During our autumn mountain biking adventure in Oregon, our first stop on the tour was Grants Pass. After a thrilling day of exploring Cathedral Hills and Mountain of the Rogue on our bikes, we were ready for a satisfying meal and a toast to our journey. As we wandered through the charming streets of downtown Grants Pass in Southern Oregon, we stumbled upon Steam Distillery. This quaint and inviting establishment offered a delightful blend of unique food and even more memorable drinks.
A Speakeasy Feel
Nestled within the original Rogue Brewery, the sound of classic rock filled the air, complementing the steampunk-themed decor that adorned the bar. Like many of the breweries from the late 19th Century, it fell victim to Prohibition and the bar had a feel of almost a speak easy.
Passionately Run And Fun Atmosphere
Immediately we were greeted by Casey. To call her a server or bartender would be a dis-service. She reminded us of Nicole Curtis from Rehab Addict. Attentive, energetic, and passionate about her craft.
Veggies So Good They Taste Like Meat
As she took our order, she guided us to start off our meal with the Brussel Sprouts. Maybe it was the flavorful drinks or the escape from the everyday black-and-white routine of life, but these Brussel Sprouts tasted unlike any we’d had before. The grilled concoction turned these veggies into something resembling meat. They were both juicy and delightfully crunchy.
Healthy AND Tasty Main Courses
No matter which item you choose from the menu, you’ll discover they offer a delightful blend of healthiness and yet tasty. If you’re craving something warm, the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is a satisfying choice. It’s brimming with tender and succulent chicken breast, while the crispy snap peas and pickled cabbage create a harmonious balance. The meal isn’t overly dominating, allowing you to add spice if desired or enjoy its simplicity.
Biggest Pieces Of Tuna Ever!
On the flip side, the Ahi-cado Bowl is a cold counterpart to the warm Chicken Teriyaki Bowl. It boasts generous portions of tuna, perhaps the largest I’ve ever seen, and it harmonizes beautifully with the crunchy rice and the luscious, creamy texture of the avocado.
Oh! The Drinks
As the name suggests, the distillery crafts a range of their very own spirits, including Gin and Vodka. Although the food is excellent, the primary draw here is their exceptional drinks that they skillfully incorporate their liquors into. Their Gin is a botanical delight, offering a fresh and flavorful foundation that serves as the canvas for their drink creations.
What To Order
The coffee martini is reminiscent of a boozy nitro coffee latte, almost dessert-like in its richness. However, the standout cocktail on their menu is the “smoked” old fashioned. It’s not just a meticulously crafted concoction; it’s a theatrical spectacle. When it’s served, it arrives beneath a glass canopy filled with billowing smoke. As they lift the glass, the aroma of a campfire envelops your senses in an intoxicating embrace. The Old Fashioned is so good that the bartender told us he’s had a few people come in telling him it’s as good or better than the ones they’ve had on the Bourbon Trail.
A Wizard’s Tonic – For Non-Drinkers As Well
Even if you’re not into alcoholic beverages, this place is a must-visit just for their tonic. It’s a bewitching elixir infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and an array of other spices. Personally, I’ve given up on soda because it’s excessively sweet, but this tonic was nothing like that. It felt like a glimpse into what ginger ale might have been like in the 19th century.
