Restaurant Review: Panhandler Pies

While my husband recovers from rotator cuff surgery, I've been thinking up small expeditions to give him something new to think about. Earlier this week, we drove to Sandpoint, Idaho. I had three errands to do there, and lunch became (inevitably) part of the day's adventure. Having heard good things about Panhandler Pies, I decided we should give it a try.

The outside is rather ordinary, just wood siding and a red metal roof and red awning. But good restaurants, I've learned, don't always look impressive from the street.

The booths inside were roomy enough, and lent some privacy to one's dinner. However, we were not there at peak mealtime, so the place was not crowded, as you can see.

Our beverages were served in mugs made to look like canning jars, adding a quaint touch and fitting in with the country decor.

This plaque caught my eye.

My husband ordered the Panhandler Club sandwich with fries. I had the lunch special: hot pastrami half sandwich, cup of broccoli cheddar soup, and a slice of fresh strawberry pie with homemade whipped cream. I was very hungry, so there is a distinct lack of food photos today! It's really too bad, because that was the best strawberry pie I have ever eaten, including the ones I've made, myself, with strawberries from our own garden, and it looked spectacular as well. I'll just have to go back there some day and remember to take a picture next time.

The light was a little funky over by the list of pie flavors, but I am going to include the photo, anyway. Mince pie and pumpkin pie are offered seasonally, and lemon meringue pie can be special ordered. I can wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant, and plan to go back again, soon!

All photos taken on my Android phone.