Mushrooms are the heart of what we do at the Joel Palmer House. We have always endeavored to obtain seasonal and local ingredients and we use many locally produced greens, herbs, and vegetables, some of which come from our own culinary garden. We are frequently inspired by ingredients found in the cuisines of France, China, Thailand, Poland and India, so we call our cooking "freestyle." Our dishes pair well the celebrated wines of Oregon, especially Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Our extensive, Oregon-focused wine list has been awarded the Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. Of special note, The Joel Palmer House ranks as one of Oregon's finest historic homes and is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Oregon Historic Register. Built in 1857, the house is Dayton's oldest standing structure. When weather permits, guests can enjoy their dinner on our outdoor patio, soaking in the last rays of sunshine in the heart of Oregon Wine Country.
McMenamins Old Church & Pub offers a family-friendly pub; a historic renovated church; a McMenamins brewery; and an outdoor amphitheater for live music, events, receptions and more. This spot was a hub of activity, back in 1911 when the church was built on an ancient route just north of the site where Boone's ferry made regular crossings of the Willamette River for more than 100 years. The namesake of the road and ferry, Alphonso Boone, was grandson of famous American frontiersman Daniel Boone! Today, the interior of the pub is filled with unusual artwork and colorful murals. The architecture harkens back to the original ferry dock, what with its huge wooden pillars and cross beams overhead. We hope to reimbue the spot with life and laughter, good conversation and meals, live music, parties, events and more.
