Steam Plant - Image 1
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Steam Plant

4.4
·2k reviews·Spokane, United States

Dine and drink amidst the impressive machinery of a historic steam-generating plant, offering a unique industrial ambiance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Steam Plant - Image 1

Steam Plant

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine and drink amidst the impressive machinery of a historic steam-generating plant, offering a unique industrial ambiance.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"This place is crazy cool. How they left the bones of the steamplant inside and made it into a bar was really neat to look at."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Ambiance

Don't forget your camera! The industrial setting is incredibly photogenic.

🍺 Try the Local Brews

The on-site brewery offers unique craft beers worth sampling.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Industrial Interior

Historic Industrial Interior

Main dining area and bar

Marvel at the preserved steam turbines and industrial architecture, a stunning backdrop for your dining experience.

Craft Beer Selection

Craft Beer Selection

Bar area

Sample unique brews from the on-site brewery, perfectly complementing the hearty menu options.

Signature Burgers & Steaks

Signature Burgers & Steaks

Dining tables

Indulge in well-prepared burgers and steaks, often cited as highlights by satisfied diners.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Industrial Ambiance

The Steam Plant's unique setting in a historic power facility is its main draw. Expect exposed brick, industrial machinery, and a truly memorable atmosphere. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience.

Kitchen Consistency Can Vary

While the ambiance is consistently praised, some diners report inconsistencies with food quality and preparation. It's wise to manage expectations and perhaps stick to well-executed dishes like burgers or prime rib.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, great for groups
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This was kind of scary#fire #firealert #foryou #foryoupage #steamplant #fishing #kayaking #kayakfishing #scary #scarywarning
@kayaking.world.02
93.4K likes • 1.4M views

📸 Capture the Ambiance

Don't forget your camera! The industrial setting is incredibly photogenic. Instagram+1

🍺 Try the Local Brews

The on-site brewery offers unique craft beers worth sampling. Reddit

Exploring the Abandoned Ford Steam Plant in St. Paul, MN! 😳 #reels
free4allll
10K likes • 141.4K views
Opened in 1906, the Georgetown Steam Plant once powered Seattle’s electric streetcars and early industrial growth. At the time, it was a cutting-edge facility and one of the first in the U.S. to use steam turbines for electricity generation. Its monumental concrete structure and General Electric turbine units marked a turning point in engineering history. Though decommissioned in the 1970s, the ...
jay_casteel
32 likes • 502 views

🍽️ Consider Kitchen Favorites

Burgers and prime rib are frequently praised; consider these for a more consistent meal. Reddit

📅 Book Ahead for Events

The Steam Plant hosts events; check their schedule and book tickets early. Instagram

Warning: Our new menu may cause cravings. 🔥Come find your new guilty pleasure at the Steam Plant! 🍽️ What are you trying first? #Spokane #restaurant #newmenu #foodiefavorites
steamplantspokane
27 likes • 899 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Ambiance

Don't forget your camera! The industrial setting is incredibly photogenic. Instagram+1

🍺 Try the Local Brews

The on-site brewery offers unique craft beers worth sampling. Reddit

🍽️ Consider Kitchen Favorites

Burgers and prime rib are frequently praised; consider these for a more consistent meal. Reddit

📅 Book Ahead for Events

The Steam Plant hosts events; check their schedule and book tickets early. Instagram

⚠️ Be Aware of Food Prep

Some reviews mention kitchen inconsistencies; communicate your order preferences clearly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Steam Plant impresses with its incredibly unique and memorable industrial ambiance, making it a visually stunning destination. While the atmosphere and service often receive high praise, some diners have noted inconsistencies in food quality and preparation. Despite these occasional culinary drawbacks, many still find the overall experience enjoyable, especially when focusing on well-regarded dishes and the distinctive setting.

"Great Building, But the Kitchen Missed the Mark

The Steam Plant has a really creative and unique vibe, especially for a restaurant in such an interesting setting — it definitely makes a strong first impression. Unfortunately, the food didn’t live up to it.

My sirloin steak was overcooked to well done instead of medium and was very tough. The mashed potatoes (lumpy) and vegetables were cold and had to be sent back. My wife’s rice and veggies were also cold, and my son’s steak was overcooked as well. His second steak had a large tendon running through it and was inedible.

I ended up switching to the prime rib French dip, which was much better and at least enjoyable. My son ate the other half.

To their credit, they did reduce our bill, which was appreciated. But given we’re visiting from out of the country, we may never be returning — and unfortunately, the food left a disappointing impression. Too many issues in one meal, clearly pointing to problems in the kitchen. With such a great location and concept, we were really hoping for better. Maybe the owner or management will respond to this review and provide some comments?

I’d recommend they listen to this excellent podcast interview:
“Why You Must Become Unreasonable To Be Excellent” with Will Guidara on the Front Row Seat podcast.
It offers powerful insights into hospitality and service that might help turn things around."

Brian Trevelyan

"This place is crazy cool. How they left the bones of the steamplant inside and made it into a bar was really neat to look at. We had a dessert and a couple drinks at the bar. The bartender was so friendly and we just loved this place. The huckleberry cheesecake was absolutely delicious too ❤️"

Ashley Wheeler

"Staying in Spokane for the night. The Steam Plant was.super.close to our stay. We are so glad we gave it a try!. I had the red ale which went perfectly with the Stack Burger. Burger had great flavor!. Not to dry..not over sauced. The onion rings were a nice addition to the burger. The fries are perfect. Beer battered and cooked perfectly.
My girl had the Ribeye. Green beans were super good and the steak had great flavor! Cook as she ordered..nice and juicy. I didn't get to try the mashed potatoes. But the looked good. We shared the ribs for an appetizer. Meat was tender, fall off the bone. Sweet on the front end and the complex flavors show up subtly melting into a good smooth smokey finish. I highly recommend!
Good job guys. I should mention we sat in the bar arwa down stairs. So glad we did.. the decor and the vibe was exactly what we needed getting off the road for the night."

Jono Merritt

What People Like

Unique industrial atmosphere
Historic preserved machinery
Friendly bar service

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food quality
Overcooked or cold dishes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Steam Plant is located in downtown Spokane. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation also serves the downtown area. Reddit

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options available near The Steam Plant. It's recommended to check for availability, especially during peak hours. Reddit

The Steam Plant is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate guests with disabilities. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs. Reddit

If you're staying downtown, walking is a great option to enjoy the city. Ride-sharing services are also readily available and convenient. Reddit

Yes, Spokane's public transit system serves the downtown area, making it possible to reach The Steam Plant via bus. Check the local transit schedules for routes and times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends, to ensure you get a table. You can usually book through their website or by calling. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check The Steam Plant's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on their opening and closing times. Instagram

There is no entry fee to visit The Steam Plant as a restaurant or bar. You only pay for what you order. Reddit

The Steam Plant generally has a casual to smart-casual dress code. While you can dress up, it's not strictly required. Reddit

Yes, The Steam Plant is a popular venue for private events, including parties and corporate gatherings. Inquire directly with their events team for details. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Steam Plant offers a diverse menu featuring American cuisine, with popular items like burgers, steaks, and seafood. They also have an on-site brewery. InstagramReddit

Many visitors rave about the burgers and the prime rib French dip. The huckleberry cheesecake is also a popular dessert choice. Reddit

The menu typically includes some vegetarian options, and it's always a good idea to ask your server about vegan possibilities or modifications. Reddit

Prices are generally mid-range to slightly higher, reflecting the unique atmosphere and quality of ingredients. Expect to pay around $20-$40 for entrees. Reddit

Yes, you can usually find The Steam Plant's menu on their official website or through various online dining platforms. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The industrial architecture and preserved machinery make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

The main dining area with the turbines, the bar area with its unique decor, and the exterior architecture are all great for photos. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically not permitted inside private establishments like restaurants due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid it. TikTok

Yes, taking photos of your food is perfectly acceptable and encouraged, especially if you want to share your dining experience. Instagram

While generally encouraged, be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. Professional shoots may require prior permission. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Steam Plant's unique industrial setting can be fascinating for children, offering a visually stimulating environment beyond just the food. The spacious layout can accommodate families, and the casual atmosphere means kids can feel comfortable. While the menu has items like burgers that appeal to younger palates, it's worth checking for specific kid-friendly options or modifications. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. The novelty of the old machinery might keep younger ones entertained, and the staff are generally accommodating. Sharing larger entrees or appetizers can also be a good strategy for families. Reddit

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate craft beer, The Steam Plant's on-site brewery is a significant draw. They offer a selection of house-brewed ales, with the red ale frequently mentioned as a good pairing for their food. Exploring the brewery's offerings allows you to taste local creations within the unique industrial backdrop. Reddit

Don't hesitate to ask your server or the bartender for recommendations based on your preferences. The brewery aspect adds another layer to the overall experience, making it a great spot for a casual drink or a full meal accompanied by fresh, local brews. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

The Steam Plant is a photographer's dream due to its incredibly unique and visually striking industrial interior. The preserved steam turbines, exposed brick, and vast open spaces provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Reels and TikToks showcasing the venue's architecture are popular. Instagram+1

Focus on capturing the scale of the machinery, the interplay of light and shadow, and the juxtaposition of modern dining with historical industrial elements. The bar area also offers a distinct aesthetic. Remember to be respectful of other patrons while you capture your content. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Ambiance of The Steam Plant

The Steam Plant is renowned for its extraordinary atmosphere, housed within a former steam-generating facility. The owners have masterfully preserved the industrial heritage, leaving much of the original machinery, including massive steam turbines, as striking decorative elements. This creates a truly immersive and unique dining environment that sets it apart from typical restaurants. Exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and the sheer scale of the preserved equipment contribute to a dramatic and memorable setting.

Visitors often describe the ambiance as "crazy cool" and "memorable." The way the space has been transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a vibrant restaurant and bar is a testament to creative design. It’s a place where you can enjoy a meal while surrounded by history and engineering marvels. The lighting and decor are carefully curated to enhance the industrial aesthetic, making it a popular spot for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. InstagramReddit+1

This distinctive setting is a major draw, offering a visual feast that complements the culinary experience. Whether you're seated in the main dining area or at the bar, the industrial bones of the building are always present, providing a constant sense of awe and wonder. It’s an experience that appeals to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a dining venue that’s anything but ordinary.

Navigating the Culinary Experience

The Steam Plant offers a menu that aims to match its impressive surroundings, focusing on American classics with a brewery component. While the ambiance is consistently praised, reviews on food quality can be mixed. Some diners have reported issues with food temperature and preparation, such as overcooked steaks or cold sides. Reddit

However, many patrons have had excellent experiences, particularly with dishes like the "Stack Burger," the prime rib French dip, and well-prepared steaks and ribs. The on-site brewery also receives positive mentions, with specific recommendations for their red ale. Desserts, like the huckleberry cheesecake, are also noted as delicious. Reddit

To maximize your dining satisfaction, it's often advised to lean towards the more straightforward, well-executed dishes that are frequently highlighted in positive reviews. Communicating your preferences clearly to your server and being open to their recommendations can also enhance your meal. Despite occasional kitchen inconsistencies, the overall dining experience, when the food hits the mark, is considered enjoyable and well worth the visit for the unique setting alone. InstagramReddit

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