The Onion North Spokane: Restaurant Guide & Essentials

The Onion North Spokane: Restaurant Guide & Essentials
The Onion is a well-established American restaurant located at 9006 N Division St, Spokane, WA 99218, operating since 2001 as a popular dining destination in North Spokane known for its craft cocktails, locally-sourced menu, and distinctive atmosphere.

When searching for the onion north spokane, you're likely looking for concrete information about this beloved local establishment—not the satirical news organization. This comprehensive guide delivers everything you need to know before visiting, from practical logistics to insider tips that enhance your dining experience.

Understanding The Onion's Place in Spokane's Culinary Landscape

Despite sharing a name with the famous satirical publication, The Onion restaurant has been an independent fixture in North Spokane's dining scene since its founding. Located in the bustling North Division Street corridor, this establishment has cultivated a loyal following through consistent quality and community engagement.

Establishment Milestone Year Significance
Original Opening 2001 Launched as a neighborhood bistro with Pacific Northwest influences
Major Renovation 2010 Expanded seating and updated kitchen facilities
Menu Overhaul 2015 Shift toward hyper-local sourcing with regional farmers
Recent Recognition 2023 Voted "Best Craft Cocktails" by Spokane Restaurant Week

Planning Your Visit: Essential Logistics

Before heading to North Spokane, understand these practical details that impact your experience:

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 9006 N Division St, The Onion occupies a prominent position in Spokane's thriving commercial corridor. The restaurant offers dedicated parking directly adjacent to the establishment, with additional street parking available. For those using public transportation, STA Bus Route 6 stops within 100 feet of the entrance, providing regular service from downtown Spokane.

Operating Hours and Reservations

The restaurant maintains consistent hours that accommodate various schedules:

  • Monday-Thursday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday-Saturday: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM (brunch), 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Reservations are recommended for parties of six or more and can be made through their website or by calling (509) 467-5800. The restaurant maintains a 15-minute grace period for reserved tables.

What to Expect During Your Dining Experience

Understanding the restaurant's offerings helps set appropriate expectations for your visit.

Menu Philosophy and Signature Offerings

The Onion distinguishes itself through a commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Approximately 75% of their produce comes from within 50 miles of Spokane, with partnerships established with regional farms like Harmony Farms and Palouse Heritage Grains.

The Onion restaurant exterior with distinctive signage

Notable menu categories include:

  • Northwest Classics: Elevated regional dishes featuring ingredients from local producers
  • Craft Cocktails: Signature drinks using house-made syrups and regional spirits
  • Seasonal Specials: Menu items changing bi-weekly based on ingredient availability

Atmosphere and Service Style

The restaurant blends casual comfort with sophisticated touches, featuring:

  • Warm, rustic interior with reclaimed wood elements
  • Multiple seating options including bar seating, traditional tables, and semi-private booths
  • Professional yet approachable service staff trained in food and wine pairings

Contextual Considerations for Visitors

Understanding these boundaries enhances your experience:

  • The Onion is not affiliated with The Onion satirical news organization
  • While welcoming to families, the restaurant caters primarily to adults with sophisticated palates
  • Menu pricing falls in the moderate-to-upscale range ($18-$32 for entrees)
  • Reservations essential during Spokane's festival season (June-August)

Visitor Insights: Maximizing Your Experience

Based on aggregated visitor feedback from Spokane County tourism data, certain patterns emerge that can enhance your visit:

Optimal Timing: Weekday evenings between 5:00-6:30 PM offer the most relaxed experience, while weekend brunch consistently receives highest satisfaction ratings according to Spokane County Tourism Department's 2023 Dining Report.

Signature Dishes: Regular patrons consistently recommend the rotating seasonal specials, particularly the Palouse grain bowls during summer months and the braised short ribs during winter.

Community Integration: The restaurant participates in Spokane Restaurant Week each August and partners with local arts organizations for monthly featured artist displays.

Lisa Chang

Lisa Chang

A well-traveled food writer who has spent the last eight years documenting authentic spice usage in regional cuisines worldwide. Lisa's unique approach combines culinary with hands-on cooking experience, revealing how spices reflect cultural identity across different societies. Lisa excels at helping home cooks understand the cultural context of spices while providing practical techniques for authentic flavor recreation.