Memories of Lindaman’s

Lindaman’s closure leaves a void far beyond the South Hill. It nourished people — body and soul — for 35 years. The quality food, welcoming ambiance and warmth of the people were unsurpassed.

A recent article, “The Joint is Closing” (Oct. 30, Food section) described Lindaman’s significance among locals, but also elicited fond memories for me, an infrequent visitor from Moscow.

I learned about the restaurant from a co-worker in the mid-1980s. He and his wife were renowned foodies before being one was a thing. On their recommendation, I brought my mom there when she visited from Boise. We had a lovely time and enjoyed the walnut torte so much that I wrote the owner to say so. To my amazement, I received a handwritten recipe and note from Merrilee Lindaman, who thanked me for the compliment. Sharing that experience with my late mother — also a wonderful cook — remains memorable. Later, I baked that labor-intensive torte for my friend’s birthday — the same friend (since departed) who had introduced me to Lindaman’s.

My husband and I always enjoyed eating there. Most recently, I drove up to reunite with a friend I hadn’t seen in 30 years. She and her family had barely escaped the devastating fire in Paradise, California, and had flown to Spokane to spend time with family in the wake of that sobering, life-affirming ordeal. Three of us gathered around a table in Lindaman’s to remember all that was good. It was perfect. Thank you for the memories, Lindaman’s!

Nancy Chaney

Moscow, Idaho