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MAX at Mirabeau in the Spokane Valley has been catering to diners with its extraordinary breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert for 14 years, offering nothing less than award-winning service year after year and an unforgettable experience that keeps bringing locals and visitors back for more. Whether it’s an informal lunch, drinks after a round of golf with friends or that once-a-year birthday or anniversary date night with the love of your life, MAX will cater to you. The entire staff strives for guest satisfaction, doing all in its power to offer up a memorable experience. When you sit down and look around at environment and décor, you feel comfortable; it is what you make it. MAX is known for its extensive offerings, with five menus offering more than 100 menu items served 20 hours a day, all scratch made in house. Everything is made from fresh ingredients, eliminating pre-packaged, pre-made products, allowing them to more easily accommodate guests’ dietary needs and preferences. Starting with raw ingredients allows for the chefs to deconstruct and reconstruct existing dishes to cater to those needs. MAX can tailor itself to any type of person who comes in—the doors are open to everyone, and the restaurant can accustom itself to anybody and everybody. Chef de cuisine, Michael Durbin, and executive chef/food and beverage director, Shawn Matlock, are serving up eclectic cuisine at MAX. Shawn joined the MAX team in June 2015, having an extensive background in culinary management. Michael was hired at the restaurant in July 2017, bringing his widespread background in menu creation and plating design to the table. Both bring an overabundance of commitment to create only the best product to serve each and every single guest while developing the team from within. To keep the menu bright, Michael, Shawn and the rest of the MAX culinary team are constantly exploring new flavors and experimenting with new dishes and ingredients, along with perfecting existing menu items. And they don’t stop there; once the food is prepared, each dish is plated so that it is visually appealing before the guest ever tastes it. As General Manager Andy Rooney says, “From recipe conception to plate presentation, the staff and management have to be passionate about the product they are presenting to the customer.” The MAX staff is sure to bring its passion to each plate that is prepared and served. More than just great food, it is complemented by its bar program, which has blossomed over time and includes fresh new cocktails with their own handmade syrups. Happy hour at MAX is bar none. Offered daily 3 to 6pm and again from 9pm to close in the lounge, patio and outside courtyard, guests are sure to be delighted with a great food and drink menu. Besides happy hour, there is a special each day of the week: MAXed Out Monday, Tap Beer Tuesday, Wine Wednesday (and Sunday), Ladies’ Night Thursday and Martini Friday. Saturday and Sunday, don’t miss the chance to build your own Bloody Mary at the Inland Northwest’s Biggest Bloody Mary Bar from 9am to 2pm—also featuring mimosas galore! Every Friday and Saturday night, MAX offers live music featuring rockin’ blues from 9pm to close with no cover charge. And don’t forget to join them for their First Wednesday Wine Tastings featuring a different winery every month. Whether it is the food, atmosphere, the service or just for doing good business, they have repeatedly stood as a symbol of excellence. MAX has won The Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 10 years running, Spokane Living’s Spokane Valley Best Restaurant of the Year, The Washington Restaurant Association’s Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year and the multiple Epicurean Delight Awards for various dishes through the years. No matter if you are a local, a traveler or a family getting away for a vacation, there are more than enough reasons to be drawn to MAX. It’s a concept; it’s a uniquely different concept. Dining at MAX is an experience you must try for yourself. MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel Spokane Valley 1100 N. Sullivan Rd. 509.922.6252 MAXatMirabeau.com Link to Issue #local #spokane #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight

In 1982, Mike and Ellena Conway established Latah Creek Wine Cellars with a goal to bring affordable, award-winning wines to the Inland Northwest. Thirty-seven harvests and 36 years later, they, along with their winemaker daughter Natalie Barnes, continue that mission. As Natalie says, “We continue to strive for that same goal, which allows people to drink award-winning wine every day, not just on special occasions. To us, every day is special.” When Latah Creek first opened, it was only the 35th winery in Washington state; today there are more than 900! “I love being part of a longstanding family winery. When I actually take the time to reflect on this, I am deeply honored that I get to carry on my parents’ legacy,” says Natalie. At Latah Creek, Natalie, Ellena and Mike never compromise their standards. Three-plus decades later, they continue to make remarkable wines. What Natalie finds most rewarding is “to know that I have created something that not only makes people smile, but it is also something they can enjoy for years to come.” Over the years, the winery has continually been acknowledged through various prestigious awards; Natalie’s most exciting? When Wine Enthusiast rated their 2004 Riesling at 90 points, which was Natalie’s first year as winemaker. Another unforgettable recognition was more recent, when Latah Creek’s current moscato was awarded Best of Class and the Chairman’s Award at an international competition, competing with hundreds of wines from all across the world! Natalie’s favorite wines currently at the winery are their Reserve Tempranillo and Rosé of Malbec. “I have loved every moment of making our Reserve Red wines because it has allowed me to work with varieties that aren’t well-known to most people; tempranillo being one of these. This wine tastes ancient, like it is from Old-World Europe, and I just love it,” she says. “Our Rosé of Malbec was new for us last year; something I’ve wanted to do for some time. I love the intensity of the fruit and flavors in our malbec, but I wanted something to enjoy on a hot summer day on my back deck. I looked in the market and found only a few rosés that use malbec, so my dad and I decided to devote part of our 2016 vintage malbec grapes to rosé. The result is a marvelously refreshing wine that is unique, which is something I very much enjoy.” Each year, Latah Creek participates in ValenWine Weekend (February), Spring Release Weekend (May) and Holiday Wine Fest (November). In addition, they hold four annual events exclusive to the winery: February Case Sale, Anniversary Celebration in July, Harvest Open House in October and 12 Days of Gifting in December. Natalie, Mike and Ellena are not slowing down anytime soon. Grab a glass and be ready to enjoy more affordable, award-winning wines, with additional unique varietals, from Latah Creek for years to come. Latah Creek Wine Cellars Spokane Valley 13030 E. Indiana Ave. 509.926.0164 LatahCreek.com Link to Issue #spokane #local #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight

Serving Coeur d’Alene’s midtown community since 2007, Bistro on Spruce is a delightful retreat to all who enter, and it’s just a short drive north from downtown on the corner of Fourth Street and Spruce Avenue. The restaurant scene has seen remarkable change during the past 10 years, and owner Chris Mueller strives to continue to appeal to his guests by continually offering them what they’re looking for: personal service, delicious comforting food and a sense of community. And that is exactly what you will discover at Bistro on Spruce. The restaurant features an ever-evolving menu featuring Northwest fresh and modern-American fusion cuisine by Chef Jesse Nickerson and the Bistro culinary team. This is complemented by the warm, cozy environment, with its natural light, wood finishes, large private booths, wine bar that offers views of the chefs in the kitchen, an indoor fireplace and beautifully landscaped outdoor patio. And unlike downtown, there’s no need to stress about finding a place to park; there’s ample parking available in their large private parking lot. Monday through Saturday, 2:30 to 5:30pm, happy hour offers half-price wine by glass and $1 off draft beers. There’s plenty of tapas selections to mix and match. On the Tapas menu—or as Chris would say, Terrifically Affordable Pleasingly Appetizing Snacks—you’ll be treated to choices like the tempura calamari, Bistro onion rings or frites, beef and fungi polenta and pretzel bun slider. Every Tuesday, stop in for dinner and enjoy 40-percent off bottled wines. And for all of you wine lovers, don’t forget to ask about the Bistro Wine Club. Weekend breakfast offerings range from the crepes, hotcakes and French toast to the Idaho Benedict, smothered breakfast burrito, corned beef hash, and biscuits and gravy. On the lunch menu, be sure to try the Spruce Street Reuben, hotcake sliders, mahi mahi tacos or beer-battered halibut tacos, shrimp and grits, and linguini and clams. If it’s dinner you’re looking for, you can’t go wrong with the port-braised lamb shank, fresh halibut, wild Alaskan salmon, mushroom ravioli, shrimp and grits or gumbo. Delicious food, a happy hour unlike any other and the best wine prices in town, all complemented by a staff who is always ready and willing to serve you with excellence … what are you waiting for? Bistro on Spruce Midtown Coeur d’Alene 1710 N. Fourth St. 208.664.1774 BistroOnSpruce.com Link to Issue #local #foodandbeverage #businessspotlight #coeurdalene

Christina Horton has always enjoyed preparing and eating good foods, but it wasn’t until a series of events that her passion for quality food and clean eating manifested itself, not only into her home life, but professionally as well. It began when her father was diagnosed with cancer. Shortly after, Christina’s young son received an Autism diagnosis. With all of the treatment advice she was given, Christina decided to start researching on her own and was surprised to find that most diseases begin in the gut, which in turn needs to be healed in order for these conditions to begin their own healing process. Christina immediately put her family on a very restrictive diet, spending hours in the natural grocers and specialty stores searching for the right ingredients, then preparing and cooking healthful meals at home. She soon realized the limited options available when it came to dining out while trying to maintain their healthful diet. “I was looking to pick up something to eat for my family that was comparable to the same quality ingredients I might get at home; where I didn’t have to worry about what was hiding in our food.” Then she discovered Grabbagreen®. “I knew it was something I needed. It is something we all need; healthy food on the go that can accommodate our modern lifestyle.” This was the beginning of a new endeavor. Christina and her husband and partner Ben opened Coeur d’Alene’s Grabbagreen® November 2016. A national franchise with deep roots invested in each local community it inhabits, the restaurant incorporates locally sourced food whenever possible. Ben and Christina have been inspired to fix the broken food system and connect people with their local farmers. Grabbagreen® is enabling them to do just that. And the local community is eating it up. “There is a wonderful awareness in this area of the way we need to eat for healing or maintenance. It seems Grabbagreen® is a perfect fit to Coeur d’Alene.” She adds: “Grabbagreen® has been incredibly well-received by those who have found us. We are a healthy alternative to fast food with no bad choices on the menu, and we can accommodate many dietary restrictions.” And, she and Ben are excited to be the first Grabbagreen® with a hydroponic system to grow their own food on site! The menu features 100-percent whole foods, which are prepared fresh daily in house. Items are gluten-free using non-GMO ingredients. A majority of their offerings are organic—70 percent of their signature dishes are designed to be organic. “I am honored to be part of the change in making fast food healthy,” says Christina. Grabbagreen® North Coeur d’Alene 405 W. Neider Ave. Ste. 108 208.277.9700 Grabbagreen.com Link to Issue #local #foodandbeverage #businessspotlight #coeurdalene

In today’s world, we are constantly busy trying to accomplish what needs to be done by the time each day comes to an end. With the hustle and bustle of life, it is important not to forget to slow down and take time to appreciate those around us. Enjoy your family and friends by gathering for a meal, spending uninterrupted time conversing and connecting. This is the humble—yet essential—foundation that The Culinary Stone was built on—getting people back to the table. In 2014, Brad and Sandra Gunn partnered with Sandy Volkar and introduced their culinary lifestyle marketplace to the Coeur d’Alene community. Here they invite you to come to the table with the hope of inspiring you to cook and share a meal with those most important to you. Eating together, and eating well, should be a daily activity—not just for special occasions. As Sandra says, “Conversations at the table with family and friends have gotten lost. Here, we want you to feel like you are walking into our kitchen—into our home.” Those who enter will encounter an experience that cannot be found anywhere else. The largest kitchen supply store in the area, discover specialty foods, cheese and Italian meats, and wines from around the region—and world—in the 5,500-square-foot space. Explore new flavor combinations at the Spice Bar, or be introduced to nouveau Coeur d’Alene Olive Oil Co. olive oils such as the tomato-basil balsamic glaze and their newly introduced truffle oil. Stop by their neighborhood boutique deli for artisan deli meats and cheeses, and homemade sausages, and don’t forget about their café featuring artisan breads, European pastries and cakes. Stop by the deli any time of day, take a seat, and enjoy great food. Each table is accompanied with its own distinctive chairs, and as Sandra says, “Every chair has a different story.” Sit down with someone and share yours—or create a new one—over a meal together. In addition, The Culinary Stone has everything you need to outfit your kitchen with the greatest in unique and handy kitchen gadgets, cutlery and dinnerware, pots and pans, and cookbooks, perfect for the home chef and entertaining company. Each week, area chefs invite you to pull up a seat “At the Table,” where you will learn to create new delicious meals that you can share with others, all while engaging with new friends. They also hold weekly wine tastings, so you can explore new wines to pair with your meals at home. Life’s never tasted better. Take the time to enjoy The Culinary Stone. The Culinary Stone Coeur d’Alene at Riverstone 2129 Main St. 208.277.4116 CulinaryStone.com Link to Issue #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #local #coeurdalene

Geno’s Traditional Food and Ales celebrated its four-year anniversary this past October, and it’s no surprise that it continues to be a local favorite. A University District icon, Geno’s changed ownership in 2013 and became part of the popular family of pubs that include The Elk and Two Seven in Spokane, Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene and The Porch in Hayden. Geno’s is carrying its long tradition of good food and friendly service where guests are welcomed by a casual feels-like-home atmosphere. The menu includes some of the same favorites known in their other pubs, like The Elk’s famous Reuben sandwich (guests have the choice of a gluten-free bun for all sandwiches) and Moon Time’s 74th St. gumbo, but the menu is adorned with items that are unique to Geno's, such as the Cuban pork sandwich and Geno's chicken wings with your choice of three sauces. For a twist on this menu, Geno’s has french fries—which none of the other restaurant locations have—in addition to the ever-popular, and addicting, roasted corn pasta. Staying in tradition with the other pubs, Geno’s menu appeals to the masses not only in taste but in price. No one leaves Geno’s hungry—or broke. It’s a perfect place to unwind and support the Gonzaga Bulldogs, with plenty of TVs to watch the games, great tap selections, cocktails, and of course, the tasty food and good company they are known for. The kitchen stays open late, until 10pm Sunday through Wednesday and 11pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Geno's is a great spot to meet up after the game, or for that matter, any event taking place at the Spokane Arena, thanks to its close proximity. With the success its sister restaurants have seen over the years, in just four years, Geno’s has already established itself as another neighborhood gem the community is quickly embracing. Geno’s Sample Menu: Geno's Chicken Wings Half pound of wings tossed with your choice of Buffalo or Vietnamese sauce and served with a side of bleu cheese or ranch Kale & Brussels Sprout Salad Thinly sliced fresh kale and Brussels sprouts tossed with Parmesan cheese, almonds and a classic vinaigrette Buffalo Chicken Sandwich A lightly breaded chicken breast topped with Geno's own hot sauce, melted mozzarella cheese and a carrot/cabbage slaw, served on a toasted bun with blue cheese dressing Cuban Pork Sandwich Seasoned pulled pork, sliced ham, mayo, yellow mustard, Swiss cheese and a pineapple/pickle relish served warm on a smashed French roll Fish & Chips Tempura-battered cod fried crisp and served with Geno's famous french fries, a side of tartar and a lemon wedge Smash Burger Two hand-smashed 3 oz. beef patties grilled, topped with American cheese and served on a toasted bun with iceberg lettuce, onion, diced dill pickle and 1000 Island dressing Scotch Egg A soft-cooked egg wrapped in sausage then deep fried and served with spicy mustard Tacos de Pescado Your choice of beer-battered and fried or blackened and grilled cod stuffed into two warm flour tortillas with diced cabbage, garnished with Mexican cream sauce, cilantro and lime, served with roasted corn pasta Geno’s Traditional Food and Ales Downtown Spokane 1414 N. Hamilton St. 509.368.9087 WeDontHaveOne.com Link to Issue #spokane #local #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight

Sandpoint’s Farmers Market Celebrating its 30th Year! Saturdays 9am to 1pm Wednesdays 3 to 5:30pm Located at Farmin Park Third Avenue and Oak Street The Pack River Store Take a beautiful drive to discover some of the best home-cooked food around! Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. With freshly made sandwiches, salads, burritos, ribs, pastries and pizza, there is something here for everyone in the family. And if you don’t feel like cooking, there are many take-and-bake items from which to choose. 1587 Rapid Lightning Rd. Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 Clark Fork Pantry Enjoy this delicious bakery and deli and treat yourself to ice cream, too! This family owned business is the place to go for all-natural, preservative-free, made-from-scratch baked goods. Their whole grain flour is freshly ground on site before use, which helps preserve much of the flavor. With several generations of recipes and their own added touch, it has become a favorite of many! 204 E. 4th St. Clark Fork, Idaho 83811 Float the Pack River There is no better way to cool off than a float on the Pack River! Scenic, relaxing and a lot of fun! Here you can enjoy beautiful wildlife, scenic views and even rope swings over the water. Before you go, check the current as often, during spring runoff, it can be quite swift. Kootenai Falls Be adventurous and take a short drive over to Montana where you will discover Kootenai Falls and the swinging bridge! Ross Creek Cedars You don’t have to go to California to see some amazing trees. Visit Ross Creek Cedars, a grove of Western red cedars up to 8 feet in diameter, located in Libby, Montana, in the Kootenai National Forest. Schweitzer Mountain Chairlift Rides Head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort and take a chairlift ride to the summit where you can enjoy the most breathtaking 360-degree views of Idaho, Montana, Washington and Canada. Mountain Biking Schweitzer offers more than 20 miles of trails and a chance for not only a great workout but to explore the mountain in a whole new way during the summer months! Hike Scotchman Peaks With different trails as well as self-guided or guided hikes to choose from, one thing is for sure, a hike up Scotchman Peaks is rewarded with exploration deep into the wilderness. Visit Beautiful Downtown There is no doubt that Downtown Sandpoint has something for everyone. With a multitude of restaurants, including a local winery and brewery, and many locally owned and unique stores, it’s easy to see why Sandpoint was voted the Most Beautiful Small Town in America. The Festival at Sandpoint A favorite of visitors and locals alike, The Festival at Sandpoint is an eight-day music festival at the beginning of August each year. It has drawn many big names over the years, and this year is no different! The Panida Theater A visit to Sandpoint is not complete without a visit to the historic Panida Theater downtown. It was first opened as a vaudeville and movie house in 1927. In 1985 there was a large fundraising effort that saved the theater, and today it is on the National Register of Historic Places and home to year-round entertainment including plays, films and concerts. Pend Oreille Scenic Byway Enjoy a breathtaking drive along the Scenic Byway taking you from Sandpoint along Highway 200 to the Montana state line. Enjoy wildlife, views of Lake Pend Oreille and, while you’re at it, take a small detour and visit the Cabinet Gorge Fish Hatchery. Sandpoint City Beach It’s more than a beach, it’s a place to relax, recreate and take in the beauty of Lake Pend Oreille. At City Beach, you will discover basketball courts, tennis courts, a playground for the kiddos and more! You can rent one the gazebo for a family gathering or bring your own picnic to enjoy. If you have a boat, this is one of the many areas in and around Sandpoint from which you can launch for a fun day on the water! Coldwell Banker Resort Realty 208.263.6802 CBSandpoint.com Downtown Sandpoint 202 S. First Ave. Schweitzer Mountain Resort 166 Village Ln #201A Link to Issue #events #local #sandpoint #shoppingandretail #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight

NO MATTER ONE’S AGE or financial status, consistently good food and atmosphere along with friendly service and menu items offered at a reasonable price appeal to everybody. And this is what The Elk Public House has delivered year after year. In addition, the restaurant offers a comfortable and inviting welcome-to-my-house environment, which is laid back, not pretentious. What keeps people coming back for more you ask? In addition to the traditional Reuben, thanks to the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives show, which featured the Elk back in 2010, the Santa Fe chicken sandwich, Mediterranean grilled lamb sandwich and legendary roasted corn pasta are favorites. And at The Elk you’ll find a staff that truly cares about their guests. This is something owners John Grollmus and Brad Fosseen value: “Caring about their job, the people they work with, the appearance of the food, the type of service they provide,” John says. “Keeping them happy helps with this, but ultimately it takes a certain type of individual who cares about what they do.” And at The Elk, their employees most certainly care about the restaurant and their guests as is reflected by the many longtime staff members it employs. Chef Kevin Russell has been at The Elk for 17 years; Marshall Powell, general manager, 14 years; Dale Ringquist, server, 16 years; Joe Vitt, cook, 10 years; Leroy Ransom, cook, 10 years; and Lance Hostetter, cook, 10 years. “I think the reasons I have worked for John and Brad for so long is because of them and also my co-workers. It really feels like a family more than a job,” says Kevin. “John and Brad are really good to their employees, and I appreciate all they have done for me. From ownership down through management and staff, it really does feel more like a family than a job.” When it comes to what has kept him loyal to The Elk all of these years, Dale says, “Well other than the obvious, that John and Brad take care of us, health care, retirement and bonuses, and the kick-ass crew in the front and back of the house, I would say our customers. … We have some of the most loyal customers of any place I have worked.” John and Brad are also the duo behind Two Seven Public House, El Que and Geno’s Traditional Food and Ales in Spokane, Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene and The Porch Public House in Hayden. Their common philosophy at each location is to make food from scratch, price it affordably and serve it with a smile. And this is exactly what you will find at The Elk. Every neighborhood should be so lucky. Elk Sample Menu Grilled Lamb Sandwich Lamb thinly sliced and marinated, then grilled with red onions, served with tzatziki and mayo on a French roll Traditional Reuben Slow-cooked corned beef, melted Swiss, house-made sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing all piled on toasted rye bread Marinated Pork Soft Tacos Thinly sliced marinated pork seared and stuffed into two warm flour tortillas with Monterey jack cheese and coleslaw, then topped with mango/pineapple chutney and fresh cilantro; served with Mexican-style charro beans. Swimming Angel A traditional Thai dish of steamed spinach and char-grilled chicken breast served over rice and topped with spicy peanut sauce, served with sweet and sour cucumber salad and toasted bread 74th St. Gumbo Inspired by Seattle’s finest Ale House. Chicken, sausage, shrimp and vegetables in a traditional sauce served over rice. It’s hot! The Elk Public House West Side 1931 W. Pacific Ave. 509.363.1973 WeDontHaveOne.com Link to Issue #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #local #spokane

Nestled among the greens of the Avondale Golf Course, The Grill at Avondale is open to the public and offers casual lunch and dinner pub fare as well as nightly specials. Since taking over the kitchen last summer, Chef Troy Louis Chandler has retooled the menus, eliminating premade and frozen products and using only fresh house-made items, even down to the ranch dressing. This has brought excitement to the staff, from cooks learning and growing to servers being proud to describe and deliver dishes to their guests. The Grill is becoming known for its classic liver and onions dish along with specialty pizzas, seafood and burgers. Chef Troy says he is proud to announce a line of great steaks on the summer menu that will be “almost free!” He is able to do this because of his deep ties with local vendors and farmers. Stop in every Friday night for great prime rib! The available-anytime pub menu is designed for fun and casual cuisine, where you can enjoy lighter fare or shareable appetizers to full entrees. Nightly higher-end specials allow Troy and his sous chefs to flex their creativity. This is where you will find ever-changing creations featuring dishes from around the globe—from modern-American to Mediterranean, Caribbean and even sushi! “Over the past 12 months, I’ve learned what our guests want, but I can’t help cheffing it up,” says Troy. “If I’m going to make Salisbury steak, it’s going to be the best Salisbury steak on the planet!” In addition to the great food, the bar has a fun lively sports feel where everyone knows your name. The full bar features great cocktails, eight beers on tap with your favorite staples and local brews, as well as a small yet crisp wine list. There are also six HDTVs in the bar area and restaurant. Guests—both members and non-members alike—are treated to an upscale yet casual restaurant where the food, atmosphere and service all come first. Chef Troy works closely with both the kitchen and front-of-the-house staff to accomplish this. They have elevated food and service while maintaining neighborhood-friendly pricing. “Diners benefit as we keep pricing low while maintaining great quality for our guests,” says Troy. “Some quickly sign up for the extremely affordable golf membership after only a few visits!” Looking where to book your next party? The Grill at Avondale is a fun and inexpensive venue to house wedding events, class reunions, birthdays, anniversaries, holiday parties and, not to forget, golf tournaments. If you haven’t stopped in lately, now’s the time. With its beautiful location close to your neighborhood, and ample parking, what are you waiting for? The Grill at Avondale Hayden Lake 10745 N. Avondale Loop 208.772.5963 AvondaleGolfCourse.com Link to Issue #local #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #coeurdalene

Whether you are looking for a sports bar, a cocktail lounge, a place for a cold beer, a glass of unique wine, somewhere to enjoy live entertainment or to just chill out with friends, The 219 Lounge on First Avenue in Sandpoint has it all. The 219 has undergone extensive restoration over the last three years and reveals a unique part of Sandpoint’s history. Not only that, it is now smoke free and was recently named the best small-town bar in Idaho. “The character of the bar has changed multiple times over its 84-year history,” says Mel Dick, who along with his wife Claudia own the “Niner,” as it has come to be known over the years. “In the early 1950s it was a Las Vegas-style lounge complete with one-arm bandit gaming machines.” The original bar was located on Pine Street in Sandpoint and was moved to its current location in 1934 and was called the Diamond, with the original diamond logo still visible on the Lounge’s façade. But a fire destroyed the building, and it was rebuilt in late 1934 and early 1935 with the front and back exterior walls constructed in solid concrete with an art-deco style. The beams in the newly exposed ceiling show signs of the fire from over 80 years ago. One of the treasures that was discovered in the restoration was a 40-foot mural painted by “Cowboy Joe” in 1935 that was hidden under multiple walls. It has since been restored by local artist Diana Schuppel. Other smaller murals near the entrance were also uncovered. Those were painted by locally renowned artist Gene Hayes in 1967. One of the additions includes a one-of-a-kind back bar, weighing more than 2,000 pounds when fully stocked, designed and constructed by Jim Reese of Kokanee Ironworks. “There is nothing like this anywhere,” says Mel. “It includes a custom-built system for the hinged wire-mesh doors which lock the liquor in the cabinets.” So how did it become the 219? When the previous owners applied for a liquor license, they put the address in the space where the business name was to be written, and the license was issued to the now iconic 219. With large windows in front (discovered when the front façade was removed during the renovation) and a beautiful outdoor patio in the back adorned with murals of Sandpoint—Lake Pend Oreille and Schweitzer Mountain painted by local artists Maria Larson and Nannette Cooper—The 219 has become a melting pot of locals and tourists coming to see what’s new (or old) in this historic building. As with any successful business, The 219 has changed with the times. Twelve years ago, the only beer on tap was Pabst Blue Ribbon; now The 219 features the most craft beer handles in Sandpoint with 20 beer taps inside and six taps on its outside patio bar. The 219 offers a list of classic cocktails including Manhattans, cosmopolitans, dirty martinis, a small but unique wine list and an extensive menu of the increasingly popular Moscow mule. During the summer months, the outside patio is a favorite of many. There you can find food trucks providing something for everyone each Friday and Saturday evening. There is also live music every Friday and Saturday nights featuring local and regional musicians and bands. Several times a year, nationally known comedians perform as they love the intimate “comedy club” atmosphere of the main bar with its brick walls and exposed large ceiling beams. “We love local musicians and also have bands from around the Pacific Northwest,” says Mel. “It’s everything from rock ‘n’ roll, Americana, the blues and more.” Whether you are a local looking for a fun and smoke-free place to meet up with friends or a visitor coming to check out Sandpoint for the first time, stop by The 219 Lounge on North First Avenue. Be sure and ask for Mel; if he’s around he would love to show you the historic nature of this Sandpoint icon. The 219 Lounge Sandpoint 219 N. First Ave. 208.263.5673 219.bar Link to Issue #sandpoint #foodandbeverage #businessspotlight #businesstobusiness #livinglocal

When did each restaurant open its doors? Madeleine’s My daughter Megan and I opened Madeleine’s in the summer of 2007. The concept, a French café and pâtisserie, came about as Meg attended French pastry school. We celebrated our 10-year anniversary last summer and are grateful we’ve made so many friends along the way. Casper Fry Open for six years now, Casper Fry was conceived out of a desire to do more, to keep challenging ourselves and design a concept unlike other restaurants in Spokane, at the time. We love the process and are committed to building happy gathering places that bring people together through food. Durkin’s Durkin’s opened in 2014. The location is rich with history, and after taking a look at it and doing our homework, we knew that Durkin’s Liquor Bar was just begging to be built. Again, we felt the tug of the challenge and were truly all about building a space so upbeat and big-city that when guests walked through the doors they’d feel they’d been transported to New York City. What was the inspiration behind each? Madeleine’s We were inspired by our favorite bakeries in Paris and other cities. The name Madeleine was Meg’s French name in high school. Eleven years ago, there were very few bakeries in Spokane, and none downtown, so there was a lot of local anticipation as we prepared to open our doors. Casper Fry With a historic family tie to the South Perry neighborhood, it just seemed right to build a Southern-inspired restaurant paying homage to Casper Fry, my great grandfather, a Southern-born Baptist minister. My mother can spend hours recounting childhood stories of time spent with this friendly, gentle man. Our journey was visceral, and it became important that we honor him by building a restaurant named for him that would be a place where guests were treated neighborly and greeted with Southern hospitality. My son Ben’s contribution to every aspect of building and running this restaurant has been priceless. Durkin’s Jimmy Durkin was a local liquor tycoon during the turn of the century and an honest-to-goodness local legend. He owned Durkin’s Liquor Company and three bars downtown; coincidentally, one in our exact location. During prohibition, what is now our basement bar was a private Speakeasy or “card room” for guests in the know. When we decided to build Durkin’s Liquor Bar, we really wanted it to be a place that was fun—a swank upscale diner and bar, a vibrant, positive energy, easy-to-understand food, knowledgeable staff and natty interior. We’re very detail oriented and dedicated ourselves to creating and curating a hip but vintage vibe and making sure even the tiniest of details were accounted for. What is your favorite aspect of each? Madeleine’s has steadfastly withstood the test of time. My son calls her “the mother ship.” Without Madeleine’s, we would never have had the courage or ambition to create and build the other two. Casper Fry has a special place in my heart. For me, it’s the one most about family. Built for and about family, and as a place for any family to gather, it just feels like home. When it’s full of happy, chattering guests dining on shrimp and grits and drinking whiskey, it always has—and always will—feel like magic to me. At Durkin’s it’s a busy, loud Friday night when the hip-hop is blaring from the speakers in the dining room, guests are trying interesting food, excited by the cocktails, and the basement bar is full to overflowing with young energetic people. The place is just plain cool. It’s exactly what we built it to be. What are you most proud of when it comes to your family of restaurants? I’m quite proud of the number of jobs we’ve created and that our restaurants support other local businesses, but mostly I’m proud of my kids. When it comes to the success of all three, what do you attribute it to? Without a doubt, family. We wouldn’t be here doing this if we weren’t doing it together. We’re fortunate to have staff who invest in us, and we feel blessed to be here. The restaurants were built with intent and purpose, and we’re humbled that Spokane has been gracious enough to understand that and reward us with their support. Madeleine’s Cafe & Patisserie Downtown Spokane 415 W. Main Ave. 509.624.2253 Casper Fry South Hill Spokane 928 S. Perry St. 509.535.0536 CasperFry.com Durkin’s Liquor Bar Downtown Spokane 416 W. Main Avenue 509.863.9501 DurkinsLiquorBar.com Link to Issue #spokane #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #local

Originally opened in the 1950s on the South Hill, Hugo’s on the Hill is a one-of-a-kind establishment offering patrons a fun experience they won’t find anywhere else in Spokane. With a remodel in 2009 and owners Chris and Alex Schwartz at the helm, they’ve created the recipe for a successful business to play and dine. The space houses a 16-lane upscale bowling alley with modern décor, offering a bowling alley unlike any other in the area. Cosmic-lit lanes, four 16-foot projectors that play your requested music videos, a game room with pool, skee ball and arcade games, and to top it all off, a full-service restaurant and bar round out Hugo’s. Be prepared to wine and dine in comfort with the suite-style leather couches. This will be the most luxurious bowling experience you will ever encounter. The recently updated menu offers a variety of specialty drinks and scratch-made American fare, but this isn’t just any other bowling alley cuisine. Appetizers include the onion haystack, smokehouse wings and fried ravioli. Entrée items like top sirloin steak, green curry prawns and mac and cheese royale are guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and your palate after a game of bowling. You can't forget the specialty pizzas and burgers: pizzas like the Big Kahuna (ham, bacon, pineapple, pineapple teriyaki drizzle and red sauce) and burgers including The Great Bleu Buffalo (made with a half pound kobe patty with bleu cheese crumbles, Applewood-smoked bacon, house buffalo sauce, lettuce, tomato and onion). What is bowling without beer? Hugo’s has stepped up its game, with 20 beers on tap to choose from, with choices rotating almost daily. They also offer a seasonal drink menu, drink specials, happy hour every day and all day on Sunday. Hugo’s also features a game room with four TVs—with a total of 25 throughout the building! They also have three private rooms available, perfect for big events and parties. All ages are welcome. Experience the fun and food at Hugo’s Monday through Thursday 11:30am to midnight, Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 2am, and Sunday 9:30am to midnight. What are you waiting for? Hugo’s on the Hill South Hill 3023 E. 28th Ave. 509.822.7149 HugosOnTheHill.com Link to Issue #spokane #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #local

CHEFS CULINARY CLASSIC January 27 Davenport Hotel, Downtown Spokane Don’t miss out on one of the most exclusive and premier dining events in Spokane—the Chef’s Culinary Classic. Seven carefully thought-out courses of exquisite dishes are paired perfectly with outstanding wines from around the world provided by Southern Wine and Spirits, all for the benefit of children in our community. Read more... INTERNATIONAL FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL January 28 Silver Lake Mall, Coeur d'Alene Enjoy live entertainment, international food and beverages, cultural and visual arts including performances by Lake City Highland Dance, Papa Ray’s Bluegrass Jam Fest and Angela Marie Project. Additional music provided by Ruby Frog Entertainment. Read more... Directory The Northwest Sizzle directory is a comprehensive search tool to help you find your next best meal. For some of the greatest eats around town, click here.... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 26 NORTHWEST FEST & SALMON FEAST You are invited to Family Promise of North Idaho’s 11th annual dinner/auction Northwest Fest and Salmon Feast to be held at the Eagles Lodge ballroom in Downtown Coeur d'Alene. The evening includes a silent auction and dinner catered by Greenbrier Catering. The cost is $50 per person! Read more... JANUARY 26 KLONDIKE: THE LAST ADVENTURE Held at The Heartwood Center, this live storytelling performance is based on real events and tells the tale of Eliza, a young woman who braves the perilous journey to the Yukon in search of gold and opportunity. The event include historical photos and video presentation. Read more... January 26 TOYOTA FREE SKI DAY Got a Toyota? Then you’ll ski for free at Schweitzer! Drive your Toyota, Scion or Lexus to Schweitzer Mountain Resort on January 26 and receive one free lift ticket. It’s that simple! You must present your vehicle registration and a valid ID to get your ticket. Registration is required. Read more... JANUARY 26 & 27 LIVE MUSIC & DANCING If you haven't made plans yet for the weekend, then join MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel in Spokane Valley this Friday and Saturday night, 9pm to 1am, for live music and dancing. A great way to unwind after the long week. This weekend, you'll be entertained by Tuck Foster & The Tumbling Dice. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE To read the Fall/Winter issue of SIZZLE .... CLICK HERE #newsletter

The only place in Coeur d’Alene where you can sit down, enjoy a fresh seafood meal with a cold beer or glass of wine, and then bring home the freshest seafood and prepare it at home for yourself or a dinner party later—that’s Fisherman’s Market, Grill and Sushi. As you walk through the doors, you feel like you’ve been transported to the Pike Street Market in Seattle. Its convenient location at 215 West Kathleen Avenue makes Fisherman’s Market the easy and smart choice for finding high-quality seafood; sure beats a drive to the coast! A huge glass cooler displays the wide selection of wild-caught fish, shellfish and in-house smoked fish, with fresh fish overnighted from Hawaii. Restaurant menu items feature fresh catches, and among the most popular are fish tacos and the crowd-pleasing sellout—the coconut-crusted snapper special. From calamari and eel to salmon, tuna and shellfish, Fisherman’s Market has it all. Shop, dine and take out, all at Fisherman’s Market. A full sushi bar and the freshest wild-caught fish at the counter has drawn fans from around North Idaho offering a quick sushi lunch, perfect on a shopping excursion or during a busy work day. The sushi menu has all the regular favorites and a few local creations such as the Idaho roll—containing salmon, green onion, avocado and cucumber. Not only can you enjoy sushi in the restaurant, but you can call ahead and have them build a custom platter to take home as well! Skip the six-hour drive to Seattle and enjoy the same fresh fish right in town. Stop by the Fisherman’s Market, Grill and Sushi, open Monday through Saturday 11am to 8pm, to fulfill your seafood and sushi fix! Menu Highlights: Salmon Fishwich Grilled salmon, lettuce, tomato, red onion and traditional tartar on a sesame-seed bun Oyster or Catfish Po’ Boy Lettuce, tomato, red onion and Cajun mayo served on a hoagie roll FRESH CRAB SANDWICH Fresh dungeness crab, lettuce, egg and Louis sauce served on a hoagie roll FISH AND CHIPS Choices include Alaskan cod, mahi-mahi, wild salmon, catfish, Alaskan halibut, black tiger shrimp, small oysters, clam strips or calamari strips, served with traditional coleslaw and your choice of two tartars POKI TUNA Raw ahi and julienne vegetables tossed in a spicy Asian dressing 1 IB. STEAMER Manila clams, beer, butter and choice of garlic or Cajun spices POSEIDON ADVENTURE Fried cod, prawns and calamari atop baby spinach, sundried tomatoes, capers and lemon-pesto dressing SHRIMP OR CRAB LOUIS Chopped romaine, tomato, cucumber, egg, croutons and Louis dressing TASTE OF BAJA Fish or shrimp taco plate with two tacos topped with shredded cabbage, cilantro, salsa, cotija and jalapeño cream, served with rice and beans Fisherman's Market, Grill and Sushi North Coeur d’Alene 215 W. Kathleen Ave. 208.664.4800 FishermansMarketCdA.com Link to Issue #local #coeurdalene #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight

Chef Adam Hegsted has become a household name in the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene restaurant community during recent years with the success of The Wandering Table and Yards Bruncheon in Kendall Yards and the Gilded Unicorn in Downtown Spokane. Last year, he and his Eat Good Group team introduced North Idaho to the enticing flavors and beautifully plated cuisine like that of their sister locations in Spokane. Just north of Sandpoint in Ponderay—near Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort and Ruby Suites—Eat Good Group’s fourth restaurant made its debut April of 2017—Farmhouse Kitchen and Silo Bar. The unique building is not hard to miss with its beautiful rustic yet modern appearance. Once inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting space where the food, once again, takes center stage. At Farmhouse, everything is made from scratch; they even smoke their own meats in house. Brunch is served daily 7am to 3:30pm, with items like caramelized banana pancakes, fresh apple donuts, chicken and waffles, breakfast poutine and smoked trout frittata to delight your taste buds. Dinner, served 4pm to close, offers reasonably priced comfort food—with a twist—and features grilled meatloaf, country-fried NY strip, blackened Alaskan cod tostadas, and who can pass up their breakfast for dinner entrée? A smaller dinner menu is available inside the adjacent Silo Bar. The Post Falls community quickly embraced Eat Good Group’s Republic Kitchen + Taphouse, where the motto is: "Sharing the craft foods we love to eat and the local brews we love to drink." Opened in August 2017 and housed in a 1910 Post Falls home on the National Historic Registry, the European gasthaus-meets-Seattle pub welcomes diners with its spacious, garden-framed deck—ideal for outdoor dining during the warmer months. At Republic, you’ll dine and imbibe on more of Adam’s distinct creations like the popcorn cauliflower or bacon-wrapped jalapenos, house bratwurst sliders or crispy salmon. And when it comes to the brews, anyone can see that Adam and his Republic partners Tom and Mark Latham have an insatiable appetite for quality local craft beers; this is why all beers on tap are always 100-percent local or Northwest brewed. This is truly a “brewery to table” experience. 2018, and Spokane, welcomed yet another Eat Good Group venture—Incrediburger and Eggs in Downtown Spokane. Though just recently opened, it looks like success is already in store for Adam’s newest dining establishment offering mouth-watering selection of burgers, sandwiches, eggs, tater tots, sides, and adult beverages including boozy shakes and local beer! Hungry yet? And there’s more exciting news! Just in time for summer, Honey Eatery and Social Club, a name for which Adam chose in tribute to a favorite local ingredient, is opening in the former Cellar location in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. Rumor has it there will be a social club downstairs while an eclectic eatery will be upstairs serving up contemporary comfort foods. There’s no wrong choice when it comes to dining at each of these distinct Inland Northwest restaurants. The Wandering Table, Yards Bruncheon, Gilded Unicorn, Farmhouse Kitchen and Silo Bar, Republic Kitchen + Tahouse, Incrediburger and Eggs or Honey Eatery and Social Club … where will you be headed next? Farmhouse Kitchen and Silo Bar Ponderay 477227 Highway 95 N. 208.255.2603 FarmhouseKitchenAndSiloBar.com Honey Eatery and Social Club Downtown Coeur d’Alene 317 Sherman Ave. Republic Kitchen + Taphouse Post Falls 120 E. Fourth Ave. 208.457.3610 RepublicIdaho.com Gilded Unicorn Downtown Spokane 310 S. Monroe St. 509.309.3698 GildedUnicorn.com Incrediburger and Eggs Downtown Spokane 909 W. 1st Ave. Suite A 509.443.4215 IncrediburgerAndEggs.com The Wandering Table Kendall Yards 1242 W. Summit Parkway 509.449.4410 TheWanderingTable.com Yards Bruncheon Kendall Yards 1248 W. Summit Parkway 509.290.5952 TheYardsBruncheon.com Link to Issue #spokane #foodandbeverage #businesstobusiness #businessspotlight #local