and beach town ambiance. The attentive service the kind and welcoming staff provide adds to the cafe’s attractive atmosphere.

Lunch options include an array of sandwiches, salads, and soups, focusing on using seasonal produce and locally-caught seafood. The cafe also serves a selection of homemade pastries and baked goods, perfect for a sweet treat or to take on the go for a beach picnic.

What to Eat:

The cafe is known for its hearty and flavorful breakfast offerings, including favorites like classic omelets served with fruits or potatoes and Shrimp Scatter made from Bay shrimp, green onions, and Swiss cheese.

They also have a variety of Special All Day Waffles, with varying flavors depending on the season. It is served with whipped cream or yogurt. 

10. Best for Light Snacks- Crepe Neptune

Source / License: Trip Advisor

Crepe Neptune is located in Cannon Beach, Oregon, a lovely coastal hamlet.  This charming restaurant specializes in real French-style crepes created to order with fresh ingredients.

They specialize in French-style crepes, which are thin, delicate pancakes created with a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and butter before being filled with a variety of sweet or savory toppings. 

They are well-known for their warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is usually furnished in a lovely French-inspired style, with warm hues, rustic wood furnishings, and soft lighting. The casual atmosphere is easygoing, making it a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely dinner or a fast bite.

Crepe Neptune is typically open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The best time to visit may depend on your preference and the meal you want to enjoy. Weekday mornings and early afternoons may be less crowded, while weekends and holidays may have more visitors. 

What to Eat:

They serve Sweet Crepes filled with sweet fillings such as Nutella, fresh fruit, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. They may also offer caramelized bananas with chocolate drizzle or strawberries with lemon curd. 

They also have Savory Crepes filled with savory ingredients such as ham, cheese, eggs, spinach, mushrooms, and more. 

11. Best Local Pub- Bill’s Tavern & Brewhouse

Bill’s Tavern & Brewhouse opened in the 1980s and has been a fixture in Cannon Beach for almost 30 years. Thanks to its delicious food, artisan brews, and welcoming ambiance, it has become a popular neighborhood hangout for residents and visitors.

They are well-known for their on-site brewery, where they brew craft local beer. They may have a changing range of beers on tap ranging from basic styles such as IPAs, stouts, and lagers to seasonal or specialty brews with distinct characteristics. 

For individuals who want to test a variety of their brews, the brewery may also offer beer flights or sampler selections.

They may be busiest during peak tourist seasons, such as summer, weekends, and holidays. It’s always a good idea to check their operating hours and make reservations if possible, especially during busy times, to ensure availability and avoid potential wait times.

What to Eat:

Aside from their beers, you may also indulge in their tasty burgers, made with high-quality beef patties and served with various toppings such as cheese, french fries, bacon, mushrooms, and more.

Try their Hamburger with a thick slice of Tillamook Cheddar, and their Fish Burger, which is lightly breaded deep, fried cod fillet with all the trimmings.

12. Best Baked Goods- Sea Level Bakery + Coffee

Sea Level Bakery + Coffee is one of the best coffee shops in charming Cannon Beach, Oregon. Nestled in the picturesque beach town, this cozy bakery and coffee shop is known for its delicious baked goods, expertly brewed coffee, and welcoming atmosphere.

The bakery offers a delightful selection of freshly baked goods, ranging from artisanal bread to delectable pastries. In addition to its scrumptious baked goods, Sea Level Bakery + Coffee is also known for its exceptional coffee. 

The cafe’s surroundings are warm and inviting, with rustic decor and comfortable seating that enables guests to unwind and enjoy their sweets while enjoying the coastal ambiance. 

Additionally, it is just steps away from Cannon Beach, making it an ideal destination for a quick snack or a cup of coffee before or after a leisurely stroll on the sandy sands.

What to Eat:

Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering treats like flaky croissants, buttery scones, decadent cakes, and more.

They also serve expertly crafted espresso-based beverages, pour-over coffee, and other specialty drinks. Using carefully selected coffee beans, the skilled baristas create aromatic and rich cups of coffee that are sure to please any coffee connoisseur.

13. Best Italian Pizza- Pizza a’fetta

Pizza a’fetta is a cozy and casual pizzeria in Cannon Beach, Oregon, known for its delicious and authentic New York-style pizza. The restaurant is tucked away in a charming corner of Cannon Beach, just a short walk from the iconic Haystack Rock, making it a convenient stop for locals and tourists alike.

The ambiance is laid-back and friendly, with a rustic and welcoming atmosphere. The dining area is cozy and adorned with local art, giving it a local beach-town vibe. The open kitchen allows diners to watch as their pizzas are handcrafted and cooked to perfection in the brick oven, adding to the overall experience.

Cannon Beach is more crowded with tourists during the summer, so if you prefer a quieter dining experience, it is best to visit during the spring or fall shoulder seasons.

 However, if you enjoy the hustle and bustle of a lively beach town, the summer months can be a great time to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying some delicious pizza.

What to Eat:

Classic favourites like Margherita, Pepperoni, and Veggie are available, as well as more unique options such as the Cannon Beach Combo with bacon, garlic, and spinach or the popular Haystack with shrimp, garlic, and tomatoes. 

In addition to pizza, the menu also includes calzones and salads.

14. Best Fine Dining- The Irish Table

The Irish Table is the best restaurant in Cannon Beach, Oregon, that specializes in Irish-inspired cuisine and provides a unique and delightful dining experience. The restaurant is famous among locals and visitors for its warm and friendly ambiance, making it a popular destination for a relaxing dinner.

Their menu comprises a variety of dishes influenced by Irish culinary traditions, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients used whenever possible. 

It has a rustic and friendly atmosphere, with a nice dining room decorated with Irish-themed designs, warm lighting, wooden furnishings, and Celtic artwork. The attentive and pleasant staff contributes to the welcome ambiance, making diners feel at home.

It is best visited during spring or fall shoulder seasons, as Cannon Beach can get fairly crowded during the prime summer months.

What to Eat:

Try some of the popular menu items, including traditional Irish favourites such as Shepherd’s Pie made with slow-cooked lamb, Guinness-braised short ribs, and Bangers and Mash with creamy mashed potatoes and savory sausages. 

15. Best Bar- Cannon Beach Hardware & Public House

Cannon Beach Hardware & Public House is a quirky establishment in Cannon Beach, Oregon, combining a hardware store and a comfortable pub to provide a unique dining experience.

 The restaurant is noted for its innovative concept and relaxed ambiance, making it a popular destination for locals and guests to enjoy a meal or a drink in an unusual setting.

Diners can enjoy their meals surrounded by shelves of tools, hardware items, and vintage signage, giving the restaurant a quirky and nostalgic vibe. The friendly and laid-back service adds to the overall charm of the place, making diners feel welcome and comfortable.

What to Eat:

For appetizers, try their fresh oyster from Willapa Bay, served with lemon and tangy cocktail sauce.

They also have a Buff salad made from crispy chicken, franks hot sauce, and gorgonzola crumbles served on a salad of mixed greens, carrots, tomatoes, and celery which is then paired with their homemade dressing.

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