Where to eat (according to us)
The Internet is a fine source of advice on where to eat... but here are our favorites.
Breakfast
Hoot Owl Cafe
Best down-home, closest to motel
30784 ID-200, Ponderay
Website - (208) 265-9348
Year after year, the Hoot Owl wins the award for favorite breakfast spot, and for good reason: it's classic, comfort food in a warm and homey place. And it's just two doors down from the motel. TIP: Be prepared to wait in line.
Breakfast Cantina
Nearby, and Amy's 2x/week go-to
477100 US-95, Ponderay
Website - (208) 597-7073
Delicious breakfast burritos and bowls made with their home-smoked meats. Need we say more? Also try their yummy smoothies and fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Pack River Store
Best food, best setting and experience
1587 Rapid Lightning Rd, Sandpoint
Website - (208) 263-2409
We can't say enough good things about this place... You'll feel like you're out in the middle of nowhere, and you almost are, and therein lies the charm. Well, that, and the AMAZING food: it's updated comfort food with fresh, house-cured meats, local ingredients, etc. All in an old general store right on the Pack River.
Lunch
Spuds
Best in-town setting, great food
102 N First Ave, Sandpoint
Website - (208) 265-4311
Sit on the deck overlooking the Sandpoint Marina, Sand Creek, and the lake. Their BLTA is wonderful. They have a large selection of soups, which makes for a cozy treat in the winter. But if you're a spud lover -- and you should be, because when in Idaho... -- order a perfectly-cooked baked potatoes loaded with whatever you want.
Joel's
Local favorite
229 Church St, Sandpoint
Website - (208) 265-8991
Classic Mexican fare. Big, fat burritos, street tacos, etc. Joel's is definitely a local favorite!
Pack River Store
Best food, best setting and experience
1587 Rapid Lightning Rd, Sandpoint
Website - (208) 263-2409
See above, under "Breakfast". It's also our most-favorite lunch spot: lovely and quaint with great soups and sandwiches, and unexpected specials.
Dinner
Trinity at City Beach
Best in-town setting and Amy's favorite "overall" experience
102 N First Ave, Sandpoint
Website - (208) 255-7558
One of the only places in Sandpoint where you can sit right on the water, Trinity has a large, varied menu and something for everyone. If it’s a nice day, be sure to MAKE RESERVATIONS and get a seat on the deck. Live music in the summer on most Friday and Saturday nights.
Fiesta Bonita
Best Mexican and Our Family's Favorite
700 Kootenai Cutoff Rd, Ponderay
Website - (208) 263-6174
Surprisingly authentic Mexican food, right here in Idaho. We eat here so often we should be investors. Great for take-out, as they have really fast turn-around times. Tell Mama we sent you!
Eichardt's Pub
Best Vibe and Amy's Favorite
212 Cedar St, Sandpoint, ID 83864
Website - (208) 263-4005
A local’s favorite and long-time Sandpoint establishment, Eichardt’s is a beer and wine pub that has shockingly good food and live music most nights of the week. Go upstairs for the shuffleboard. FUN. Try the Chicken Marsala over Risotto or the Elk Burger. Caveat: not for those in a hurry. The service is slow but the food is worth it.
Sweet Lou's
Best Nearby-Pub and Chris' Favorite
477272 US-95, Ponderay
Website - (208) 263-1381
Classic pub and sports bar in log cabin. Upbeat environment and a great interpretation of classic pub-food favorites. Try the 60/40 Burger, grown-up mac & cheese, or Chris' favorite: the ahi tacos.