By Zack & Brooklyn Bolin, Facebook:
Taste Budz, Instagram: tastebudz_spokane
Temple Tavern is a new restaurant in the Garland District that opened in February of this year. It was formerly North Hill on Garland. We never made it in prior, however, I am happy to say that Temple Tavern is phenomenal.
What we enjoyed:
Calibrian Salad
Bread Service
Gnocchi
The Book Pizza
Affogotto
They have a two-story patio, and Zack and I really wanted to soak it all in. However, when we arrived, they were packed and didn’t have any available spots. We decided to start at the bar and order some drinks and small items. The Calibrian Salad had my name written all over it. They toss fresh, spicy arugula in a vinaigrette, with pickled peppers, chunks of fresh mozzarella, pepitas, pecorino cheese, and diced figs. The flavor combination was impeccable; it was the perfect balance of acid, fat, and salt. I only let Zack have one bite.
Since I knew I would not be sharing my salad, we also ordered the bread service, so Zack wouldn’t be without a snack. They serve a focaccia-like bread with oil and vinegar for dipping. The slices are so thick and fluffy that we couldn’t finish them, so of course, we boxed them up.
We were still waiting for a table after appetizers and decided to take a stroll through the adorable Garland district. The staff were very accommodating and said they would hold our table once it became available. When we returned, they had the most stunning spot on the upstairs patio ready for us. You could see peak-a-boo views of Mt. Spokane, and bright green trees lined the railing; it was the perfect summer evening.
For our main entrees, I ordered their gnocchi pasta. They mix the potato gnocchi up with wilted kale, caramelized onions, and sausage bits. Then toss it in an herbaceous pesto and top it with grated pecorino cheese. It was absolutely divine.
Zack wanted to try one of their signature pizzas, but he’s a bit picky. He decided to order The Book without onions, and honestly, it was the star of the night. It’s a wood-fired pizza with marinara, mozzarella, sausage, black olives, mushrooms, and usually onions. I don’t know what they put in their sauce, but that pizza was packed with so much flavor. The fresh parsley added a touch of brightness, too.
The building is an old Masonic temple, and they kept the vibe alive by using third eyes in their logos, stained-glass light coverings, and exposed brick.
Not only was the food out of this world, but we received some of the best customer service that we have had in a while. Make sure to check out this new spot; there is truly something for everyone.
706 W Garland Ave, Ste B, Spokane
509-514-2290
thetempletavern.com
