Contributed by: Coastal Cravings
The Coastal Cravings crew found themselves managing the South Coast Shopper booth at the Coos Bay Farmers Market, a bittersweet feeling if ever there was one. On the one hand, it was wonderful to see so many happy faces from our community, to chat with readers, and to share in the energy of a bustling market day. On the other hand, we were surrounded by the irresistible smells of sizzling meats, fresh baked breads, and sugary desserts drifting from every direction. Food trucks lined the street in front of us, their grills teasing our senses with savory aromas. Behind us, vendors offered trays of just baked treats and displays of ripe, fragrant fruit. It is no exaggeration to say that lunchtime could not come quickly enough. When it finally did, we all agreed that on a hot Southern Oregon Coast day, the Coos Bay Farmers Market is the perfect spot to grab lunch.
We suggest arriving early at the market to get your goodies. Some items are limited, and you do not want to miss out. With so many options available, anyone looking for a delicious snack or meal will be glad they stopped by the Farmers Market.
Reviewer 1 sampled a beef empanada from Authentic Filipino Food Truck, salmon cakes from Tide to Table, a vegan chocolate muffin from Chubby Cheesecake Girl, and a strawberry kiwi limeade from The Lemon Wrangler.
Their favorite was Tide to Table. “This is food that is lovingly prepared with locally sourced ingredients,” they said. “The salmon cake was a thick patty packed with flavor, grilled perfectly, and paired with a delightful aioli.” Having previously tried Tide to Table’s clam chowder, Reviewer 1 added that it was unlike any chowder they had ever tasted, with deep flavor and clams that melt in your mouth.
The empanada delivered a hot and savory crunch, the vegan muffin satisfied a sweet tooth without guilt, and the limeade was refreshing in the summer sun. Reviewer 1 offered one word of advice. “My favorite item from the Filipino food truck is their jalapeño lumpias, but they sell out fast. Grab them early.”
Reviewer 2 leaned into baked goods and comfort food, starting with cookies from Farmstead Bakery. “The chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies were large, soft, and delicious,” they reported. “The peanut butter cookie is a must for anyone craving a peanut butter fix.” Their tip was to stop by early for bread, since loaves tend to sell quickly.
Next came a strawberry scone from Ladybread Bakery. “It was bigger than my hand and incredibly soft,” they said. “The strawberries really stood out.” From The Plate, they sampled a cup of macaroni and cheese. “Creamy, rich, and comforting, exactly what macaroni and cheese should be.”
Finally, from the Authentic Filipino Food Truck, they ordered flan and siopao. The flan was “perfect with a nice jiggle,” while the siopao had “a great balance of sauce, bun, and filling.” Reviewer 2 appreciated the chance to snack throughout the day. “The best part of this market is that you can come each week and try something new.”
Reviewer 3 headed straight for The Plate, ordering the two meat and two side platter. Pork loin, chicken, macaroni and cheese, and chili beans filled their tray. “If you are looking for barbecue with a side of comfort, this is it,” they said. “The meats were flavorful and tender, the macaroni and cheese was homemade and creamy, and the chili beans were hearty and tasty.”
For dessert, Reviewer 3 sampled a pecan brownie and passionfruit cake from Chubby Girl Cheesecakes. Both were rated ten out of ten and highly recommended. For a lighter and fun option, they suggested Pappas Doggs. “Great corndogs, polish dogs, and nachos, plus friendly service from Larry and Bill. Grab a soda and say hi.”
Between the three reviewers, it is safe to say the Coos Bay Farmers Market has something for everyone. From authentic Filipino bites to fresh from the oven scones, smoky barbecue to vegan muffins, the food spans flavors, cultures, and cravings. Prices vary by vendor, but most items we tried were less than ten dollars, which makes it affordable to sample multiple dishes in a single visit.
Our overall score was a unanimous five out of five. The only warning is to bring your appetite and your curiosity, and maybe a little patience while you decide what to eat first. Remember, the earlier you arrive, the better your choices will be.
The Coastal Cravings crew will certainly be back, though next time we might not be able to resist sneaking away from the booth a little sooner.
Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Stay tuned to find out where we will eat next!
www.socc.edu/occis-summer-restaurant-lunch-service-returns-in-july-and-august-2025
Contributed by: Coastal Cravings
Looking for a unique and delicious lunch experience on the southern Oregon coast? Look no further than the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) at SWOCC in Coos Bay. This summer, their culinary students are offering a limited-time lunch service that’s as educational as it is mouthwatering.
The minute you step into OCCI, the atmosphere hits just right. The space is bright, clean, and inviting. Sunlight floods in from large windows, offering a view of their outdoor pizza oven. Inside, you’re greeted by a display of awards and stunning cakes (seriously, we were already hungry just looking at them). The enclosed kitchen, affectionately named “Hollandaise,” gives you a peek at the students hard at work behind the scenes.
We were seated promptly by a friendly hostess and took in the simple yet cozy decor. There’s also a small on-site bakery stand where you can snag a loaf of sourdough or a sweet treat to-go. The place was bustling, but it didn’t feel too loud or crowded, just enough energy to feel lively.
Menus are thoughtfully designed, divided into appetizers, soups, salads, pizzas, entrees, and desserts. They also clearly label gluten-free, vegan, and gluten-free-optional dishes.
Reviewer 1 went all-in with a seafood and pork combo that didn’t disappoint. The Coastal Clam Chowder was thick and creamy with perfectly tender clams. The Grilled Pork Chop came paired with a pickled green salsa, burnt ends, a cheesy potato, and sautéed zucchini. The grilled pork chop was well seasoned, cooked perfectly and juicy. The pickled green sauce was a nice delightful addition and all the vegetables and burnt ends complimented all the flavors. The Blackberry Black Currant Pavlova was a pleasant surprise, light and airy with tart fruit, sweet Chantilly, and a refreshing sorbet finish.
“I didn’t even know what a pavlova was, but I’m so glad I tried it,” Reviewer 1 said. “Every bite was full of textures and flavors.”
Reviewer 2 opted for lighter fare: a Face Rock cheese plate, roasted tomato soup, a house salad and an Ice Cream and Sorbet Flight. Everything tasted fresh and well-prepared, though the service was a bit spotty for their table. Water and bread arrived late, and the cheese plate was delivered toward the end of the meal.
“The food was excellent, and I love that the students are getting real-world experience. Service could’ve been smoother, but I understand this is all part of the learning process,” said Reviewer 2.
Reviewer 3 leaned into the bolder flavors. The Grilled Chicken Sticks with Red Curry and Radicchio Slaw were the highlight. Bold, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. They also tried a slice of “The Meats” pizza, stacked with pepperoni, chorizo, sausage, and caramelized onions. Dessert was a showstopper: the Black Sesame Chocolate Mousse Cake with passion fruit gelee and sherbet. Oh and they couldn’t resist picking up two loaves of bread and a cookie on the way out.
“I had a hard time choosing dessert, everything sounded amazing,” said Reviewer 3. “But that mousse cake? Unforgettable. I’d go back just for that.”
All three reviewers agreed: the food was delicious, well-plated, and offered something for every palate. From classic chowder to creative global dishes and irresistible desserts, the OCCI summer lunch service hits high marks for quality and creativity.
Service varied depending on the table, some experienced delays while others had smooth interactions, but everyone agreed it’s a great opportunity to support student chefs in a real-world environment. Each meal cost around $45 per person, it’s a gourmet-level experience that won’t break the bank.
Overall Rating: 4/5
This lunch spot is ideal for foodies, groups, casual or fancy dates, business meetings, or even just a solo foodie adventure. Plan ahead and make a reservation, you won’t want to miss out! (Pro tip: Don’t skip over the dessert and bread in the bakery in the corner.)
For more information go to www.socc.edu/occis-summer-restaurant-lunch-service-returns-in-july-and-august-2025/
Want more bites and behind-the-scenes reviews? Follow Coastal Cravings on Facebook and join us on our foodie adventures up and down the southern Oregon coast!
Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Stay tuned to find out where we will eat next!
Contributed by: Coastal Cravings
Nestled between the Toyota service department and showroom in Coos Bay Toyota on North Bayshore Drive is Smiling Dog Cafe. Whether you're grabbing a coffee while your car gets a tune-up or looking for a cozy spot to catch up with a friend, this cheerful little café has a lot to bark about.
Perfect for families, seniors, casual dates or solo snackers on the go, Smiling Dog Cafe checks a lot of boxes. The space is well-lit with comfy seating options, including padded chairs near the windows and tall stools for a perch with a view. Free Wi-Fi makes it easy to catch up on emails, or scroll for your next foodie destination.
Our Coastal Cravings crew came hungry, and left happy and a little full.
Reviewer #1 dove into the Spicy Grilled Cheese on Sourdough, paired with a white mocha and a gluten-free peanut butter cookie. “I’ve had my car serviced here before, but never thought to grab a bite. Big mistake. The sandwich brought the heat with plenty of jalapeños, and the mocha? Let’s just say I seriously considered ordering another.” Safe to say, it was a win.
Reviewer #2 opted for the Smiling Dog Combo. “The Hamburger Macaroni Soup was hearty and had a great taste. The turkey sandwich was loaded with turkey and flavorful, I loved that they offered it hot or cold. Plus, they had a wide drink selection with sugar-free syrups and even more sweet treats to tempt you.”
Reviewer #3 went all in with a Toyota Burrito (bacon added, naturally), an Epic Caramel Cookie, and a Green Apple Italian Soda. “This place is surprisingly versatile, there’s a kids activity room, a dog park out back, and the staff was fast and friendly.”
Presentation was simple, but the flavors spoke for themselves, from spicy and bold to light and satisfying. It is also a budget friendly option with meals between 10-15 dollars. The menu also includes gluten-free and sugar-free options, and each meal left us with leftovers to enjoy later. Bonus points for clean tables and speedy service.
Our overall rating? A solid 4 out of 5.
So whether you're car shopping, kid wrangling, or just in need of a tasty pick-me-up, swing by Smiling Dog Cafe at 2001 North Bayshore Drive in Coos Bay. They might just be your new go-to snack stop. Check out Smiling Dog Cafe's menu at www.coosbaytoyota.com/the-smiling-dog-cafe-lunch-menu
Want more bites and behind-the-scenes reviews? Follow Coastal Cravings on Facebook and join us on our foodie adventures up and down the southern Oregon coast!
See more photos at www.southcoastshopper.com/coastal-cravings
Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Stay tuned to see where we eat next!
Contributed by: Coastal Cravings
Nestled in Charleston at 63516 Kingfisher Rd, Monkey Business is a local gem that delights with its quirky charm and welcoming atmosphere. On our first visit, we were greeted warmly by the friendly staff and handed menus to browse as we waited. The restaurant's bright and cheerful interior, decorated with stuffed monkeys and playful details (including a nod to Ratatouille), creates a fun and relaxed dining vibe.
The seating options are versatile picnic tables with plastic covers, counter stools, and table-and-chair setups make it easy to find a comfortable spot. There’s even outdoor seating, making it a great choice on sunny days.
The diverse menu caters to a wide range of tastes, with dishes ranging in price from $10-$20. On our visit, our group sampled a variety of items: a spicy chicken sandwich, a garlic shrimp basket, a side of jungle fries for the table, fish taco with Baja sauce and clam chowder. The flavors were light yet bold, well-balanced, and generously portioned, perfect for leftovers.
This spot shines not just for its food but for its hospitality. Our server, Cathy, stood out with her humor, kindness, and attentive service. A fellow customer nearby shared that this is her go-to spot every time she visits the Oregon Coast, especially for the clam chowder.
It's an ideal place for families with kids, casual date nights, quick meals on the go, and even group gatherings. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Monkey Business offers a cozy, memorable dining experience wrapped in fun and flavor.
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Find out where we eat next in the June 8th edition of the Shopper.
Contributed by: Coastal Cravings
Welcome to Coastal Cravings' very first review! We couldn’t think of a better place to start than the Coos Head Food Co-Op. Not only has this beloved business been a loyal advertiser in the South Coast Shopper for years, but it’s also a cherished cornerstone of our community!
If you’re craving a quick, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor, Coos Head Food Co-Op might just be your new go-to spot. Two out of three of our reviewers visited for the first time and were instantly impressed. Our reviewer who has been here before reports, “I usually grab their to-go salads, but today I decided to try something new—and it did not disappoint!”
From the moment you walk in, Coos Head greets you with a warm, welcoming vibe. The store is neatly organized, and you’re immediately drawn in by the magazine rack filled with various savings options—a great sign of a community-focused spot. The smell of freshly prepared meals fills the air, and the store boasts a fantastic selection of fresh produce and other goodies. Everything looks so fresh and appetizing, it's hard not to get excited.
Our reviewers sampled a variety of dishes, including the Seafarers Pacific Tuna Sandwich, Mediterranean Spinach Wrap, Quinoa Super Salad, Cup of Chili and Dilly Potato Salad. Pairing these with refreshing drinks like the Poppi Cherry Limeade, Carrot Orange Elixir, Lean Green Juice made for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. For a sweet treat, delicious Cranberry Orange Scone. The consensus? Light, balanced, and full of flavors that make each bite exciting.
While the seating is a bit limited the cozy atmosphere creates a comfortable setting for a casual lunch or a relaxed date. The store’s variety of gluten-free, keto-friendly, and sugar-free options ensures there's something for everyone.
With an average rating of 4.67/5, Coos Head Food Co-Op offers great variety and healthy alternatives to fast food. One reviewer was particularly enamored with the scones—soft, flavorful, and impossible to resist! We’re already looking forward to returning for more. Whether you're in the mood for a quick dinner or a bite on the go, Coos Head is a must-try!
Coos Head Food Co-Op is located at 353 S 2nd St, Coos Bay, OR 97420. Hours are Monday-Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Make sure to check out the Coos Head Food Co-Op ad in our Health and Wellness section!
Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Find out where we eat next in the May 8th edition of the Shopper.
