Sydney’s Restaurant Is Moving (For Real This Time)
Sydney’s, the fun restaurant that morphed out of a Mantua campground, says it’s moving to Preston, Idaho.
The restaurant announced moving plans last year, only to walk them back. But this time, there’s an official new address in Preston — 101 N. State Street; and a closing date for the current location, in two weeks. Also, owner/manager Denise Hardy lives in Thatcher, Idaho, so Preston she will be closer to home for her. So I think the announcement is legit this time.
A Facebook post says,
“To our incredible Sydney’s family, we have some exciting news to share! We’re embarking on a new adventure and moving to Preston, Idaho. As we bid farewell to our current location, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. Join us for the next two weekends as we serve up the flavors you love one last time here. It’s a heartfelt thank you for being part of our journey.And here’s the big reveal – come February, find us at our new home: 101 N State Street, Preston, ID 83263. We can’t wait to continue serving you in our new space. Thank you for being the heart and soul of Sydney’s. Let’s make these final weekends at our current location memorable!”
I’ve written about Sydney’s several times, and Hardy has told me that business has been challenging during the winter, when fewer people venture into Sardine Canyon. Hardy used to manage the campground adjacent to the red barn-like restaurant building, but that was sold in 2022.
Lately, the restaurant has shortened its hours and days of operation.
Let’s hope that Sydney’s will keep a lot of its menu favorites, although the ginormous Mantua Monster burger might be re-named to something fitting the Preston locale. Some of Sydney’s other menu items included the Flintski chicken sandwich, street tacos, crispy potato spring rolls, chile relleno grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken-fried strip steak, and house-made onion rings.
Sydney’s was also known for its homemade desserts.
Here’s hoping that the new site will keep Sydney’s vintage country vibe. The current location has high wooden beams strewn with loops of antique barbed wire, old cowboy hats and boots, a saddle that belonged to Hardy’s great-grandfather, and bear hides.
A rock fireplace is flanked by mounts of elk and buffalo heads, and other country-style memorabilia. The décor came from family, customers, and yard sales that Hardy’s special-needs son likes to frequent.
According to the Sydney’s Facebook post, the new Preston location will open in February. Hopefully, it will thrive in Preston; but it will be a loss for Mantua and the surrounding area.