The Gorgeous Riverfront Steakhhouse In Washington With Views As Good As The Food

Have you ever heard of the saying that people eat with their eyes? We usually apply this truism to the kitchen's presentation of a dish, but I think it's equally applicable to a restaurant's view. Clinkerdagger, a steakhouse in Spokane, became a regional institution by making the most of its jaw-dropping water views. But don't sleep on the food, either.

Perched on the bank of the Spokane River, Clinkerdagger offers some of the best views of any restaurant in the city. Outside, you are so close that you can hear the sound of the river's waterfalls from your table, creating an unparalleled dining atmosphere.

It's no surprise that its location alone has attracted diners since it first debuted in 1974. In the half-century since, this upscale steakhouse has earned its place again and again as one of Spokane's best restaurants.

Clinkerdagger owes much of its success to its kitchen, which doesn't twist itself in knots to keep up with an ever-evolving culinary scene. Instead, long-time employees like General Manager Debi Moon cultivate a sense of continuity. Clinkerdagger is classic, sticking to what is tried and true. Daily specials are the only forays into the unexpected. Besides that, you can expect to find the menu similar to how it might've looked 25 years ago.

Given this sense of tradition, it follows that Clinkerdagger's best-selling entrée continues to be steak. Steak seems relatively impervious to food trends, likely because there are only so many ways that you can cook a good one. And rest assured, the steaks at Clinkerdagger are very, very good.

If you can, I recommend reserving a table outdoors where you can appreciate the full splendor of the Spokane River from the cozy balcony.

Still, Clinkerdagger's interiors are also fabulous. Its dark wood tones capture the essence of a smoke-filled cigar room without the smell, a masterclass in masculine elegance.

When the weather is more foul than fair, it's also possible to nab a seat along the window, giving diners the best of both worlds.

Few restaurants deliver as much legacy as this steakhouse in Spokane. Clinkerdagger serves food that's on par with its views, which is saying something given the building's outlook over the gorgeous Spokane River.

If you're visiting from out of town, I can't recommend this local institution highly enough. It's easy to see why it has lasted 50 years and easy to imagine it lasting 50 years more.