Spokane is Washington’s second-largest city, but due to its small-town feel, it’s easy to forget that. The Lilac City’s dining scene has certainly come a long way in recent years, with restaurant options that feel decidedly more urban. If you were a fan of Santé and its sophisticated space, you’ll be happy to know there’s a new concept there. Gander and Ryegrass is officially open, and it’s a fantastic place to dine.

Gander and Ryegrass is the brand new restaurant located in Spokane’s historic Liberty Building.

Liberty Building Facebook The space is the former home of Sante (and most recently Smoke & Mirrors Saloon, which had the same owner).

The chef behind the restaurant is Peter Froese, who has years of culinary experience in both Spokane and Seattle.

Gander and Ryegrass Restaurant Facebook The former owner, Jeremy Hansen, called Peter to tell him he was leaving town and asked him if he’d like to take over the restaurant. Peter’s answer was, of course, a resounding yes.

Since the kitchen was set up well, Peter had very little work to do - but he did change the dining area and create a new name and menu to fit his vision.

Gander and Ryegrass Instagram The ‘gander’ part of the name refers to the visual appeal of the food, while ryegrass is a nod to the approachable dishes he wants to create.

Gander and Ryegrass officially opened in October and while it wouldn’t be fair to call it an Italian restaurant, the menu is definitely Italian-inspired.

Gander and Ryegrass Instagram Chef Peter spent a lot of time in Florence, where he fell in love with fresh pasta. And the handmade pasta will certainly be a prominent menu item.

But pasta is far from the only thing you’ll find on the menu here.

Gander and Ryegrass Restaurant Facebook You can expect to see plenty of meat and seafood here, with a rotating selection of delicious and creative specials.

The team here is dedicated to sourcing their ingredients responsibly, so you’ll find a lot of local and seasonal items on the menu.

Gander and Ryegrass Restaurant Facebook Needless to say, no matter what you choose to order, you can’t go wrong.

This hot new date night spot is open for dinner Tuesday - Saturday from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Gander and Ryegrass Restaurant Facebook The next time you’re in Spokane and hungry, check it out.

Do you think of Spokane as a fine dining destination? Perhaps you should!

Liberty Building Facebook

The space is the former home of Sante (and most recently Smoke & Mirrors Saloon, which had the same owner).

Gander and Ryegrass Restaurant Facebook

The former owner, Jeremy Hansen, called Peter to tell him he was leaving town and asked him if he’d like to take over the restaurant. Peter’s answer was, of course, a resounding yes.

Gander and Ryegrass Instagram

The ‘gander’ part of the name refers to the visual appeal of the food, while ryegrass is a nod to the approachable dishes he wants to create.

Chef Peter spent a lot of time in Florence, where he fell in love with fresh pasta. And the handmade pasta will certainly be a prominent menu item.

You can expect to see plenty of meat and seafood here, with a rotating selection of delicious and creative specials.

Needless to say, no matter what you choose to order, you can’t go wrong.

The next time you’re in Spokane and hungry, check it out.

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Address: 404 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201, USA