Minor league sports, headlining concerts, a casino night, school shopping and your plane ride out of here are just a few of the reasons residents of North Idaho will make a trip across the state line and into Spokane. It’s the biggest city for miles, and with it comes not only great entertainment but lively nightlife and plenty of unique dining choices. The options are endless, but there are a few restaurants that are definitely worth the trip no matter what the reason.
Fleur de Sel Artisan Creperie is a very unique way to start your day. The South Hill staple specializes in French crepes and can be found just south of Sacred Heart Medical Center. You can enjoy something sweet like vanilla cream or strawberry jam or a more savory crepe like salmon, or bison meatloaf and horseradish. Nothing on the menu is more than ten dollars, making this an excellent stop for breakfast or lunch.
For years the Spokane Country Club restaurant was open only to members, but a recent purchase by the Kalispel tribe has changed that philosophy and now all are welcome to dine at 1898 Public House. Located adjacent to the golf course, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer beautiful views of one of the area’s finest courses. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll find a wide range of options on the 1898 menu. Try a mimosa flight featuring three different flavors of the famous brunch cocktail and pair it with crème brulee French toast or an omelet featuring smoked brisket. Dinner includes gourmet burgers, dips and melts, lollipop lamb chops and cedar-plank salmon.
The Northwest is known for raising excellent quality beef, and you’ll find some of the finest cuts at Spencer’s located in the downtown Doubletree Hotel. Spencer’s uses only USDA Prime steaks and chops and ages the meat for 21 to 28 days to create amazing flavors. With 300 wines to choose from, you’ll find the perfect pairing for this special meal. The lounge offers craft cocktails and local brews as well as a lighter menu.
A great ending to your night can be found at Durkin’s Liquor Bar downtown, just a couple blocks from Riverfront Park. This multi-level watering hole specializes in cocktails you’ve probably never heard of but won’t be able to stop talking about. Bartenders are extremely knowledgeable, and if you give them your favorite base liquor and a flavor (sweet, smoky, fruity, bitter), they will come up with a creation just for you. There are plenty of food choices as well if you need a bite to eat after a couple of these delicious crafted cocktails.
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Spokane offers everything from theatre, symphony orchestra, concerts, Artwalk, sporting events and more! Whether happy hour, casual or fine dining, or late night drinks and bites, you’ll find an impressive array of establishments for a city of its size. Enjoy your next trip across the state line and enjoy discovering the incredible and ever-expanding dining and nightlife scene.
