BEST FOOD IN SPOKANE

BEST FOOD IN SPOKANE

I moved to Spokane in 2014 without a rain coat and with extremely low expectations. I am a city girl from Dallas who grew up on Tex-Mex and smoked BBQ.  I like sunshine, warm weather, skyscrapers, and huge malls with designer stores I could never afford. While Washington is nothing like Texas, the scenery in Spokane constantly takes my breath away and the food… Let’s just say Spokane has A LOT to offer, check out the best food in Spokane.

Whether you are in town for the weekend or you have lived here for 20 years. These restaurants are MUSTS!

From a girl who loves food.

Find us on Instagram @Spokaneeats

This list has been a long time coming. It is nearly impossible to pick my favorite restaurant in Spokane (which I am asked daily), but I do have favorites in each category. I put together this post so y’all can easily locate my list by the type of food you desire. I try to update this list every couple of months as more and more local spots pop up around town, menus change, ownership/chefs change.


When you want a savory breakfast: Yards Bruncheon (1248 W Summit Pkwy. Spokane, WA // 509.290.5952) Yards Bruncheon is a great spot for out-of-towners to grab breakfast then see the beautiful Spokane River on a walk along the Centennial Trail. I like to start the trail at Kendall Yards (Yards Bruncheon) and do a loop headed east to the Monroe Bridge, pass division, pass Gonzaga, and turn by the River Point Campus, back through Riverfront Park, ending at Kendall Yards for brunch at Yards Bruncheon! You can walk, run, ride your bike, anything really. The trail follows the Spokane River and leads all the way to Coeur D’Alene. It follows a nicely paved road full of friendly people and beautiful scenery. My favorite things at Yards are their Irish Eggs Benedict, Chicken and Waffles, Avocado Toast, Breakfast Tacos, and the pancakes!

When you want a sweet breakfast: Chaps Coffee Co (4237 Cheney Spokane Rd 99224 // 509.624.4182) Chaps is a “brunchers” paradise. With an easy ordering system, a perfect outdoor patio, and a timeless brunch menu, there is no way you won’t leave satisfied! Being a firm believer in eating dessert first, we started with a maple scone. With pecan bits baked inside the pastry and a maple glaze on the outside it’s obvious that this Chaps family recipe has been passed down and perfected. For the main course, we tried three dishes to Chaps menu and to make sure we tasted the sweet (Blueberry French Toast), the savory (Eggs Benedict), and the Salmon (Salmon Asparagus Dish). Also, their oatmeal is top notch.

When you want Breakfast for Lunch: Bruncheonette– Couple of Chefs Catering & Food Truck (1011 W Broadway Ave, Spokane, WA // 509.443.5968)

When you want a traditional Breakfast: Franks Diner (North Spokane. 10929 North Newport Highway // 509.465.2464) Franks is a Spokane staple. Enjoy your classic diner breakfast from the inside of an old train car. My favorite dish is the fried green tomato!

When you want a bagel: Ultimate Bagel (1217 N Hamilton St # B // 509. 487.4630) The Ultimate Bagel is baeGOALS. 🌟 Their bagels are big, fluffy, and made in house every day! Our faves are the toasted snickerdoodle with honey almond cream cheese & The Zegg- your choice of bagel with egg, sausage, cheddar and avocado! Pro tip: ask to have the middle of your bagel cut out because, like I said they are huge and this provides a better bagel to inside ratio.

When you want a burger on a Monday: Ruins (825 N Monroe St, Spokane, WA // 509.443.5606) Mondays mean McRuins at Ruins, so even though it’s the start of a work week, everyone has something to get excited about.

When you want lunch with a view: Central Food (1335 W Summit Pkwy Spokane, WA // 509.315.8039) Delicious lunch menu, with a spectacular patio view. Located in Kendall Yards, right on the river. You get a great view of the water and downtown Spokane. I love watching people run on the Centennial Trail while I consume large amounts of calories. Their lunch menu is made up of a couple sandwiches, salads, and soups. They keep it pretty simple for lunch, and you can try more options if you stop in for their breakfast or dinner. They use fresh, local ingredients and the portions are just the right size. Their bread steals the show and you can buy it by the loaf, made fresh each day.

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When you’re craving teriyaki: Haha’s Teriyaki Grill (9331 N Division St // 509.340.9098) There’s nothing funny about Haha’s Teriyaki Grill. All their food is fresh, made to order, and bursting with flavor. My favorites are the Korean Garlic Chicken and Beef Bulgogi.

When you want a Salad: Mizuna Restaurant & Wine Bar (214 N Howard St, Spokane, WA // 509.747.2004)

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When you want Pizza: Veraci Pizza (1333 W Summit Pkwy // 509. 389.0029)

When you want to meet up for lunch with your girlfriends: Luna (5620 S Perry St, Spokane, WA // 509.448.2383) Luna is one of the most gorgeous fine-dining spots in Spokane. They are very popular during their weekend brunch hours, as well as during dinner hours. I prefer Luna for lunch date with the girls. You can host parties and events in their private rooms. I always order seafood at Luna because Chef Joe makes some seafood that is out of this world. Now for my favorite part: dessert. The pastry chef is well trained and looks at his pastry making as an art form. His Madeleine’s looked as madelines should look. The ambiance, flavor, and presentation had me feeling like I was sitting in a French cafe…. if only.  They are always innovating and trying new things to make themselves more unique and special.

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When you want great drinks and even better grub: Steel Barrel Taproom / Zona Blanca (154 S Madison St, Spokane, WA // 509.443.5427) Zona Blanca is Chef Chad White’s Ceviche Bar opened in 2016. His idea revolved around “counter service, simplicity, low brow” and that’s exactly what he has achieved. He emphasizes sustainability and using local ingredients. Come for the ceviche, stay for the local drinks and good times. Located in the same building as Steel Barrel Taproom, you can enjoy a variety of local beers and other craft cocktails while enjoying some fun games with friends!

When you’re looking for a fine-dining experience: Park Lodge (411 N Nettleton St, Spokane, WA // 509.340.9347) I like my fries with a side of steak. If you haven’t been to park lodge spokane, you’re truly missing out!

When you’re celebrating a special occasion: Wild Sage (916 W 2nd Ave, Spokane, WA  // 509.456.7575) If I had to choose my last meal… the first course would definitely be these Yukon Taquitos from @wildsagebistro. I can’t even find the words to describe how amazing they are! Learn more about what we loved along with some brand new Spring Menu items, on our site!

When you want to escape Spokane to Liberty Lake: Hay J’s Bistro (21706 E Mission Ave, Liberty Lake, WA // 509.926.2310) / Piccolo Pizza

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When you are eating in Post Falls: Fleur De Sel (4365 Inverness Dr, Post Falls, ID / 208.777.7600)

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When you want a unique Dining Experience: Inland Pacific Kitchen (310 W Pacific Ave, Spokane, WA 99201)

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When you want to eat and drink on the Patio: Perry Street Brewing (1025 S Perry St #2, Spokane, WA // 509.279.2820)

When you are looking for an outdoor Summer hangout: The Grand Terrace Bar (333 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA // 509.598.4200)

When it is Happy Hour, When you have the kids, when it’s your birthday, pretty much whenever… Twigs Bistro & Martini BarAt Twigs, they have something for everyone! Great Happy hour specials, drool-worthy appetizers, pizza, pasta, salads, steak, seafood, chicken, the infamous lemon drop, local beer, and don’t even get me started on dessert. Join their loyalty program for a free bday dessert and order the sticky cookie or drunken donuts. Thank me later. With 4 locations around town, they’re always nearby when you need them. North Spokane, South Hill, River Park Square, and Spokane Valley. Oh, and did we mention they’re also great for groups?

When you want to hang out at a Winery: Arbor Crest Winery. (4705 N Fruit Hill Rd // 509.927.9463). Perched 450 ft above the Spokane River sits @arborcrestwine Family-run, open daily, perfect for your next special event or evening hangout.

When you’re wanting something totally different: Tarascon Empanadas (9222 N Newport Hwy) Scratch made, seasoned to perfection, authentic, Argentinan empanadas now available at @tarasconargempanadas . Flavors include Beef, Chicken, Ham & Cheese, Chorizo, Humita, Spinach, and Mushroom $3.25 each. Also, don’t sleep on their chimichurri fries!

When you’re on the hunt for a local brewery: No-Li Brewhouse (1003 E Trent Ave #170 // 509.242.2739) Skee ball tournaments now happening Tuesday nights at @nolibrewhouse . Sign up starts at 6pm so show up and bring your squad and your ‘A’ Game! Brewery offering IPAs & ales with locally inspired names, plus a pub menu & riverfront seating.

When you’re looking for a great local Coffee Shop: Indaba Coffee (518 W Riverside Ave // 509.822.7182) Community coffee shop roasting its own beans & sourcing beans from local roasters.

Ladder Coffee (1516 W Riverside Ave // 509.598.8097) Also, make sure you get some of their amazing avocado toast, made with bread from their next door neighbor, Life Made Glorious Bakery.

When you only have time for drive-thru coffee: Wake Up Call (1814 N Division St // 509.290.5580)

When you want a really good Sandwich: (We couldn’t choose just one)

Domini (703 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA // 509.747.2324) Choose your meat, choose your cheese, choose your spread, choose your bread. That is all. The menu is simple and the ingredients are pure. Their meat is freshly sliced and the bread is soft and thick. They give you fresh popcorn with your meal and the staff is friendly and proud of what they do, as they should be. This is a small shop, family owned and they serve popcorn complimentary with each sandwich. I always add one of their giant pickles to my order for the full experience.

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Smacky’s on Broadway (6415 E Broadway Ave // 509.535.4230)

Brooklyn Deli (1001 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201 // 509.835.4177)

Madeleines Cafe & Patisserie (415 W Main Ave // 509.624.2253) Order the Reuben!

Stellas Cafe (19 W Main Ave // 509.290.5927) Absence makes the heart grow fonder 💕 And that’s why I’m thrilled to report that @_stellascafe is back and better than ever! Find them inside the Saranac Commons and order this Reuben. 👌 Really order anything but this was extra perfect paired with their tomato soup on a chilly day.

When you’re craving Ramen: King of Ramen (1601 N Division St. // 509.321.7050) It takes some confidence to call yourself @kingoframenspokane but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t agree. What to order? Spicy Tonkotsu Bowl.

When you want some Fried Chicken: Chicken-N-More (414 1/2 Sprague Ave // 509.838.5071) 27 years of perfecting Fried Chicken in Spokane… and counting!! Chicken-N-Mo is an institution. Be prepared to eat with your hands and get greasy/ messy, just as fried chicken is meant to be eaten. They’re also known for their fried catfish, ribs, and jojos!

When you want avocado toast or really any kind of toast: The Grain Shed (1026 E Newark Ave #2346 // 509.241.3853) If you want avocado toast, this is your place. This is also your place if you’re wanting any kind of bread, pastry, pizza (Monday’s only), brownies, etc. “We focus on an ingredient that most people don’t find very interesting: wheat. Most people do not talk about wheat, in fact their eyes start to glaze over if you do. But we think it is very interesting, and what sets us apart is that we are growing it and milling it ourselves. Lots of other bakeries buy flour, and the flour they buy has basically one note, one flavor. The grain that we mill has flavor profiles and that is the most interesting thing. “

When it’s Taco Tuesday, or you just want a Taco on another day: Cochinito Taqueria (10 N Post St Spokane, Washington // 509.474.9618) While i’m a sucker for their tacos, I also love the Karina’s Bowl: Any taco meat (my favorite is the 20 hr Carne Asada) beans, rice, gucacamole, cotija, crema, xni pec with a side of chips or tortilla- go with the tortillas! Find it and other deliciousness at @cochinitotaqueria.

When you are wanting a smoothie: Method Juice Cafe (718 W Riverside Ave #101, Spokane, WA // 509.473.9579) For those wanting a snack or something healthy… Look no further than @methodjuicecafe! Smoothies, Acai Bowls (Berry Bowl is pictured), Cold Pressed Juice, Rice Bowls, and Curry.

Wellness Tree Health Center & Juice Bar (1025 South Perry St. Spokane, WA //509.598.8558) / Pathfinder Cafe

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When BBQ is your thing: TT’s Old Iron Brewery – Where Beer meets BBQ (4110 S Bowdish Rd // 509.919.4798)

When you only want Appetizers/ Tapas:  Table 13 (333 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201 // 509.598.4300)20160720-IMG_3067

When you’re looking for a neighborhood gathering place: Downriver Grill (3315 W Northwest Blvd // 509.323.1600) Downriver Grill is the restaurant I send people to when they are looking for a great casual lunch/dinner in Spokane. The staff and owners at Downriver Grill really care about their customers and the Spokane community as a whole. They love being a hot spot for many “Spokanites.” They are known for their gorgonzola fries appetizer and it’s pretty clear why. Their pork was some of the best I have ever had, the salads are fresh and unique and the burgers meat is top quality and plentiful. Don’t forget dessert, I’d come back again just for another bite of their tiramisu.

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When you’re looking for a fun night out: Lucky You Lounge (1801 W Sunset Blvd // 509.474.0511) Amazing food (tons of gluten free/vegan options) meets bar/lounge, meets concert venue, meets night club… that’s what you get at the brand new @luckyyoulounge 🌤🤞✨ Pictured is the Spaghetti & Bean Balls – roasted red pepper, pickled kale, parmesan and it was so good I truly didn’t even miss the meat! Enjoy a DJ & free live music in the basement every Thursday- Saturday 🕺🏽

When you’re looking for great food in Cheney: Bene’s AM Fixe (24 W 1st St. Cheney, WA // 509.951.5207)

The Mason Jar (101 F St, Cheney, WA // 509.359.8052) The Mason Jar focuses on sustainable, seasonal and local. In addition, they are passionate about education. They hold various forums and events to help teach local about food ethics, economic policy, etc.

When you want food from a Truck: 3 Ninjas / Couple of Chefs (Seasonal hours)

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When you are Gluten Free: Cole’s Fine Foods (521 E. Holland, Suite 20 Spokane, WA / 509.413.1739) I think it’s pretty clear that I’m not gluten-free BUT I still frequent @colesbakeryandcafe! Their food is that good. Chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, cheeseburgers, donuts, the list goes on.. and on… and on. They are the only dedicated gluten free restaurant in Spokane and I love that they have a ton of “Keto Friendly” options too! Give it a try and let us know what you think 😜

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When you want a great Burger: Durkins Liquor Bar (415 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA // 509.863.9501)/

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When you want a greasy fast food burger: D.Lish’s Hamburgers (1625 N Division St // 509.323.7130) Don’t forget to get their special sauce.

When you are vegan and want a snack: Boots Bakery & Lounge (24 W. Main Ave. Spokane, WA // 509.703.7223)

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When you are vegan and want a meal: Rut (901 W 14th Ave // 509.241.3165) A vegan restaurant with a rustic vibe, hearty portions, and food that is good for the soul and for the earth… meet Rüt Bar & Kitchen. As meat-eaters, it was especially enjoyable to experience the creativity weaved into this menu. A must order? Ginger Cauliflower Wings. If you’re really wanting something meaty, the Jalapeno Mushroom Burger (made with an impossible patty) is the way to go. It will can fool any meat lover into thinking it’s actually beef. Oh, and don’t forget about the Lava Brownie Sundae.

When it’s cold outside: Soulful Soups (117 N Howard St // 509.459.1190) We come for the beer bread and we stay for the soup 🍵! As the weather is cooling down, we’re prepping for all the comfort food. One of our favorites… Hands down the tastiest no-bake cookie I have EVER had. EVER. They are chilled and moist with nuts and dried fruit. So. Dang. Good. Boots is a completely vegan & mostly gluten-free bakery. Their menu changes daily based the ingredients that are brought to them by local farmers. Stay and chill on your computer, chat with other locals, or read a book. You’ll fit right in.

When it is late at night but you are hungry: Atilanos Mexican Food ( 3624 E Sprague Ave)  Park Inn Bar & Grill (103 W 9th Ave) Satellite Diner (425 W Sprague Ave // 509.624.3952)

When you’re in search of a salad bar or a typical cafe lunch: Clark’s Fork (1028 N Hamilton St #100 // 509.960.8962)

When you are craving Mac & Cheese: Manito Tap House (3011 S Grand Blvd Spokane, WA // 509.279.2671) / Casper Fry (928 S Perry St, Spokane, WA // 509.535.0536)

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When you want Ice Cream: The Scoop (1001 W 25th Ave // 509.535.7171) The Scoop is a small ice cream & waffle shop, locally owned and loved by its neighbors. The owner creates all the flavors and works hard to make her business a success. They make new flavors almost hourly in their store. It a pretty cool sight if you catch them at a time they are mixing the liquid nitrogen. This is a great place to bring the kids. They have a kid corner and kid cones for only $1! The Scoop offers about 16 flavors at all times and it only takes them about 15 min to whip up a new batch (assuming the ingredients are prepped). I love their Berries & Biscoff Liege Waffle. It’s made with Berries, Biscoff cookie butter & whipped cream. They can also make you a variety of waffle sandwiches like the ham & cheese with cream cheese, and jalapenos, sprinkled with powdered sugar.

When you want mini Donuts: Hello Sugar (11205 E Dishman Mica Rd #104-c // 509.413.2178) Roll up to the new @hellosugar location in the valley, order your drink of choice and say ‘Make it a Unicorn’. 🦄 The rest is history. Drink pictured is their signature hello sugar drink which is house-made strawberry milk blended. Their original location is at Kendall Yards.

When you want regular sized donuts: Amy’s Donuts (11519 E Sprague Ave // 509.862.4391) Open early & stays open late! Kid-friendly.

When you want a Milk Shake: Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle (802 W Garland Ave Spokane, WA // 509.325.1772)

When you want Cheesecake: Spokane Cheesecakes (1420 E Sprague Ave #104B, Spokane, WA // 509.570.0658)

When it is National Pie Day: Rockwood Bakery (315 E 18th Ave, Spokane, WA // 509.747.8691) Rockwood Bakery is also a fantastic place to just take a break from the hustle & bustle. They have plenty of comfortable seating, and amazing almond croissant, and no wifi so you’re forced to connect, slow down, and breathe.

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When you need Cupcakes for a birthday: Sweet Frostings (15 S Washington St, Spokane, WA // 509.242.3845) SATURDAY DEAL… ½ price cupcakes from 5-6pm

When you need a birthday cake: Mi Flavour- Modern French Bakery (3403 E Sprague Ave // 509.315.4516)

When you are craving Thai Food: Phonthip Style Thai Restaurant (1006 E Francis Ave, Spokane, WA / 509.487-3559)

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When you want Chinese Food: Gordy’s Sichuan (501 E 30th Ave, Spokane, WA // 509.747.1170) / Mr. Wok (9222 N Newport Hwy C // 509.468.1922)

When you are in the mood for Italian Food: Ferrante’s Marketplace Cafe (4516 South Regal Street Spokane, WA // 509.443.6304)

Itallia Trattoria (144 S Cannon St // 509.459.6000)

When you want to enjoy your meal and drinks on the roof: Remedy (3809 S Grand Blvd // 509.443.3730) WEDNESDAY DEAL $7 famous drunken clams appetizer from @remedyspokane. Y’all, these clams are 🔥 and they’re especially delish when enjoyed on their roof-top patio (when the weather is a smidge warmer than this).

When you want to eat with your hands: Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Cuisine (The Flour Mill, 621 W Mallon Ave #426, Spokane, WA // 509.328.3958) When you feel like you’ve tried it all and you’re looking for an authentic culinary experience… this is our go-to! Queen of Sheba (located inside the Flour Mill). We love to order the three meat plate for two, which comes with two beef dishes, one chicken, and two sides of potatoes and carrots. You eat the entire meal with your hands, using their injera bread to pinch the entrees. Oh, and they have mancala on each table to keep you entertained.

When you want Mexican food: De Leon’s Taco & Bar (10208 N Division St Ste 110 // 509.822.7907)

When you want really really great steak: Churchills Steakhouse (165 S Post St. // 509.474.9888) Spencer’s Spokane (322 N Spokane Falls Ct // 509.744.2372) Pictures don’t do it justice. Not even close! Honestly, I don’t think I’d believe this meal was real if I didn’t have pictures. It was THAT good! Moral of the story, next time you’re looking for a five-star fine dining experience (valentine’s day is coming up) @spencers_spokane won’t disappoint! Make sure you try the table-side baked potato 🥔

Golf & Dinner: 1898 Public House at Kalispel Golf & Country Club (2010 W Waikiki Rd #2712 // 509.466.2121) They also have a fantastic weekend brunch and great happy hour specials.

When you want Sushi: North Side: SushiWa Teriyaki (509.466.3436) – My favorite food group… 🍣. @sushiwateriyaki has outdone themselves once again!

Sushi: Downtown: Umi Kitchen & Sushi Bar (1309 W Summit Pkwy // 509.368.9372) Nigiri & Sashimi Bento Box.

When you’re looking for an ooey gooey cookie: My Fresh Basket – Signature Cookie (1030 W Summit Pkwy // 509.558.2100)

When you’re visiting Coeur d’Alene: The Wellness Bar (312 N 4th St // 208.665.9098) My favorite is called “Bomb.com” and I truly couldn’t have said it better myself! Açaí + Cacao blended with banana and topped with almond butter, banana, almond slivers, coconut flakes, berries, hemp hearts & honey 🍯

Las Chavelas Mexican Restaurant (296 W Sunset Ave #23, Coeur d’Alene, ID / 208.664.3767) I’ve tried just about every Mexican restaurant in Spokane so I ventured over to Coeur d’Alene and found this hidden gem that’s been in business for over 27 years! (For obvious reasons). The first of which is the fact that they truly care about their customers and remember their names. The second reason they have been able to stay in business so long is their fried tacos. And the third, the Plato el Patron.

Cafe Carambola (610 Hubbard Ave #110 // 208.676.8784) Family-owned nook offering homemade Latin American sandwiches, soups & salads, plus outdoor seating. This is one of the greatest hidden gems in the Pacific Northwest. Go early because when they run out, they are out! Only open Monday – Friday.

CDA Resort (115 S 2nd St // 208.209.5031) Beverly’s for dinner and Dockside for dessert: Gooey – Object in photo is MUCH larger than it appears. The Gooey’s at @docksidecda are works of art! I’m partial to the cheesecake & butterfinger flavors. (We split 2 between 9 people and couldn’t finish them) #NoRegrets

Hudson’s Hamburgers (207 Sherman Ave // 208.664.5444) This historic small joint draws crowds for its old-school simple burgers & down-to-earth atmosphere.

When you’re visiting Sandpoint: Spuds Waterfront Grill (102 N First Ave // 208.265.4311) Mellow counter serve featuring baked potatoes, breakfast & deck seating with marina views. If your weekend plans include a trip through Sandpoint, I HIGHLY recommend stopping at @spudswaterfrontgrill for a Loaded (and we mean loaded) Baked Potato, Capistrano Sandwich, and Fiesta Vegan Salad. If your weekend plans don’t include a trip through Sandpoint… change that.

Pucci Pub (124 Village Ln // 208.255.7508) Meet the infamous Totchos from Pucci’s Pub at @schweitzer_mountain. They’re everything you love about nachos, but with tater tots and it’s truly the best post ⛷ meal.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by this list, check out my instagram page @spokaneeats for a quick display of images. If this is just the list you were looking for, then great! If you are visiting, then I hope you have a wonderful trip and you fall in love with Spokane, as I have. If you are a local, then you know how great our city is and let’s keep it kind of a secret.

DISCLAIMER: This is my list. I’m sure I missed some of your favorites, but these are mine. I have been running this food blog for years now and I have tried a vast majority of the restaurants in Spokane. I’d love to hear your favorite places in the comments below.

Keep eating, Spokane.

And don’t forget to tell them we sent you!

XOXO

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65 Comments

  1. All these places look great!!! Now I am starving and it is only 5:30am here in Dallas… I hope to try some of these when I am in Spokane next month. Thanks Chandler!

  2. I love a lot of places you mentioned and some I have never tried and I grew up in Spokane! You have to try (if you haven’t already) Luna’s, Casper Fry (go there for brunch), Fire pizza, pho van, rancho Chico, sweet frostings (cupcakes), downriver grill…..

  3. Fantastic for breakfast is THe Yards in Kendall Yards – old favorites, yet innovative, fresh & delish!
    Methods cafe – located downtown, but 2nd location opening on north end on 18th or 20th – clean eating at its best!
    In the mood for Mexican? – Tecates on Wellesley – my New Mexican favorite!

  4. For real, you ought to try Molly’s, downtown, I think it’s on Monroe? It’s got a big green pointy roof. Also, head to Cheney and try Zentropa. Holy heck, both are so so soooo yummy! They make me miss Spokane so bad!

  5. You should try the Bulldog Pub on Gonzaga’s campus. Open to the public. They have 3 Chef’s that actually create amazing dishes, all the while being priced for a students budget!!!! Love it!

  6. I would definitely recommend The Onion (local business with to-die-for burgers), Cottage Cafe has the best breakfast in town (anticipate at least 15 minute wait time), and Thursday Globe is one of the best places for dinner. For good pizza, check out Fire or the Flying Goat.

  7. Excellent list! So many favorites here and some inspiration too. I second Sweet Frostings and Casper Fry (my neighborhood!). I’d add Chaps for brunch and Brain Freeze for ice cream.

  8. Another great choice is Ruins, which is on Monroe by the Courthouse. They offer small plates and a rotating menu, based on fresh, local ingedients, as well as craft cocktails made with fresh-squeezed juices.

  9. The best thai in town in the “thai kitchen ” on Pines and 8th in Spokane Valley. Family owned and operated, mom cooks, dad runs register, and daughters waitstaff. I’ve been to Thailand and this is the most authentic thai food outside of the country. Absolutely amazing, they get fresh produce daily so all the veggies are crisp and use only local nw grown food. I always get the cashew chicken stirfry, i dream of it and wake up drooling lol. Also have to throw in “vina” on maple and nw blvd. For pho “vina” is by far the best little hole in the wall in town, the calamari there is the best you will find anywhere.

  10. I was slightly disappointed Chaps didn’t make the list. I am a Spokane native, and Chaps has the best oatmeal in the world. Try it if you haven’t.

  11. Great list but I have a couple of places that need to be on this list. Petit Chat on the north side is the most amazing breakfast bakery in Spokane and for Italian, Ferrante’s Market Place Cafe for chicken Parmesan, veno and gelato is hands down incredible!!

  12. While in Brown’s Edition you mentioned The Elk, which I feel is ok. You missed the best place right across the street from the Elk, called Italia Trattoria. Wow! It’s not your typical Italian restaurant, but more Mediteranian Italian. Chef Anna hasn’t met a fish she couldn’t cook that literally melts in your mouth with an explosion of flavors that delights every bite. Every thing on the menu is a treat. Sunday brunch is not to be missed either. You have to try it!

  13. Some of my favorite spots in town also. I love pho at Vien Dong, artisan pizza at the Flying Goat, sushi at Ginger Asian Bistro, breakfast at Chaps, curry at Linnie’s and coffee at Indaba. You’re right , life is too short for mediocre food. Food doesn’t have to be expensive to be tasty 🙂

  14. Have you eaten at the Melting Pot? It’s definitely pricey, but SO worth it! And Twigs is another one of our favourites. We visit Spokane often and have only been to 3 of the places on your list so I am VERY excited to try some of the others next trip:-) Thanks for sharing!!

  15. You have to try downriver grill! Their gorgonzola fries are to die for along with all the other food! We lived there a long time that was one of our favorites!

  16. My dear….how can you omit Hill’s on Main & Washington??? The chef is the brother of the owner, and has been trained all over the world…makes ALL the sauces…they cook their own bread…grow many of their own vegetables..people ask me “What’s good?”…I just tell them to pick something…a rare item on their menu I have not thoroughly enjoyed…wife works at the Marriott, and has referred hundreds of clients their who always come back with a great experience!

  17. Maggie’s and Hogan’s on the South Hill are good places for breakfast (We found them when the wait was just too long at Frank’s). Arturo’s Mexican food in Cheney and Sala Thai in Airway Heights are also good places to try 🙂

  18. You have given me ideas of places to try. Need to know if you tried the pulled pork hoagies and onion tangles at Dickey’s boba pit on north Division?

  19. Great list! Some places I haven’t heard of but will definitely try. A new place downtown, Garageland, is making really great comfort food. Worth a try!

  20. Just pulled into town and intenet searched where to eat. Found your site and hit Central food. Great Korean pork sandwich, Thai salad and bibimbap. Thanks for the direction!

    1. Liberty Lake is right in between Spokane and CDA. There is a great fine dining spot called Hay J’s, or if you want something more casual Picollo Pizza is really great! Have a good trip

    1. Hi Rick,
      I haven’t tried The Whitehouse Grill yet, but their menu looks really good. I LOVE Mediterranean food and there aren’t very many restaurants like that around. If you go, let me know what you think!

  21. […] Ruins has been invading my dreams since we came last time for lunch on a cold, rainy day. It seems like I always end up here on dull, dreary days when I am in desperate need of a ray of sunshine. Ruins is just that. With their bright blue exterior, they turn a day from drab to fab. Whenever people ask me for some of my top recommendations for Spokane restaurants, Ruins is always on that list. […]

  22. Awesome list, all in my top places to eat in Spokane. I would mention veraci pizza in Kendal yards. Best per slice Italian experience I’ve had. There salads make you want and believe that you are in the Mediterranean

  23. Wolffys has the Best burger I’ve ever tasted, they are like a dessert they are so good! I also highly recommend Monkey Business Cafe – and the Garland Sandwich shop for lunch – limited hours, great sandwiches! Their bread and other ingredients are so tasty and fresh you can’t go wrong. Monkey Business is a hidden gem 🙂

    1. Wolffy’s is a spokane burger staple! I’m also a big fan on Garland Sandwich shop and will try to visit Monkey Business soon! Thank you for sharing Ela

  24. Woah, no need to be so hostile Milou. As you can see, this list is almost 4 years old and these are my opinions. Thank you for the reminder that it is likely time for an update. I am a big fan of Italia Trattoria, but let’s try to be a little more kind next time you’re making a suggestion.

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