There’s something so wonderful about a good, old-fashioned general store. Winsome and weather-worn, these establishments harken back to a nostalgic time when life moved a little slower and folks weren’t in too big of a hurry to stop and enjoy fun and fellowship in their communities. These town treasures are becoming harder and harder to find, but the Beaver State is home to many, including an out-of-the-way (middle-of-nowhere, some might say) general store nestled in the Willamette National Forest of Central Oregon that’s known among locals for its amazing burgers and brews.

About an hour east of Eugene, McKenzie Bridge is a small mountain town of about 13,000 that’s a true Oregon treasure. Located within striking distance of the McKenzie River and Willamette National Forest, it’s the perfect base camp for adventure seekers that’s less crowded than popular towns such as Mt. Hood and Bend.

U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr

It looks a bit like a small shop in the middle of a European alpine village, especially in the middle of winter. And this is due, in no small part, to the beguiling little general store at its center.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

Since 1932, McKenzie General Store has been serving the good people of Central Oregon, providing a place for sustenance, supplies, and fellowship.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

Inside you’ll find a wonderful mix of staples, specialty grocery items, local brews, cured meats, and only-in-Oregon wares and gifts.

Dave Holland/Google Local

While the indoor cafe is the perfect place to grab something warm to fuel your Oregon adventures, it’s the outdoor biergarden that steals the show.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

The biergarden out back is a total dream; at nightfall, when the twinkle lights turn on and fire pit gets going, it’s like your own little mountain retreat!

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook (The biergarden is dog-friendly, too, by the way.)

And what’s a biergarden without food? The market’s Obsidian Grill is one of the best restaurants in all of Oregon, serving up PNW-inspired fare that’s hearty, comforting, and delicious.

Sarah Tam/Google Local

People rave about the burgers, with the Bacon Avocado Ranch Burger a fan favorite. It features a Willamette Valley raised grass-fed beef burger, NW bacon, fresh avocado and tomato, and homemade buttermilk ranch. Are you hungry yet?

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

In the mood for a taste of the South? Try the Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich, which features hand-breaded Mary’s free range chicken breast that’s been fried to perfection and served on a toasted brioche bun with crisp lettuce and pickles.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

Of course, this being the PNW, you can also order an amazing basket of fish and chips.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

Pair your burger with an Oregon ale, and you’ve got the recipe for a pretty perfect meal, we say.

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

And add in these views and vibes? We can’t think of anything better!

Mark Powell/Google Local

Have you visited this hidden gem of a general store in Oregon before? Between a stellar inventory, killer restaurant, and sublime scenery, McKenzie General Store is a total hidden gem.

U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr

McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant/Facebook

Dave Holland/Google Local

(The biergarden is dog-friendly, too, by the way.)

Sarah Tam/Google Local

Mark Powell/Google Local

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Address: McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant, 91837 Taylor Rd, McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413, USA