By Jillian Chandler
Since 2007, Dry Fly Distilling has made a name for itself for its award-winning spirits and canned craft cocktails. In September of 2021, as a result of outgrowing its production space due to growth of their spirits line and its introduction of canned cocktails, Terry Nichols and Dan Poffenroth moved their production facility to Riverside Avenue in downtown Spokane. In addition to the production space, the building houses a restaurant, event space and offices — all in one highly visible location. “The overall effect is impressive as you sit in the restaurant looking into the production space at all the copper and steel,” says Terry, co-owner of Dry Fly Distilling. “We had considered other options, like moving production to an industrial space and keeping a tasting room near downtown, but having everything together provides an unparalleled experience.” Terry describes the vibe of the restaurant as that of a “prohibition era bar.” The restaurant can seat 62 at tables and an additional 12 at the bar.On the menu, guests will be treated to an amazing assortment of appetizers, flatbread pizzas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and entrées like the Gin Steamed Clams, adding that the fresh sheet always has something new and interesting. When it comes to the drinks, the full bar serves a wide variety of handcrafted cocktails, beer and wine. “The Old Fashioned is very popular, as is the Huckleberry Lemon Drop and Herbin Legend,” notes Terry. When asked what inspired the addition of a restaurant, Terry reflects, “We wanted to give our guests the opportunity to enjoy a great meal while tasting our spirits or enjoying a cocktail. We primarily use locally sourced ingredients, and Chef Avont Grant creates the magic.”Chef Avont joined Dry Fly in February of 2022, “enriching our kitchen with his deep culinary knowledge and experience,” Terry shares. “Avont’s creative flair shines through in his diverse menus, reflecting his hometown influences from Chicago. From the moment he joined us, he has consistently crafted fresh and innovative dishes, showcasing his exceptional talent and passion for the culinary arts.” Also on-site is their event space, perfect to reserve for your holiday season party or any special occasion event. The facility can support parties up to 50 with a great menu and full bar with cocktails, beer and wine. Always crafting new, innovative flavors, Dry Fly recently rolled out a few new bottled cocktails onto the market: the Huckleberry Lemon Drop, Earl Grey Old Fashioned and Bloody Mary (in a 1.75L bottle at 13.5 percent alcohol for the Idaho market). Terry shares that they also produced the Lemon Drop and Old Fashioned in 375ml bottles for the Washington market at 20 percent alcohol. You can find these bottled cocktails at local retailers like Yokes, Rosauers and Super One. As Terry reflects back over the years, and the work the team at Dry Fly has accomplished, he says, “I think the most rewarding thing has been watching the business grow with the support of our great employees and customers. It has allowed us to give back to the community on many occasions.” Terry attributes the success Dry Fly has continued to experience to their dedicated team of passionate individuals, their commitment to quality craftsmanship, and the unwavering support of their loyal customers. “Our success is a reflection of the hard work and passion that goes into every bottle we produce, as well as the trust and appreciation of those who enjoy our spirits,” he smiles. The Dry Fly team encourages you to stop by, sample some incredible food and spirits, and take a tour (sign up for tours on their website). Also make sure to visit the bottle shop, which offers spirits, apparel and other great gift ideas for any occasion. They are open 11am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and 11am to 7pm Sunday. Dry Fly Distilling 1021 W. Riverside Ave. Spokane, WA 509.489.2112 DryFlyDistilling.com
