The Tlingit people, who shared a great deal in common with the Nehalems of the north Oregon coast, had a saying about the connection between the sea and their abundant, varied diet: “When the tide is out, the table is set.”

The essence of that saying remains true today in the Nehalem Bay area, where, if you are so inclined, you can successfully forage for your food along the bay and ocean shore. The Nehalem River and Bay is famous for salmon fishing and crabbing.

If you prefer to let your food come to you fully prepared, stop in at one of the area’s restaurants for a fresh, seafood meal. Or visit a local grocery store and purchase the local catch of the day.

The fertile soil of the Nehalem Bay area also contributes to a thriving local agriculture industry that includes everything from dairies to small-scale, organic produce farms. Scattered throughout the Nehalem Valley are honey makers, goat, beef, chicken and lamb farmers, and berry and herb farmers.

You can sample the wares of many local food producers at the Manzanita Farmers Market, which runs Friday evenings from mid-June to late September. The market is also one place you are likely to bump into as many locals as you are fellow visitors. Many Nehalem Bay area residents kick off their summer weekend buying vegetables and other items while listening to live music and sharing the latest community news.

If you miss the market, you can enjoy a farm-to-table experience at several local restaurants;A Mighty Thai, Big Wave Cafe, Bread & Ocean, and Neahkahnie Bistro just to name a few. Each serves seasonal, regional items year-round.

The area also features more conventional food offerings, including pizza, Mexican cuisine, casual fine dining, pies, pastries, contemporary and old-fashioned candy, ice cream and seafood.

For adult dining, Manzanita is home to MacGregor’s Whiskey Bar, offering over 100 brown liquors and upscale small plates and San Dune Pub with a full bar and food menu as well as live music periodically. You can also sample wines at the Nehalem Bay Winery which doubles as a music venue seasonally.

Whatever your tastebuds desire, the villages of Manzanita, Nehalem, and Wheeler will serve it up fresh!