Still buzzing

“I feel emotional about being here for 25 years, and wanted to do something fun,” says Merrilee Lindaman. After a seven-year hiatus, she has decided to open LINDAMAN’S for morning coffee.

After swearing she’d never do breakfast again, Lindaman has learned never to say never. She was swayed by feedback from customers, including a Facebook group started by regular customer Ben Tobin and friend David Blaine, chef at Latah Bistro, along with encouragement from her baristas.

“It’s a whole different animal this time,” Lindaman says, with breakfast items that are “quick and dirty, high-protein,” including smoothies, granola and daily breads. With Doma coffee on tap and baristas who’ve been behind the bar at Lindaman’s for 10 to 20 years, the morning focus is on coffee.

When they first opened in 1984, Spokane had two espresso machines, Lindaman’s being one. “It’s been fun and educational to watch the business grow,” Lindaman says. “We’re thinking about adding a brew bar, so customers can try different varieties of coffee.”

On a recent sunny morning, the outdoor patio was the perfect spot for people watching with a slice of apple-walnut bread ($2) and a cup of Doma organic Mexican. If you want something stronger, try Napoleon’s Last Request — a double espresso with triple sec ($4). With free wi-fi, you can play hooky from the office and not even feel guilty.

While coffee lovers are rejoicing at the new morning hours, don’t forget about the tempting gourmet fare. Pot pies, King Ranch chicken, and Nanaimo bars have been staples over the years. “I’ve tried to change the menu, but customers won’t let me,” says Lindaman of the long-time favorite dishes.

Lindaman’s serves cocktails also. You might just want to order a basil-lime gimlet (with Dry Fly vodka) to savor with your wild salmon cakes.

Like an old friend I’d lost touch with, Lindaman’s had fallen off my radar. Early morning coffee, curried chicken salad for lunch and a mojito on the patio are calling me back. — KIRSTEN HARRINGTON

Lindaman’s, 1235 S. Grand Blvd., is open Mon-Fri 7 am-9 pm and Sat 11 am-9 pm. Call 838-3000.