The Food Cart Guide

Eky’s Authentic Turkish Street Food in Downtown Bend

I stopped by Eky’s during open mic night at Bunk + Brew, tucked behind the historic Lucas House in downtown Bend. Between the live music, the conversation, and a $3 Rainier, it felt like the kind of place where people actually stick around instead of grabbing food and heading home.

I ordered the kebab plate, which came with thin slices of seasoned lamb, chopped pieces of flatbread, a rich tomato sauce, and a cool yogurt sauce. It was simple, filling, and packed with flavor. The bread soaked up the sauce, the yogurt balanced everything out, and the lamb was cooked perfectly.

What stood out most was how authentic the meal felt. Turkish food isn’t something you come across often in Central Oregon, and Eky’s offers a taste of something different from the usual food cart lineup around town.

Before I left, the owner offered me a sample of the baklava. It was flaky, sweet, and a perfect finish to the meal.

Bunk + Brew adds a lot to the experience. Built around the historic Lucas House, the property has become a gathering spot for locals and travelers alike. With three food carts, regular live music, community events, and affordable drinks, it’s easy to spend an entire evening there.

I came for dinner and ended up staying for the atmosphere. That’s usually a good sign.

Is .burger the best burger in Bend?

Tough question in a city with serious opinions, but ask anyone where to go, and you keep hearing the same name. Americana.

Last week the craving hit, and there was exactly one logical answer. Americana at

I went with the Popper: a double smash patty with pickled jalapeños, jalapeño cream cheese, white American cheese, caramelized onions, bacon, ranch, secret sauce, shredded lettuce, and fresh tomato — all on a brioche bun. It’s the kind of burger that’s so dialed in, so well-balanced between heat, fat, and acid, that you’re mentally planning your return before you’ve finished the first one.

What makes Americana even harder to argue with is the price. At $11 for something this good, it’s not just one of the best burgers in Bend, it’s one of the best values, full stop.

They’re running two locations: the food cart at Podski, and a downtown brick-and-mortar next to Ken’s Artisan Pizza. The menu is tight and focused, which is exactly how it should be when you’re doing something this well.

If you haven’t been — fix that.