Blackboard Cafe — Restaurant in Wallace

My husband and I were invited out to eat at this restaurant by our pastor one day. I'm Italian so naturally I love Italian food. This place has amazing Italian food, very tasty and good. So on Valentines day 2/14/19 I thought it would be great to go there for a special dinner with my husband. I called at exactly 11:00 am when they opened their restaurant to make a reservation for Valentines day night. We got the last reservation for 7:30 pm. (They close at 8:00) So my husband and I got there a couple minutes early and went inside, we were told our table was still being occupied by another customer but that it should only be another 10 minutes. I told them we would go wait out in our car for 10 minutes and come back. So at 7:40 I actually called, just to make sure the table was ready since they said 10 minutes. I was told over the phone ohhhh the table is free we just have to clean it, so give us 5 minutes and come in. So 5 minutes pass, my husband and I go in at 7:45. Our table was still occupied by people, the reason we knew that is because every table there had somebody sitting at it, there wasn't a single table empty! The lady came up and apologized and said to give her a few more moments. The restaurant is pretty small inside, if I had to guess it could only seat maybe 15-20 people. So standing waiting wasn't ideal because of how crammed it was. I told my husband they close at 8:00 and it was already getting close to 7:50 so we both agreed to just leave and go eat somewhere else. Horrible, horrible!! Not only did I call way in advance for the reservation but it was Valentines day, a special day my husband and I wanted to go out together and eat a nice meal and this is how everything turned out. I'm very disappointed that we had wasted so much time waiting only to be told several times it would only be a few more minutes. We do not normally eat dinner that late 7:30 was already a little late, but because that was the last reservation they had open of course I took it. By the time we got to another restaurant that night after we left, and they made our food and got it to us it was nearly 8:30. Very disappointed with...

I am old enough to remember the last stoplight on Interstate 90 being sunsetted in Wallace, Idaho.  Besides shaking my 10 year old fist in frustration as we drove by because I could no longer talk my parents into stopping for ice cream there with the light gone, I have only happened to drop in to Wallace in my adult life a few times for an emergency gallon of gas until I could make it to Post Falls.

Now, I drive through Wallace to go to other places and do different things than the little berg has to offer.  Yesterday was not one of those occasions, and my passing through is not to hike or ski or visit family but to see a medical specialist in Spokane because I am struggling with serious illness. We stopped because we were tired, and that's frankly the only reason. The Blackboard Cafe looked inviting so we ducked in.

One of the consequences of this ailment is that I cannot taste food or sometimes even smell it.  For me, this is by definition torture. I am by all standards a dedicated foodie, so this experience is beyond awful and depressing.

Last night, for the first time in 6 months, I was able to smell, taste, and truly enjoy the best chicken alfredo I have ever had in my life at the Blackboard Cafe.  I have no words for how special this was for me.   Saying, umm, oooo, ahhh, to a hearty and rustic plate of pasta is truly magic.  Followed up with a delectable slice of carrott cake and ginger peach tea served in dainty china tea cups, that took the cake!

I am grateful to the owners, chefs, and staff at the Blackboard Cafe for understanding the role that a comforting meal plays in our life. Whether is for romance, or enterainment, and even how food can heal us even if it's only for an evening.

Served in an eclectic building with a well curated used book store next door and outdoor store selling gear that looks as good for lounging as it does for rafting the Clark Fork, what more can I say.

Oh I had the claims too, to die for.  And yes, I will be back in Wallace more often going forward but it won't be so I can get enough fuel to crawl to Love's in Post Falls or get questionable soft service at a...

Nestled in the heart of the charming mountain town of Wallace, The Blackboard Café is an absolute treasure. This locally owned and operated gem offers a thoughtfully crafted, from-scratch menu that showcases the passion and dedication of its culinary team. Every dish we experienced was a testament to their commitment to quality, flavor, and presentation.

We started with the ahi appetizer, and from the very first bite, it was clear we were in for something special. Perfectly seared, the ahi was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a depth of flavor that was beautifully complemented by the accompanying sauce and seasoning.

Next, the Caprese salad arrived, and it was nothing short of perfection. The heirloom tomatoes were at peak ripeness, bursting with sweetness and acidity, while the fresh mozzarella was silky and delicate. A drizzle of balsamic reduction tied everything together, enhancing the natural flavors of this simple yet elegant dish.

The ribeye sandwich was an absolute standout. The steak was cooked to perfection—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned—stacked on a beautifully toasted bun with just the right balance of toppings. Every bite was rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

And then came dessert. The moment these decadent creations hit the table, they were devoured. Every bite was pure indulgence, from rich chocolate to delicate pastry, and it was clear that as much care and craftsmanship went into these sweet treats as into the rest of the menu.

Beyond the exceptional food, the warm and welcoming ambiance of The Blackboard Café makes it a must-visit. The cozy mountain-town setting, the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the dedication to scratch-made cuisine all combine to create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one spot you won’t...