Located at 429 E. Second, in Spokane, Wandering Bear Kitchen is set to open this month, specializing in wood-smoked comfort food and take-and-bake options with a core mission of fostering community connection.

Owners Belinda and Shaunn Wenig are preparing to open the restaurant in late May, offering a gathering spot where people can meet and eat, Belinda says. The eatery will operate Monday through Friday from noon to 8 p.m., in an 800-square-foot venue located on the eastern edge of downtown Spokane.

After acquiring Mama’s Take & Bake LLC in 2024 at its former site at 1202 W. Northwest Blvd., the Wenigs turned a necessary relocation into an opportunity for growth by rebranding as Wandering Bear Kitchen featuring expanded offerings.

The Wenigs found a new home for their business, which they are leasing from the owners of the neighboring Something Else Deli, at 152 S. Sherman.

Wandering Bear Kitchen will continue to offer the large-portion take-and-bake meals, such as lasagna and spaghetti, that customers of Mama's Take & Bake have come to expect. The Wenigs explain that by purchasing the existing brand, they are ensuring a continuity of service for a loyal clientele while expanding their culinary offerings. The Wenigs are preparing to expand into hot, ready-to-eat food as well, they add.

Featuring a startup menu of pork chop sandwiches, loaded baked potatoes, and take-and-bake pizzas, Wandering Bear Kitchen aims to function as a community-centric gathering spot rather than a simple eatery, says Belinda, adding that her vision involves creating a space where food serves as the foundation for meaningful social connection.

"I want people to show up, order a sandwich, and play some Magic: The Gathering," Belinda says, referring to the collectible trading card game. "I want it to be a little place on the corner where kids come to eat after school and through summer."

The business also reflects some broader trends within the food industry, primarily regarding food preparation techniques, Shaunn says. Recognizing the surging popularity of wood smoking as a culinary trend, Shaunn says he's confident that Wandering Bear Kitchen can successfully deliver these authentic flavors to Spokane.

The couple plans to offer a standard wood-smoked menu, but will also have seasonal and holiday offerings to choose from. Among the signature items will be large baked potatoes from Idaho, Shaunn says, and salted baked sweet potatoes seasonally.

Patrons can expect to find a rotating selection of smoked goods, as the kitchen plans to periodically offer items including smoked cheeses and vegetables that take advantage of both hot and cold smoking techniques. These offerings will complement their standard wood-smoked menu and seasonal specials.

Spokane's active foodie culture has helped inspire the business direction, Belinda says. Wandering Bear Kitchen will also incorporate public and community events after opening. 

Looking ahead, the Wenigs say they're working to add a food trailer within the first year of operation in an effort to raise brand awareness and build long term relationships in the community.

Currently, both Shaunn and Belinda are balancing outside employment with the business launch, although eventually, Belinda says she hopes the eatery will become her primary workplace.

Belinda's background in caregiving also is influencing the company's mission, she says. As loneliness and isolation are major issues for many people, she says Wandering Bear Kitchen can offer a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable.

"We want to make sure people can show up and feel connected," Belinda says.