Tony's On The Lake reviewed by Gary Ghramm

Tony’s On The Lake, 6823 E Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive, Coeur d’Alene, 667-9885

“This is what Coeur d’Alene used to be. When I walk in to Tony’s On The Lake the owner greets me, takes over and makes me feel that everything is going to be just perfect. I like the atmosphere and the beautiful view”. These words from Gary Ghramm, owner of BeeHive Homes in Coeur d’Alene and Pinehurst, resonate throughout the community as patrons talk about this fine Italian restaurant tucked away on the east side of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene.  When Gary’s not dancing with the residents of one of the community’s most beautiful Assisted Living facilities, or entertaining everyone with his Congo Drums you will find him at Tony’s.

Tony’s is a warm Italian restaurant with a rich heritage of Italian cooking that brings to the Inland Northwest a cozy restaraunt with something on the menu for everyone.  Gary’s favorites at Tony’s?  “The scallops are wonderful for a starter and the tenderloin is absolutely great.  They cook it to perfection.”  “Tony’s location just can’t be beat. Located on a beautiful spot on Lake Coeur d’Alene, the atmosphere is cozy, particularly in the winter sitting in front of the warm wood fireplaces.  And the incredibly friendly service.”

Tony’s is owned by the D’Alessandro family; Paul, Bonnie, and daughter Cheyenne. Paul’s grandparents emigrated from Tuscany in 1909 and passed on their love of cooking to their future generations. Cheyenne studied in Florence and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Paul owned a very successful restaurant, Americo’s Trattoria Italiano, in Sacramento, California from 1976-1986. Architect and old friend Rann Height saw the potential in Tony’s and convinced Paul to relocate to Coeur d’Alene. With Rann’s vision, Tony’s on the Lake has been completely remodeled. It is a jewel in our community.

With it’s incredible hospitality, comfortable and warm dining room ambience and delicious authentic italian inspired cuisine, it is a favorite of locals.  In the summer, many of Tony’s customers can be seen arriving by boat to moor them at the newly updated docks.

About Tony’s On The Lake
Tony’s fine Italian restaurant is tucked away on the east side of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene just east of downtown. Their current Fall Hours are:  Wednesdays through Sundays, bar & appetizers at 4PM, dinner Service at 5 PM.

Gary Ghramm

Who is Gary Ghramm?
Gary Ghramm is the Owner of BeeHive Homes in Coeur d’Alene and Pinehurst. He is an elder with the LDS Church, and likes to spend his free time with his family which boasts eight grown children and 23 grandchildren.

Fleur de Sel reviewed by Tom Malzahn

Fleur de Sel, 4365 E Inverness Dr, Post Falls, 777-7600

“My first career allowed me to fly airplanes for the United States Marine Corps for twenty years. I truly wondered if a second career could be as rewarding and my answer is “YES”. Now, Tom Malzahn, Kootenai County Treasurer, is managing our money.

When Tom’s not directly involved with tax payer issues, it’s life with his grandkids.  With three in Spokane Valley and one in Priest River, Tom proclaims “they’re what you live for.” When the kids aren’t around, he participates in the Post Falls Rotary or is out golfing at his favorite golf course, the Highlands.  You’ll also find him enjoying his favorite restaurant Fleur de Sel. “Patricia (owner and hostess) always welcomes us with a hug” Malzahn says. “The restaurant is very, very warm inside - a place I really like to be”.

The restaurant offers outdoor seating in warm weather, and according to Tom “the view is the best, well, maybe Beverly’s during the day, but definitely Fleur de Sel at night with the lights of the city. I would eat anything on the Fleur de Sel menu.”  With a variety of French fair, the menu changes with the seasons.  The wine list is extensive and offers something for every taste and to compliment the menu items.

Although Tom would eat anything off their menu he and Cathy do have some favorites. Crab and Potato Beignets or the Pommes Frites are shared for their Appetizer, then the Shrimp, Avocado, and Mozzarella Salad , “very fun salads”, and finally for their main course Tom enjoys the Leg of Lamb or Pork Tenderloin, “the seasoned flavors melt in your mouth”, while Cathy prefers trying their fish specials.
Owners Laurant and Patricia Zirotti moved to Post Falls from Billings, Montana and have since created an experience that all their faithful patrons enjoy. While Patricia mans the front of the restaurant, Laurant mans the back as the Head Chef. With a menu that is high class but affordable it’s a great customer service experience, and with the elegant but casual atmosphere the Zirotti’s are a duo to be reckoned with.

About Fleur de Sel

In the same building as the Highlands Day Spa,  Fleur de Sel serves gourmet French inspired dishes. Reservations are recommended. The restaurant owners, Laurent and Patricia Zirotti, moved to Post Falls from Billings, Montana and opened the restaurant in 2008.

Tom Malzahn

Who is Tom Malzahn?

Tom Malzahn has been the Kootenai Treasurer for nine years.  He’s a member and past president of the National Association of County Treasurers and an active member in the Post Falls Rotary.

Scratch reviewed by Jamie Lynn Morgan

Jamie Lynn Morgan moved to Coeur d’Alene from Montana nineteen years ago and met her husband Tom on the very first night she moved to town. They now are raising their three children here and both are local business owners.  

When Jamie is not promoting local tourism businesses or volunteering she and Tom like to get out and enjoy many of the local restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene area. “Trying to pick just one favorite restaurant is very hard for me” Jamie says “I like each one for a different reason. But, if I have to pick just one it would be Scratch.” 

Scratch was opened in Coeur d’Alene in 2009 and is the sister restaurant to the one in Spokane, Washington. Partners Connie Naccarato and Jason Rex marry passion, vision and expertise to provide the ultimate dining experience at Scratch. Jason Rex is one of Spokane’s most revolutionary chefs whose cuisine has been heralded by local and national media since his earliest days in the kitchen. His contemporary American fare at Scratch perfectly marries the highest quality seasonal ingredients with his highly skilled and nuanced use of complementing and contrasting flavors and textures.

Serving lunch and dinner, the lunch menu features items like the Grow Up Grill Cheese, Panini’s, and a variety of wraps, burgers, and sandwiches. Dinner has a mix of seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. Some of the dinner items you will find are a Gluten Free Stir Fry, New Zealand Rack of Lamb, and the ever popular Surf and Turf.

Since Scratch is a fairly new addition to the restaurant scene in Coeur d’Alene Jamie says that to choose a favorite from the menu is something she finds hard to do “I am still working my way through the menu and so far everything has been so delicious. I can’t pick just one entree item, but their Signature Salad is to die for. Tried to recreate it at home...let’s just say it was not the same.”

About Scratch Coeur d’Alene

Located at 501 Sherman Ave, Coeur d’Alene Scratch is open six days a week for dinner from 3:00pm to 10:00pm Monday-Thursday and until 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday. Lunch is served Monday-Friday from 11:00am to 3:00pm.

Scratch Restaurant and Lounge, 501 Sherman Ave, Coeur d’Alene, 930-4762

Jamie Lynn Morgan

Who is Jamie Lynn Morgan?
Jamie is the owner of NW Marketing 411. She specializes in Relationship Marketing for the tourism industry. She is an active participant in the North Idaho Tourism Summit and a member of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce Membership Outreach Committee.

315 Martinis, Tapas and Dinner reviewed by Ali Shute

315 Martini, Tapas & Dinner, 315 Wallace Ave, Coeur d’Alene, 208-667-9660

As a busy graphic designer, gardener and wine aficionado, Ali Shute appreciates the ambiance of 315 Martinis, Tapas & Dinner, located in the historic Greenbriar Inn at 315 Wallace Ave. in downtown Coeur d’Alene. “I have always been a fan of owner and award-winning caterer, Kris McIlvenna” Ali says. “She has created a warm, inviting establishment. I feel very comfortable, even going there by myself.”

Ali doesn’t typically frequent 315 Martinis, Tapas & Dinner alone. “I usually meet my girlfriends for an afternoon of wine, laughter, and good food”, she says. “We take a cab there and have someone pick us up.” She and husband, Kevin, also enjoy going for dinner to relax and listen to music.

“The seared ahi tuna salad... mmmmmmmm good!” Ali exclaimed when asked to select her favorite dish. “The tuna melts in your mouth!” She also likes the “delicious” spiced shrimp. The restaurant has a good wine selection, which includes some of Ali’s favorites. “Plus, they have my husband’s favorite beer, Moose Drool,” she said.

When Ali feels like indulging in a martini, she chooses the lemon splash that she describes as “very good, especially on a hot afternoon out on the patio with some light jazz in the background.”

Live music is featured at 315 on Friday and Saturday nights. In summer months guests enjoy the outside deck and listening to musicians in the gazebo. Tuesday nights are “open mic night” with smooth jazz and blues. Different specials are offered each night of the week. Purchase a “Club 315” membership and relish additional special events and discounts all year.

Ali sums up the dining experience at 315 Martinis, Tapas & Dining. “It’s like being at home, but having someone else do the work.”

About 315 Martini, Tapas & Dinner:

The Greenbriar Inn was built in 1908 and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. Lodging is available on the upper floors and the inn is available for weddings and events. In addition to catering services, the area’s premier cooking classes are on-site.

Ali Shute

Who is Ali Shute? 

Ali founded Art on the Edge and served as Director for many years. She is a current Kiwanis member. She and husband, Kevin, have been Coeur d’Alene area residents for 30 years. They have three adult children; Byron, 23; Conor, 21; Maegan, 19.

Wolf Lodge Steakhouse reviewed by Mike McDowell

Wolf Lodge Steakhouse, 11741 E Frontage Rd, Coeur d’Alene 664-6665

Mike McDowell, our Kootenai County Assessor, laughs as he recalls the days 30- plus years ago when his current favorite dining spot was called Walley’s Wolf Lodge Tavern and they had a donkey that drank the beer tank over-flow. Things have changed and today McDowell, a fourth-generation Coeur d’Alene native, speaks highly of the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse just east of Coeur d’Alene.

Established in 1939 as a convenience store and converted to a steakhouse in the 1970s, Wolf Lodge has provided a taste of the old west for generations. Its specially seasoned steaks are grilled over an open fire of seasoned tamarack. According to Mike, cooking over the wood embers adds a “smoky hint to the tender, succulent beef.” The complete menu also includes Rocky Mountain Oysters for those looking for something different.

“We almost always head to the Wolf Lodge for special occasions” says Mike. “They provide a casual dining experience coupled with excellent food and friendly service. We always begin with their great selection of hors d’oeuvres.” Wife Kathy is particularly fond of the tiger shrimp while Mike leans toward the mushrooms, which he emphasizes are “really, really good.”

For the main course, Mike’s favorite is the 14 oz. ribeye steak. On occasion he orders the 24 oz. Porterhouse which he says is “unbelievable.”  He has yet to finish one and always leaves with a “doggy bag” ready for another meal at home. Mike also enjoys the Sweet Dough Twists with honey and Buckaroo Beans that accompany each meal. Kathy loves their fresh fish and particularly enjoys the halibut.

When it’s time for desert Mike laughs as he says, “Desert? Anyone in our group rarely has room for any!”

About Wolf Lodge Steakhouse:

Wolf Lodge is located approximately 8 miles east of Coeur d’Alene off I-90 exit 22. Head north then turn right on Frontage Road. Travel 1.25 miles to the steakhouse. Reservations are recommended.

Mike McDowell

Who is Mike McDowell? 

Mike is the current Kootenai County Assessor. His community service also includes past city councilman, member of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber Commodores and Panhandle Kiwanis. He and his wife Kathy are natives of North Idaho.

The Cedars reviewed by Sharmon Schmitt

The Cedars Floating Restaurant, 1 Marina Drive, Coeur d’Alene, 664-2922

Community involvement is an understated description for the lifestyle of Sharmon Schmitt. From chambers of commerce to the Make A Wish Foundation, she’s an ardent supporter of area non-profit and business organizations. The time she has to spend with family and friends is also precious for this busy lady. Treating out-of-town guests to an evening of outdoor, on-water dining at the Cedar’s Floating Restaurant is a favorite way to relax and enjoy their company. Besides the incredible one-of-a-kind location that’s easy to get to,  “the service is always the best...everyone there remembers who you are,” says Sharmon, “that among other things, make it sure to never disappoint.”

The Cedars, an actual floating restaurant built on pods of concrete encased in styrofoam and weighing more than 1.2 million pounds, has been located at the mouth of the Spokane River since 1965. It has survived a number of floods and weather damage on Lake Coeur d’Alene, with the current building replacing the old one in 1991.  Built intentionally as a circular structure by its original owner, the views from any table are stunning. The full service lounge has an impressive appetizer menu featuring Smoked Idaho Trout and Cedars Oysters (complemented by a red chili and artichoke tartar) as well as sumptuous summer drink specials.

Sharmon and her guests enjoy the famous Cedars salad bar, along with an award winning wine selection and gourmet entrees. “Steak with peppercorn sauce is one of my favorites, along with crème brulee for dessert, although I rarely have room for that!”

Cedars has access from the lake with spacious side tie docks available during summer months. Its “resort casual” atmosphere make it a favorite boaters’ destination for a special evening out. “I’ve been a Cedars fan for 25 years. There just isn’t anything that matches the incredible food, breathtaking views and special atmosphere at the Cedars Floating Restaurant. It’s a treat at any time of year,” says Sharmon.

About The Cedars:

The Cedars Floating Restaurant is open 7 days a week at 3pm for cocktails and 4pm for dinner. Their outdoor patio is open during summer months providing a unique dining experience. 

Sharmon Schmitt

Who is Sharmon Schmitt? 

Sharmon’s 35 year career with Avista Utilities includes her current position as Commercial Industrial Account Executive. She is an avid gardner and enjoys camping. She resides in Coeur d’Alene with her husband, Dr. Don Schmitt.

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.

Beverly's reviewed by Jim Hail

Beverly's, 7th Floor, Coeur d'Alene Resort, 208.765.4000

Jim Hail doesn’t need to search the yellow pages for a favorite restaurant. He can even tell you the month and year his top choice opened. In May 1986, with the grand rebirth of The Coeur d’Alene Resort on the north shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Beverly’s debuted as the signature fine dining at the hotel.

"I love the ambiance and the picture-postcard setting overlooking magnificent Lake Coeur d’Alene," Jim states. Combined with a state-of-the-art display kitchen, the views in either direction are stellar.

Jim lunches there frequently for business while evening dinners are just the ticket for out-of-town guests, "Beverly’s has the "WOW" factor." He also enjoys romantic dinners with his wife, Joy.

When asked to name a favorite wine Jim answers with a question of his own, "Favorite? There are literally thousands of selections on the Beverly’s wine rack, who can decide?"

The menu changes seasonally but Jim recommends Beverly’s Caesar salad topped with firecracker prawns all year. His current favorite dinner selection is Spring Pea Salad and Prime Tenderloin of Beef served with horseradish mashed potatoes. While he declares every item on the Beverly’s desert cart as extraordinary, Jim’s favorites are beignets ( a dough square, deep-fried and covered with confectioners sugar) and Bananas Foster, served Beverly’s style.

Idaho potatoes, wild huckleberries and morel mushrooms are just a few of the Northwest reasons Beverly’s remains a favorite for guests from around the country, around the world and for locals like Jim Hail.

About Beverly's:
Located on the 7th floor of The Coeur d’Alene Resort, Beverly’s is named for hotel owner Duane Hagadone’s late mother. Since opening 21 years ago, Beverly’s has consistently been ranked as one of America’s top 5-Star restaurants.

Jim Hail

Who's Jim Hail?
Jim has lived in North Idaho since 1980. A former newspaper publisher and editor, Jim founded Hagadone Directories, Inc. in November 1987 and today serves as company president and co-owner.