The Showroom on Colville in the heart of downtown, formerly an auto showroom circa 1930, came about thanks to the vision of property owner David Thompson. Known for thoughtfully renovating other downtown landmarks and nurturing small businesses, Thompson turned to famed architecture firm Olson Kundig to repurpose the space while retaining its art deco vibe.
The upscale eatery TMACS was the anchor for the building, with Sivana Spa, Combine Art Collective, and Marguerite on board from the start. Here are a few delightful new additions:
The Mill | Open daily, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
When The Mill owners Esam Ibrahim and Jennifer Clapp worked for sister wineries in Walla Walla, they commiserated over a shared problem: sourcing food to elevate the wine tasting experience. Additionally, as self-described habitual over-workers, they struggled to find high quality food to grab quickly. That’s when the seed was planted for what has blossomed into a go-to for everything from grab-and-go salads and bowls, sandwiches, dips and spreads, picnic provisions, heat and serve meals, smoothies, and more.
They nabbed Chef Elizabeth Garza, a graduate of the local culinary program and former sous chef at The Kinglet. “Her recipes are flawless, and her integrity is unrivaled,” say Jennifer.
Esam, a 15-year veteran of Starbucks and Jennifer, a sommelier who grew up in the restaurant industry make for wunderkind business partners. “He’s the business, the logistics; I’m the networker and social person.” Catering is a large part of their business and Jennifer credits Esam as the mastermind behind the ease of ordering everything online, whether for a luncheon for eight or a bachelorette party.
“Tourists feel like they’re part of Walla Walla when they come here,” says Clapp. “They can feel the camaraderie and community vibe.”
Moosie + Baha | Open daily, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Next door to The Mill, this gourmet deli was a natural progression for Jennifer and Esam of The Mill – customers were looking for fresh sandwich options in addition to their grab-and-go options – but they wanted to offer something different. The menu is inspired by their exhaustive research in Europe. “In Paris, we ate 22 sandwiches the first day, the next day was a blur, and in Rome we ate 24. It was life changing,” says Jennifer referring to her new perspective on a deli sandwich. Esam’s grandmother, Moosie, and Jennifer’s father, Baha also served as muses for the business – both eclectic and lovers of food, people, and life.
Prepare for your palate to be delighted by bold flavors and the unexpected use of ingredients from The Mill. “We don’t even have mayonnaise or mustard on the line,” says Jennifer. Instead of traditional condiments, think sandwiches with Calabrian chili aioli, house-made caramelized sweet onion dip, za’atar, or marinated spicy feta spread with the highest quality fresh meats, cheeses, and veggies.
Wildlings Co. | Wednesday & Thursday 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM | Fridays 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM | Saturdays 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
This children’s gift shop – the name a clever nod to the “Free Folk” from Game of Thrones, ducklings, and playful wild things –is a treasure trove of highly curated items. “We carry things that we love and use,” says co-owner Amanda Trejo-Perez, many items made locally including clothing, baby blankets, accessories, and natural skin care products. “Our focus is also on clothing and toys that are sustainable and made from natural fibers,” adds her sister and co-owner Kelsey Palamino. Wildlings also has their own line of bracelets – Little Loops – which you can also find at the Farmer’s Market.
The boutique has recently expanded its gift selection and while you’re shopping for a baby shower, birthday, or other special occasion, your little ones can enjoy the recently added play area. There’s also a new snack bar with healthy options including fruit cups, blueberry oat balls and infused waters. In the summer, kiddos can enjoy their free workshops including bracelet and wand making.
As a family run business, you might find Amanda’s daughter Lali behind the counter or Kelsey’s 9-year-old daughter Kassia ready to make gift recommendations.
The Local Bagel | Open Wednesday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The Local Bagel owner Tom Glase started baking as therapy after working for almost 25 years in the wine industry. He began with cookies but moved to bagels at the suggestion of a former colleague and his son, Winston (who works alongside Tom in the shop) filling a bagel void in town. “Plus, bagels were way better therapy because there’s more involved,” says Glase, noting similarities to winemaking: yeast, fermentation, science, art, passion, and timing. He made bagels every day for two years giving them away and after setting his sights on a shop tested schmear and bagel recipes with friends over beers. Everything is made by hand with locally sourced products (including flour from Small’s Family Farm) whenever possible. Supply is largely dependent on online orders which is highly recommended as your bagels will most likely still be warm from the oven. Creative schmears and plain, salted, sesame, and everything bagels are available daily with specialty bagels and schmears rotating through. The breakfast sandwiches are hearty – perfect pre wine tasting – and look for more items to be added to the menu. Indoor and patio seating are available.
