Dirk and Kim Van Der Kolk have called North Idaho home for more than two decades, during which time they were the proud owners of two restaurants in the Coeur d’Alene/Hayden area, as well as a certified home for the elderly. When Kim’s mother became ill two years ago, the couple decided to sell everything and move to Florida to care for her. Unfortunately, Kim’s mother passed away soon after. After a bit of persuading, her father, known to many as Grandpa Joe, agreed to move back with Kim and her husband to the beautiful Northwest—Bonners Ferry to be exact.
Following their move back to the Idaho panhandle, a new endeavor would soon follow. In December of 2019, Dirk and Kim opened Tavern at the Lodge at Dodge Peak Lodge to eager diners seeking new flavors, and just this February, their purchase of the whole Dodge Peak Lodge property was finalized. Their dream of being back in Idaho and once again owning their own business has been realized, and with much anticipation and excitement for the Van Der Kolks as well as the Bonners Ferry community as a whole.
Dirk brings more than 30 years of restaurant and cooking experience to the table at the Tavern at the Lodge in Bonners Ferry—including cooking at a variety of restaurants all over Europe! “Really, his passion is what prompted us to open this restaurant,” says Kim, “and hospitality has always run in my blood. This is a perfect combo for us!”
Guests will find a delicious array of starters, salads and soups, already proving to be favorites among patrons as well. From stuffed mushrooms and escargot to frog legs and Spanish shrimp, your taste buds are sure to dance! And don’t forget about their house, made-from scratch French onion and lobster bisque soups.
“I think we are unique first and foremost because of our outstanding chef, Dirk Van Der Kolk,” affirms Kim. “In addition, our menu is quite diverse with many European favorites such as wiener schnitzel, Hungarian goulash, linguini with clams, cioppino, sausage plate with sauerkraut, along with amazing filet mignon with freshly made béarnaise sauce, and grilled ribeye.”
Dirk and Kim are truly grateful for all of the encouragement and positivity they have received from the community in their new endeavor. “Just all the support we have been shown and the willingness to help in any way to have us succeed,” smiles Kim.
“We are big on family and friends who have become like family and have always had their support. The community of Bonners Ferry has welcomed us with open arms,” says Kim. Their goal at Tavern at the Lodge is to make their customers happy and have them “leaving with a memorable experience.”
The Van Der Kolks are excited to be a part of the Bonners Ferry community which has so graciously accepted them, and their business. They invite you to dine with them for dinner Thursday through Sunday, with service provided 5 to 9pm. Reservations are recommended, though not required.
Tavern at the Lodge and Dodge Peak Lodge 5952 Main Street Bonners Ferry, Idaho 208.267.7268 tavernatthelodge@gmail.com