Dog River Coffee — Restaurant in Hood River

Coffee was pretty good, but the barista (who I think was the owner) was incredibly rude to the other barista working. It was pretty busy, but people were patiently waiting, the owner stormed away from the counter, went and found the other barista and in front of all the customers said in a loud voice for everyone to hear “that was WAY too long, I should not have to come find you”. After I ordered my lattes, the owner continued to speak to the other barista behind the counter in a rude tone in front of customers about how furious she was at her for “taking too long”- doing what I’m not sure. Uncomfortable situation for customers and clearly not a professional owner- or whoever the rude barista was.

I might also add we went to the coffee shop maybe 30 min prior, with our two dogs, and almost walked in, but decided to get lunch first. The same barista at this time said “oh they can come in to order” but I responded with “no worries it’s okay!” So when we returned after lunch, we brought them in, (because she had told us prior it was okay to order with them). As we were in line she yelled “unless your dogs are service animals they are not allowed inside per Oregon law”. Which we obviously know dogs most the time aren’t allowed in food places, but 30 min prior she had told us to bring them in. Overall a confusing and...

Dog River is not only a coffee shop. It is something like Hood River’s town square. It is one of the key places where people come to build community, work, let their kids loose in the indoor playground while parents chat. It is even the place where local politicians come to hear constituents’ grievances. On top of that, and in spite of my unsophisticated coffee palate, I must agree with the most reputed connoisseurs in recognizing Dog River's as the best coffee in town. Certainly, one of the rare ones not oversaturated in sugar.

Something about the configuration of the space draws people. Perhaps because it is open and the full front windows keep the entire ground floor illuminated, or maybe the subtle but unpretentious decoration that invites people to be within and not just look inside. I don’t know exactly, but you will sense it once you are inside.

I would say Dog River will give you the best indoor sample of what Hood River is all about. Go...

Worst . drink . ever

All I wanted was a hot chocolate. It's a simple drink! Dog River Coffee, however, has decided to mix in various herbs and spices into their "Hot Chocolate" while still calling it "hot chocolate." I almost puked when I started drinking that hot mess. Unfortunately we were on the road at that point, so I didn't go back to throw it on the counter and tell them how horrid this drink was. Possibly the most disgusting non-medicinal drink I have ever tasted.

I would strongly recommend avoiding this place. If they can't be trusted to mix hot milk and chocolate syrup together, you probably shouldn't trust them to make anything more complicated. In fact, I'm a bit surprised that they manage to open the locks every single morning. Maybe they trained for that - and it doesn't...