BEND, OREGON — In Central Oregon's high desert, beneath a 1,000-year-old juniper forest, Juniper Preserve offers one of the world's most extraordinary dining experiences: intimate culinary events held within an ancient lava cave formed over 100,000 years ago.

A Venue Unlike Any Other

The Lava Cave at Juniper Preserve represents the intersection of geological marvel and culinary artistry. Carved by volcanic forces millennia ago, this naturally formed subterranean space creates an atmosphere that no architect could replicate—dramatic stone walls shaped by ancient lava flows, natural acoustics, and an inherent sense of timelessness that elevates each gathering beyond the ordinary.

“This isn't a restaurant that happens to be in an interesting space,” explains the Juniper Preserve team. “This is a geological wonder that becomes, for one evening, an intimate stage for culinary excellence.”

The Experience

Limited to intimate gatherings, the Lava Cave transforms for weddings, corporate celebrations, and private ticketed events. Guests descend into the cave to discover a space illuminated by carefully designed lighting that honors the natural stone formations. The cave's natural temperature regulation provides comfort year-round, while its acoustic properties create an enveloping sense of privacy and connection.

The culinary program emphasizes Pacific Northwest ingredients and refined technique, with menus designed specifically for each event. Seasonal offerings include wild Pacific salmon with foraged mushrooms and Central Oregon juniper-infused butter, locally sourced beef paired with high desert botanicals, and farm-to-table vegetables prepared with modern technique and classical precision.

Strategic Luxury in an Unexpected Space

The Lava Cave embodies the creative, multi-use model reshaping fine dining economics. Juniper Preserve—a luxury wellness resort featuring two championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio—leverages this extraordinary natural asset to offer experiences that command premium positioning while maximizing a space that would otherwise remain unused.

The operational complexity is significant: each cave event requires complete mobile setup and breakdown, guest transportation from the main resort, and specialized logistics. Yet this complexity becomes part of the allure. Guests aren't simply dining in an unusual location; they're participating in a carefully orchestrated experience that few venues in the world can offer.

The Juniper Preserve Difference

What distinguishes the Lava Cave experience is its authenticity. This isn't a space designed to look interesting—it's a genuine geological formation that has existed for 100,000 years, now thoughtfully activated for human celebration. The cave needs only respect, careful lighting, and cuisine worthy of its grandeur.

Juniper Preserve sits within 20,000 acres of federally protected wilderness, twenty minutes from downtown Bend. The resort has earned recognition from Golf Digest (Top 100 U.S. Golf Courses) and U.S. News & World Report for its commitment to excellence across golf, hospitality, and wellness.

About Juniper PreserveJuniper Preserve is a luxury wellness resort in Central Oregon, featuring two championship golf courses, comprehensive spa and wellness services, and distinctive event spaces including an ancient lava cave. Managed by Troon, the resort sits within a 1,000-year-old juniper forest surrounded by 20,000 acres of protected wilderness.

Media Contact:Marketing@juniperpreserve.com 541.693.5300www.JuniperPreserve.com