Unique village, charming people
In December we introduced “Around the Corner,” a series of stories highlighting some of the charming retail districts in the area, by visiting and shopping around the area of West Main.
This week we’re visiting another such unique place.
The Garland Village, which runs east-west along Garland Avenue, roughly between Monroe and Post Streets, is home to a number of unique home-grown businesses.
So check out Spokane’s “North Hill” and get acquainted with another little village just around the corner.
•The Grand Lady of the Garland district is the Garland Theater. Built as a cinematic showcase in 1945, the Garland is the only locally owned theater in Spokane. Owner Katherine Fritchie has created a family friendly place which features second-run movies at discount prices.
“We’re a neighborhood theater but we get people from all over,” Fritchie said. “I love it when people drop by and say ‘This is where I went for my first date with my wife.’ “
With free movies for children in the summer, and a year-round budget friendly $2.50 ticket price, Fritchie said the theater is a favorite destination.
“Of course,” she said, “Everyone loves our bottomless popcorn.”
•The distinctive “Milk Bottle” sits at the corner of Post and Garland. Built in 1933 as a creamery for the Benewah Dairy, the building is a Spokane landmark.
Now a popular lunch spot, owners Ed and Kris Ritchie offer Mary Lou’s ice cream, home-baked bread and fresh French fries.
The building’s unique shape draws sightseers but it’s the menu with the $6 special – cheeseburger, fries and a shake – that pulls them in.
“Oh, everybody loves the special,” Ed Ritchie said. “It’s the best deal in town.”
•With its old European feel, Violin Works, an establishment which sells, repairs and restores fine bowed string instruments, sets the right tone for the village.
Owner Jim Kytonen takes advantage of the natural light and does most of his instrument restoration work in the front window.
“I have my regulars, school children who walk by and press against the window when they look in,” Kytonen said. “I love that.”
The interior reflects Kytonen’s vision for the business. “My wife Allison and Colleen Monaghan, one of the principal designers at OMS Architecture and Design, created exactly what I wanted,” he said.
Kytonen enjoys the energy of the village and thinks things will only get better.
“I think the Garland district has a lot in common with Seattle’s ‘U’ district,” Kytonen said. “It’s evolving and we helped set the trend.” he said.
•Tinman Artworks gallery is a wonderful source for works by regional artists. In addition to the art gallery, Tinman sells contemporary literature and books about art. An extensive selection of illustrated children’s books encourages a love of both reading and art in the young.
•The Discovery Shop, a resale shop and thrift store operated to benefit the American Cancer Society, sits on the corner of Garland and Post. The shop sells clothing, household items and collectibles.