Dining with a foreign flair
By Jillian Chandler
“Give them good food, good service and good prices, and they will come back again and again!”
It was a quarter century ago that Raci Erdem, a native of Turkey, first brought the flavors of the Mediterranean to North Idaho. And the delicious aromas and flavors have continued to keep the seats filled and diners smiling at The White House Grill in Post Falls. Here, in addition to the delicious cuisine, patrons will enjoy a comfortable and relaxed family friendly environment, where all ages are invited to take a seat at this fun and noisy restaurant, where Mediterranean music fills the air—as does the aroma of garlic.
The menu features seafood, vegetables, pasta and lamb dishes, and is complemented by a full bar showcasing handcrafted cocktails, 12 beers on tap, an extensive wine list and a beautiful scotch list—hand selected by Chef Raci himself.
More than a decade later, with one successful restaurant under his belt, Raci opened the doors to The Oval Office Bistro & Martini Bar. Located just down the street from The White House, here diners would be treated to an American bistro with a foreigner flare while still offering delicious cuisine and an exceptional experience. At this cozy, romantic small-seat eatery, patrons can appreciate a world of flavors with the small-plate and entrée offerings.
A full bar highlights great beer, wine and specialty cocktails, with a martini list featuring politically inspired specialty martinis—from The Border Patrol and Fake News to the New Yorker, and the U.S. Mint makes for the perfect post-dinner dessert cocktail. There’s something on the menu for anyone looking for a good martini—and a good time! Known for its happiest of happy hours in the Northwest, offered twice daily, enjoy all martinis and appetizers at a fraction of the price! The community fireplace on the large outside patio can seat 12 around it, and the European-style awning allows patio dining year-round! It’s the perfect outdoor spot to sit back and take in the warmth on a summer’s day or evening, surrounded by friends with a cocktail in hand and a meal ready to be enjoyed.
“Customer service is our number one priority!” affirms Raci.
The offerings found at The White House and Oval Office won’t be found on any other menu in the area. “I am a lover of restaurants and traveling to different countries, which gives me good, fresh ideas!” smiles Raci. “People who’ve never been to our restaurants should visit us to see how different and tasty our food is!”
Whether you choose to take a seat at The White House Grill or The Oval Office Bistro & Martini Bar in Post Falls, you will be treated to a delightful experience, sure to leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
Both White House Grill and Oval Office are open for lunch, dinner and late-night dining daily starting at 11am. Raci looks forward to guests coming in, not just for the food and drink, but to enjoy the overall experience he and his team have created.
The White House Grill
712 N. Spokane St., Post Falls, ID
208.777.9672
The Oval Office Bistro & Martini Bar
620 N. Spokane St., Post Falls, ID
208.777.2102
