Nowhere else in the region—and rare in the U.S.—is there a facility that so artfully exposes the inner workings of an industrial plant while providing an experience that is truly unmatched in its vitality and energy. Spokane’s Steam Plant is both historic and contemporary; a visual icon that typically results in a one-word reaction from visitors: “Wow.”
Using materials that provide warmth to the expansive four-story space, the interiors are the perfect blend of industrial and contemporary. The main-level restaurant, Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery, is an open design overlooking the bar area and features comfortable, tufted seating in the built-in booths next to steel-cladded walls. The bar offers a mixture of large community tables as well as both semi-private and private booth seating.
For visual interest, large murals showcase the plant’s historic roots, while patterns of steam pipe lines snake through the ceiling, providing a creative way to hang lighting that washes beams and columns. The plant’s boilers are brought into the forefront with a fresh coat of paint and a splash of color.
Diners can now enjoy the spacious atmosphere in the light of day, as lunch service is back. And the addition of the Rooftop Event Space is available for a wide range of events from Beer & Yoga Nights to wedding receptions to corporate retreats. The space can accommodate up to 150 people, includes a ready room and a patio, and offers a unique view of the plant’s smokestacks and the Spokane skyline.
“What I’m most excited about,” says Jeff Cooney, Steam Plant general manager, “is not only the amazing space this renovation has created but also the energy of our staff. They come to work every day ready to deliver hospitality in a way Spokane hasn’t seen before. They’re genuinely committed to earning that ‘Wow’ reaction from every one of our guests.” Jeff has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. After graduating from culinary school in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jeff moved to Spokane and has been managing restaurants throughout the Northwest for the last 10 years.
The enlarged kitchen includes a wood-fired pizza oven, rotisserie, char-broiler and smoker. The menu focuses on handcrafted, authentic foods. Specialties include a “wood-kissed Caesar” with grilled romaine, a rotisserie chicken and a turkey sandwich that is claimed to be “World's Best,” along with generous-pour signature cocktails and a regional wine list.
“There’s something special happening here at the Steam Plant,” says Executive Chef Paul Taylor. “During my almost 30 years in the industry, I’ve been a part of some truly great kitchens, but nothing is quite as unique as this space.” Paul, who trained at Northwest Culinary Institute, has worked at several restaurants in Oregon and Washington, including Hall Street Grill in the Portland area and with Bon Appetit and their “farm to fork” program at Evergreen State College.
Meanwhile, Head Brewer Ben Quick continues to create craft brews on site, offering a variety of permanent taps and inventive seasonals created by beer lovers for beer lovers! The Steam Plant is constantly finding new ways to use these delicious brews in the kitchen’s recipes for a twist on traditional favorites.
New space, new menu items and a rotating selection of handcrafted brews: The Steam Plant’s transformation will definitely keep you coming back for more.
Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery
Downtown Spokane
159 S. Lincoln St.
509.777.3900
