Ask anybody. The place to go in Bend for authentic Thai food is the Wild Rose. Luckily, there are a substantial number of gluten-free options, a clearly marked menu and a pleasant, well-informed wait staff to help out.
Located on Oregon Ave. in downtown Bend, the Wild Rose has been around since 2013. No-nonsense Chef-owner Paul Itti, is a local character who knows his food is so good, he churns in and out an endless stream of customers like the chocolates on Lucy's conveyor belt. If you're looking for a leisurely three-hour repast, think again.
However, if you just want some great family food, well conceived, expertly prepared and efficiently served, this is the place. Simple, authentic, hearty fare awaits. The menu was recently updated to include (V) (GF) designations, but if you're celiac or gluten-intolerant be sure to let your server know and ask for the GF option of selected dishes.
As a starter, my go-to favorite is Som Tum, the shredded papaya salad. It's GF and vegetarian, tangy and spicy and loaded with carrots, green beans and peanuts.
(As a side note, for each item your server will ask your choice of spice level from one to five. Unless you're looking for an eye-popping, sweat-inducing, face-flaming chile throw-down, prudence is advised!)
Another favorite of mine is Curry Basil Noodles, a yummy heap of stir-fried rice noodles that comes with your choice of meat or tofu, yellow curry, egg, tomato and mushrooms.
Although the Green Curry is not marked GF on the menu ask your server about it. I've eaten it many times without incident, and it's well worth it. Fragrant with lemongrass and basil, the dish comes with a choice of protein swimming in a delicious pool of green coconut-milk curry along with eggplant, green beans, mushroom and bamboo shoots.
The Wild Rose doesn't take reservations, so prepare accordingly. It's worth the wait, though, for unique, home-style dishes and quick, friendly service.
150 NW Oregon Ave, Bend, OR 97701, (541) 382-0441