Capone's Pub reviewed by Steve Roberge

Capone's

Steve Roberge, District Manager of Waste Management of Idaho, has much day-to-day civic and professional responsibility so when he has free time he enjoys a place reminiscent of the classic television show, Cheers.

“Capones in Post Falls is an inviting and friendly place where, like Cheers, everyone knows your name,” he said. “I expect to see “Norm” sitting at the end of the bar.” Or maybe by the fireplace.
Eight large screen televisions tuned to the sport of the season and an eclectic decor of sports memorabilia belie the better-than-bar-fare menu, which is served from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day.
Steve and his wife, Denise made a recent visit a family affair with their son, Ryan, daughter, Michelle and granddaughter, Ellie Maya. That night’s meal for the Roberges included a veal and beef meatball sandwich smothered in provolone and tomato sauce, a Philly steak sandwich with onions and peppers, a homemade house pizza and cheese bread with three choices of marinara sauces. Steve appreciated the service of waiter Jeromy Hebert, “he seemed genuinely happy that we were there.”

A big fan of dark beer, Steve enjoyed a Moose Drool draft and a Rogue Mocha Porter which he describes as a “meal in itself.” At their full-service bar Capone’s boasts 41 revolving taps ... more taps than tables, according to their website. They have the best selection of microbrews on tap in the Northwest.

Owners Tom and Teresa Capone are hands-on proprietors, which gives the pub a friendly vibe. They opened the flagship Capone’s in mid-town Coeur d’Alene in 1991 so this second location in Post Falls benefits from years of doing it right in a neighboring town. Already Capone’s has built a loyal following for the newest pub.


About Capone’s / Post Falls:
The second Capone’s opened in Post Falls in 2006 and not long after was destroyed by arson fire. Rebuilt and reopened in 2008, their football season special includes breakfast and Bloody Marys on Sunday mornings.

Steve Roberge

Who is Steve Roberge?
Steve is president of the Dalton Gardens City Council and past president of the Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club. He enjoys riding his Harley and long walks with his dog, Pabst Blue Ribbon.

Ciao Mambo reviewed by Roberta Larson

Ciao Mambo, 8166 N Government Way, Hayden, 208-772-9555

Native-born Coeur d’Alene resident Roberta Larsen surrounds herself with a large and eclectic circle of friends and fellow community volunteers so it’s no surprise that her choice of restaurants she describes as “high decibel with conversation, pottery clanging and a general bustle of activity.”

Ciao Mambo is one of the area’s newest restaurants but has gained an enthusiastic fan base in six months. Located at the entrance to the new Hayden City Center in the Hayden Creek Plaza, the plaza’s waterfalls welcome diners. With vaulted ceilings and segmented seating areas, the ambiance is like Sunday dinner with a large Italian family. In fact, Roberta and her husband, David enjoy taking friends and family for a night out.

“This Continental Divide version of all food Italian requires almost weekly visits to savor everything from appetizers to zzzzzpizza!” declared Roberta. “The bar seating facing the kitchens whets our appetite and love of pizza. We can watch incredible pizza tossing and react with oohs and aahhs. It’s a grand show!”

The Larsens agree on their favorite appetizer, Calamari Fritti, battered and fried squid with spicy garlic marinara sauce. On a recent visit they ordered pasta to share, Gamberi Fra Diavolo, with grilled shrimp in a spicy roasted garlic marinara served with al dente spaghetti which they rated with “bellissimo!” and praise for their “delightfully lively” server, Nicki. “The presentation was beautiful,” said Roberta. The menu is ala carte so if you’re ordering an appetizer, salad and nibbling on the delicious bread, Roberta suggests sharing the entree`.

According to the Larsens, the wine list is extensive and affordable, the Italian pinot grigio a favorite. The bar has a full array of spirits and wonderfully inventive cocktails. Roberta sums up the ambiance with this observation, “Sitting in the bar area at 5 p.m., when Ciao Mambo opens, is an especially lovely way to end the work day. The west facing windows take full advantage of our glorious, gorgeous sunsets.”


About Ciao Mambo:
Ciao is pronounced “chow.” It’s an informal Italian salutation, meaning either “goodbye” or “hello.”  The Hayden restaurant opened in April 2008, following the success of the original Ciao Mambo in Whitefish, Montana.

Roberta Larson

Who ‘s Roberta Larson?
Roberta was born in Coeur d’Alene and is a self-described non-profit volunteer and activist. Her involvement includes serving on the boards of the Arts and Culture Alliance, Coeur d’Alene Library Foundation and Friends of Head Start.

Angelo's Ristorante by Chuck Lempesis

Angelo’s Ristorante, 846 N 4th St, Coeur d’Alene, 765-2850

A Renaissance man with a wicked sense of humor, Chuck Lempesis takes his cuisine seriously. He’s a loyal, appreciative and longtime customer at Angelo’s Ristorante.

“I was fortunate to be one of their first customers and have had the pleasure of watching the restaurant succeed and grow,” he said.

Visiting Angelo’s with family, friends and business associates, the cozy Italian restaurant is also his first choice for entertaining out-of-town guests and business clients. “Without exception, they rave about the food, service and atmosphere,” according to Chuck. He describes owner Angelo Brunson as a world-class chef whose attentive supervision of the kitchen and specialty food preparation is the guarantee of quality and satisfaction. “His bride, Julie, adds the same personal touch in making every guest feel welcome and special,” he added.

Chuck’s favorite evening at Angelo’s begins with antipasto bruschetta, followed by world-class Caesar salad. For an entreè he often selects the perfectly seasoned and prepared pepper steak, though admits the vast choices of traditional Italian pasta and fresh seafood makes it a challenge to choose.
“Angelo’s wine list is a must accompaniment to a romantic dinner or as an ice-breaker to an otherwise stuffy business affair,” he said. “All of their wines are affordably priced and provide a good variety. My recent favorites are the Sangioveses.” And if he’s saved room for dessert he laughed about “falling victim to the Tiramisu.” Ever the connoisseur, Chuck claims many restaurants talk the Tiramisu talk but “Angelo’s walks the walk.”

Making his case, this lawyer claims everything about Angelo’s is special, but that their hallmark is the traditional preparation of truly organic cuisine.

“Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the friendly wait staff and owners make you feel like you just came home for a home-cooked meal in Venice,” Chuck said. “The restaurant’s interior, designed and built by Angelo, creates a welcome and romantic atmosphere for any occasion.”


About Angelo’s Ristorante:
Angelo’s is only 8 blocks from downtown Coeur d’Alene. Their full menu is available on-line and is available for take-out.

Chuck Lempesis

Who is Chuck Lempesis?
He’s an instrument-rated pilot, regularly flying one of his two planes. He also sails in the San Juan Islands in the summer, oil paints and collects Lindbergh memorabilia. Chuck was listed in Best Lawyers in America for 2008.

Oval Office reviewed by Peter Smith

The Oval Office, 620 N Spokane St, Post Falls, 777-2102

As a busy attorney, husband and father, Peter Smith likes to keep things simple. The Oval Office in Post Falls fits the bill, especially for “date nights” with his wife, Anna in the cozy and warm ambiance. The Oval Office Bistro and Martini Bar is a spin-off from the wildly popular White House Grill, sharing an owner, Raci Erdem, but not the level of garlic as used by the White House.

Peter lists his favorite appetizer as the sweet potato fries ... crinkle cut slabs of soft sweet potatoes. He enjoys the Moroccan Spinach Salad with the cinnamon undertone in the balsamic vinaigrette. The marinated Naughty Seabass is slightly spicy and topped with a caramelized frangelico-walnut sauce. “Awesome,” Peter declares.

Although the dinner menu is expansive ... from steaks, lamb chops, seafood, chicken and pasta, it’s the appetizer or tapas menu that is popular with the after-work crowd. The Honey Brie is served in phyllo cups and topped with spicy basil honey; Skinny Secretaries are grilled asparagus topped with lemon olive oil and parmesan cheese. The FuFu Pizza is homemade pesto, feta and parmesan with sun-dried tomatoes baked on a pita.

But the star of the show at the Oval Office is served in a stemmed glass. With two dozen different martinis to choose from, there’s something for everyone. The presidential-inspired names are inspired, as well. Peter recommends his favorite, the Ronald Reagan. “For the scotch lover, it’s the Oval Office’s Rob Roy made with Dewars Scotch,” he notes. Other martinis worth trying are the “Marilyn Monroe” - made with red raspberry pucker,  “The Intern” - Godiva white and dark chocolate and Absolut and the “Woodward and Bernstein” - another dessert choice with Frangelico and Kahlua and Stohli Vanilla.
Peter has no trouble marking his ballot when he visits the Oval Office, “we can always find something that we’re craving.”


About The Oval Office:
The Oval Office is located in the former White House Grill building and fittingly celebrates two years of operation in November 2008, a presidential election year.

Peter Smith, IV

Who is Peter Smith, IV?
Peter, an attorney with Lukins & Annis, is active with the Post Falls Rotary Club, serves on Post Falls Urban Renewal Agency and as president of the First District Bar Association. He adores his two-year-old daughter, Bella, in addition to running and skiing.

Daanen's Delicatessen reviewed by Brandie Chapman

Daanen’s Delicatessen, 8040 N Wayne Blvd, Hayden, 772-7371

Brandie Chapman is a working wife and mother so her choice for dining out is decidedly family-friendly. According to the dictionary, a delicatessen is a shop were prepared cooked meats, smoked fish, cheeses, salads and relishes are sold. Add over 500 wine selections and 250 brands of beer, dinner entrees to take out or to dine in and you’ve got Daanen’s Delicatessenin Hayden.

“It’s the perfect spot for families on the run,” said Brandie, who enjoys Daanen’s for lunch and dinner. “I’d eat breakfast there, too, if they served it!” When the Chapmans are on the go from sporting events or the kid’s activities, a sandwich from Daanen’s is just the ticket.

Brandie has a hard time pinning down a favorite menu item but settles on the Landjagger. “I bet Mark and Irene Daanen have heard some pretty funny pronunciations,” laughed Brandie. She said her usual is a half turkey on a hoagie roll with lettuce, tomato, sweet hot mustard and plenty of peppercinis, topped off with a bag of Jalapeno chips and a cookie.

“Irene makes the BEST chocolate chip macadamia nut cookies,” Brandie proclaims. “We refer to it as “The Cookie.” They’re delicious and if you get one right out of the oven there is nothing better.”

Daanen’s has a great selection of import beers, micro brews and fine wines, says Brandie, who also uses the services of the business’ catering side. As a Realtor she hosts many open houses, “I always call on Irene to help me with the food. The meat and cheese trays are perfect for entertaining,” she said. “I always ask for extra Landjaggers! The food is delicious and Mark, Irene and their staff always make it so easy for me.”

Brandie and her family attended Daanen’s Octoberfest event which she described as “a blast.” But you don’t need a German-themed holiday to enjoy the celebratory atmosphere of Daanen’s year ‘round.

About Daanen’s Delicatessen:

Daanen’s is located just off Government and Prairie. Friday evenings feature wine-tasting with themed flights and a lesson about the vintages directly from Mark. They also make any variety of sandwiches for party trays, including miniature versions of all of their deli favorites.

Brandie Chapman

Who is Brandie Chapman?

A lifelong resident of Hayden Lake and Coeur d’Alene, Brandie Beebe Chapman is the mother of twins, Ryan and Reiley, married to Mike. She’s a Realtor for Century 21 Beutler & Associates.

Cafe Carambola reviewed by Haze Bauman

Café Carambola, 610 W Hubbard #110, Coeur d’Alene, 208-676-8764

Hazel Bauman spends her day with both grownups and children as the Superintendent of Schools for Coeur d’Alene’s District 271. So when she wants to enjoy a quick and convenient lunch, Cafe Carombola is at the top of the list. The location in the Harbor Plaza on Northwest Blvd. is handy for social or business connections and the lighter fare is ideal for the midday. “The food is so good!” Hazel sums up.

The inside seating is limited to a half-dozen tables, which are continually filled with noon-time diners, and Cafe Carombola’s take-out business is brisk for office workers in the area.
The draw for Hazel is much like for other fans of the fresh Latin-inspired menu, the homemade daily soups and salads. Her favorites are the Incan Quinoa salad and squash coconut soup. The refrigerated salad display is as gorgeous as it is delicious. Vibrant colors and unique combinations of ingredients year ‘round create both a visual and culinary treat. “The food is amazing and fresh, and different from any other local ethnic restaurants,” observes Hazel. She echoes others in appreciating the friendly and efficient service provided by chef/owner Colomba Aguilar and the small staff.

A variety of beverages, including Hazel’s favorite, Agua Frescas, are available but a must-try is the unique “Jamaican.” It’s a Mexican tea made from Hibiscus flowers ... a cold, burgundy-colored sweet tea that provides a perfect contrast to the spices of the house specialty tamales and the variety of tortas, which are sandwiches served on a crusty, grilled bread roll. The Torta Mexicana is a favorite, featuring slow-roasted pulled pork, salsa and goat cheese.

If you enjoy their inspired-from-Mexico/Cuba/Argentina and Peru fare as much as Hazel does, try one of the cooking classes the cafe offers. Superintendent Bauman gives Cafe Carambola an A+.

About Café Carambola:
This is one of the most-popular yet best kept secret lunch places in Coeur d’Alene. Open weekdays only from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. In the summer months, many of the fresh vegetables come directly from the owner’s garden.

Hazel Bauman

Who is Hazel Bauman?
Hazel is a 35-year resident of the Coeur d’Alene area, involved in Rotary, the EXCEL Foundation and the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband, David Rawls, share a unique professional path. He’s a former superintendent of schools in Coeur d’Alene.

The Porch reviewed by the Damianos

The Porch, 1658 E Miles Ave, Hayden, 772-7711

Leslie and Phil Damiano love living in Hayden Lake and having a favorite restaurant within golf cart driving distance. They both enjoy lunch or dinner in the casual surroundings of The Porch, which is tucked among the trees on the north side of Avondale golf course and features an outdoor dining deck that spans the seasons.

The Porch has a great variety of wine by the glass or by the bottle. "We were looking for a special red wine a friend of ours had introduced us to. The bartender, Josh checked with his suppliers and the next time we were there he had five bottles of Beaudreaux Cellars waiting for us!" said Leslie.

The Damianos praise the service along with the cuisine, singling out the "great" wait staff of Nicole, Elizabeth and Robin as very family friendly, an important feature since they often dine with their children. Phil’s menu favorite is the lamb sandwich and Leslie regularly orders the pan-seared salmon cakes with sour cream dill sauce.

The Fresh Sheet changes every few days and features a soup, sandwich and main entree’. Specials are indeed special... including portabella mushroom raviolis in a smoked tomato cream sauce or grilled rockfish and rosemary red potatoes. On the regular menu, the bacon-smoked cedar potato cakes are popular as is the roasted garlic and onion bread appetizer.

Phil and Leslie credit local owners, John Grollmus, Brad Fosseen and Jeff Meagher and their hands-on management style for creating a restaurant with outstanding service and exceptional culinary quality.

Leslie sums it up well, "We enjoy the ambiance of the friendly atmosphere...we always see friends and acquaintances there and you never feel like a stranger."

About The Porch: 
The business’ website address is www.wedonthaveone.com but they do, in fact, have a website. The Porch, 1658 E. Miles Avenue in Hayden Lake, posts weekly specials online. Grollmus, Fosseen and Meagher also own the popular Sherman Avenue pub, MoonTime.

Phil and Leslie Damiano

Who are Phil & Leslie Damiano?
Leslie and Phil are both lifelong Coeur d’Alene residents and graduates of Coeur d’Alene High School. Phil is GM of Coeur d’Alene Garbage/Post Falls Sanitation and homemaker-mother-of-five Leslie is the self-described CEO of "Damiano, Inc."

Emery's reviewed by Erna Rhinehart

Emery's, 1000 W Garden Ave, Coeur d’Alene, 769-7763

Erna Rhinehart has a deep appreciation for North Idaho and all it has to offer. She enjoys anything outdoors...hiking, traveling, gardening as well as her numerous civic leadership roles. Her love for community is intertwined with her passion for education.

Erna is employed by North Idaho College, so it came as no surprise when asked what her favorite restaurant would be she replied with pride, “Emery’s Restaurant—NIC’s culinary student-run lakefront restaurant.” Emery’s is named after Emery Hedlund, a former state representative from St. Maries who played a pivotal role in getting funding for several of NIC’s buildings in the 1970s.

Opened in 1994 as a student learning lab, Emery’s menu is very eclectic. The variety and frequent change provides students with an in-depth cooking experience, while practicing their culinary techniques.  “The soups—everything from carrot, squash, bean to tomato basil—are out of this world. Entrees range from tempura halibut, a fusion wrap, crab cakes, to some phenomenal pasta dish,” says Erna. “The homemade desserts are always top of the line. Everything from homemade flavored sorbets and gelatos, to puddings, cakes, strudels, mousse, and more!” The beverage selection is somewhat limited but that is outweighed by the restaurant’s strengths. Its fresh ingredients, great service, made-from-scratch cooking, and great prices (an entire lunch runs about $7) make Emery’s a true community treasure.

Erna recommends reservations that can be made by calling 769-7763. “If there’s a downside to Emery’s it’s that it’s only open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from mid-September to late April. Chef Rick Schultz and Jeff Jenkins do a fantastic job preparing our students for the real world. By the end of the year, they run the restaurant as true professionals,” she said.

About Emery's:
Located on the North Idaho College campus, Emery’s is on the second floor of the Hedlund building overlooking Lake Coeur d’Alene. Emery’s has an unbeatable waterfront view with easy access and parking.

Erna Rhinehart

Who is Erna Rhinehart?
Erna is the Director of Communications and Marketing for North Idaho College. She’s held board of director positions for Idaho Public Television, the Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations and former board member for the Excel Foundation. She and her husband Ron Cole have two sons and have been residents of Coeur d’Alene since 1983.