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
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Have a suggestion on where we should eat next? Email us at Shopper@scod.com
Find out where we eat next in the July 10th edition of the Shopper.
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.
