While the Pine Tavern restaurant has been open in Bend since 1936, it’s been under the current ownership and management since 1982, and that’s the theme of their 28th anniversary celebration this month, from the 14th (Sunday) through 16th (Tuesday): “Where were you in ’82?”

My dad Bert Bender and his partner Joe Cenarussa bought the Pine Tavern in 1982. Rolling out a new menu, they defined the Pine Tavern as you know it today, bringing mouth watering scones, excellent steaks, and classic American comfort food to central Oregon.

As a thank you to all of you, we have rolled back the prices of some of my Dad’s favorite entrees and drink specials from 1982!

Here’s the list of specials:

• Prime Rib: $13.95
• BBQ Baby Back Ribs: $11.25
• Fresh Mountain Trout: $9.50
• Fried Chicken: $8.25
• Well drinks: $2
• Glass of House Red or White Wine: $2
• Select tap beer: $2

As I understand it, they won’t be taking reservations on those three days, and there are no substitutions on the specials—it’s first come, first served. Still, that’s a heck of a deal, and I imagine they’ll be packed those days.