Really really F U N and great food! The restaurant is an EXPERIENCE and the food is explained by the Chef - GREAT EDUCATION and LOTS of humor. This is a restaurant that should be on your "bucket list" FOR SURE!! Expensive but well worth it! read more

I've heard about Candle in the Woods for years, but had not had the chance to visit until recently. Is it expensive? Yes. But is it worth every dollar of that expense? Also yes. The food? Fantastic. Everything was beyond what i expected. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Such a unique dining experience and something everyone should enjoy at least once.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I don't want to spoil anything else so I'll leave it at that! Go! Enjoy! read more

We took our new neighbors here for dinner during the holidays as a thank you for being awesome. [[HIGHLIGHT]]You guys, this place is a true gem.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My husband and I used to be in fine dining and know the efforts that were made. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The most gorgeous attribute about this dining experience, aside from Chef Connors smile;), is that you get to enjoy the most fantastic creations in a homey and comfortable setting without pretentiousness.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Maddy was an exceptional hostess and server. There was not 1 thing from the 13 courses served that I would skip. Since this destination is in our backyard we will be back for more. This place is not just for foodies. If you aren't one you will be but the time you leave. Enjoy. read more

Candle in the Woods was one of the most amazing dining experiences I have ever had. We went there over the weekend to celebrate our 25th anniversary and Talons 13th birthday, ( had to cancel the original reservation closer to his bday). [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is only one table that seats 12 plus 3 tables of 2, but only the main table of 12 were present on this day.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Reservations only for this experience. They are about 6 months out, but frequently have cancellations so feel free to call! The consumers have no say in the menu except to let your dietary restrictions be known when you reserve a seat. When we walked in, we were handed a delicious sangria, Talons was a mocktail, and asked to go upstairs until a bell was rung signaling dinner was ready. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a cozy game room upstairs which was quite fun. There was pool, fuse-ball, darts and table shuffleboard and some nice places to sit.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Our seats had our names placed on the table.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] There were 11 courses, down from the normal 14 as the food was a bit heavier for St Patrick's Day. They had English, Scottish and Irish themes. As scary as that may sound, all the dishes were amazing. Even the Reuben taco on a flaky homemade tortilla was amazing, and ice cream made with black pepper and liquid nitrogen that Talon got to help make by mixing the ingredients. My favs, although honestly it was hard to pick a favorite, were the Scottish quail egg, the steak, and the amazing chocolate and peanut butter tart. The whole menu is pictured. The entire meal is MC'd by the quite humorous head chef and owner of the restaurant with guest appearances by various chefs who created some of the dishes. Normally, each dish is paired with a wine. But for St Patties each course was paired with beer. I thought it might be a long night as I'm not much of a beer drinker except for wheat and light beers. But every single one, well except one, was good! Not sure if it was the pairing or I've mostly missed out on good beer. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are two recesses where you can go out on the well warmed patio and play giant Jenga or back up to the game room.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The table is reset during this time. Anyway, it's a pretty price-tag so we will go for special occasions only, but it is well worth every penny. Even Talon enjoyed his mocktails and lemonades. He received a lot of attention being the only minor. What a great way to celebrate. read more

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I left with a smile on my face. The courses, both food & wine, were more than enough for me. The food was delicious, I'm not a wine drinker but managed to enjoy myself nonetheless. It was an experience to say the least and all experiences are what you make them to be. I will definitely be coming back and have already told my friends all about it. read more

Candle in the Woods - Lamp Chop - Wine Bars Near Me - Athol, Idaho

2nd time here! This is a must do travel destination! Great staff exciting tastings and fun! Great staff and every detail is thought about. Put it on your bucket list!!!! read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Wonderful atmosphere and even better food.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Felt like a blend of fine dining done in family-style.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Most of the guests sit around one long table together (there are small tables off to the side if you want something a little more private) and over 3ish hours and 12 courses, you make new friends, share stories, and laugh together over delicious food and wine.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a very fun, unique experience![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It's expensive--as the best things are--but absolutely worth it for a special night out! read more

I don't want to spoil anything, so just drop everything and make a reservation like your life depends on it. The most unique dining experience of my life. read more

We travel to Michelin star resturants as a vacation. No we're not food snobs. We're food hobiests. These are places that sometimes take us 12 months till we get a reservation and are on a par price-wise at $400-500 per couple with this place. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Yes, it's an experience in a multi-course tasting menu with great service and ambience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But the food is just not good. Actuall very bad. I guess it used to be great, but the old man is gone, and son took over. He is confused as to what his role is in life. He's a chef, not a mentor. He has 16 year olds concoct bizzare food and he thinks that's cool and edgy and is proud to march them out and show what his teenage kitchen help made. That's sweet of him but not what I agreed to purchase that evening. Half of what I was served (recipes by him) was inedible. Marshmellow fluff on a slice of beef? Oh please. Some of the food was actually gross and a joke. I dont know where these patrons eat who give this top reviews. I guess after spending hundreds per person, they dont want to admit to thier friends they got ripped off. I usually dont give negative reviews and I just choose just not to leave any review, but this is dangerous financial fraud. Just go to Wild Sage or Italia Tratoria for one of the best meals you will have in your life. Lover of this place are in some weird cult you dont want to join. read more

This was absolutely amazing, the chef was witty and very informative about every entrée. 13 in all, each totally different and uniquely delicious. What a treat, 10 stars. read more

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An amazing eclectic experience, reservations 11 months out but got in on a cancelation. Great wines and interesting dishes. Was a bit nervous about being at a giant communal table but was honestly one of the highlights. Will be excited to go back again! read more

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I have to say this was one of the most immersive food experiences I have ever had in my life. I waited far to long to visit Candle in the Woods and we went all in on this moment. A couple old coworkers and I used to share an office space daily and then the pandemic hit and we all went seperate ways but stayed connected. We decided that we would do it big after not seeing each other for 2 years and were certain our next meet up would be as boujee as possible. So we decided on Candle in the Woods and it was absolute perfection. This is a big night full of a grand 14 course dinner that is planned with you to the nines. I was in communication with the manager via phone and all arrangements from what we were interested in doing, limo service, and full communicative instructions were sent. I put on my best outfit and was picked up by a limo and ushered to Athol, ID with my girls. We had champagne in the limo which we simply did not need but it was for a beautiful occasion. You are greeted with the greatest staff and the owner David is with you every step of the way and my gosh is he the funniest character that really is the life of the party the whole night. We tried 14 courses paired with 14 beverages and let me just tell you I ate every bite and drank every drink and it was absolutely amazing. The food was insane. It was so so good that those who crave real flavors and interesting pairings will love this. I am telling you. They even did liquid nitrogen ice cream. You will leave full, and lit and so happy. I cannot wait to take my husband because he is picky but this place takes you right out of your comfort zone and puts a drink in your hand. Everything was a delight to the tastebuds and there is even an intermission with time on the patio. We went out at sunset and again at dusk and the patio is even so gorgeous. We honestly had the most amazing time, I took so many photos and had an absolute blast. This place has not had an open seat in a very long time. Get them reservations and truly take the time to enjoy yourself. I would say that Candle in the Woods is a form of very intentional self care. read more

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A fine dining experience out in the woods of North Idaho! Refreshing experience with limited seating to keep it intimate and comfortable. Reservations Only! We had to reserve 2 seats six months out, that is how popular this place is! Our reservations were confirmed the day before and we were able to request a driver to pick us up & take us home. Imagine our surprise when it was the owner, Dave himself who picked us up! What a great guy and pleasant to speak with. We were greeted with cold sangrias on that hot evening promptly at 6pm. We were directed to the upstairs game room while we waited for all the other guests. There was a pool table, foosball table & shuffleboard table! Dave has a great sense of humor and storytelling talent . He kept us engaged and described all the great food and various wines paired with them. You have 2 breaks between the assortment of tasty foods. We played a fun game of giant Jenga in the back patio and they also have corn hole. Who would have guessed Steak S'mores actually go together?? Playing with nitrogen to make some ice cream was a fun touch! We will definitely be back again! Thanks Dave and all your wonderful, hard working staff! read more

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Unbelievable dining experience. Certainly a bucket list event. We had 13 courses and 12 wines. Amazing food. Impeccable service. Fun to sit with strangers and leave as friends! Go! Just do it! read more

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Went here to celebrate my Grandma's 72nd birthday, and it was an experience like no other! Neither of us are super experienced with wine, and this was an amazing opportunity to learn a lot, and try a lot of new things. The food was amazing, and had a lot of variety. The plates are small, but by the end I was absolutely stuffed. Our favorites were the ravioli, and the ahi poké. The menu changes each night, so I'm super excited to come back, and see what's new! Make sure to make reservations asap, we had to book in February for a June birthday, but it was completely worth it. We're coming back soon to bring someone who's looking for bucket list experiences, and I think it'll be perfectly suited for that. Thank you so much to chef Dave, and the rest of the staff! We're very excited to return :) read more

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One of the top dining experiences of my life. I went for my birthday and they made my night so special!

One of the best food experiences we have ever had! Our 13 course meal was just one amazing event after another. Chef David and his crew kept things going and entertaining. Excellent food and wine pairing. We will definitely be coming back for more. read more

Way over rated. Food was over salted, cold. Chef was very proud that teenaged kitchen staff made a couple of the courses. They weren't bad, but not special - not worth the $475 per couple price tag. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The group dinner style was very pleasant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Amazing. Fun. Too fun. If you're looking for an unique experience, both with your palate and one like you've never had quite possibly, this would be the perfect solution. We took out of town guests (who had heard about it on a Podcast!) and it was a "surprise" for my husband's birthday, which made it all that much more fun!! We will absolutely be going again. read more

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This place is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!!!! I have done serveral 6,8,10,12 course meals. RUN don't walk to the reservation button, you will not be disappointed It was a flavor explosion and chef Dave is the so entertaining. Love everything about this experience. I think you will feel the same. I'm so excited to experience this again in 26 days read more

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A truly elevated dining experience smack dab in the middle of Northern Idaho? Yes, it's true! What a fabulous feast for the wine and food palette with an entertaining guided journey throughout a 13 course chefs menu! I can't recommend it highly enough! read more

Had the most amazing meal tonight to celebrate our anniversary. It was beyond delicious! The owner/chef was with us the entire time describing the food to us and telling stories. The head chef was 19 and the sous chef had just turned 16, the food these kids out out was some of the best I've ever had. Great experience and would highly recommend to anyone. Note: they moved from the old location so it's in a nice space in Athol. Some people commented that you are at the owners house which I thought was a little strange but they have since moved to an actual dedicated building that has a nice makeshift outdoors area with games and fire pits. read more

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From the warm welcome, to the backyard meeting area, to the games, the billiards, foos ball, the enticing courses to the amazing wines, the marvelous staff, to the ever entertaining Chef Dave, this place is the bomb! Unassuming, not pretentious, and who would have thought this creatively amazing place was in Athol, Idaho. The food was incredible, flavors that mingled well together when you thought they wouldn't, like a steak s'more! Oh yes, and it was divine! Lobster cappuccino, Chef Dave's take on Lobster bisque...the best I've had. Every course, 14 of them, very well thought out, not overwhelming, each small packing a big shallow of taste, paired with a lovely wine. This is a 3-4 hour delight, you make new friends, try inventive new dishes, sample an array of great wines and it's reasonably priced for what you get. This is a don't miss! read more

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Wow! I have been involved in politics for the last 25 years, During that time I have had many great dinners. I've eaten at Ruth's Chris Steak House, Benihana's and even the White House (the real one in DC) with many elected officials. One of my favorite dinners was at Nancy Reagan's funeral, a dinner that she had planned personally before her passing. But dinner last night at Candle in the Woods is definitely going at the top of my list now! The food was absolutely amazing, but coupled with the carefully chosen wine, it put the whole evening over the top! Chef Dave and Crystal did a great job of explaining everything that he made and why it went so well with each wine that was chosen, while keeping us all thoroughly entertained! The atmosphere was beautiful and cozy. At the end of the night I danced to Neil Diamond with a female stranger that we sat next to! It was an evening with great food, great wine, a perfectly arranged schedule, with many new friends, in a beautiful setting. We will Definitely be back! read more

I'm 62 years old and can say I have never experienced food this amazing in my life. Everything was incredible. Chef David is not only an amazing Chef but very personable, funny and makes every guest feel very special. He immediately knows everyone's name and considers you family. I highly recommend trying them. I will be back for sure. read more

We are cousins! And will continue to come visit Chef Dave and the crew as long as they let us :) Such an amazing experience every single time. This visit was special for my Mother's 76th birthday - - thank you for such a wonderful time! read more

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Had the pleasure to visit this last week with my wife and father......and can say that it was one of the best overall dining experiences I've ever had. From the food, to the wine, to Chef Dave and his staff......to the others in attendance....just wow....what a great time. We will definitely visit again! read more

Candle in the Woods - bottles of wine on a table - Wine Bars Near Me - Athol, Idaho

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Very accommodating definitely a good option for a special occasion or date night promise everything will be great

Most incredible experience right in our backyard!! Outstanding service and the menu was RIGHTEOUS!!! Thank you for making our night so special! read more

What is it like to be dining at one of the top 50 restaurants in the US? 2 time Jame Beard nominee? Well let me tell ya. The most exceptional food experience of my life. Each of the 13 courses was artfully crafted to entice all the senses. Each dish was visually stunning and with perfect wine pairings. The staff is gracious and welcoming even greeting us at the door and making everyone feel like family. Dinner of a lifetime. read more

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I'm not sure what's going on here. Either I'm in the Twilight Zone or this place is supposed to be a secret. Why is there only 20 reviews on this place. If you went to this place and didn't tell somebody, you're an athol. Seriously why is this place in Athol Idaho. One of the best meals I've ever had, and one of the most entertaining dinners I've ever been a part of. Fun meet and greet with an intimate family dinner table mixed with great wine and jokes throughout. 13 courses paired with 13 wines, multiple deserts mixed in here and there, and some of the craziest food mixtures you've never heard of. The menu comes at the end of the dinner. Yah. Don't get it yet? Moose + Yak burger with a soft boiled quail egg topping, on a gluten free chip. Gtfooh. Impressed. Very impressed. Tom Colicchio, you've been put on notice. If you're scrolling thru yelp reading this right now, and you're looking for a place to eat, just keep scrolling because there's no way in hell you're getting in this place tonight. Hahahah sorry. Bravo Chef read more

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You guuyyysss!! This place is beyond amazing. The food, the wine, the atmosphere, the chemistry, it's perfect. Chef Dave is incredible, and the unpretentious, immaculate place has it all! I could go on and on about the food, but I will say simply, it's spectacular. Do not miss out on the absolute gem! We will be frequent and forever customers! read more

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B6 far the best dining experience ever! All 14 courses were top notch quality. Chef Dave and his crew are brilliant and aren't afraid to go out of the box to make something you will never see anywhere else and they nailed it. read more

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After waiting 6 long months, we were finally able to secure two places at this very unique local restaurant. Well worth the wait! Allow me to describe what we found to be so unique and special about this dining experience. Upon arriving, it is clear this little restaurant is unassuming, warm, and inviting. You are greeted at the door with homemade sangria and directed to the outdoor patio area (we dined in August) to relax, mingle, or just sit. The nearby train tracks became immediately apparent with the loud sounds of the engine and horn, but it wasn't disruptive as it provided a nice conversation ice-breaker with the other guests. Chef Dave joined the group and gave jovial descriptions of his background, how the restaurant was founded and has grown, and what to expect of the meal to come. We found him immediately likable, humble, and proud at the same time. The man clearly loves and understands food! Ah, the food. My goodness. Each course (and there were 13 or 14) stood alone as a delectable, perfectly seasoned, perfectly prepared, perfectly presented morsel. Each course was paired with a complimentary wine which chef Dave also described in colorful detail. Throughout the meal Chef Dave talks, sharing anecdotes, jokes (some off-color), and his recommendations regarding the food in front of us ("trust me, just use your fingers and pop it into your mouth in one bite," etc.) The entire experience include two intermezzo breaks, during which guests are invited to retire to the upstairs game room or outdoor patio. This too was warm, inviting, and inspired guests to mingle and chat, creating a feeling of an intimate dinner party with friends. While all of the food was truly Michelin Star worthy, in my opinion the most enjoyable and special aspect was the format of this dining experience. Small bites, each paired with wine, served over several hours, while being entertained by the charming staff and host/chef was magical. The whole experience was very personal, warm. At the end of the meal chef Dave brought out all his staff and introduced each one by name and said something about them. It is quite clear that he truly enjoys each one of them and sees their unique personalities. He shared their ages (some as young as 14!) and spoke enthusiastically of each one's time with or connection to the restaurant. He gave each staff member an opportunity to share what part of the meal they prepared, and commended them for their contributions to the spectacular eating event we had experienced. I can not recommend this dining experience enough if you are truly a food aficionado. The passion for food, people, and life that Chef Dave imparts is infectious and the highlight of the meal. read more

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This was the among the most unusual and disappointing dining experiences I have ever had...worldwide. We had really high expectations, which, looking back on it, may have been part of the issue. The evening started with a very awkward hostess greeting the guests. The tension between the hostess and other servers was instantly palpable from the start. During one of her campy interludes, the hostess offended a server to the point where the server left mid-introduction. After, we agreed it felt a bit like we stepped into a hostage situation. The tense air continued through the evening, with the hostess placing several impromptu rules on the guests (nobody is allowed to drink yet/do not take a bite until/etc, etc). While I am sure the spirit of the "rules" was well intended, it was far from a relaxing, upscale dining experience. The food, although very small (1-2 ounces per "course") in portion size, was excellent. This was really the only highlight of the night. The wine "pairings" were 1-2 ounces, depending on where you sat at the table. This ended up being a blessing, as most were headache-inducing bottles in the $11-20(retail) range. Examples are the "Just Peachy" Bubbly from France which retails for $12.99 and the Graham Beck Brut at $19.99. With so many good wineries in the PNW, and the cost of $169/plate, I expected better. Overall, our group left disappointed. We had heard great things over the years, but felt like the experience was an awkward money-grab that just wasn't worth the hype or cost. read more

I was lucky to get in tonight - They are booked into December. They had a group cancellation and had a spot open, so I made a reservation. So glad I did. This was the most amazing dining experience I have ever had. The restaurant had a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're outside enjoying the beautiful weather, gas fire pits, or sounds of trains, or inside enjoying charming music and the upstairs game room, you feel at ease as soon as you arrive. Noelle greets you by name with a kind warm smile and makes you feel like you've known her forever. Chef David "Dave" Adlard is a true delight and incredible chef. What he and his kitchen team do is beyond belief. You sit at a large table with strangers and by the end of the evening you leave as friends- per Chef Dave. Every sense (taste, smell, sight, ) gets to experience something amazing. Every bite is paired with the perfect wine. Every plate, bowl, or cup is explained in detail how it is prepared, what to expect, and how to enjoy it. Table-side demonstrations are a true delight By the end of the evening, your are completely satisfied but don't feel like you have over indulged. It was a magical evening and I plan to come back for many more. read more

Candle in the Woods - Time for an Amazing Evening - Wine Bars Near Me - Athol, Idaho

Not only was the food fantastic and ingenious, Chef was a great entertainer, staff was very friendly and attentive. Multiple dishes displayed a creative culinary genius. And though I was a bit hesitant about the "family style" format it really added to the experience as a whole. Well worth every penny. You won't leave full, but feeling 'just right' and warmed by the friendly interaction that comes from getting to know the whole group. read more

Candle in the Woods - Absynthe glazed lamb pops - Wine Bars Near Me - Athol, Idaho

What a fun exciting place!! When you want a truly dinning experience this place is amazing !!

Last week I had the honor of dinning at Chef David Adlard's Candle in the Woods. I've dined at a lot of restaurants, and I don't take it lightly when I say that this was one of the most spectacular, innovative and hospitable dining experiences I have ever had. Chef David, Noelle and the staff overdelivered on the food, service and overall experience. It was all about the details... We were picked up in a private car, which was driven by Chef David's nephew. I had no idea they were related. I just figured he was an extremely polite professional driver. Nope. He is one of David's many apprentices. Throughout their training, they learn how to do everything in a restaurant. Earlier in the day he was prepping food! Their passion and dedication for the art is evident. Its also apparent how much they love their chef. Even from a patron's perspective, they truly are family. Food: Where do I start? I mean, we had FIFTEEN COURSES. Now I've been to a lot of multicourse meals, and normally I am the first one to get anxious and want to jump out of my seat. This was not the case at Candle in the Woods. The food was perfectly portioned and everything was timed impeccably. He was sooooo great about accommodating everyone's dietary needs. The two intermezzos were key to both giving the guests an opportunity to use the restroom and giving the staff an opportunity to set up for the upcoming courses. I will post the menu so that you get an idea of how innovative the food is. Some of the dishes included.. - Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto with Chevre and fresh huckleberries. (Guys, the creamy texture with pop of fresh berries was bombbbbb). - Signature Steak Smores. (Unorthodox flavors bounced off each other and created perfect harmony in the mouth. I can see why this is his signature. It was remarkable and frickin delicious). - Bone Marrow. Do I need to say anything else? Like, hello. (Remember how I gloated about his hospitality? He wrapped the bones up for the guests that have dogs!) - Pickled huckleberry, balsamic and pepper ice cream with Togarashi and Caper Macaron....prepared tableside. WHAT?! - Yak tenderloin.... etc etc. Check out the menu I've posted. Besides Chef's top notch culinary skills, I think what stood out was the flow and energy of the evening. It was a small group, max 16 people, dinning at a community table. We all quickly became friends, literally handing out business cards at the end of the evening. Chef David and his incredible somm Noelle were performers. Each course came with a story. It was personal, thoughtful and their bright personalities shined through. What is a great chef without a great side kick? Noelle Loparco was brilliant. As the somm and co-host, she guided us through each wine. She literally tasted with us, while detailing stories, how they acquired the bottle and why she chose to pair it with the dish. Tasting on the spot is NOT easy, especially with 16 customers staring at you! Many of the wines are from Chef David's personal cellar. (I saw a picture of his personal cellar. Holy moly!) Noelle served two Chenins, one of my favorite varietals. One was from Washington and one from Vouvrey, both of which stole my heart. We had Nebbiolo, Champagne, a fucking amazing older red wine (David and Noelle, what was that?).. And OF COURSE they also have their "house wine", a beautiful Bordeaux blend and Albarino they personally blended with local Washington winemakers. Check out all the wines served throughout the evening. It was remarkable. In conclusion, go. Just go. Thank you, Chef David. I look forward to letting everyone know about the "best kept secret" in beautiful Northern Idaho. read more

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Dave and his team delivered in a major way for our night at Candle in the Woods! What a great time and incredible food! I have been fortunate to travel all over the world and can honestly say, this was one of the best dining experiences I have ever had, right there in Athol, Idaho! I absolutely recommend putting together some family and friends and making the trip, it will be worth it. Dave is very engaging and fun when explaining the food, the history of his restaurant and the various stories from his life. His Sommelier, Sous Chef, Servers were all exemplary. To a person, they were professional, quick to care for the needs for the customer and always were warm and inviting. Thank you so much- Chris Neu read more