This month I’ve been exploring what Stillwater has to offer beyond the usual riverfront views — digging into standout spots friends keep talking about, new openings, and local favorites that deliver great food and atmosphere.
New & Noteworthy: E’s Gourmet Sandwiches
On East Myrtle Street, 20-year-old Ethan Sorensen just launched E’s Gourmet Sandwiches, a new spot that’s making waves downtown. Housed in what used to be a small bank building, it’s hands-on in all the best ways: think hot chicken, smash burgers, and signature clubs piled high with cold-cut meats. The grab-and-go vibe is strong, but with serious flavor to go with it. Perfect for quick lunches or casual bites with friends.
Worth the Splurge: Farm-to-Table & Fine Dining
At the upscale end of town, Matchstick Restaurant & Spirits has been turning heads. Their focus on locally sourced meats and fish, finished on a wood-fired grill or smoker, gives each dish a smoky warmth. And whether you’re diving into small plates or sipping from a glass curated in their large wine and spirit collection, the setting makes it feel like a night out rather than just dinner.
Then there’s Feller, downstairs in the new Lora hotel down near the river bluffs. It balances rustic design with refined comfort—breakfast through dinner—with a menu meant to highlight ingredients and simple techniques. It’s easy to see why people are adding it to their go-to list for both business dinners and weekend friends’ brunches.
Local Favorites: Where the Community Gathers
- LoLo American Kitchen & Craft Bar is often the first name locals drop when asked: elevated comfort food, a well-stocked craft bar, and a consistently welcoming scene that works for everything from date nights to family dinners.
- Domaćin Restaurant & Winebar remains on many “must eat” lists. With its wine shop next door, it offers cozy warm interiors, standout dishes (like scallops or duck breast) and a romantic feel that doesn’t scream special-occasion only.
- Phil’s Tara Hideaway brings character straight out of Stillwater lore: a log cabin-turned restaurant with Greek twists, solid steaks, and rotisserie gyros. It lands right in between rustic and refined—a sweet spot few hit so well.
Food Trucks & Community Events
While there isn’t one “central food truck court” downtown, events like the Food Truck Extravaganza at the Washington County Fairgrounds gather dozens of vendors with everything from gourmet tacos and BBQ to sweets and fusion bites. It’s a highlight for sampling wildly different cuisines in one place.
Also keep an eye out for smaller trucks and popup stalls that park near local parks or during festivals. If you’re out on a walk or headed to a show, the chance of stumbling on something tasty reaches its peak.
Tips for Trying something New
- Check reservation apps, especially for places like Matchstick and Domaćin—weekends fill up fast.
- Go off-peak if you can: early dinners and weekday lunches tend to give the best access (and sometimes specials).
- Support the young and new: E’s Gourmet is still creating its rhythm, and backing that kind of energy keeps Stillwater’s scene fresh.
If I had to pick one place you shouldn’t skip this week, go try Matchstick for dinner and an after-dinner stroll along the river. And for a quick hit with big flavor, you really can’t go wrong with E’s Gourmet Sandwiches.