COEUR d’ALENE — When Jeanine Raymond and Kirk Chaffin opened the doors of Trails End Brewery in 2020, the future felt far from certain.

“The week the world shut down we were set to open,” Raymond recalled. “It was really scary for us.”

Even so, Raymond and the rest of the Trails End team made sure to enjoy the ride — no matter where it took them.

As it turned out, the ride would take them farther than they could imagine.

The brewery, along with two other restaurants in North Idaho, is being recognized by America’s Best Restaurants, a national media company that highlights local, independently owned restaurants.

Restaurants are selected based on nominations and owners first go through an interview process to be selected.

“We’re just over here having fun,” Raymond said, adding that she is glad to know that people are “enjoying the vibe” at Trails End.

Complete with trail maps and outdoorsy decor, the intention was always to create a space for people to share stories of the day’s adventures.

The brewery’s food menu is as popular as its beer selection; its chicken wings were recently recognized as Best in the Panhandle, and its brick-oven pizza and homemade beer cheese bring back repeat customers.

But for Raymond, it’s the team at Trails End that makes the place truly special.

“They genuinely all enjoy being around people,” Raymond said.

Just up the road, Hayden’s Stupid Cow Cafe also caught the eye of ABR.

The breakfast and lunch spot is known for generous portions, fresh ingredients and genuine hospitality, ABR’s website reads in part.

Owner Dawn James said she was “extremely proud and very excited” for the restaurant to be selected. 

“We have worked very hard, and we want to show off all our hard work to our community,” James said. “We are a cozy, family friendly restaurant and we welcome everyone with smiles and kindness.”

James also described her staff as “kind and hard working.”

Stupid Cow Cafe will soon be introducing a dinner menu and a selection of beer and wine as it expands its offerings.

To the east, Bedroom Goldmine Bar in Murray was the third area restaurant to be recognized by ABR. The unique spot is known for its popular pizza and for being situated over a gold mine.

“This classic watering hole offers cold beer, great company and a welcoming spot to relax after a long day,” ABR’s description read in part.