Spokane Food Blog

During a Spokane Food Blog business trip over in Hood Canal, the Spokane Food Blog Editorial Board was forced to drive through the Dalles because of snow conditions in the passes. This is not a good thing, as it tacks on a good four to five hours to the driving time. However, on the upside, it is an excuse to stop by Cousins‘, quite possibly the Mecca of diners in the northwest.

Nothing is done halfheartedly at Cousins’. As you walk through the mooing door, you’re greeted with a “Howdy cousin!” by your waitress, while a model train passes above your head. I mean, come on! You’re in The Dalles! Might as well soak in the barn-themed experience!

And really, the food is pretty awesome. My fried chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans tasted as classically home-made as I wanted it to be, with the potatoes soaked in gravy and all. The portions are huge. Mine looked like something I had expected to see in an eating contest. A dinner at Cousins’ is more like two dinners.

Same goes for the shakes, which are excellent, but really… You get two shakes for the price of one.

Food comas are part of the game at Cousins’, and I am OK with that. The home-style food is pretty awesome, and the shakes themselves are worth the trip.

There are many many reasons to visit The Dalles — they have a Home Depot people! — so while you’re there, check out Cousins’. It’s awesome and a half.