Where to eat (according to us locals)

For wonderful, creative libations, a great venue, and creative, perfectly prepared meals, give this new-ish restaurant a try.

Amy is an Italophile (if that's a word) and frequently pines for thin-crust pizza with light sauce and flavor-packed toppings. So she was thrilled with the Forge opened in 2024.

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!

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.

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.

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.

For a great, festive atmosphere, good beer, sports TV and excellent pizza, go here. Enjoy the outdoor patio and cornhole!

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.

Arlo's Ristorante is a New York-style Italian restaurant with great food, great service, an impressive wine list, and live music on the weekends. Be sure to check out their new pizza menu! We love the authentic thin-crust pies straight from the pizza oven. Be sure to tell them Amy & Chris sent you!

Classic Mexican fare. Big, fat burritos, street tacos, etc. Joel's is definitely a local favorite!

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.