Our Favorite Spokane Restaurants
One of the best ways to get to know a city is to eat your way through it. Spokane has no shortage of great restaurants, whether you're looking for a quick lunch between classes, a cozy coffee shop to study in, or somewhere to celebrate with friends after finals. We asked our Admission Staff to share a few of the local spots they keep coming back to. From longtime neighborhood favorites to hidden gems, here are some of the restaurants that make Spokane feel a little more like home.
Alexa Gaske – De Leon's
With several locations around Spokane, including one walking distance from campus, De Leon's is a great place to enjoy yummy Mexican food. Depending on the season, nothing beats their enchiladas or a warm bowl of pozole. If you like spice, be sure to ask for their spicy deep red salsa!
Becky Doyle – The Yards Bruncheon
The Yards Bruncheon is my go-to spot for brunch here in Spokane! The menu is packed with all-day brunch dishes, but nothing beats the Yards Benedict—perfectly poached eggs, rich hollandaise, and a crispy English muffin that never disappoints. The cozy, retro vibe makes it the perfect place to catch up with friends. Whether you're a local or visiting for a college tour, this spot is a must-try!
Carie Weeks – Bruncheonette
Just a short walk up Monroe Street from downtown, Bruncheonette is a delicious, creative, and woman- and BIPOC-owned breakfast and brunch place. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as takeout, and have some of the friendliest and most attentive staff around. I highly recommend the vegan breakfast tacos, along with the cinnamon granola and Greek yogurt. Everyone raves about their coffee in reviews, but, since I only drink tea, I have to say, it is delicious as well. Do note: they automatically add a service charge to the bill so that they can split the tips between front and back of house staff more equitably. If you get lucky, you may run into their gourmet food truck (Couple of Chefs) somewhere around the city.
Claire Silva – Molé
If you're craving Mexican food, I love Molé. Located in Kendall Yards, it a great location to see the Spokane Falls, walk the Centennial Trail, and grab ice cream at The Scoop afterwards.
Diana Davila – The Flying Goat
The Flying Goat is one of my absolute favorite places to eat in Spokane is The Flying Goat! It's known for the BEST wood-fired pizzas, salads, and delicious appetizers. My pizza of choice is the Cora but honestly, you can't go wrong with anything they serve!
Levi Garcia-Morales – Mustard Seed
If you're looking for a cozy spot to eat Pan-Asian food, Mustard Seed is a great location to do so. Located in the Northtown Mall, the staff is super friendly and are very helpful to offer recommendations on food and drinks. There is always a great variety of different and new dishes to try with fresh ingredients. It's also a great place too for birthday parties, corporate events, or just a night out with friends and family.
Megan Baird – Skewers
Located in downtown, Skewers brings the street food of the Middle East to Spokane. Starting as a food truck in 2016 they expanded to a restaurant in 2023! I have yet to have an item there that isn't amazing! My personal favorite is their shawarma fries, herb fries topped with chicken and beef shawarma drizzled with taratour!
Sara Whelchel – The Mango Tree
This Indian restaurant is an absolute must! The Mango Tree has four Spokane locations, and the staff are super friendly and always willing to give recommendations. My personal favorite is their mango curry bowl with paneer!
Steve Keller – The Thrifty Scotsman
Mom and Pop burger dive with great burgers, fries, and shakes! The Thrifty Scotsman is a place that only the locals tend to know about, and you can even catch a great round of Pac-Man on one of their original arcades while you're waiting for your burgers. Don't forget the fry sauce!
Tara Summerfelt – Vieux Carré
Vieux Carré brings a taste of New Orleans right into Spokane- and it is SO GOOD! Whether you're fighting your friends over the last crab beignet or diving headfirst into their bacon-wrapped shrimp and grits, every bite is packed with bold Cajun flavor. With a lively atmosphere and a menu that is anything but ordinary, it is the perfect place to shake up your usual dinner plans and enjoy a little Southern hospitality that will have you feeling like you're spending the evening in the French Quarter.
Will DeKlotz – Kalico Kitchen
Kalico Kitchen is a Gonzaga-themed diner is quite the special place! With memorabilia scattered from GU Basketball history and very friendly staff, this is a great place to head to when you have a larger party for breakfast/brunch and are craving some delicious diner food.
Will Shoup – O'Doherty's Irish Grille
O'Doherty's is a venerable and down-to-earth Irish grill and pub. The walls are covered in dollar bills, and if you're willing to stand on the bar and serenade your fellow patrons, you can put your own buck on the wall. The food is hearty and traditional. My personal favorites are the Scotch Eggs and the Bangers and Mash. Shepherd's Pie and Fish and Chips are also can't-misses. Stop by for the raucous Saint Paddy's Day celebration or any normal night of the week for a laid-back Irish supper.