Now that the chill of winter is well and truly gone (and if you live in North Idaho, you know that’s saying a lot), Post Falls is coming into full bloom, and there’s no better place to soak up the season than at The Dam Bar & Restaurant, nestled inside the Red Lion Templin’s Hotel. Overlooking the Spokane River and steps from the beautiful Centennial Trail, this riverfront spot blends fresh, seasonal fare with one of the most scenic dining settings in North Idaho.
Whether you’re a hotel guest, a local, or just passing through, spring at The Dam means fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and patio views that remind you why you love it here.
Dining with a View
The first thing diners notice isn’t anything on the menu; it’s the view. Perched right on the riverbank, The Dam Bar’s dining area opens up to tranquil scenes of the Spokane River. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, the patio becomes a favorite hangout for guests who want to sip cocktails, enjoy a long lunch, or unwind after a hike or bike ride on the trail.
As one recent diner noted, “The view is gorgeous, the vibe is relaxed, and the food is on point.” And it’s not just the views that are refreshing.
Fresh Spring Flavors
The seasonal menu leans into spring with lighter fare, vibrant ingredients, and a focus on freshness. Start with the Arancini: crispy wild porcini risotto bites stuffed with smoked provolone, resting in a rich San Marzano meat sauce and finished with white truffle oil. It’s earthy, creamy, and indulgent without being heavy.
For something bright and flavorful, the Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna is a hit. Lightly seared and crusted with sesame, this sushi-grade tuna is served over rice with a tamari glaze that’s both savory and slightly sweet, creating a well-balanced dish that feels just right on a spring day.
For those craving comfort with a gourmet twist, the San Marzano Pappardelle features wide ribbons of egg pasta in a slow-simmered tomato meat sauce, topped with ricotta salata. It’s a cozy classic made lighter for spring, using one of Italy’s most prized tomato varieties.
A Sweet Finish
Dessert is where The Dam really has fun. The Bananas Foster—brûléed banana in a Caribbean-spiced orange rum sauce with candied pecans—is warm, gooey, and a customer favorite. Prefer something chilled? Try the Milk & Honey, a Tahitian vanilla panna cotta topped with passion fruit coulis and macadamia nuts.
For something playful, the S’mokey S’mores channel campfire nostalgia with chocolate mousse, graham cracker crumble, toasted meringue, and smoked sea salt.
Cocktails to Match the Season
The bar is just as committed to flavor as the kitchen. Try a Huckleberry Lemondrop, which brings a regional flair with local huckleberry vodka and syrup. Or sip the Dam Good Old Fashioned, which adds a subtle twist to the classic with chocolate bitters and vanilla bean bourbon.
For those who prefer a little caffeine with their cocktail, the Espresso Martini hits the spot, especially paired with one of the Dam’s signature desserts.
Your New Spring Tradition
From the first bite to the last look back at the river, The Dam Bar & Restaurant delivers a spring dining experience that’s hard to top. It’s refined without being fussy, scenic without sacrificing comfort, and locally inspired in the best ways. Whether you’re winding down after a day outdoors or planning a dinner date, The Dam invites you to slow down, dig in, and enjoy the season.
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