New coworking space,The 808, now open on E. Sprague

 Open for a little over a month now, The 808 brought an exciting new coworking option to Spokane. Located at 808 E. Sprague Ave in the former offices of iHeart Radio, the 17,000 square foot building offers varying levels of workspaces for people seeking to build their businesses and careers.

The 808 can accommodate most business types and the building already houses real estate brokers, teams, lenders, leasing specialists and even a CPR business. The services offered by The 808 range from mail/address only all the way up to full private offices. They also offer conference room rentals, and all pricing is noted on their website (linked below).

Additionally, The 808 offers training room space, high speed internet, free parking and even on-site podcast studios. All in a prime location, just over a mile east of Downtown Spokane and within the growing University District.

For more information on The 808, check out their website at https://the808office.com and give them a follow on social media via Facebook or Instagram .

Chaos Arcade hires new kitchen manager for elevated dining experience

Chaos Arcade (1020 W. Francis Suite H, Spokane) recently announced that they have hired Rosalie Fontana as their new kitchen manager. The new role at Chaos Arcade is just the beginning of growth for the award-winning local arcade, with a new menu coming soon. Prior to Chaos Arcade, Fontana was a chef at Manito Country Club and Golf Course. Hailing from Mayport, FL near Jacksonville Beach, her culinary career spans thirty-one years, with twelve years in fine dining. 

"I love the opportunities at Chaos Arcade to create new flavors while elevating the classics" explained Rosalie Fontana. "But the people here have to be my favorite part - the customers and the staff. The team is great, and Beverly goes above and beyond for our team." 

A key part of Rosalie's role at Chaos Arcade will be creating a new menu with sharable appetizers and snacks, weekend brunch, specialty entrees and more. "Chaos Arcade is growing" explains owner Beverly Lee "We are building Chaos Arcade into a destination for both food and entertainment. With Rosalie on board, we're exploring new menu items and custom menus for corporate events"

Chaos Arcade currently offers 12" pizzas featuring fan favorites like pepperoni, Hawaiian style and meat lovers as well as specialty pizzas such as Thai Peanut, the chicken bacon ranch, honey buffalo,  and Texas BBQ. They also offer cheese bites, nachos, chicken tenders, Korean shaved ice, and assorted desserts. Additionally, Chaos Arcade features a full espresso bar, boba tea and energy drink infusions, beer on tap and several more drink options.

Chaos Arcade plans to unveil their new menu in the Summer of 2024 after their blood drive on June 14th, 2024. 

For more information on Chaos Arcade, visit their website at http://www.chaosarcade.com and follow them on social media @chaosarcade. 

Business feature-The Zen Blossom Massage and Reiki

 The Zen Blossom Massage and Reiki is a new business located in Spokane Valley, WA that provides a variety of holistic healing services. These modalities include Therapeutic Massage, Cupping, Hot Stone, Reiki, Hot Towels, Aromatherapy (dōTERRA oils) and Sound Therapy. Zen Blossom has a loyalty rewards system, and offers service packages, membership, and is giving all new clients $10 OFF their first service (all services included). A new website is coming soon and will include Katie’s handmade crystal jewelry!  

Katie Smithgall, the owner of Zen Blossom, is a graduate of Therapeutic Connections School of Massage, completing her studies in February of 2024. Additionally, she has completed training in Reiki (1 & 2), cupping, hot stone, and aromatherapy. With a strong background as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Katie brings a deep sense of compassion and dedication to her role at Zen Blossom Massage and Reiki. She is driven by her passion for helping others and is committed to providing exceptional care and support to all her clients. Katie takes a holistic approach to healing and incorporates a variety of healing modalities in her practice to assist the body in healing itself from the inside out. 

For more information about Zen Blossom Massage and Reiki and to book an appointment, visit their website at https://brand.page/thezenblossom call or text (509)939-5624, or send an email to katie.smithgall@thezenblossom.com Follow Zen Blossom Massage and Reiki on Instagram and Facebook at @thezenblossom.

The address is 606 N Pines Rd Spokane Valley, WA

NOTE: the business runs by appointment only and is not open for walk-ins.      

#sponsored

BankCDA expanding into the Spokane market

 Coeur d' Alene based financial institution, BankCDA is growing and expanding into the Spokane area for the first time. The small bank recently opened a commercial lending center at 606 N. Pines Rd. Suite 201 in Spokane Valley and now is working on opening a new full-service branch in the Five Mile neighborhood.

Building owner 5-Mile Investment Company recently applied for building permits to demo the interior of their building at 1628 W. Five Mile Rd in preparation for a future BankCDA branch there. The 3400 square foot building was previously used as Bank of America branch before becoming vacant.

According to BankCDA they are currently in negotiations for the building and intend to open a branch there later this year. The bank currently also has branch locations in Coeur d' Alene, Post Falls, Hayden and Kellogg.

For more infomation on BankCDA, visit their website at https://www.bankcda.bank

Blue Zone Marketing expands presence into Washington state with new office opening in Liberty Lake

 Blue Zone Marketing, a full-service marketing agency serving clients nationwide has announced their expansion into Washington state with the opening of a new office in Liberty Lake. The office is located within the newly launched Mode coworking space at 2110 N. Molter Rd #1000, which is set to open on April 18th.

Courtsey photo of Blue Zone Marketing staff

Founded in Coeur d' Alene, Blue Zone Marketing has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to marketing and commitment to building authentic relationships with clients. With an existing office in Scottsdale,AZ the new Liberty Lake location marks the agency's third office location.

Blue Zone Marketing has been recognized as the best advertising agency in North Idaho in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Blue Zone's expansion into Washington state marks the culmination of a season favored by repeated successes. With a deep roster of dedicated talent working under the Blue Zone banner, the agency utilizes fresh, creative concepts to create brand stories with impact, making a splash for their clients that allows them to stand out in any market.

For more information about Blue Zone Marketing and its services, visit https://findyourbluezone.com or call 509-991-7066 or email info@findyourbluezone.com

Spokane Club to celebrate opening of new home decor store and renovated coworking studio

 Next week the Spokane Club on W. Riverside in Downtown Spokane will celebrate some changes to their facility. The Club is being joined by Mad Max Furniture & Decor who are opening a small boutique style shop within the building that will sell home decor and gifts. This will be the first brick and mortar store for the locally owned and operated Mad Max who has actually been in business in the area for some time.

Courtesy photos of the Spokane Club's coworking studio.

The retailer will be open to the public and is also currently developing a website for online sales. Additionally, the Spokane Club is introducing their newly renovated coworking studio which provides space to work for their members and hotel guests. The studio's decor was even designed by owner of the new Mad Max store.

The Spokane Club coworking studio and the Mad Max store will celebrate their grand openings together on Friday, April 26th with a champagne launch celebration planned from 3-7pm that day.

For more information on the Spokane Club, visit their website at https://www.spokaneclub.org

For more information on Mad Max Furniture & Decor, follow them on social media via Instagram or Facebook

Non-profit to add new affordable housing units in South Perry neighborhood

 Proclaim Liberty, an affordable housing non-profit created by the Presbytery of the Inland Northwest in the 1970's has secured funding and will soon be bringing new affordable housing in the South Perry neighborhood. The project will be located on E. Hartson Ave. near S. Perry St.

Project rendering courtesy of ZBA Architecture.

Proclaim Liberty is adding 54 units of affordable family housing to their existing campus of 48 units and the Proclaim Liberty Early Learning Center. Kiemle Hagood is proud to partner in helping reach this goal and looking forward to creating this much needed affordable housing. Kiemle Hagood serves as owner's representative (development consultant) and property manager for Proclaim Liberty, the projects sponsor.

Construction will start soon with leasing of the new units estimated to begin in about 14 months. TW Clark will be the general contractor for the development and architectural work is being done ZBA Architecture.

Grand opening of new Mode Campus in Liberty Lake planned on 4/18

Luke Kjar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and father of five has recently announced the opening of Mode. A revolutionary community campus slated to open it's doors on Thursday, April 18th. Located at 2110 N. Molter Rd. in Liberty Lake the new campus draws off of Luke's own Danish roots.

Luke aspired to build a simple solution for complex lives like his own, Mode is the result. Mode seeks to address the growing disconnect in our communities by providing a singular destination where individuals can come together to enrich their lives. The grand opening event planned for April 18th promises to be a celebration of this innovative vision.

At the event guests will have the opportunity to explore the state-of-the-art facilities including Mode Work, a coworking space designed for contemporary productivity and Mode Fitness, a comprehensive wellness center promoting physical and mental well-being. 

But Mode is much more than just a workspace and a gym, it's geared to be a lifestyle destination. The campus features amenities such as a barber shop, salon, ceramics studio, vibrant cafe, and coffee shop. Additionally, Mode plans to host frequent cultural and social events in the expansive space.

The grand opening festivities will kick off with hosted tours from 1-3pm, allowing guests to experience first-hand the "Mode difference". The celebration will continue into the evening from 5-8pm, with food, drinks and live music. For more information on Mode visit https://findyourmode.com or follow them on social media via Instagram or Facebook

Is a Raising Cane's coming to Spokane?

 Is a Raising Cane's coming to Spokane? Although it's not confirmed and no building permits have been applied for yet, it is looking quite likely....

In late November 2023 a pre-development application was submitted to the City of Spokane for a project called "Newport Highway QSR" at 9252 N. Newport Hwy. This is the site of the now demolished Burger King restaurant near the Y, that was at one point considered by a Popeyes Chicken franchise. The hiding of the real name like that is often a dead give away that it's actually something of interest and they are hiding the true tenant's name from people like me who check the system everyday.

I heard nothing more after seeing that despite it being added to my radar, until this week. The business and construction news website BoiseDev (great site if you're looking for this type of news in the Boise area, by the way) ran an article entitled "Raising Cane's eyes first Idaho location in Meridian" . The article show the site plan in Meridian with the confirmed Raising Cane's name on it, and most details are an exact match to the QSR (quick service restaurant) project on Newport Hwy in Spokane. Even the square footage amount is identical at 2862 square feet, both also include a double drive thru.

The parcel in question at 9252 N. Newport Hwy. was also recently sold with the Spokane Scout tax record system showing a company called Powerfade,LLC for $1.8 million on 3/28/2024. Powerfade,LLC comes up as a Seattle based company with what looks like an office address in Seattle's North Queen Anne neighborhood. This looks like just a holding company so it can't be confirmed this way and it doesn't match the owner of the parcel in Meridian unfortunately...

So, stay tuned as I plan to use my resources to confirm this the rest of the way and will do a separate post on this site with the exact details when I can say with more certainty.

If you'd like to support Inland Northwest Business Watch as a tip for breaking new Spokane business news like this check https://inlandbusiness2.blogspot.com for a secure donation of any amount over $2 via the Donorbox widget on that page.

North Spokane building to be renovated into the 5 Mile Pet Mall

 The building at 1028 W. Rosewood, just north of Francis, in North Spokane is about to undergo a conversion into a "one-of-a-kind destination for pet enthusiasts". The building recently came under new ownership by the same people as the Siemer's Farm at Green Bluff and they plan to do some quick renovations to the building.

Courtesy photo- 5 Mile Pet Mall

The building will be branded as the 5 Mile Pet Mall and they plan to fill the storefronts there with pet related businesses. Due to it being early in the redevelopment process no businesses have signed on just yet. However, they are actively marketing the building with the goal of having tenants like veterinary services, pet boarding, pet grooming, pet retail products, perhaps a pet friendly coffee shop and the like.

The building footprint is 4000 square feet and it will likely house several businesses. We plan to watch the project as we expect future new business announcements coming here. For information on leasing a space at the new 5 Mile Pet Mall contact Kim Millet at Bornhoft Commercial at 509-998-1450 or kim@bornhoft.com

And, follow along with their progress via the 5 Mile Pet Mall page on Facebook

Tawney's Sandwich Shop coming in Northwest Spokane

A building at 1505 N. Ash is about to be converted into a new locally owned and operated restaurant. The 864 square foot building is located at the corner of Ash and Maxwell on the Northwest side of Spokane. It had previously been used as the sales office for a used car dealership.

The new restaurant will go by the name Tawney's Sandwich Shop and they are currently planning to open in June. The new shop will sell cold and hot sandwiches, soup, chips, cookies, brownies, soda and the like. The building will be somewhat renovated in the coming days to accommodate the new use.

As of now there is no website or social media accounts set up for Tawney's Sandwich Shop but we will try to share more later.

Swire Coca-Cola planning an expansion at their Spokane Valley distribution center.

 Swire Coca-Cola, one of the world's largest Coca-Cola bottling partners appears to be planning an expansion soon of their facility in Spokane Valley. A building permit and SEPA application we're recently filed by the company to expand and retool their facility located 9705 E. Montgomery Ave.

We reached out to Swire Coca-Cola about the project and we're told "as part of our long-term planning and growth goals, and to meet customer demand, we are looking for ways to position ourselves in order to meet future needs of the community. Efforts made in Washington are exploratory. We plan to keep the community informed about potential future development of the site, but no final decisions have been made at this time" said Erica Hansen, external communications manager with Swire Coca-Cola.

But, if the filings are any indication that final decision might be coming sooner rather than later. According the to SEPA application public records the company is seeking the demolish a 7,259 SF building toward the back of their parcel currently being used for vending machine maintenance. The maintenance work would then move into the main building, joining an expanded product warehouse with a 54,800 SF addition built onto the back half of the existing warehouse.

The plans also are calling for a new 10,170 SF new office space to be added to on the southwest side of the building nearby the facility's gate at Montgomery Ave. Permit data also indicates the project is valued at $15.4 million. Since the company hasn't confirmed this project there is no info on a construction start date or estimated completion. However, public building permit records do indicate Wolfe Architecture Group is currently working on the architectural design and the general contractor will likely be Garco Construction.

For more information on Swire Coca-Cola, visit their website at http://www.swirecocacola.com

Le Verre Wine & Libations coming to Downtown Spokane

 A new bar focusing on wine and cocktails is coming to Downtown Spokane. The new place, called Le Verre Wine & Libations is planned to open at 210 N. Howard in the space that was last The Wet Whistle. In fact, Le Verre will be locally owned and operated by the same owners as The Wet Whistle was.

The new bar is still a work in progress, but they tell me they hope to open sometime around early/mid May. They describe it as old Hollywood glamour with a French flair. Food wise Le Verre will feature a menu of apps and sharables like charcuterie, hummus, whipped feta, an array of flatbreads and a dessert charcuterie. 

They also plan on having Enomatic self-dispensing wine machine where customers can get a card and choose their own tasting or glasses. They plan to offer local wines in addition to some small vineyard European wines. Additionally, some great craft cocktails will be available.

We plan do an update on their progress at some point but also give Le Verre Wine Bar a follow on social media via Instagram or Facebook

Hitters planning new location in Liberty Lake

 Hitters is planning to hit Liberty Lake soon with a new location. The locally owned and operated business is known for indoor batting cages but that's far from all one will find there. This will be their second place as the original opened back at the end of 2021 in North Spokane at 3700 N. Francis Suite 7.

Hitters is already working on building out their new Liberty Lake location which is currently planned to open sometime in June in 12,000 square feet of space at 24250 E. Knox Ln. Bldg #1 on the eastern edge of the city. The new location will feature 4 batting cages using Hittrax and 2 golf simulators using Trackman technology. A training space is also planned in the new place.

Additionally, the new location will boast a full bar and kitchen. The exact menu of course is not yet set in stone but we're told to expect things like smash burgers, cheese steaks, fries and things of that nature. More details on the menu and photos/videos of their new location build out will be posted on their social media pages as the project progresses (follow them on Instagram or Facebook)

And for more information on Hitters, visit their website https://www.hittersspokane.com

Recent Real Estate Transactions- March 2024 (belated)

 Looks like I'm late once more on my monthly post of recent real estate transactions so please accept my apologies. However here is a look at some recent commercial real estate transactions in the Spokane and Coeur d' Alene area as they we're reported to me. This is not a complete list of every transaction as I'm sure many are never sent to me. But, thank you to those that do send and if you're involved in commercial real estate in the area and would like the exposure of being included in these lists send me an email with your transaction info to matt.behringer@inlandnwbusiness.com 

Here is what we have-

Ryan Oberg with Goodale & Barbieri handled the lease of 1,631 SF to Bank CDA. The space is located at 606 N. Pines Rd suite 201 in Spokane Valley.

Cory Barbieri and Bill Duffy of Goodale & Barbieri handled the lease of 1,427 and 868 square feet at 1415 N. Houk Rd in Spokane Valley. The medical office building is now 100% leased.

Bob Spooner of Goodale & Barbieri represented the landlord in the lease of 1,261 square feet to Sage & Soul Interiors in The Central Point Professional Center. The center, located in the 1000 block on N. Washington is now 100% leased.

Byrd Real Estate Group reports the lease of 2,697 square feet of space at 7816 E. Broadway Ave in Spokane Valley to Firecracker Software,LLC.

Chad Carper of Kiemle Hagood represented the landlord in the lease of 1,200 +/- square feet of space at 204-226 W. Ironwood, Ste. 226-A6 in Coeur d' Alene to CDA Math,LLC.

Chad Carper of Kiemle Hagood represented the landlord in the lease of 1,200 +/- square feet of space at 204-226 W. Ironwood, Ste. D in Coeur d' Alene to Sports Clips - Five Seas,LLC

Chad Carper of Kiemle Hagood represented the landlord in the lease of 1,550 +/- square feet of space at 604 S. Sullivan Rd, Ste. D in Spokane Valley to Frontline Vision,LLC

Local business feature- Zephyr Van

 My apologies I haven't had a post like this in a while, where we feature an established local company so that people may learn about some of the lesser-known business in the Spokane and Coeur d' Alene area. These posts are not sponsored are intended only to highlight a place. So, without further ado, today we'll take a look at Zephyr Van.

Located at 3896 N Schrieber Way in Coeur d' Alene, Zephyr Van specializes in building high-end Mercedes Sprinter camper vans. They've served customers in all parts of the country already but even locals are welcome to explore to explore purchasing the Sprinter camper van of their dreams. The company was started in the fall of 2019 by owner and entrepreneur, Robert Perry after he decided to make a career pivot from flipping houses. They tell me Covid hit to company hard but the recent take off of the van life industry ended up positioning Zephyr Van in the right place at the right time.

With an engineering background, Robert was able to custom design and build a true off-grid, camper van spec build using high-end materials that surpass the RV industry norm (no plywood construction). The company uses hardwood cabinetry, structural aluminum interior, quartz countertops, and marine grade finishes in their builds meaning they will last the test of time.

To find out more about Zephyr Van call them at 406-851-9229 , check them out online at https://zephyrvan.com or give them a follow on social media via Instagram or Facebook

Glazed and Confused Donuts opens inside a Spokane Valley dispensary (actual donuts coming soon)

 You've likely seen Glazed and Confused Donuts popping up at any number of local events in recent years. But now they've opened in a more permanent location in Spokane Valley. Sharing space with another local business that in a way go hand in hand.

Glazed and Confused has opened a stand within the Locals Culture House, a Cannabis dispensary located at 9616 E. Sprague Suite C in Spokane Valley. The new place is new open but as of the writing of this their actual donuts aren't available just yet and are coming soon. What is available is a menu of coffee, smoothies, Lotus & Red Bull drinks and lemonades. 

The new shop also offers "dirty soda" options where one can order sodas with various flavors and cream. Food wise the new Glazed and Confused does have options there too with bagels and breakfast sandwiches. Given the location of the business, customers do need to be 21 and over to enter however delivery is available via DoorDash.

They tell me they do still plan to be open at some events too over the Summer. However, they can't say exactly when and where yet as they will also be building out another new location that is set to open to 2025. They tell me too that it is too early in the process to reveal where that new location will be.

For more information on Glazed and Confused Donuts, visit their website at https://www.confuseddonuts.com or follow them on Facebook

 

Al Bacha Mediterranean Restaurant to open on Hamiliton in Spokane

 A new restaurant specializing in many Mediterranean dishes is coming soon to 2024 N. Hamilton in Spokane. This is next door to the popular Birria Tijuana restaurant, and in a space that was used sometime ago for another unrelated Mediterranean restaurant.

The new restaurant will be the third location for Al Bacha which started in Seattle and recently opened a new second location in Tacoma. There is no opening date for the new Spokane restaurant just yet but I'm told they are hoping to open it in about 3 months from now, so likely sometime during the Summer. 

Al Bacha does not plan to include liquor on the menu but they do boast an extensive menu consisting of gyros, shawarma, falafel, kababs, salads, sandwiches and more. The restaurant also advertises that they use 100% halal meats in all their dishes. 

For more information on Al Bacha Restaurant, visit the website of their original location in Seattle at- https://www.albachabroadway.com

AAA Washington opens first Spokane fleet center

 To better meet the needs of their members, AAA Washington recently announced the expansion of their fleet operations with a relocation of a Seattle area fleet center and the opening of a new Spokane fleet center, the first one in our area. The AAA Washington fleet centers are essentially a hub for their towing and roadside assistance services in a designated area.

Courtesy photo at the new AAA Washington Spokane fleet center.

"This fleet expansion is about elevating the level of service that defines our commitment to every member we serve. Along with our expanded fleet, we will continue to work closely with our long-standing network of service providers to ensure that we remain a trusted partner on the road, today and well into the future" said Percy Hoffman, VP of automotive solutions at AAA Washington.

The new Spokane fleet center is located on E. Springfield on Spokane's east side and is a fleet only center so it is not open to the public. However, AAA members can receive services from it at anytime by calling the number on their membership card and a tow truck driver will be dispatched to their location. The new center will also add EV roadside services in the near future but it is not available here as of my writing this.

For more information about all the services offered by AAA Washington, visit their website at https://wa.aaa.com

Thrive International and Spokane Public Library to develop new affordable housing and shared library facility.

 Spokane Public Library and Thrive International recently announced a partnership to develop a new facility at 6980 N. Nevada St in Northeast Spokane. The new project will create at least 45 units of affordable housing on a currently 1.62 acre property that the library has owned since the 1990's. In addition to housing, the development will feature a public event and learning space operated by the library as well as a playground, greenhouse and a 24/7 Library kiosk.

 Half of the units of the affordable housing will be reserved for refugees, with the other half open to the general population. The library will manage the public event and learning space as part of the more than 40 public event spaces available at their seven other locations and will program free community events. Onsite services will also include healthcare, job training, language classes and social services all coordinated by Thrive. 

The project is powered by Courage Housing, who is supporting financing and investment. Initial site improvements will begin in Spring 2024, groundbreaking in late 2024, and opening expected in 2025. The project is currently still a work in progress, so no renderings of the planned development are available just yet and the project has yet to go out to bid for a general contractor. But we hope to be able to do an update on this project as it progresses so stay tuned.

For more information on the Spokane Public Library visit http://spokanelibrary.org

For more information on Thrive International visit http://www.thriveint.org

Wetzel's Pretzels and Spill The Tea coming to the Post Falls Pavilion

 New places to eat are coming soon to the Post Falls Pavilion food truck court, located along Horsehaven Ave., just west of Hwy. 41 in Post Falls. The food truck development hosts numerous outdoor food trucks, a Jitterz Espresso drive thru and a few indoor restaurants / dining space.

The new places coming are:

Wetzel's Pretzels the famous pretzel chain who've likely seen in malls all over the country is coming to Post Falls Pavilion. This time though they will be inside a yellow food truck near the entrance to the site. We're told the new Wetzel's Truck should be open sometime within the next couple of weeks. (Follow their local account on Instagram)

Spill The Tea will be a new inside vendor at the site. The new business will offer boba milk tea's and an acai bar. Their new place will likely be opening in late April or early May. (Follow them on Instagram )

Additionally I'm told two more new food trucks will be joining the site soon but it's too early to give out names and information on those. So, we will try to do an update either on the blog or our social media pages when we know more.

New regionally inspired restaurants and retail shops coming to Spokane International Airport

 Big changes are coming to the landscape of restaurants and retailers inside the Spokane International Airport. This comes as the airport announced today that they have awarded a new concessions program contract to SSP America, which is a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide. The contract is a 10 year lease for SSP to lease, develop and manage the airports concessions program.

Courtesy photo of the purposed new The Yards Bruncheon location at Spokane International Airport. One of several new dining options coming soon to the airport.

SSP America's lease will be effective April 1st,2024 and the company will oversee six retail locations and 11 restaurant locations in the airport's terminal and soon to be open expanded concourse C gate area. The company will implement a new food and beverage program focused on local restaurants which celebrate the regions culinary landscape.

Under SSP America the airport's new restaurants and retail offerings will feature offerings from Zona Tacos and Tortas by the two-time James Beard Award semi-finalist for Best Chef Northwest & Pacific and restauranter Chef Chad White. As well as The Yards Brucheon by Chef Adam Hagsted who is also a James Beard Award semi-finalist. 

The restaurant line up will also include local favorites Jack & Dan's Tavern, Iron Goat Brewing Co., Wanderlust Delicato, Wiley's Downtown Bistro and more. "Our ultimate goal is to shine a spotlight on the people, brands and flavors that make each region distinct and be thankful for the opportunity to become a part of the Spokane International Airport community" said Scott Welding, senior vice president of development and pursuit of new airports, SSP America.

Update- The above map has been added showing the new places. It’s a bit hard to see though I’m sorry, we’ll hopefully have updates on this project in the future.

Three new businesses to celebrate joint grand opening this weekend in Downtown Spokane

 Despite the negative press surrounding restaurants and other business closing Downtown for various reasons, new businesses are also still opening in Downtown Spokane. And three new businesses in the Empire State Building at 905 W. Riverside are hosting a joint grand opening celebration on Sunday, March 24th.

While these businesses all opened in 2023, renovations and logistics mean they are just now hosting their grand opening. All are new service businesses, they include-

ECW Beauty - described as your destination for natural glam hair and makeup services. Offering special event beauty services, beauty classes and beauty parties.

The Brow Atelier  - doing brows, lamination, lash extensions and microblading. 

The Bagel Authority - A bagel shop and bar serving delicious steamed bagels and bagel sandwiches.

During the grand opening event, guests can enter raffle giveaways from 7 different vendors, experience 15 min. mini-makeup tutorials, 15 brow tutorials and visit with 5 guest vendors. The event will be held at each business from 1-4p on Sunday March 24th.

For more info on each business follow their individual pages on Instagram ( ECW Beauty / The Brow Atelier / The Bagel Authority )

Taqueria Guerrero opens brick & mortar restaurant in Spokane Valley

 After completing renovations to the building, a popular Spokane Valley based food truck has expanded into a new restaurant space. The new Taqueria Guerrero restaurant opened at the beginning of the week in the building at 8021 E. Sprague Ave. , a building the food truck could often be found parked outside of in recent months.

The new place offers take out and indoor dining with a menu of delicious Mexican dishes. Street tacos, burritos, main course plates and more are all offered. Daily specials are also available.

For more info on Taqueria Guerrero follow them on social media via Facebook or Instagram

Breauxdoo and High Voltage Ice Creamery to open in Indian Trail neighborhood

 The locally owned Breauxdoo bakery and its sister business, High Voltage Ice Creamery, both located on Sprague in Spokane Valley are a favorite of many. But now it looks like they have their eyes set on expanding northward.

The businesses announced just today, via social media, that they are planning a new hybrid location with both stores in one space in the Indian Trail neighborhood. Signage is already up with work starting to remodel the space for their use.

This new hybrid location will be at 9021 N Indian Trail Rd. in-between Safeway and Subway in the shopping center there. Currently they plan to open this location sometime during the Summer.

North Point Plaza development in Post Falls holds ground breaking

Courtesy photo- Jordan Wirsz of Corhaven,left and John Young of the general contractor Young Construction Group of Idaho,right.

Jordan Wirsz, President of Corhaven Properties, broke ground this week for Grocery Outlet and 7-Eleven at his new retail development, North Point Plaza in Post Falls. The shopping center is located on the northeast corner of Highway 41 and Poleline Avenue, and boasts seven acres of prime retail development land. Grocery Outlet and 7-Eleven are the first two tenants to be announced and start construction, although developer Jordan Wirsz says that more tenant announcements are to come. There are five remaining parcels in the development. 

Courtesy renderings of the planned new 7-11 and Grocery Outlet stores coming to North Pointe Plaza

For more information about the project, contact Jordan Wirsz 208-834-1000 or visit www.corhaven.com

Spokane's first rotating pop-up bar/venue opening in Downtown Spokane

 A new rotating pop-up bar/venue is coming to Downtown Spokane. Located at 221 N. Division the new place is called Servante, named for the noun Servante- a theatrical prop used by a magician with the purpose to misdirect the audience.

Although the new business has already hosted a couple of invite only events, they have now announced their official grand opening. Plans call for a Candyland land themed grand opening event that they describe as a taking "color-coded jaunt into one of our most beloved games growing up". The event will feature themed drinks, over-the-top desserts and a full candy bar collab from Fluffy's Candy.

The Candyland grand opening at Servante will be a 5 day event from April 3-7. A cover/event access fee of $10 will be charged and RSVPing is recommended. This event is to act as a peek into themed pop-ups planned at Servante. They say every month will be multiple themes, new ideas, new decor and even new staff running the shows.

For information on the Candyland event, check their event page on Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/events/908546514345042/ 

And, to follow along the progress and future events at Servante follow them on social media via Facebook or Instagram

Modern new apartment building planned on Sharp, across from Gonzaga

 A 2004 article in the Gonzaga Bulletin newspaper references the home at 803 E. Sharp and the likely end of "803" a well-known party house for Gonzaga students.  And, while I'm not sure if the parties ever did start back up in the rental home it does still stand on the northeast corner of Sharp & Cincinatti.

Rendering of the planned new apartment building, courtesy of Farr Group and Trek Architecture.

But likely not for too much longer as a large new apartment building is presently in development for the site. Current plans call for construction to start in late summer for a new 4 story multi family structure to be built on the site providing 17 new apartments. The building will provide student housing as it's located across the street from campus.

The project is being developed by Farr Group NW, a general contractor has not yet been picked but architectural work is being done Trek Architecture.

Colfax planning new Downtown restaurant incubator

 Colfax, the small town in-between Spokane and Pullman has an exciting new restaurant incubator project in the works for the city's downtown area. And applications are now being accepted for business owners interested in running new restaurants in the space.

Located at 102 N. Main St. the building is a 3521 square foot structure built in 1972 and owned by the Colfax Downtown Assocation. Significant renovations have already commenced to update and modernize the building with the goal of having not one, but two new restaurants occupying the shared space hopefully by June. The Colfax Downtown Association says they plan to host these restaurants via lease's for approximately 2-5 years, depending on the restaurant's needs.

Courtesy photos by Colfax Downtown Association

Interested parties can submit applications to operate in the space by March 22nd, with a lot more details on the plans in the link at the bottom of this article. Applications will be considered by a review panel in the days after the deadline.

The space includes a shared commercial kitchen with type 1 hood, shared private dining room, full-service bar station, operational drive thru window and more.  Those interested in obtaining a lease at the new Colfax Downtown Restaurant Incubator, check their project website at http://colfaxdowntownassociation.com/application/

Also watch this site as I plan to track what new restaurant(s) end up opening in the new space.

Eats on Spokane St. food truck court planned in Post Falls

 An exciting new food truck court project called Eats on Spokane St is coming to the Post Falls city center area. The new place is planned to occupy a vacant lot at the corner of Second & Spokane St. next door to Post Falls Brewing Company.

Signage recently went up on the parcel as they plan to break ground in April, with the site opening sometime during the Summer. The project will feature a 30x50 shed roof pavilion with roll up doors that will host two restaurant tenants, indoor dining space and restrooms. The indoor tenants have already been announced and will be new places called Melfit Healthy Kitchen and Nachos Cantina. 

In the outdoor areas Eats on Spokane St. will host eight food trucks, the owners of the projects are actively seeking food truck tenants but exact details of who will open there will be announced as the project progresses (follow their pages linked below). They also plan to host events like live music, movie nights, corn hole tournments,etc. The outdoor area will also offer concrete patio space for additional seating and fire pits.

For more information on Eats on Spokane St., visit their website at http://eatsonspokanest.com and follow them on social media via Instagram or Facebook

Supa! Authentic Japanese Kitchen opens in Cheney

A new Japanese eatery is now open in Cheney. Located at 321 1st Ave., across from the Owl Pharamacy, Supa! Authentic Japanese Kitchen serves a menu of ramen, poke bowls and sushi rolls. Gyoza and many boba and milk teas, including cheese foam options are also available.

The restaurant features indoor dining, carry out and delivery is also via DoorDash. The new restaurant is open Mon-Sat 11-8, for more information on Supa! including a look at their menu, visit their website at http://lovesupa.com

Also follow Supa! Authentic Japanese Kitchen on their Instagram page.

It's a Love Story, romance bookstore and cafe coming soon to Hayden

 Described as North Idaho's first romance bookstore & cafe and likely the first one in all of the Inland Northwest, It's a Love Story Books & Cafe is a locally owned and operated business that is planned to open soon in Hayden. The business will be located in a new 1900 SF space at 8927 Hess St Suite A, just north of Walmart.

Courtesy photo- Bjorkman family, owners of It's a Love Story Books & Cafe.

The company already sells some titles online (links at the bottom of this article) but will open their brick-and-mortar store after construction is complete on the space. Currently they are planning to open sometime in early April. The new store will feature a wide variety of romance books and accessories. Additionally, they tell me they are also planning a "unique and custom book bar" but want to keep that as a surprise for the opening.

A cafe with comfy seating will also be part of the business serving coffee, teas, baked goods and some breakfast style sandwiches. They also plan to host numerous events and clubs for romance lovers at the business once open.

For more information on It's a Love Story, visit their website at https://www.lovestorybooksandcafe.com/ or follow them on social media via Facebook / Instagram or TikTok