New York Peppercorn Steak MAX at Mirabeau 1100 N. Sullivan Road
A 12-ounce USDA Prime Peppercorn Steak with a four-pepper crust and brandy demi-glace, served with herb roasted potato and vegetables.
Why you’ll love it
This steak is one of the original items from the first MAX menu for a reason. One of the most popular dishes at the award-winning restaurant, it has stood the test of time. The chefs use a blend of four peppercorns and spice, then caramelizes and sears this USDA Prime grade steak to the guest’s specifications. The finish is a French cream demi-glace reduction.
The whole nature of the dish is created by a three-day simmering process of roasting veal bones in-house to create an intense, flavorful stock, which gives the base for the finalization of the sauce and the tantalizing overall flavor. And as a bonus, the dish is gluten free! Paired with a MAX house wine and complimented with a full menu of appetizers, entrees and desserts at one of the region’s premier dining establishments, this dish is a can’t-miss culinary experience.
1. Expertise Although online and mobile access to information on homes for sale, home values and research tools have become the norm, understanding the market and navigating the process of buying or selling a home is still complex. It’s more important than ever to work with a real estate professional who has a level of expertise that goes beyond what a mobile app, online video or website can do.
The John L. Scott team of broker associates takes pride in providing excellent service, paired with in-depth knowledge in many areas clients may not consider. For example, most buyers search for a home without taking into consideration the various market conditions that can affect the entire purchase process. Market seasonality, the backlog of buyers (which means heightened competition), and an analysis of recent comparable sales all factor into a tailored offer and acceptance strategy.
2. Negotiations One of the top three things that clients want most from their real estate broker is help with negotiations. Many people think they’re good at negotiating, but oftentimes their experience is in haggling or bargaining, which is different than the art of negotiating.
“In most cases, both buyers and sellers are emotionally invested throughout the process,” John L. Scott CEO J. Lennox Scott said. “When it comes to something so deeply personal as a home, the importance of having personal representation for you is invaluable. They can provide support and ‘go to bat’ for you, ensuring your priorities and needs are met.”
John L. Scott real estate specialists understand that negotiation is both a skillset as well as a mindset that helps a conversation transform into an agreement that’s a win for all parties.
“Working with an agent who is an expert negotiator can help you successfully navigate the process,” Lennox said.
3. Transactional Excellence From the moment an offer has been mutually accepted by the buyer and the seller, John L. Scott professionals coordinate every detail of the real estate transaction. From inspections, appraisals, title, escrow and loan processes, brokers communicate and collaborate with all parties involved to ensure a smooth closing.
“The commitment to transactional excellence really sets John L. Scott real estate professionals apart,” Lennox said. “Many people have busy lives outside of the real estate transaction, and we want to make your journey to closing day as stress-free as possible.”
Trailbreaker Cider 2204 N. Madson Road, Liberty Lake
Starring its namesake — WSU Creamery’s Cougar Gold Cheese — this sandwich is toasted to melty perfection. Additional ingredients include bacon, heirloom tomato and thinly sliced Walla Walla sweet onions — as well as a couple other cheeses (you know, just to be melt-iculous about it).
Why you’ll love it
First things first, when talking about Trailbreaker Cider, you can’t overlook that this sandwich can be enjoyed with an incredible cider. Made on-site. In a first-class venue.
“Our facility is quite unique in that we are one of the few cideries in the United States that produces cider from apples year-round in one facility,” Owner Trent Maier said. “We do not generally import any apple juice and typically produce as many of our products on-site as possible.”
Those products include a selection of 16-20 hard ciders at any given time (and a couple-three of the non-alcoholic variety), along with a variety of food options, from pretzels to hummus to wraps. Among many popular items, the Cougar Gold Grilled Cheese has become a standout.
“I think it appeals to many people with the Cougar name, and it’s very delicious so that doesn’t hurt either,” Maier said.
Everything on the food menu comes with a gluten-free option, and the ciders are gluten free as well. There are also vegan menu items, and the Trailbreaker team runs an allergy-conscious kitchen to cater to all patrons. The menu also features kid-friendly fare, echoing the family-friendly vibe of the establishment. Even when it’s not happy hour (half-price appetizers 3 to 6 p.m. daily), ownership keeps affordability a primary consideration.
“We opened to the public last July and have steadily increased our kitchen capacity and food production since that time,” Maier said. “Our goal is to always develop new and creative food choices that are made with the best ingredients we can find while still being affordable for anyone.”
The open design of the facility allows for fun and unique seating for diners and makes it an ideal venue for events.
“Our facility is quickly becoming the premier event center within Liberty Lake,” Maier said. “The fact that we offer food, beverages and plenty of room for groups of all sizes without charging for use of the space is proving to be a nice addition to the community, and we couldn’t be happier about finding our niche within this awesome Liberty Lake area.”