When most of the students have gone home and the pace of life slows down, we know summer has hit Moscow. This means more time for eating with friends in the sunshine and less time spent waiting in line outside.
Summer in Moscow really means more time to eat.
With so many local joints to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which eatery around town is the best to soak up some sunshine while dining with friends.
For those new to the fun that is summer in Moscow and for all those who have been around to know, here is a list of the best eateries — with great food and a fun outside atmosphere — around town to enjoy this summer.
Nectar Restaurant & Wine
Nectar, known for its wine selection and killer meatloaf, should be on your radar this summer.
With a newer, extended patio section to dine in, Nectar now has an even more expansive view of downtown Moscow.
Nectar is perfect for a special occasion or a night when you want to spend a little more to get a whole lot more.
Price: $$$
Appetizer: Charcuterie. An array of meats, olives and baguette.
Meal: Grilled meatloaf. Wrapped in bacon and served with carrots and mashed potatoes.
Drink: Any seasonal cocktail.
Moscow Alehouse
The big red restaurant where the smell of fried-to-perfection food wafts out onto the street is none other than the famous (on the Palouse) Alehouse.
Big, bright umbrellas line the outdoor patio at Alehouse, making for a perfect burger and fry-filled afternoon in the shade. With daily specials and events, the patio deck at Alehouse is always bustling with laughter, good food and beer selection.
A fun atmosphere and well-priced food always makes for a good summer dining experience.
Price: $
Appetizer: Beer battered onion rings.
Meal: Mushroom swiss classic. This burger, filled with flavor and vegetarian, is perfect for any savory craving.
Drink: A colorful Delrailer or huckleberry cider
Tapped – Taphouse & Kitchen
With 25 regional craft beers and a rotating seasonal menu, Tapped shows what it means to buy and eat local.
Located on the center stretch of MainStreet, Tapped features a small outdoor space decked out with lights and a view of downtown.
True to the Moscow aesthetic, Tapped is cozy with a hint of modernity. The best way to spend an evening at Tapped is to gather some friends and try every appetizer on the menu.
Price: $$
Appetizer: Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped dates.
Meal: Fish and chips. A gastropub isn’t a gastropub without a good basket of fish and chips.
Drink: Trail Beer, from 10 Barrel.
La Casa Lopez
La Casa Lopez might always be a standard spot throughout the year, but the downtown views from the restaurant’s patio while sipping a margarita make this spot one of the best places to be this summer.
This Moscow hotspot is always bustling, but summer always helps keep the line moving.
A plethora of options for appetizers, food and drinks for both carnivores and vegetarians, La Casa Lopez is a one-stop-shop for all things flavorful.
Price: $$
Appetizer: Chili con queso. Add to your chips and salsa with the perfect side of queso.
Meal: Veggie Burrito — perfectly grilled vegetables smothered in Casa’s signature enchilada sauce. Tacos de carne asada — three tacos topped with fresh veggies and served with rice and beans.
Drink: The house margarita.
Maialina Pizzeria Napoletana
No matter the season, Maialina always has a crowd lined up or sitting outside on its spacious patio dressed with twinkle lights.
Located at the corner of 6th and Main Street, Maialina has one of the best views in town.
Packed with flavor, the restaurant’s menu has a robust selection of fresh Italian food and drink.
Price: $$
Appetizer: Meat, olive and cheese plate — a fresh and local start to your meal.
Meal: The classic Parma pizza — rustic and vibrant.
Drink: Any of the countless wines paired with your meal by the restaurant’s knowledgeable waitstaff.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @Hailey_ann97