The Bank Left Gallery, located in an old bank building on the bank of the Palouse River, showcases not only an array of regional artists' works, but also features creative food offerings at the attached Bistro. Since 2005, owners Pamela and Nelson Duran have curated both the menu and the art at their location in Palouse, Washington, about an hour's drive south of Spokane.
"One of the things [Nelson] wanted was for art to become accessible to people," says Pamela. "He didn't want a gallery where things were so expensive or so over the top that they were unattainable for anybody who comes in."
Nelson, who grew up in Honduras, has traveled around the world, picking up techniques, recipes and new ingredients for use at the Bistro, which is currently only open on Saturdays or for special events. "He does all the cooking and baking, and he has a focus on international food, mostly French — he loves to do French foods — but he also does other international foods," says Pamela.
Nelson sends out a menu ahead of time and can accommodate anyone with dietary restraints or allergies.
When the couple opened the gallery, Pamela says Nelson wanted to empower local artists.
"He wanted them to think, 'I'm an artist, and I have beautiful work, and I want to share it with the world, I want people to love it and buy it.'" Pamela says. "A lot of people think you shouldn't go into art because it's not a good business to go into, but [Nelson] totally doesn't think that way. He wants his artists to be successful, and so he really pushes that. [He] really wants it to be a good place for all of his artists and for the people who come here."
More to Check Out
BOTTLES
3223 N. Argonne Rd., Millwood
Originally opening in 2008, Bottles carries a variety of unique beers and wines for all different palates. "We work really hard to curate a selection of wine and beer and a few small options that are nonalcoholic and cider," says co-owner Mara Johnsen, noting there's a small bar as well. "Everything is hand chosen — we taste the wines, we taste the beers, we go through, and we pick them based on quality and having an option for everybody." Bottles is a 21+ store, but there's a dog friendly patio for guests to enjoy during the summer.
ANDERSON & CO.
814 W. Main Ave. #111
In need of classy menswear for an upcoming event, a business casual look for work or just for an elegant night out? Look no further than Anderson & Co., a locally owned men's clothing store dedicated to providing great quality pieces for any occasion. A vast selection of shirts, jackets, and suits in brands such as Canali, Robert Talbott, Dion, and Remy Leather, just to name a few, offer options for any occasion. Located on the street level at River Park Square, Anderson & Co. is an easily accessible spot to shop for a gift or spruce up your own closet.
FIGPICKELS
210 E. Sherman Ave. Ste. 103, Coeur d'Alene
Whether you're gift shopping or just roaming around downtown Coeur d'Alene, consider popping in to Figpickels. The toy emporium, which opened 20 years ago, is full of fun, unique and classic toys and puzzles perfect for kids (and shoppers of all ages). If you're looking for stuffed animals, a new puzzle, trading cards, board games or knick-knacks, or for fun little toys to add to an adult gift, you're likely to find something fitting inside this enchanting toy shop.
