- Interior
In the enchanting landscape of McMinnville, Oregon, rises a culinary gem that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul. Welcome to ōkta, the latest masterpiece from renowned two-Michelin-starred chef Matthew Lightner. This restaurant embodies the true essence of the Willamette Valley, the beating heart of Oregon's wine region.
Within the historic walls of McMinnville's urban district, an oasis of sophistication and taste unfolds, a sanctuary where gastronomy and ambiance merge into a transcendental experience. Upon entering ōkta, you are welcomed by a serene setting, where soft seating and carefully selected objects tell a story of craftsmanship and connection with nature. The misty atmosphere so characteristic of the surrounding Yamhill County is evoked by subtly textured walls, while a wood-burning fireplace offers a warm invitation to culinary discoveries.
The 2,500-square-metre ōkta is more than just a restaurant; it is a journey through time and landscape. Organised around an imposing basalt limestone, a reminder of the powerful Missoula floods that swept through the valley thousands of years ago, the restaurant offers three unique dining experiences. The open kitchen serves as a stage where guests can witness the magic behind the scenes, while every corner is a celebration of texture and craftsmanship, a tribute to Oregon's pristine beauty.
A wood-burning fireplace offers a warm invitation to culinary discoveries
Beneath the surface of the dining room lies the hidden treasure of the Cellar Bar, an intimate space imbued with the spirit of classic elegance. Here, guests are immersed in a world of sophisticated cocktails and rare wines, amid a backdrop of rich leather and burnt terracotta tiles, a tribute to the fertile soils and lush forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Ōkta is not just another restaurant; it is a symphony of flavours, a tribute to the rich traditions and abundant natural splendour of Oregon's wine country. Immerse yourself in this culinary journey, where every dish tells a story and every sip leaves a memory. This is ōkta - where every bite is a moment of pure enchantment. 
Restaurant Ōkta, architecture by Hacker Architects
Photography by George Barberis
Text by Celien Hemelaer