View Point Inn

July 4th weekend was my first time visiting the Pacific Northwest, much less Portland, and fortunately for me my girlfriend booked us for an evening at the View Point Inn. As a west coast “newbie” my preconceived notions of Portland were very much limited to what you might read in tourist pamphlets—a big city with small town charm, an amalgam of coffee shops and hipster lifestyle. But what I was most impressed with is Portland’s surrounding countryside. It is its natural resources that provide Portland with its greatest appeal, and the View Point Inn captures this with comfort and class. \r \r Located approximately 20 miles east of the city, on interstate 84, it is a quick jaunt from the city, and easily accessible. We spent the day about half an hour east enjoying the handful of wineries overlooking Mt. Hood, and concluded our outing at the View Point Inn. \r \r There are four rooms, three of which share a bathroom, and although I was reticent about sharing a bathroom, it is not as inconvenient as you might think. It is very private, and the facilities are everything that you would expect from an upscale Inn. I am less than knowledgeable regarding personal care, but my girlfriend assures me that their L’Occitane products are top notch. We stayed in the “Le Petite Alcove” room that although small, is incredibly charming, and costs around $125 per night. The Roosevelt Suite, which overlooks the Columbia River Gorge is about $350 per night, and has its own private bathroom. The view alone is worth it. \r \r The service at View Point is impeccable. If you need anything, all you have to do is ask, and you will be accommodated. They are thorough, but not intrusive, and incredibly cordial. Upon arrival we were given complementary beverages from their unique cocktail list. I chose the “New Fashioned” a concoction slightly altered from its “Old Fashioned” counterpart. Bourbon and Ginger with muddled lemons and cherries, it was strong and refreshing. If bourbon is not your choice drink, there are a plethora of other cocktails, all of which are good (we pretty much tried all of them). \r \r In the evening, you can relax at the bar, which is a converted garage (and very tastefully done) or you can mingle on the patio or deck, all of which have vibrant panoramic views of the Columbia River. You can pick your spot for dinner. If the weather is rainy, you can eat inside. The weather was gorgeous during our stay so we chose to dine on the manicured lawn—a front row seat for a dynamic and brilliant Portland sunset. \r \r Our meal was excellent. It is curious that they serve Wild ATLANTIC Salmon as I was looking for some left coast flavor, but it was exceptional. Pan Seared to perfection and a hearty helping, I was completely satisfied. The roasted fingerling potatoes were a wonderful complement, along with the grilled asparagus that comes with the entrée. \r \r Small, quaint, comfortable, gorgeous, relaxing—these words do View Point minimal justice. You have to experience it to truly get it. And even if you don’t want to spring for a room, a dinner reservation is all that you need to enjoy the ambiance, service, and relaxing vistas that the View Point has to offer. Many of the patrons were there just to enjoy an evening of tranquility. It is conveniently close to the city, and based on the July 4th attendance, is one of the best-kept secrets in Portland. more

After my visit to the View Point Inn, I really wish that I could marry my husband all over again in the courtyard. The backdrop is romantic, peaceful, serene, and charming. It is rare to find a gem like the View Point tucked away so perfectly into nature. The crackling fire place, and fresh flowers add a special touch. I asked my husband if we could have a second wedding there just for us since we both love it so much. Thanks to Angelo and Thomas for taking the time to make sure that we feel relaxed and welcome. What a special place. The food is delicious Northwest cuisine. Make sure you take the time to have a drink in the bar too! Pros: So beautiful and romantic more

Whenever I have family visit from out of town, I am sure to take them to the View Point for dinner, tea, or brunch. There is so much that I love there, the food is excellent, the staff is well-trained and most of all the experience is one that is truly memorable. Do not miss out on the Marscapone French Toast- it is amazing!! Take time to look around the Inn as well. It is evident that the owners take the time to ensure attention is paid to every detail. From the grand antique mirrors that adorn the guest rooms, to the fresh cut tulips in crystal. Perfect for tea with the ladies, and drinks in the lounge with the guys. Pros: Food, view, owners, site, history more

My husband and I were visiting relatives recently in the Portland area (we live in Maryland) and decided to have dinner at The View Point Inn after hearing a lot about it's beautiful location, breathtaking vistas and delicious food. We took as our guests my sister and brother-in-law (who despite being native Oregonians had never been there before). Guess what? All the accolades we had heard about were true. From the moment we pulled onto the property and saw the charming little home situated on a hilltop with the most glorious views to our after-dinner coffee, it was total perfection!\r \r The staff couldn't have been more welcoming or accommodating; the wait staff was courteous and extremely knowledgeable; my cocktail was mixed with obvious expertise and everything from our cheese course to our crab appetizer to our salads to our entrees were not only beautifully presented but absolutely delectable. Nirvana! We were lucky enough to meet the Head Chef, Nick, and it was great to be able to tell him in person how much we enjoyed his luscious creations. I am somewhat of a cook myself and not easily impressed...but Nick's got it down!\r \r We arrived around 5pm and the sun was just at that perfect spot in the sky casting the most glorious hues across the lawn. It made the whole experience picture perfect. So do yourself a favor...don't wait for a special occasion. Dining at the View Point Inn will be special enough! Pros: Beautiful food in a beautiful setting Cons: It's not located in Maryland! more

I heard about the View point inn from a friend, and I tell ya what, I think I was more impressed then he was.... My wife and I went up for a night out, and got a lot more than we expected. \r We started the night with champagne and the cheese board, it seemed expensive but that’s one of the things we always have when we go out... and unbelievable it was totally worth the money. Great cheese, and it looked beautiful... bread and grapes and these long cracker things.. That are apparently pie dough with chives cooked into it, I love it when a chef goes the extra mile... \r Then we had a glass of chardonnay and the crab cake entree...which reminded me of when I was a kid and vacationed on the east coast... what a treat.... \r Besides the food..... The view was AMAZING...we got to sit outside and watch the sunset over the gorge. And the attention from our server was perfect... \r I digress.. \r Our third course was pesto filled tortellini... handmade pasta.. Served with lemon and roasted garlic.. It was perfect... \r Now our third glass of wine.. Pinot.. And lamb with cassoulet... \r What a night... the lamb was perfect and when we finished our entree we got a hot towel service which is something I had never experienced before and kind of caught me off guard... nice touch..\r For dessert we had the flourless chocolate tort... and a glass of port... \r Best tort I ever had... \r Tort and Port huh.. That rhymes.. They should use that.. LOL \r I digress.. We had a great night .. The best night out we have had in a while.. And we are hoping to stay the night there sometime this summer.. ""Hoping""\r I would suggest the viewpoint inn for anyone who wants a nice relaxed evening… \r Great food.. Great Service.. Amazing property\r Pros: cheese board, service, view Cons: distance from portland more

I was the maid of honor for a recent wedding there and we had such a great time! Pros: Great staff, wonderful meal! Cons: It was freezing for our outdoor ceremony more

I had recently gone out to stay at The ViewPoint Inn, and I had to comment on it here.\r First off, via their website i had read up on the history of the building, and found it fascinating. So i had to venture there for a look and feel of the place, with my own perogative, of course. (I write about things that go bump in the night)\r \r At The ViewPoint Inn, the view is, in a word, Heavenly! The lush nature setting is a perfect oasis. The Inn itself, is nothing short of spectacular. The wooden beams, and authentic restoration, the building itself is one of a kind.\r \r I stayed in one of the rooms near the back of the Inn, and was hoping to experience or see something, which i might have, im not sure. I was just really taken back by the place.\r \r In the morning, I had a chance to speak briefly with one of the owners. Not only was he receptive and personable, but his knowledge of the Inn and its history, and his passion for it is refreshing to see and experience. \r \r The staff was very polite and the food in the restaurant, 5 star excellence.\r \r I will definitely check out a view from the View Point Inn again. This time, for a longer stay Pros: Views, Dining, Amenities, Guest Services Cons: Too short a stay more

Simply put, our daughter's wedding at the View Point Inn on 4.4.2009 was spectacular. The venue worked wonderfully, including the ceremony, dining, entertainment, lodging, weather (!). In addition to having the wedding ceremony and reception at the inn, we had an ""Aunt's"" luncheon at the inn the day before the wedding and the bridal party stayed at the inn the night before the wedding.\r \r Our experience with the food included, a luncheon, continental breakfast for the bridal party, ""bridal bites"" lunch for the bridal party, hors d'oeuvres after the wedding ceremony and the reception dinner. The meal items selected were not elaborate but were well prepared and presented, and reflected the region and our personal tastes. To suit our family and friends we had both meat and vegetarian meals (breast of fowl & Pan-seared halibut, forest-harvested mushroom lasagna). Many of our guests complimented the quality of the food.\r \r We knew that having a wedding in the Gorge in April meant that the weather could vary dramatically and we needed to be prepared for both an indoor and outdoor wedding. We worked on both arrangements and rehearsed both. The inn is very pretty inside and can work for the ceremony, but having it outside takes full advantage of the spectacular location/view, and the logistics are notably easier (including taking wedding party photos). As it turned out the weather worked out for us and the ceremony was outside. There were around 100 people at the wedding, easily accommodated outside for the ceremony and comfortably accommodated inside for the reception (including having room for a dance floor). You probably don?t want to get too much larger, particularly if it is an inside-only affair. Also, it is good to consider the size of the inside space in determining how music should be provided. It doesn?t seem suited for a larger (>4 member) high energy/volume rock and roll type of band. We went with a small jazz group.\r \r Our experience with the View Point Inn management and staff has been positive. We were very particular and thorough in making arrangements. Yes, we were acutely aware of the critical reviews and made sure that expectations on both sides were well established. We did work through some bumps with staff changes but nothing significant. Our working relationship with the owner has been very good, before, during and after the wedding. We pretty much got what we wanted with respect to vendors, payment arrangements, wedding schedule (the start and end times were just fine for us), use of the facility (no problem going outside), etc. We went into the arrangements very carefully after having difficulties with another wedding venue that fell through on us. You would not be seeing this review if we weren?t very satisfied.\r \r Misc Other:\r - Lamb Bakery ? great cake\r - Wifi in bar area nice for streaming in NCAA bball game\r - mother of bride insists that the inn is perfect for a fairytale wedding \r Pros: beautiful location, ambiance more

This place is amazing. The food even better! I had the salmon with roasted potatoes which, in the vernacular of the East Coast, ""was to die for!"" Their specialty cheesecake alone was worth the trip! And when's the last time you had a hot hand towel served after dinner? It's on my list to repeat, or in this case, to have another phenomenal ""re-eating"" experience! Pros: Food, service, and view Cons: Too far away to return weekly more

""The View Point Inn is a fabulous bed and breakfast. The food was terrific and the service was excellent. There is a beautiful view of the city lights and the Columbia River. The setting is beautiful, even on a less than perfect weather day. We spent a lot of time in the common room upstairs and in front of the fireplace in the restraunt. It was great for a group, but it would also be a romantic spot for two. We had a group of 8 that had the Inn to ourselves and it felt like home only much better. \r \r I highly recommend the Viewpoint as a Bed and Breakfast, but also as a day trip for an excellent meal and interesting trip up the gorge Pros: Great View 20 Minutes from Portland more

We went for desert and got so much more! We showed up to get desert and decided to try each desert they have. WHAT A GREAT IDEA!!!! i really recommend this for anyone, anytime! The place was almost to ourselves (which is a shame for the owners but great for the patrons!) and the staff was so friendly and nice! The food was simply delicious as well! So good if fact, we haven't stopped talking about it and look forward to trying everything else! If you try this fantastic little get away, you wont be sorry! The new owner have really done something with this place!!! Pros: Food, Staff, Atmosphere Cons: N/A more

My sister was married this weekend at the Inn, and it was WONDERFUL. From the view to the owners to the food to the staff, I was impressed. We were treated with such hospitality. Everyone was willing and accomodating with our every move. They were helpful and friendly, and most of all concerned with our happiness. I can't thank the Inn enough for making my sisters' day so perfect and special!!\r Pros: everything Cons: nothing more

I had a perfect wedding at the View Point Inn. I wouldn't have changed a single thing. My guests were all raving about this as a perfect venue. We were warm and cozy in the elegant setting while it stormed outside and then opened up for a beautiful sunset. The food was absolutely delicious - definitely not your usual wedding fare. And most of all the service was impeccable. They had a large staff there to take care of all of our needs and make sure that everything went smoothly. From the person outside helping people in during the pouring rain to the staff who stayed late to serve us more drinks -- they certainly went above and beyond my expectations. We had a few stumbles along the way as they dealt with some changes in their staff, but they more than made up for this in making sure that absolutely everything was perfect and just as I wanted it on my wedding day. There are some rules that go along with this place - must end at 10pm, no outside noise, etc but they were completely up front with this and there were no surprises along the way. I personally loved that we could head upstairs after the ceremony and continue the celebration with our closest friends. And there were such nice little touches -- baskets in each of our rooms, plush robes, and fruit plates to go along with our post-party drinks. You hardly need to do any flowers (just something for the tables) because they have the Inn so beautifully decorated. I read about some of the financial issues in other reviews, but I paid everything by credit card (which was great) and they kept my deposit separate and promptly returned it after the event. I also interacted with the owner, and he was very comforting during the rehearsal and the wedding day to make sure everything was going to go the way I wanted it. I would not have the slightest hesitation in recommending this location for a wedding. All of my friends and family were impressed and kept repeating what a perfect venue it was for the type of wedding we wanted -- elegant, intimate, and personable. And as the bride I couldn't have been more happy. Pros: Beautiful setting, delicious food, amazing service more

The question City Search asked was ""What made it so unique and special?"" Well, I proposed to my girlfriend at Vista House and the same day we happened upon this place and had dinner. She fell in love with the inn, I fell in love with the food and we had our wedding there. The Roosevelt Suite has very happy memories as we had an intimate wine paired dinner in the sitting room for our one year anniversary. That proposal was in 2007 and we've been back many times since. It's not the fusion cuisine of one of the earlier chef's there, but more of a classic cuisine with a contemporary flair and sizable portions. I'm a self described foodie snob that likes alot of food on my plate, not frou frou piled up to the sky in the middle. For starters we shared the Dungeness Crab Cakes and Ricotta and Pesto Stuffed Tortellini -- both had great taste, the crab cakes were loaded with crab. For an entree I had a big, thick, tender10 oz. Filet Mignon and my wife had the pan seared, butter basted Wild Salmon. Both the proteins were cooked perfectly. They now have sides available (which I love) and we ordered the sauteed spinach sauteed in olive oil and garlic and the white bean cassoulet --- great, although the spinach is for garlic lovers. We shared the Rogue Valley Bleu Cheese Cheesecake (which we always order). Their regular menu is now a permanent menu and they have a Fresh Sheet where the chef can get into his classical French training. The service was very good and they have great new bread. I did not like the old bread they used to serve. I love the hot towel service after dinner --- old fashioned. I was tooling around the internet and popped on City Search and realized in the many times I have gone to the inn I've never said a word about it online. (I was noticing some reviews here complaining about one of the owners. Unless he is one of the entrees at the inn, who cares! I thought this was supposed to be a restaurant review site.) The food is excellent and the view at sunset is real romantic, especially on nights when they have a big roaring fire. We sat by the fire recently, devoured our cheesecake expertly paired with an '07 Bergevin Vineyards Semillion blend---out of Washington --- they have alot of Washington/Oregon wines --- I'm a big fan of establishments that honor Northwest wine. Speaking to the men out there --- This is a place to seal it with a kiss and indulge your epicurean delights. Pros: Staff, food, view and Gorge Sunset (the drink & sunset!) Cons: They won't let me rent out the Roosevelt Suite permanently. more

My taste buds have tasted thing’s I didn’t think they ever would. A simple hamburger made my taste buds dance. When I visited the Inn the staff was so welcoming, almost like a family. My every need was attended to. The view is a view unlike any other. Something you’d definitely have to see. It is a little out of the way but totally worth it. The rooms were absolutely breathtaking. Everything about this Inn is completely worth every dime. Just go for one meal and you’ll be captivated Pros: Food, view, staff more

I was very recently married at The View Point Inn. I have to say that as a whole the evening was truly magical. The staff's attention to detail really helps put a troubled bride at ease. They truly handle everything on the day of so you have nothing to worry about but getting dressed and walking down the aisle. Not for one moment did I worry that things wouldn't go exactly how I had envisioned them. Throughout the whole process I found the Wait Staff, Event Coordinator and Chef to be very attentive, even with the hundreds of questions I had leading up to the day. The food was amazing, the staff and bartender kept the night running smoothly and every one of my guest left happy. The night as a whole was one I am sure that my guests and I will not soon forget. My Fiancé and I waited a very long time to finally get married, and it had to be no less than the dream I had envisioned my whole life, thank you to The View Point Inn for making that dream a reality. If you are looking for the perfect magical place to plan your wedding this is it. Pros: Staff, Food, Location Cons: I can't get married every weekend more

I have a great love for the View Point Inn. They have had some set backs in the last few months with some of their staff leaving, but I think they have filled the positions well. The new chef is amazing. The food has changed, but it is still wonderful! I had an amazing Saffron and Sweet Onion soup when I was there last and it was heavenly. I have read a lot of reviews about how awful the owner is, but give the rest of the staff the credit they deserve. They serve you with a smile on their faces and in the best way they can, and they have to put up with him every day. I've heard he is definitely full of quirks and gets very emotional over things, especially money, but isn't that what owners do? In my opinion, go up there for dinner and forget you ever heard any of the awful reviews about the owner. It shouldn't be about him, it should be about the food and your experience. If you are staying there my best advice is to double check your reservation via phone. don't depend on the online reservation system. I think it might not work too well. It is always best to double check with a live person. I hope you are able to enjoy the food as much as I have - and just try to ignore the bad reviews you've read. In my experience it is always best to try things rather than listening to others. After all we don't all like the same things, nor do we all get angry about the same things. So give this restaurant a chance. If you are like me you are going to love the food and the view, and forget you ever heard a bad review. Pros: Great Food, Nice Staff, Amazing View Cons: Owner has some tempermental moments more

I have stayed at the View Point Inn and I have to say something to the comments about the gaps below the doors and the rooms being near others to the point of hearing them. In defense of the inn, they are a botique Tudor meets Bed and breakfast. They are not a uber giant hotel, they aren't even a small hotel. What you have is four HISTORICAL rooms kept true to their history. The rules are clear, no noise past ten to accomodate other guests. This is not the place to come if you want to have a motel sealed room stagnant experience. They re not the Ritz Carlton who can tear down a wall in a weekend to expand a room to a suite or upgrade you to one of their 150 rooms. These rooms have been this way for nearly a century. Instead of worrying about the gap below the boor, maybe you should have taken more time to enjoy one of the best views in the NW.\r \r As for the food. We heard they were open for V-day weekend and decided to go on Fri the 13th to beat the rush. We were also aware they were not completely open due to a recent fire which has left them closed for normal business for over a month. We also were aware they had recently hired a new executive chef. I have worked in the food industry and understand growing pains...what matters most is if they are trying...and boy are they!!\r \r WOW!!!!!! the food is the best of Jakes, PCG, El Goucho, and the Heathman. I had a beautiful Filet that melted in my mouth and the Rogue Blue Cheese Cheescake......Yummmmy!\r \r All in all the service was amazing, and the food was well executed. The timing was a little slow for the food coming out, but then again they were slammed. That will slow down even the best of restaurants. We had a wonderful time and the service was great, the rooms...Classic. WE WILL BE BACK Pros: View, Historical experience, Service Cons: Nothing more

Wonderful location - horrible treatment from owner. After attending a family wedding at the View Point Inn, I can see why others have been so upset with their experiences at this venue. Positives: The location is gorgeous - wonerful view and beautiful grounds. The Inn is being restored and the interior is fantastic. Brunch looks good (did not enjoy) and entrees at the wedding were delicious. The wedding coordinator and staff are all excellent (despite the constant griping and complaining of the owner, which was heard by guests). Negatives: The owner of the View Point Inn does not have good people skills. He was rude on several occasions, and seemed unaplogetic. He yelled and snapped at his clients (the people PAYING thousands of dollars to have their party at his venue), as well as wedding guests, vendors, and even his own staff. This unprofessional behavior is unacceptable; customers should NEVER be treated in such an arrogant manner. During these difficult financial times, business owners can be under a lot of stress. This is NO EXCUSE for this man's lack of tact when handling the stress of running his business. This venue is located in a residental area. We were berated for ""making too much noise"" at 10 PM. We were applauding the bride & groom, giving a traditional send off. Perhaps the owner should consider sticking to daytime weddings OR strictly brunch and dinner at this location. Because of this 'curfew', the party ended at 10. Dinner took so long to be served (over two hours), so we felt like our party was cut short & our guests were booted out the front door. Although this is a beautiful venue, I will not return for brunch or dinner. Neither will many of our guests and vendors. The owner's attitude and lack of business ethics overshadow the delicious food and beautiful view. more

My husband and I chose to celebrate our anniversary at the View Point Inn and had a wonderful experience. The staff and chef were very kind, warm, and accomodating. Not only is the Inn beautiful, the food in fresh and the tasting menu was so creative. Each course complimented the other perfectly. I cannot speak for the management, but as far as the staff, food, and experience- all was beyond expectation. Every detail was obsessed in a good way. A great way to spend a relaxing, quiet evening outside of the city. Pros: View, Food, Chef, Staff more