Top 5 Places to Eat in Independence/Monmouth

Welcome to the Mid Valley Insider. I am Ricky, and I have spent 28 years soaking up everything Independence and Monmouth have to offer. I am a proud Central High School graduate and spent a year at Western Oregon University before diving into the workforce. You might remember me from my days at Jimmyz or Indepizza, though my resume officially lists those roles as "Petroleum Distribution Specialist" and "Chief Artisan Dough Architect."

After 8 years working at the Oregon State Penitentiary, I traded the badge for real estate to help people find their dream homes in the area I know best. I have seen restaurants come and go like the changing tides. Some of you might not even remember The Lion’s Share, the original Indepizza, or the legendary Andy’s Cafe. As a self dubbed foodie, I feel uniquely qualified to rank the current heavy hitters. If you disagree with my list, feel free to write your own blog so I can tell you why you are wrong.

Here are my top five picks for the best eats in Indy and Monmouth.

5. Mangiare Italian Restaurant
If you are looking for actual ambiance and a solid date night spot, this is it. It is the kind of place that makes you feel fancy even if you just rolled in from a long day of house shopping. My go to order is the seafood fettuccini. A fun insider fact is that my sister in law used to work here, so we used to enjoy a nice little discount back in the day. Even at full price, it is worth every penny.
https://www.facebook.com/MangiareIndependence/

4. Yangs Teriyaki
This place is an absolute staple located right next to the college in Monmouth. I would honestly drive across the entire country just for a large number four with cooked cabbage. It is a local rite of passage. If you do not eat here at least once a month, are you even really from this town? It is fast, consistent, and addictive. Really a hidden gem.
https://www.yangsteriyaki.com/

3. New York Squares
This is where the list gets tricky because the competition is stiff, but I have to go with New York Squares. They make the most unique pies in the Willamette Valley. While they have plenty of creative options, I am a sucker for the good old fashioned pepperoni. Go in there, give it a shot, and tell Mike that Ricky sent you. Fuhgeddaboudit!
https://www.facebook.com/nysquares/

2. Primos Carniceria
Being a proud half Mexican, I can confidently say this is the best Mexican food I have had in the entire state of Oregon. It is the perfect hole in the wall joint with the best al pastor you will ever try. They make everything to order and even offer catering. If you want authentic flavor without the fluff, Primos is the spot.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577226522520

Honorable Mentions
Before we hit the top spot, I have to give a shout out to the Golden Hop Saloon. The country vibe there is unmatched for good old boy American food like burgers, fries, and chicken drumsticks. It is a great place for live music too. Also, do not sleep on Habebah Coffee and Mediterranean Cuisine. It is incredibly underrated. If you are feeling adventurous, try the Turkish coffee and grab a classic gyro with their amazing tzatziki sauce.

1. Starduster Cafe
The number one spot goes to the Starduster Cafe. This is a mandatory stop for breakfast, especially if you have kids. Located at the Independence Airpark, it offers breakfast and a show. On a nice summer morning, you can watch all types of planes flying in and out from just a few feet away. My wife Shea always goes for the chicken caesar wrap, while my go to is the Mountain Man Omelette. They even serve kids pancakes shaped like airplanes. It is the ultimate Indy experience.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Starduster-Cafe-Inc-100063705035756/

Whether you are looking for the perfect omelette or a home with a view of the airpark, I have the local knowledge to get you there. If you are thinking about buying or selling in the Willamette Valley, do not settle for a realtor who just looks at maps.

Work with someone who has actually lived the history of these streets. And while I have never actually been wrong about a meal in my entire life, I am willing to be convinced otherwise. Let’s grab lunch at your favorite spot—my treat—and we can talk about your next move!

Reach out to me today to discuss your real estate goals, and I might even share a few more secret food spots with you!


Ricky Cedillo 
eXp
(503) 559-2489
ricky@oregonhomeshop.com