If you haven’t seen the results of the Steam Plant’s major renovation yet, well … why not?
Nowhere else in the region—and rare in the U.S.—is there a facility that so artfully exposes the inner workings of an industrial plant while providing an experience that is truly unmatched in its vitality and energy. Spokane’s Steam Plant is both historic and contemporary; a visual icon that typically results in a one-word reaction from visitors: “Wow.”
Using materials that provide warmth to the expansive four-story space, the interiors are the perfect blend of industrial and contemporary. The main-level restaurant, now called Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery, is an open design overlooking the new bar area and features comfortable, tufted seating in the built-in booths next to steel-cladded walls. The bar offers a mixture of large community tables as well as both semi-private and private booth seating.
For visual interest, large murals showcase the plant’s historic roots, while patterns of steam pipe lines snake through the ceiling, providing a creative way to hang lighting that washes beams and columns. The plant’s boilers are brought into the forefront with a fresh coat of paint and a splash of color.
Lunch service is back, meaning diners can now enjoy the spacious atmosphere in the light of day. And the new Rooftop Event Space, on the third level of the Seehorn building right off Lincoln Street, is booking a wide range of events from Beer & Yoga Nights to wedding receptions to corporate retreats. The space can accommodate up to 150 people, includes a bridal suite and a patio, and offers a unique view of the plant’s smokestacks and the Spokane skyline.
“What I’m most excited about,” says John Lockhart, Steam Plant general manager, “is not only the amazing space this renovation has created, but also the energy of our staff. They come to work every day ready to deliver hospitality in a way Spokane hasn’t seen before. They’re genuinely committed to earning that ‘Wow’ reaction from every one of our guests.” John, who joined the Steam Plant team in July, has more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, primarily in the Chicago and Seattle markets. He’s operated restaurants in the Spokane area for the last 10 years.
Bold Flavors, Regional Favorites
The enlarged kitchen includes a wood-fired pizza oven, rotisserie, char-broiler and smoker. The menu has been completely recreated with a focus on handcrafted, authentic foods. Specialties include house-smoked salmon carbonara, a rotisserie porchetta sandwich and a “wood-kissed Caesar” with grilled romaine, along with generous-pour signature cocktails and a regional wine list.
“There’s something special happening here at the Steam Plant,” says Executive Chef Paul Taylor. “During my almost 30 years in the industry, I’ve been a part of some truly great kitchens, but nothing is quite as unique as this space.” Paul, who trained at Northwest Culinary Institute, has worked at several restaurants in Oregon and Washington, including Hall Street Grill in the Portland area and with Bon Appetit and their “farm to fork” program at Evergreen State College.
Meanwhile, the brewery continues to create craft brews on site. In addition to a variety of permanent taps and inventive seasonals, they offer barrel-aged limited release brews and are finding new ways to use their creations in the kitchen’s recipes for a twist on traditional favorites. New space, new menu items and a rotating selection of handcrafted brews: The Steam Plant’s transformation will definitely keep you coming back for more.
Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery
Downtown
159 S. Lincoln St.
509.777.3900
