Restaurants shed light on town history

When the owners of five restaurants in Sandpoint got together, the focus of their meeting was how they could join forces to make a difference in the community and at the same time optimize exposure for their respective businesses. But the course of their discussion changed when they realized their businesses all shared a common past.

“A second wave hit, and we discovered we had historical roots (in common) that we could hang our hat on,” said Peter Mico, owner of Spuds Rotisserie and Grill.

The area of town in which the five restaurants are situated is rich in history. One hundred years ago lumberjacks traveled from their logging camps to the area on First Avenue in what is now downtown Sandpoint, in search of a much needed break from their hard labor. They found their entertainment in the cigar shops, barber shops, saloons, cafes and brothels – locations which are now home to some of the fine dining establishments in Sandpoint. After researching its history, the owners of these businesses decided to revamp their historic block and designate it as the Old Lantern District.

“We started out with the concept of Old Lantern District because of the historic origins of the area,” said Gloria Waterhouse, owner of Sand Creek Grill and Inn. “The name Old Lantern District evolved from the ladies of the evening who would hang out lanterns (outside their places of business).”

The area consists of approximately one square block, and the participating restaurants include the Sand Creek Grill, Ivanos Ristorante, Spuds Rotisserie and Grill, Cafe Trinity and Starbucks.

To kick off their campaign of the Old Lantern District, employees of these businesses sported buttons with “O.L.D.” inscribed on them. For several weeks patrons inquired as to its meaning. The reply was a smile and an answer of wait and see.

Then on Memorial Day weekend, the campaign that raised so many questions was finally unveiled. The Old Lantern District made its debut with food, wine tasting, music and art.

During the Friday night celebration each location had a story board depicting the history of the location. Patrons traveled among the restaurants talking about the history of their town and enjoying what the area now has to offer.

“It was one of the more fun nights we’ve had downtown,” said Sandpoint resident Judy Thompson. “There was a real hometown feel.”

On Saturday morning the chefs from all the restaurants came together and prepared a gourmet breakfast, the proceeds of which were donated to Bonner Community Hospice.

“The charity aspect of this (association with other businesses) is really cool,” said Mico.

The weekend celebration was the first of many events the business owners have planned.