Back in business

COEUR d'ALENE - Michael Hanes may be the most determined restaurateur the city has ever seen.

He opened 4th Street Pantry in December at 206 N. Fourth St. after seven months of intensive remodeling, only to close down after only about four months of operation because of financial problems.

He's back. This time, not as the owner, but as the manager and head cook at the newly named, and again remodeled, Kootenai Cafe.

"The concept is to continue in the same direction we were going, as an affordable community restaurant," Hanes said.

His original plan for a 24-hour operation resulted in operating costs that he was unable to manage after spending his original budget on the first renovation.

"We were not prepared for 24-hour operation," he said.

Though he quickly began showing a profit, he got behind on payroll to such an extent that he was unable to remain open, even though there was often a wait to get a seat.

That was one of the issues addressed, and seating capacity has been increased to 42 from the original 32, with the ability to handle larger groups. The prior arrangement only had booths capable of seating four, though sometimes more squeezed in.

Now the restaurant, named for the former federal courthouse that is being remodeled as Kootenai County's juvenile justice courthouse just across the street, will focus on breakfast and lunch.

"It will be the same menu, with just a few changes," Hanes said.

Specialties such as a "huge Monte Cristo" and the Reuben, along with applesauce pancakes, will remain. The same french fries that received rave reviews will also be carried over.

Missing, at least initially, will be the prime rib sandwich, originally made from the leftover meat from the dinner menu.

A few "more health conscious" items have been added, including chicken or tuna salad, salmon or garden burgers and a stuffed tomato with tuna or chicken. A full soup and salad bar will be available, as will German sausages and all-beef hot dogs.

Also added is a selection of kids meals.

Some of the original staff have returned, and this time around with 10 employees, about half the original number, the overhead will be reduced significantly.

Hanes expects to reopen at 5 a.m. Tuesday, and will be open until 3 p.m. every day.

"We will reconsider 24 hours when we are prepared," Hanes said.