Every city has that one restaurant people can't stop talking about. In Spokane, it's Wooden City. Tucked into downtown on Riverside Avenue, this New American spot has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting restaurants in the Inland Northwest — and after one meal here, you'll know why the buzz is real.
The Food
Wooden City's menu is built around a wood-fired oven, which gives everything — from the pizzas to the proteins — a smoky depth that elevates every dish. The menu changes seasonally, but some standouts that have earned loyal followings include:
- The Fancy Burger — topped with bacon jam and mushrooms, it's one of the best burgers in Spokane
- French Onion Soup — a signature dish that regulars swear by
- Bacon Pesto Pizza — wood-fired with the perfect char
- Lamb Rigatoni — rich, hearty, and beautifully executed
- Beet Ravioli — proof that vegetarian dishes can steal the show
What makes Wooden City special isn't just the individual dishes — it's the care and creativity behind the whole experience. The ingredients are locally sourced, the preparations are inventive without being pretentious, and the service knows exactly when to engage and when to let you enjoy.
The Space
The restaurant's interior is warm and inviting, with the kind of industrial-meets-cozy aesthetic that downtown Spokane does so well. It's intimate enough for a date night but comfortable enough for a group dinner. The bar area is a great option if you're walking in without a reservation.
Reservations Recommended
Wooden City is popular — especially on weekends. We strongly recommend booking ahead through Resy. Walk-ins are sometimes available at the bar and select tables, but don't count on it for a Friday night.
See Them on Instagram
Follow Them
- Instagram: @woodencityspokane
- Facebook: Wooden City
Address: 821 W Riverside Ave, Spokane, WA 99201 Phone: (509) 822-7194 Hours: Sun–Thu: 4 PM–9:30 PM | Fri–Sat: 4 PM–10 PM Distance from Manito Bungalow: ~3.5 miles (10-minute drive) Reservations: Book on Resy Website: woodencityspokane.com Don't miss: The Fancy Burger & French Onion Soup
Pair Wooden City with a pre-dinner walk along the Spokane River downtown, or a post-dinner drink at one of Spokane's great brewpubs. And when you're done, Manito Bungalow is just a quick 10-minute drive back to the South Hill.