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Wooden City Spokane

About

Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of modern comfort and culinary discovery at Wooden City—a stylish restaurant and bar that has become a true highlight of downtown Spokane. This establishment specializes in New American cuisine, offering guests a perfect balance of sophistication and accessibility. The restaurant occupies space in the historic Genesee Building, which adds a special charm and depth to its modern interior.

Wooden City. Source: Kupi.com AI

The heart of the kitchen is a wood-fired oven, where the menu’s main hits are born—from aromatic pizzas to succulent meats and vegetables. In the USA, the gastropub culture is highly developed, and Wooden City is a worthy representative of this trend, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and authentic cooking methods. It is a place where elegant design meets the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere of a big city.

The venue attracts both craft cocktail enthusiasts and lovers of quality food, offering a casual upscale experience—where high-level service and cuisine are paired with a relaxed setting. High ratings and a steady stream of guests confirm that this restaurant has become a key destination for tourists and residents of Washington state alike.

Contacts

For more details, table reservations, or to view the current menu, you can use the following information:

Address 821 W Riverside Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, USA
Phone +1 509-822-7194
Official Website woodencityspokane.com
Instagram @woodencityspokane

What to Do

The main reason to visit is the chance to watch the chefs at work by the open wood-fired oven. You can enjoy the process of your pizza or signature appetizers being prepared, such as the Hungarian wax peppers or the famous salmon toast. Be sure to try dishes from the seasonal menu: fresh pasta, roasted chicken, or exquisite small plates that are perfect for sharing with friends.

For lovers of fine drinks, the restaurant offers an extensive craft cocktail list and local beers. It is an excellent spot for happy hour, a romantic date, or a fun night out. The atmosphere here is always lively and energetic, making Wooden City a great choice for both a celebratory dinner and a relaxed conclusion to a busy day in Spokane.

Don't forget to book a table in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a Friday or Saturday. The place is so popular that tables fill up quickly, and the chance to spend an evening in such a stylish and "delicious" setting is well worth the advance planning.

Getting There

Finding this popular spot is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 821 W Riverside Ave. The restaurant is within walking distance of many downtown hotels, for example, just a few minutes' walk from Hotel Indigo. If you are strolling along the Spokane River waterfront or exploring downtown attractions, a walk to the restaurant will be a pleasant addition to your itinerary.

For those who prefer public transport, major city bus routes stop nearby on Riverside Ave. If you are arriving by car, street parking is available around the Genesee Building, and the drive from Spokane International Airport (GEG) takes about 15–20 minutes. In the evening, for maximum comfort, it is most convenient to use a taxi or popular services like Uber and Lyft.

History & Facts

The name of the establishment is rooted in the history of the neighboring city of Tacoma, which was once nicknamed "the wooden city" due to its role as a major logging hub. It was there that the founders—Jon Green, Abe Fox, and Eddie Galberg—opened their first successful project before bringing the proven concept to Spokane.

The Spokane branch opened in the challenging year of 2020. The team chose to house the restaurant in the historic Genesee Building, preserving its architectural charm. The space was carefully transformed to create the atmosphere of a modern urban pub that still feels like a welcoming neighborhood local.

From the moment it opened, the restaurant became a symbol of the downtown culinary revival. Combining high kitchen standards—brought by Chef Jon Green from Seattle and Tacoma—with an approachable format, the establishment quickly earned critical acclaim and the love of locals, turning it into one of the premier culinary destinations on the Washington state map.

Time Needed

When planning your visit, you should allow approximately 1.5–2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy the main courses prepared in the wood-fired oven and appreciate the skill of the local bartenders.

If your goal is a full evening with friends, tasting several types of appetizers and desserts, or if you visit during the popular happy hour, your stay might extend to 3 hours. On weekends, when the room is filled with a lively atmosphere, guests often linger longer to soak in the unique vibe of the place.

Working Hours

The restaurant opens its doors daily in the late afternoon, making it an ideal spot for evening relaxation. From Monday to Thursday, as well as on Sunday, the establishment is open from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM. On Friday and Saturday, hours are extended until 10:00 PM so guests can fully enjoy their weekend.

As the schedule may change on holidays, it is recommended to check the official website or call to confirm before your visit.

Nearby

Its downtown location makes this spot an ideal starting point for further exploration of the region's culture and history. After a satisfying dinner, you can take a stroll to see architectural landmarks or visit entertainment venues located just around the corner.

The surrounding area offers a mix of vintage theaters, aquariums, and scenic parks that allow you to fully experience the rhythm of Spokane life.

Name Type Distance (km)
The Fox Theater Theater 0.2
The Big Dipper Concert Venue 0.6
The United States Pavilion, Expo '74 Historical Landmark 0.7
Woman's Club of Spokane Club/Center 1.3
Checkerboard Pub Pub 3
Greenwood Memorial Terrace Memorial Complex 3.1
Blue Zoo Aquarium Spokane Aquarium 5.2

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