The Bluebird, a midtown eatery, opened its doors a little more than six months ago, yet it is already gaining a large following that is bound to grow. The owners of Syringa Japanese Café and Sushi Bar, and former owners of the Garnet Café, have delivered a casual neighborhood bistro-style restaurant offering a cozy rustic interior, with reclaimed warm rustic wood and metal, with vintage pictures adorning the walls. It can seat 42 patrons and an additional 10 at the bar. During the summer months, diners can enjoy the outdoor patio, which seats more than a dozen.
Husband-and-wife team Viljo and Autumn Basso knew they wanted to open another restaurant, and when it came to location, there was no question that midtown was the place for them. “We have always been attracted to the area,” says Autumn. “We love the neighborhood with its fun eclectic shops and various thrift stores all around us, plus the neighboring local restaurants like Capone’s, Angelo’s and Kelly’s. It seemed like a perfect fit.”
The menu has been inspired by the couple’s 20 years of culinary travels and adventures. Seasonal as much as possible, the menu items change frequently with specials offered weekly, allowing diners to try something new each time they visit. The big hit thus far has been the wild parmesan-crusted halibut with ratatouille.
To accompany the deliciously unique menu, Krista French, The Bluebird’s sommelier, has put together an outstanding wine list with amazing selections from all over the world. Combined with the talents of beer program manager Loren Kelly, who has compiled and continues to bring in a great selection of beers, ciders and sours, guests can’t go wrong with their selection.
The Bluebird has found its home. And the neighborhood has welcomed it with open arms. “Our goal was to open the kind of restaurant we like to dine at and bring more dining variety to Coeur d’Alene,” says Autumn. And guests are eating it up.
The Bluebird
Midtown Coeur d’Alene
816 N. Fourth St.
208.665.3777