About

Imagine savoring authentic Hawaiian flavors and coffee without boarding a plane. The Lanai offers such an experience, combining Island flavors with Idaho ingredients.

What makes this breakfast hotspot the Real McCoy are owners Byron and Kim Brown. The Lanai is the couple’s latest venture, opening in 2025, which is an offshoot of their Maui-based Akamai Coffee Company and several eateries.

So why did the Browns choose Coeur d’Alene? Two reasons. First, they own a home in CDA, and second, many locals vacation on the islands and have a connection to Hawaii.

The name “Lanai,” which means “patio” in Hawaiian, reflects the restaurant’s relaxed, welcoming vibe. Byron is an experienced chef with a background in fine dining, while Kim oversees front-of-house operations. Together, they have created a space that blends great food, excellent service, and island charm.

The menu is a mix of Hawaiian classics and creative dishes, all made with fresh, organic ingredients. Favorites like Wagyu Loco Moco and Spam Musubi pay tribute to their Maui roots, while unique additions keep things exciting.

The restaurant also features a high-end coffee bar with Akamai Coffee’s signature blends, a local favorite in Maui since 2016. Opening at 7:00 AM, this is the spot to visit before a day of sightseeing. Grab your morning coffee before hiking Tubbs Hill or heading north for a day at Silverwood Theme Park.

Aside from coffee drinks, they serve adult beverages, which we’ll explore in our last section.

Whether you’re fueling up for a fun outing on Lake Coeur d’Alene or looking for a relaxing breakfast joint, The Lanai delivers the spirit of Aloha.

Vibe

While the exterior lacks the quintessential Hawaiian motifs, like palm trees and thatched roofs, its modern design is inviting. Located in Midtown Coeur d’Alene, it’s easy to find and has plenty of parking.

Inside, you’ll witness a blend of Island themes with CDA’s rugged landscape. Think white oak finishes, natural grass light fixtures, and well-placed artwork. The touches of greenery, the wood trellis ceiling, and the tables blend the South Pacific with the Pacific Northwest.

The dining areas will suit any group or situation. You can choose the cozy indoor seating, a lively bar area, or the outdoor patio, which is perfect for soaking up the sun on a nice day.

The mix of natural elements and modern design makes it ideal for unwinding on your Idaho vacation.

The Lanai: Menu & Drinks

One dish that stands out is the Wagyu Loco Moco, a hearty plate of steamed jasmine rice, a Wagyu beef patty, house-made gravy, and sunny-side-up eggs.

Another favorite is the Spam Musubi, a simple yet flavorful combination of grilled Spam, teriyaki sauce, and steamed rice wrapped in seaweed.

When you need a filling lunch, check out the Thai Soba Noodle Salad. This Pacific Rim meal features chilled buckwheat noodles, organic spring mix, sriracha peanut sauce, vegetables, a fried egg, avocado, and cilantro. The combination of flavors and diverse textures makes for a delightful meal.

For something lighter, the Vegan Veggie Wrap, filled with fresh spinach, hummus, avocado, and crisp cucumbers, is a hit. The Yogurt+Granola is an ideal “grab and go” meal, with Greek yogurt, homemade granola, and a fruit compote with honey.

The drink menu is just as impressive. The Hawaiian Honeybee, a blend of espresso, milk, coconut, vanilla, and honey, is a must-try for coffee lovers. The Nitro Martini, made with in-house espresso, delivers a bold, smooth kick.

Moving on to the adult beverages, you’ll find classic and craft cocktails along with some beers. The Basil Huckleberry Lemonaide is a refreshing libation, with vodka, fresh lemonade and huckleberries, and basil.

The Lanai is where your taste buds can experience Island flavors and drinks. With its welcoming atmosphere, this eatery is a must-visit destination in Coeur d’Alene.

Local Tips

Arrive early to snag a patio seat on sunny days.
The specialty coffees offer a taste of Hawaii.
The kids’ menu makes The Lanai family-friendly.
The counter-service makes dining a breeze!

Staging environment