A Homecoming Crash Course

by Aramena Joos

Homecoming planning is tedious at best and nightmare-inducing at worst, so we’ve put together a list of stunning group-photo locations and locally-owned restaurants to ease your Homecoming night worries. Whether this is your first homecoming or your fourth—it never hurts to try something new.

Dining

Sorella: 5pm - 10pm  

• Sultry yet Lively 

• New  

Sorella is a swanky, romantic, and modern American Italian restaurant stationed in the best part of downtown. Surrounded by Riverfront Park, the Podium, and the Flour Mill, this 4.7 star-rated restaurant is a hidden nighttime favorite.

Due to it’s quaint size, I’d recommend requesting a reservation—even if you’re dining with a smaller group. But if you’re looking for a classical Italian menu with a unique, modern twist, Sorella might just be the place for you.

Molé: 12pm - 8:30pm  

• Big Menu 

• Kendall Yards View 

An eccentric addition to Spokane’s restaurant scene, Molé sets out to “honor its rich culinary heritage by implementing the incomparable and striking flavors captured in recipes and techniques handed down from generations of talent.”

Co-owned by an Oaxacan native, Fredy Martinez, this spot sits on the Centennial Trail of Kendall Yards, where you can overlook the river and downtown with a side of chips and salsa. With an enormous menu, there are options for all types of eaters.

Molé boasts a 4.4 star rating and a lively environment capable of accommodating a larger group (with reservations).  

Wooden City: 4pm - 11pm 

• Modern 

• Vibey 

A modern eatery with an urban ambiance and classic plates done-up, Wooden City is among the best on Spokane's restaurant scene. Wooden City has familiar, fan-favorite dishes like burgers and pizzas, as well as fancier mocktails and desserts. Located in the middle of downtown by the historic Spokesman and U.S. Post Office buildings, Wooden City is both practical and stylish. 

Because of the 4.7 star-rated quality, it is recommended you make a reservation ahead of time, but any size group is welcome.

Italia Trattoria: 5pm - 8pm  

• City Staple 

• Posh 

Tucked into the beloved Browne's Addition neighborhood is an equally beloved restaurant, Italia Trattoria. High-end yet familiar Italian dishes are prepared better than any other in Spokane at the Trattoria—at least in my opinion. It is a must for those looking to explore some of Spokane’s best restaurants.

With a peaceful, glowing interior and cozy location, Italia Trattoria is another popular, 4.7 star-rated spot—so a reservation would prove wise.

Wiley's Bistro: 5pm - 8:30pm 

• Upscale 

• Romantic 

This refined bistro is the priciest on this list, but for a justified reason. With expert chefs and great reviews from the Spokesman, their dishes are upscale and classic, but with special twists. The 4.8 star-rated restaurant boasts excellent desserts as well. Nestled in between the shops lining Main Street, Wiley’s is in a prime location close to the dance, various photos ops, and, perhaps most importantly, parking.

This restaurant is not as busy as deserved, but reservations are always a safe bet.  

Cochinito: 11:30am - 9pm 

• Cheap 

• Fun 

A Spokane foodie favorite, Cochinitos boasts multiple awards from the Inlander yet still maintains a budget-friendly and casual environment. It’s almost too easy to grab a couple of tacos, maybe a Jarritos or horchata, and hang out in this funky little taco spot. No reservations are required, but be prepared to wait, as this 4.5 star-rated restaurant fills up quick since it lies in a high volume location in the heart of downtown.

Photo Ops  

Edwidge Woldson 

• Antique 

• Quiet 

Settled under “The View”, Edwidge Woldson is an overlooked and historic park with beautiful gardens, century-old staircases, and a priceless view of downtown. Neighboring structures once served as an all-girls high school, but now holds offices in an aesthetically pleasing, Tudor-style building surrounded by lush plants and natural lighting.  

Wonder Building Parking Garage 

• Urban 

• Lighting 

Next to the newly refurbished Wonder Building Food Hall (which has its own burgers, tacos, desserts and games) is a five-story garage. While a cement parking garage doesn’t sound exciting, the view at the top is wonderful. Overlooking downtown to the South and Riverfront Park to the East, the top level of the garage is an open space with simple colors that will make you pop—great for photoshoots (especially during sunset!)

Atticus/Mizuna Walkway 

• Cozy 

• Good Location 

While the adjacent restaurant, Mizuna, failed to make my dinner list due to cost, the adjacent hidden pathway is free of charge. Connected to the building that contains the iconic Atticus and Boo Radley’s hang strands of soft outdoor lights, strung above a classic brick walkway. This walkway is ideal for soft, rustic photos.  

Huntington Park 

• Natural 

• Unique 

Situated downriver from Riverfront is a freshly renovated yet under appreciated park with intricate metal works, vibrant grass, and most importantly, an astonishing view of the river. To the left is the Monroe Street bridge, with its famous architecture. This location shoulders a more industrial vibe, but is an ode to our hometown.