Latah Lounge

Reviewing the reviews is a good source of anonymous feedback to check often and use for improvement. Recently I have noticed a thread in the comments that mention our location in a strip mall in a negative way. Although the overwhelming reviews are positive for our service and food, it makes me ponder the guest’s perception of location for restaurants.

Reminiscing on some of my favorite dining experiences I never considered the location of the restaurant as a huge factor for review. As a matter of fact some of the best meals I have enjoyed have been in strip malls in LA, Vegas, Hawaii and even here in Spokane.

I can understand extremes that might effect a dining experience like poor or no parking or being accosted by downtown panhandlers, but being located in a business center in a beautiful valley across from a golf course with unlimited parking, easy front door access, and a patio not on a busy street seems like reaching for reasons to complain.

What do you think? Does location in a strip mall really matter?

We are closed on Thanksgiving to spend time with our families. Enjoy the holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Today I am thankful that we still have seeds to grow our own non- genetically modified foods, at least for now. Here’s some hard hitting truths about strong food industry forces that effect the world’s food right now.
The World According to Monsanto by Le Monde Selon is a must see documentary for anyone interested in our current food systems. Remember the industrial military complex? Well why is there not as much concern for the industrial food complex? Monsanto has transformed from being a chemical company to being a bio tech seed company. When Monsanto controls the seed, they control food. Their power and influence in government is unprecedented.

Definitely please watch this documentary.

Tim Nodland is playing jazz guitar tonight from 6:30 - 9.

We also have his new 2006 Private Blend Red release in the house. This should make a good combination.

It’s been two years since we have had the Garlic Prawn Pasta on our regular menu but due to popular demand, it is back - Fresh gulf prawns sauteed in white wine broth, garlic and basil over fresh angel hair pasta. Pairs beautifully with Penner-Ash Viognier, Rogue River Valley, OR ‘07

Spokane is unique with dining times. Early dining is the norm. People here eat dinner at 6 to 7 at night. 90 percent of our reservations fall in that bell curve peak in spite of our attempts to spread the reservations out.
So here’s your tip for the day. You can just walk in without a reservation at any restaurant in this town if you simply plan your dinner for either 5 - 5:30 or after 8 pm.

For all of our wonderful guests who love fresh giant sea scallops and have asked to be informed when they arrive, here you go. Come and get ‘em.

Dry Fly Distillery is about to release it’s second batch of whiskey on Dec 6th. Get in line because their first batch sold out quick.

Next Monday, Nov 16th is the Eat Spokane Potluck down at Taste Cafe at 6pm. If you have not been before, just bring a dish and be prepared to eat some good food and chat with chefs, restaurant owners, foodies and others in Spokane. It’s fun.

A new Spokane Dining Guide Site, Only Eat Here…brought to you by Remi, the brains behind Spokane Food Blog.

Check it out.