Great Pacific

In the heart of the historic center of Pendleton lies Great Pacific — an iconic establishment that combines a cozy coffee shop, a refined wine bar, and a gourmet cafe. Located in Oregon, USA, this spot has been a true legend of the local community since it opened in 1980.

The venue occupies a majestic 1887 brick building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Great Pacific is famous for its relaxed tavern atmosphere, making it equally pleasant for studying over a latte or spending an evening with friends.

Founded by a family of enthusiasts, it brought a culture of high-quality coffee and select wines to the region. Today, it is more than just a cafe; it is a true live music venue and a hub for tourists and locals who value authenticity and high-quality ingredients.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date information to help you easily find this popular spot and contact its owners. We recommend saving these details before your walk through the historic center.

Please note that the venue can get crowded in the evenings and during events, so calling ahead is never a bad idea.

There is something for everyone at Great Pacific. The best way to start your morning here is by tasting their signature coffee and fresh bagels, which were once a culinary revelation for the region. Visitors can settle into cozy chairs with a book or a laptop, enjoying the quiet environment and the aroma of freshly ground beans.

History buffs will find it interesting to explore the building's interior: the old brick walls are exposed, and the original 19th-century wooden floors have been restored. Special attention should be paid to the massive arches that connect the different rooms, creating a unique architectural space.

In the evening, the establishment transforms into a lively wine bar and music venue. Here you can sample rare wine varieties, join the wine club, or catch a live concert. The friendly staff is always ready to strike up a conversation, making your visit feel truly warm and homey.

Finding Great Pacific is easy — it is located at the intersection of Main and Emigrant streets, in the very heart of the historic downtown. If you are traveling by car, take I-84 to exit 216, then follow the signs toward S Main St. Convenient parking is available near the bar, making it accessible for those on an Oregon road trip.

For those arriving from further away, the nearest transport hub is Pendleton Airport, located just 3 kilometers from the center. The city is also connected to other regions by Greyhound bus routes. Within the downtown area itself, the best way to get around is on foot, as most iconic landmarks are within walking distance of each other.

The history of the building housing Great Pacific dates back to 1887, when it was constructed by the Masonic Lodge (Freemasons). Originally, the second floor was used for their meetings, while the first floor was leased out for various purposes, including a gymnasium, a bookstore, and even a funeral home.

In 1980, Ken and Carol, inspired by coffee culture after returning from college, purchased the space. Over four decades, the family engaged in extensive restoration: they carefully removed layers of flooring to reveal the original wood and cleaned the walls to expose the historic brickwork. In 2000, four elegant arches were added to the interior, connecting the different dining areas.

Thanks to the owners' efforts to preserve its historic appearance, the building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Today, the business is run by the second generation of the family, who continue to introduce new ideas while maintaining respect for the textures and atmosphere of the past.

Most visitors plan to spend one to two hours at Great Pacific. This is plenty of time to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine at a leisurely pace, have a snack of their famous bagels, and admire the details of the historic interior.

If your plans include attending a live concert or participating in wine club events, you should set aside an entire evening for your visit. The establishment's atmosphere encourages long conversations and relaxation, so many guests end up staying much longer than originally planned.

The establishment is open to guests from Monday to Saturday, typically welcoming visitors from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Sunday is the day off, so please plan your visit for a weekday or Saturday.

As the schedule may change on holidays or during special concerts, we recommend checking the latest information on the official website before visiting.

Exploring the surroundings of Great Pacific will allow you to dive deeper into the Old West atmosphere. Its location in the historic center makes the bar an ideal starting point for a walking tour of Pendleton.

Nearby, you will find many sites that tell the story of the region's rich past — from old bridges to iconic buildings, each holding its own unique history.