While 2020's pandemic-inflicted upheaval of the hospitality industry remains unprecedented — and with enduring fallout — this second full year of COVID-19 also leaves some.
Owners Kori Henderson and Paul Blacketer at Whim Wine Bar. When Kori Henderson and Paul Blacketer opened Whim Wine Bar in late summer 2019, they never expected their long-dreamed-of venture would soon be closed for more than a year while waiting out the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Well past the initial 2020 shutdown s one-year anniversary, the couple is still waiting to reopen inside River Park Square, opting for now to see if the two-week pause on rolling Spokane County from Phase 3 back to 2 will last. Opening for two weeks and shutting down again 25 percent capacity is not sustainable for the small bar, says Henderson, plus there s the cost of supplies and other expenses to reopen could tank the business for good. If there is no rollback, though, Whim is set to reopen May 20.
The Kalispel Royal at Masselow s Steakhouse
The pandemic s been rough for everyone, and people are re-entering our new reality at different paces, depending on their vaccination status and comfort around crowds. No matter when that happens, it seems reasonable that you d want to celebrate with something special in your glass. Whether that means something extravagantly expensive or just a personal favorite local cocktail is up to you, but we have some suggestions.
Woodinville Smoked Manhattan ($16)
1898 Public House, 2010 W. Waikiki Rd.
1898 Public House just feels special. The restaurant abutting the Kalispel Golf & Country Club, first established as the Spokane Country Club in 1898, has killer views of towering trees and lush fairways that run up to the Little Spokane River. And the food menu ranges from pricey seafood and steaks to utterly reasonable sandwiches and salads. Whether or not you re eating, a trip to 1898 for a cockta