DOne of Bend’s oldest and most notorious bars, &D Bar & Grill is celebrated for its homey pub atmosphere, strong drinks, and as a popular destination for the Friday and Saturday night bar crawl.
A familiar face to regulars is Buck Bales, one of Bend’s most popular bartenders who continues to make memories and pour drinks. Known for his warm demeanor and expert mixology, Bales has won the hearts of many and has been voted the best bartender in our poll for several years.
Savannah-Mendoza – The Secret World
Buck Bales may be known as “Mr. D+D,” who serves the community in downtown Bend.
“I’m honored that people have voted me Best Bartender again,” says Bale. “I’m happy that everyone likes what I do for them behind the bar. I’m glad that people think of me when they decide to vote.”
Bale has been working as a bartender at D&D since 2010. He took a brief break during the COVID pandemic to pursue other ventures, but returned to D&D a year or two later, to a place that feels like home to him.
What he likes most about being a bartender at D&D is the people: the customers, the regulars, and the amazing owners. As a bartender, he has developed a community that Bale is extremely grateful for.
Savannah-Mendoza – The Secret World
Top bartender Buck Bale feels at home pouring drinks at D&D.
“I’ve been bartending in the city for 27 years and I’ve met so many amazing people along the way,” Bale explains. “I make music with amazing friends that I’ve met throughout my career. I met my wife through bartending, we’ve worked together and bartended together and have been married for 19 years now. It’s been a pretty amazing job that I originally just wanted to do on the side, but it’s turned into a great part of my life.”
Bales isn’t just a bartender; he’s a friend to everyone who walks into the bar. His presence and experience have continued to make D&D a staple in the downtown community.
Second place: Johnny Semar – Timbers
D&D Bar and Grill
927 NW Bond St., Bend
