McMenamins White Eagle

Caught Dead Sometimes, the Grateful tribute band, here. It’s a fun spot, with a comfortable, friendly feel, good food and drinks at good prices. The old hotel and bar have a classic, interesting character, and there’s a nice patio outside. They even have rooms to rent! :)

The saloon worked well as a small show venue. We could sit down and still see the stage, and the staff were nice. The vibe was fun, the drinks reasonably priced, and the tots tasty. I only went to the saloon for a show, so I can’t speak to staying at the hotel. As a bar and restaurant, I’d give it five stars. For the location, though, there’s not much around to walk to if you’re hoping for lots of things to do.

The music was great and the atmosphere had a cool feel, but we were made to feel like a nuisance. We came on New Year’s Eve and asked whether the kitchen was open. The hostess said yes and told us to sit wherever, without mentioning there was no wait staff. After waiting a long time, we learned we had to order at the bar and take a number. There were more than 20 people in the drink line, one bartender moving very slowly, and only 30 minutes left before the kitchen closed. We gave up on ordering food and just got drinks. I asked for two rum and sprites and two ginger beers, but the bartender gave my brother and sister tequila instead of rum. That might not have been such a big deal if she hadn’t had such a nasty attitude from the start. It’s lousy to deal with service workers who seem not to care about the guest experience.

The staff were so kind and helpful, and don’t skip the bar and restaurant while you’re there. We had a great weekend at the white Eagle inn. Room 7 came with some whispers and papers moving. We switched to room 3, Roses Room, for the second night, but didn’t encounter anyone there. We’ll be back!