Cafe Carambola reviewed by Art Elliot

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

When not enjoying all of the outdoor activities that this area offers, North Idaho’s Green Builder of Choice, Art Elliot, CEO of Shelter Associates, Inc., enjoys a nuevo Latino fusion lunch at Cafe Carambola. “It’s a great place to gather with friends and family,” Art says “and it’s a perfect spot for lunch with a taste of business.”

The inside seating is limited to a half-dozen tables with a few tables added outside in summer months, all of which are continually filled with noon-time diners. Art recommends getting there early to beat the faithful regulars. Cafe Carambola’s location in Harbor Plaza on Northwest Boulevard is convenient “from downtown, midtown and Riverstone,” Art explains. “Call ahead for carryout and you’ll be at one of the downtown parks or beaches in minutes.”

Art recommends the Tortas (sandwich) La Poteña, which has a chipotle drizzle, pinto beans, chipotle crema, pickled jalapeño, pico de galla, queso fresco and chicken, pork or beef. “My goal is to only eat half but I can rarely resist the second half,” he said. His beverage of choice is one of the Aquas Frescas, Mexican style fresh fruit coolers “that are the perfect drink to go with lunch.”

He echoes others in appreciating the friendly and efficient service provided by chef/owner Colomba Aguilar and the small staff. Art’s son, Colin, worked one summer in their kitchen so “now Trudy and I get to benefit from what Columba taught him!”

When asked what the specialty of the house is, Art replied, “their entire menu is a specialty of the house.”

About Cafe 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.

Art Elliot

Who is Art Elliot? 

Art is CEO of Shelter Assoicates, Inc., past Chairman of the Board of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce and is currently Chairman of the State of Idaho’s Contractors Registration Board. Art and wife, Trudy, have been Coeur d’Alene area residents since 1981.

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.