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Fresh Sheet

By Lorie Hutson lorieh@spokesman.com(509) 459-5446

Lantern Tap House expanding

The wee tap house in the South Perry neighborhood is getting bigger.

Owners Mike and Melinda Dolmage, along with partner James Pearson, announced plans to expand the Lantern Tap House, 1004 S. Perry St., into the space next door – the former home of the Perry Street Café.

The partners plan to remodel the space into a public house, serving casual fare. The family-friendly restaurant would serve pub grub, including burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, chicken wings, fries and potato skins, Mike Dolmage said. Construction plans call for opening the tap house to the adjoining space a little bit, but Mike Dolmage said they will preserve the cozy atmosphere.

Originally called the Lantern Tavern, the little bar opened in 2009. Dolmage and his wife bought the business in July 2012. They’d like to finish the expansion by St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Hegsted wins Dreamstaurant

Chef Adam Hegsted is the winner of the Dreamstaurant contest.

Public votes and the judges’ scores put the executive chef at the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort ahead of the competition. His concept, called Wood Smoke, would feature an American take on tapas, an underground supper club and cocktails. The $20,000 grand prize package includes design services and credits for equipment. Hegsted said he hasn’t put a timeline on his plans.

“For now, I want to keep honing my skills at the casino and continue the successful growth we have been having until I get my chance. The (Coeur d’Alene) Tribe has been good to me and given me some great opportunities,” he said.

Spokane Restaurant Week planned

The first Spokane Restaurant Week is in the works.

Visit Spokane and the Inlander have teamed up to recruit area restaurants to show off their gastronomic prowess with special menus Feb. 22 through March 3. The restaurants will offer a three-course prix fixe meal for either $18 or $28.

The mouthwatering details are already emerging. Check the menus and get more information at www.restaurant weekspokane.com or follow the progress on Twitter @SpoRestWeek.