LA GRANDE — My designated eater (DE) and I have a long history with 10 Depot Street. DE has been a devoted friend to Sandy Sorrels since the restaurant’s opening in 1987.

When I arrived on the scene a few decades later, 10 Depot Street became our chosen destination when we wanted a bit of elegance with our food. When the pandemic hit, Sandy gathered her resources and offered takeout. The Sunday dinner offerings became our weekly ritual until Sandy hung up her apron.

It’s wonderful to hear about the revival of 10 Depot Street as The Depot! Treyce and Victoria Schireman’s journey with the restaurant is truly heartwarming. From Treyce’s childhood memories of watching movies while his mom worked to his progression from dishwasher to bartender, and now owner, it’s a full-circle moment that speaks volumes about their dedication and love for the place.

Sandy Sorrels’ legacy lives on through their efforts, and it’s clear that the community’s support has been instrumental in bringing The Depot back to life. It’s always inspiring to see local businesses thrive with the help of passionate individuals and a supportive community.

So, it was with great anticipation that DE and I approached our first taste of the now-christened The Depot. Upon entering, we immediately noticed that the remodel had opened up the space. The bar and its dining area are more open and the main dining room was more contiguous. The same warm welcoming atmosphere was maintained and there was abundant seating.

What to order? I always go with chicken on my first foray into a new restaurant and DE decided to visit an old favorite, The Depot Burger. We perused the wine list and landed on another old friend, Pinot Gris by Maryhill. The wine list, beer offerings and cocktail menu are diverse and there is something for everyone.

Treyce popped over to greet us and our waitperson was attentive in the most positive sense.

The opening act was loaded potato soup (you could also opt for a salad). This was just the ticket for the weather outside. Thick and full of bacon, it was just the perfect starter. The grilled chicken plate came with a potato baked to perfection and a selection of steamed broccoli and cauliflower, done to just the right amount of crispness. The grilled chicken consisted of two cutlets that were a bit too spicy for my taste, but after removing the coating, they were perfect.

After mentioning this, our waitperson assured us that the next time we ordered the chicken, we could specify the amount of spice. So, a heads up — if you’re not into pepper, let them know.

The DE’s Depot burger, however, did not miss a beat. Juicy and oozy, it was everything a burger should be. It was accompanied by a side of amazing potato chips. They were so exceptional that the DE even encouraged me to try them.

The featured dessert was peach cobbler and it was amazing. Instead of a typical peach cobbler, this offering was a combination of what could pass as shortbread with juicy peaches underneath with just the right balance between carbs and sweetness. Accompanying this was a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

One of my favorite things about the evening was watching all of the young folks, dressed in their spiffiest outfits, brimming with the tentative enthusiasm of a first date. La Grande now has an “occasion” restaurant, a place to go on a special date, a significant anniversary, or to just relieve the winter drabs with a touch of elegance.

Another highlight was the acoustics. One of the hallmarks of fine dining is being able to carry on a conversation as you enjoy your meal. The Depot passes this requirement with flying colors.

The Depot is located at (of course) 10 Depot Street in La Grande. It is open Tuesday through Saturday, 4-10 p.m. For more information and to view the complete menu, visit the website at thedepotstreet.com.

More questions? Call 541-306-3377. No reservations are required and the prices are midrange.

Cheers to the new chapter of 10 Depot Street!

Go! is starting an occasional feature about food around Eastern Oregon. Every county has its special eateries or signature dishes — if you have suggestions about a place or food item you can’t live without, send an email to editor@goeasternoregon.com.