Chefs of the Inland Northwest: Q&A with Reannan Keene
Photo by Nico Lopez
Chefs of the Inland Northwest: Q&A with Reannan Keene
Owner and Chef, izzy's Comfort Kitchen
BY HANA-LEE SEDGWICKAfter a two-decade career in the restaurant industry, Chef Reannan Keene channeled her extensive experience into her own heartfelt venture: izzy's Comfort Kitchen — a tribute to her beloved daughter Isabella, who passed away on Thanksgiving in 2011. Since opening its doors in Coeur d’Alene in September of 2020, Chef Keene has established a welcoming place for guests to savor familiar comfort foods with a touch of Southern and Mid-Atlantic inspiration. Whether joining for a date night or brunch with the whole family, her aim is to infuse the dining experience with nostalgia, creating a space that feels like “Grandma's house” — warm, inviting and filled with the comforting aromas of freshly prepared dishes.
I sat down with Chef Keene to learn more about what inspires her in the kitchen, which ingredients she can’t live without and what she likes to cook at home during the summer season.
If you can put it into words, what would you say is your cooking philosophy?
When I cook, I heal. Cooking for me is sacred. Before taking the role as chef in the industry, it was my quiet space. Now, I try to create moments of quiet and peace for myself and my guests in an ever-changing industry that is, at best, controlled chaos and, at worst, the longest day.
If you had to narrow it down, which ingredient has inspired you the most in the kitchen?
Fresh herbs and butter. Nothing creates more joy for me.
You can’t go wrong with herbs and butter! What are some of your favorite ingredients to cook with in the summer season, either at home or at your restaurant?
At home, I love making crab cakes. They speak to my childhood in Virginia. My Uncle George taught me to catch crabs and my Aunt Jeannie taught me to clean them and make crab cakes. I had a few visits with them from my youth in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay. I will never forget those visits; I felt great peace.
If you had to pick just one, which item from izzy’s is your favorite?
Chicken Noodle Soup. I make a different soup every week depending on product availability and my commitments. When Isabella died, cooking saved me. I would make the same things over and over just to create a sense of normalcy through great tragedy. Chicken Noodle Soup was one of those dishes. When I make it for my guests at izzy's, I know I'm remembering and honoring izzy.
That’s really special. Now I have to try your Chicken Noodle Soup. Is there a dish from another regional restaurant you can’t get enough of? Or a restaurant you find yourself visiting often?
There are so many excellent restaurants and amazing chefs in the INW. I tend to gravitate to anywhere that has great seafood and gluten-free options. Being celiac, my choices can be limited, but I love supporting other local restaurants as much as possible.
What’s a memorable culinary experience that has significantly influenced your cooking style or philosophy?
I did a small cooking competition a while ago and won. It was fun to feel competitive and it was inspiring to think, what next? I'm always terrified and equally excited whenever I get a chance to compete. It keeps me energized and focused on creating more.
When it’s your day off, what’s one of your favorite things to make at home this time of year?
I like to grill at home, all the things — fruit, beef, seafood… Also, I make cold charcuterie style plates. Especially through the summer, I like to eat as simply as possible.
I agree, simple is the way to go in the summer months. Speaking of keeping it simple, what is one kitchen “tool” you can’t live without?
A wooden spoon. I wouldn't trust a cook without one!
It really is a necessity! Do you have any tips or advice for the home chef looking to better their skills?
Keep cooking what heals you. Cooking is ultimately an artful expression of the soul, so show her off.
izzy’s Comfort Kitchen
726 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, ID
