Reviews - Rainbow Cafe
Reviews summary
The Rainbow Cafe in Pendleton is a legendary local institution that has been serving up good food in a unique and authentic old West atmosphere since 1883. Despite some reviewers noting that the service could be slow at times, the breakfast options are highly recommended, especially the chicken fried steak. With a great atmosphere, friendly service, and a historical charm, the Rainbow Cafe is a must-visit stop for anyone passing through on a road trip or looking for a break from generic fast food options downtown. The bar is also a popular spot for locals, offering a large selection of drinks and a chance to chat with the bartender. If you find yourself in Pendleton, make sure to stop by the Rainbow Cafe for a memorable dining experience with a touch of local history.
Was Mollie Smitham at Rainbow Cafe a mag?
breakfast at a local legendary! rainbow cafe, Pendleton's oldest, continuously open restaurant/bar in the same location! since 1883 strong! (139 years! small town feel with amazing eating! View all feedback.
What Lucinda O'Conner dislikes about Rainbow Cafe:
Nice atmosphere, okay drinks, okay food. It’s open later than anything else downtown, so unless you want generic fast food out by the interstate, this is a good bet. Make sure the salt and pepper are handy. View all feedback.
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Reviews from various users
Last update : 09.07.2025
What a great spot to stop on a road trip! Very old bar and a great selection of locals to talk to the bartender was excellent and made me want to go golfing. The Nike Jordan Golf cleats were a fun touch) Bar was clean and the food was fresh, wellpriced and tasted amazing. Definitely a stop for the trailer that needs a break from the road. I understand they stay openmuch later than other places in town.
Breakfast at a local legend! Rainbow Cafe, Pendleton?s oldest-continuously open restaurant/bar in the same location! Going strong since 1883!!! (139 years!! Small town feel with amazing food!
6 of us had the best breakfast here. From the veggie omelet to the bloody Mary's to the chuckwagon eggs Benedict. Classic old Tavern. Apparently super popular bar during the roundup.
Last update : 13.10.2024
? Parking: Historic.
During my 8 day road trip to Lincoln City, Seattle, Portland, and back to Salt Lake City, I think this was my favorite meal all week. It's a seat yourself place, and I urge you not to be discouraged if it takes an extra second for the staff to reach you at first. Be patient, and if you sit in the back, you can watch the fantastic cook prepare all the yummy food. We had 2 Chuckwagon Benedicts and shared a blueberry pancake (because it was that huge . The music playing set the perfect vibe, and we made a strong connection with the waitress when Chappell Roan started playing. It was so much fun and such a delicious meal. Dani, if you're reading this, you were the best!! I hope we can come back soon and sing Hot To Go together again :
GREAT vibes. This bar made me wish I was staying in Pendleton longer than one night. We were weary travelers passing through the night. Salvation was found at the Rainbow Cafe. The drinks were flowing, and the food warmed our souls. Sure, the cowboy vs Irish identity was weird at first, but take some time to look around and admire the fascinating decor and history surrounding you. One of the owners served us and he was quite the baller. 10/10 would recommend you stop in for at least a drink if you're traveling through pendleton. I shall be back for you Rainbow Cafe, eventually.
Note to self: NEVER go to The Bo during or after an event! Nothing like the lack of the red carpet. Paper cups and plates, plastic ware and serve yourself water and coffee. How about waiting over an hour for some limited food choices. Nothing like some over easy scrambled eggs, over cooked ham and over margarined toast.
The food here is excellent every time I come by. My husband and I got the steak and eggs and the country fried steak, and they were both phenomenal. The people were also friendly, and the service speed was perfect for us this morning.
Last update : 28.04.2023
Great service! Great peoples! Perfectly mixed Cesar's! And there were Spanish Omelet great!... even this is no longer on the menu, they still did it for me! What a great crew! Next time I ask for Jalepenos and sour cream! Thanks again! Karin of Juneau, Alaska
Take a step back to the time in the Rainbow. Good food and an atmosphere that reflects Pendleton's strong buzzing history. Always a good recommendation when you see many local ranchers coming to breakfast. Fantastic memory of the walls. In any case, it is worth checking. (The service was really slow on the day we were there...dinged 1 star)
After an early morning disaster in another local establishment (see Roosters CK-Review). We find the RC....First off.Shelly was great. She has been working straight for 11 days, looked like she drank, but her attitude and service was excellent. Order b-fast. Large land fried steaks, slightly scattered and spiced....Liebig! **** Mary was great. Great atmosphere! A must.
An amazing example of classic underestimated Americana. This place has been around since the 1800s. Do not miss its wonderful portions and western style. These are the cultural institutions that form the backbone of the American settlement in the West. Come and experience a cultural and culinary institution in the beautiful city of Pendleton!
Breakfast at a local legendary! rainbow cafe, pendleton's oldest, constantly open restaurant/bar in the same location! since 1883 strong! (139 years! small town feel with amazing eating!
