Who's Armondo Hurtado?
Armando Hurtado has lived in Coeur d'Alene for six years. He's an architect with Patano Architects.

When Armando Hurtado wants an exciting meal in the liveliest setting, he heads to The White House Grill in Post Falls. The aroma of garlic pulls him in like a magnet.

"I love that place," Armando says, grinning. "I like the garlic best, but they're so moderately priced and they have good portions and great ambience."

So many people agree with Armando that dinner reservations are highly recommended at The White House even though the restaurant saves some tables for walk-ins. The grill doesn't take reservations for lunch, but the wait is usually short. Diners without dinner reservations willingly wait an hour or more weekend evenings for a taste of tabouleh wraps, fresh hummus and eggplant spreads, lamb shish kabob and Mediterranean chicken marinated in garlic and herbs.

Armando's favorite dish is the Spring Bowl, a mix of chicken, rice and vegetables not on the menu. The White House occasionally offers it as a lunch special but happily cooks it up anytime for customers who ask.

Owner/chef Raci Erdem is as much a White House Grill attraction as the food.

"You walk in and the kitchen confronts you. It's all right there and you see Raci playing his drums or singing or walking around greeting people," Armando says. "It's one of the coolest things."