09/18/2026
Some places are more than just a restaurant. They’re part of the history of a town.
Sedlmayer’s is one of those places in Spirit Lake.
For generations, locals, vacationers, and travelers stopped here for good food and time by the lake. The place became well known enough that Bing Crosby even referenced the “Sedlmayer’s Milk Bar” in his 1951 recording of *Moonlight Bay*. That’s a pretty good piece of North Idaho history.
After being closed for years, Sedlmayer’s Restaurant reopened in 2021, bringing an old Spirit Lake landmark back to life. Today, you can grab a meal, stay at the RV campground, and enjoy some time around the lake.
This is one of the things I appreciate about North Idaho. The mountains and lakes get plenty of attention—and for good reason—but the old businesses, local stories, and gathering places are what give these communities their character.
If you’re exploring North Idaho, don’t just look at the properties. Get to know the towns, too. That’s where you really learn what an area is all about.