The 30 Essential Boise Restaurants
Introduction
Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is known for its vibrant food scene that offers a wide range of dining options for locals and visitors alike. From cozy cafes to upscale fine dining establishments, Boise has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the 30 essential restaurants in Boise that you must visit to experience the best of the local culinary delights.
1. The Basque Market
Located in downtown Boise, The Basque Market offers a taste of the Basque country with its delicious tapas, paella, and other traditional dishes. The market also has a selection of Spanish wines and authentic ingredients for you to take home.
2. State & Lemp
This upscale restaurant in Boise offers a unique dining experience with its ever-changing seasonal menu and exquisite wine pairings. State & Lemp is perfect for a special occasion or a memorable night out.
3. Fork
Fork is a popular farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Boise that focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and sustainable dishes. Their brunch menu is a must-try.
4. Bittercreek Alehouse
Known for its extensive beer selection and mouth-watering pub fare, Bittercreek Alehouse is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Be sure to try their famous truffle fries.
5. The STIL
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head to The STIL for their artisanal ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. With unique flavors like lavender honey and bacon bourbon, this place is a must-visit for dessert lovers.
6. BBQ4LIFE
For the best barbecue in Boise, look no further than BBQ4LIFE. From fall-off-the-bone ribs to tender brisket, this family-owned restaurant serves up all your favorite BBQ classics with a side of southern hospitality.
7. Tasso
Tasso offers a modern take on traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with its creative dishes and chic atmosphere. Don’t miss their lamb gyro or baklava for a true taste of Greece.
8. The Wylder
Nestled in the heart of downtown Boise, The Wylder is a cozy bistro that serves up comfort food with a twist. Their fried chicken and waffles are a must-try, along with their craft cocktails.
9. Juniper
Juniper is a trendy restaurant that specializes in New American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally, so you can always expect something new and exciting to try.
10. Guru Donuts
If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to stop by Guru Donuts for their handcrafted, gourmet donuts in a variety of unique flavors. Their vegan and gluten-free options are also a hit with health-conscious customers.
11. Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters
For a caffeine fix, head to Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters for some of the best locally roasted coffee in Boise. Pair your coffee with a freshly baked pastry for the perfect morning pick-me-up.
12. The Local
The Local is a cozy cafe that serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their brunch menu is particularly popular, so be sure to make a reservation on weekends.
13. Richard’s Restaurant & Bar
Richard’s Restaurant & Bar is a fine dining establishment in Boise that offers a sophisticated menu of European-inspired dishes made with the finest ingredients. Their wine list is also top-notch, making it the perfect spot for a special night out.
14. The Pie Hole
For delicious, made-from-scratch pies in a variety of sweet and savory flavors, head to The Pie Hole in downtown Boise. Their classic apple pie and chicken pot pie are customer favorites.
15. Wild Root Cafe & Market
Wild Root Cafe & Market is a health-conscious restaurant that offers fresh, nutrient-dense dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Their menu caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free.
16. Madre
If you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than Madre. This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional dishes like street tacos, enchiladas, and churros in a lively atmosphere.
17. Epi’s A Basque Restaurant
Epi’s A Basque Restaurant has been a local favorite in Boise for over 20 years, serving up classic Basque dishes like paella, croquettes, and chorizo in a cozy and intimate setting. Be sure to try their sangria.
18. Barbacoa
Barbacoa is a high-end steakhouse and Latin American restaurant in Boise that offers a glamorous dining experience with a menu of prime steaks, seafood, and cocktails. Their rooftop patio is perfect for enjoying the views of downtown Boise.
19. Guru Katsu
Guru Katsu is a cozy Japanese restaurant that specializes in delicious and crispy katsu dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Their tonkatsu and katsu curry are customer favorites.
20. Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery
Bardenay is Idaho’s first restaurant distillery, offering a unique dining experience with a menu of handcrafted cocktails and American cuisine. Be sure to try their famous huckleberry mojito.
21. The Reef
The Reef is a tropical-themed restaurant and bar in downtown Boise that offers a menu of Caribbean-inspired dishes, including jerk chicken, plantains, and rum cocktails. Their rooftop patio is a popular spot for enjoying the Idaho sunshine.
22. Mai Thai
Mai Thai is a contemporary Thai restaurant in Boise that serves up authentic and flavorful dishes like pad thai, curries, and mango sticky rice. Their extensive cocktail menu complements the bold flavors of their food.
23. Cafe Vicino
Cafe Vicino is a stylish Italian restaurant in Boise that offers a menu of classic and contemporary Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Their cozy dining room is perfect for a romantic dinner for two.
24. The Hyde House
The Hyde House is a modern gastropub in Boise that serves up elevated pub fare and craft cocktails in a chic and welcoming atmosphere. Their charcuterie boards and burgers are customer favorites.
25. The Shed
The Shed is a popular breakfast and lunch spot in Boise that offers a menu of hearty and comforting dishes like biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and sandwiches. Be prepared to wait in line, as this local hotspot is always busy.
26. Bleubird
For fresh and creative sandwiches and salads made with locally sourced ingredients, head to Bleubird in downtown Boise. Their daily specials are always a hit, so be sure to check their menu board for the latest offerings.
27. Waffle Me Up
Waffle Me Up is a food truck in Boise that specializes in gourmet Liege waffles topped with sweet and savory ingredients. Their bacon blueberry waffle and Nutella banana waffle are must-tries.
28. The Basque Market
Located in downtown Boise, The Basque Market offers a taste of the Basque country with its delicious tapas, paella, and other traditional dishes. The market also has a selection of Spanish wines and authentic ingredients for you to take home.
29. Cucina Di Paolo
Cucina Di Paolo is a cozy Italian restaurant in Boise that serves up classic pasta dishes, pizzas, and desserts in a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere. Their tiramisu is a customer favorite.
30. The Ram Restaurant & Brewery
The Ram Restaurant & Brewery is a popular spot in Boise for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a selection of house-brewed beers and a menu of pub favorites like burgers, wings, and nachos. Their outdoor patio is ideal for enjoying the Idaho weather.
Conclusion
Boise’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors and influences, offering something for everyone from casual diners to fine dining aficionados. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet donuts, farm-to-table cuisine, or authentic international fare, the 30 essential restaurants listed above have got you covered. Be sure to explore the diverse offerings of Boise’s dining scene and enjoy the flavors of this vibrant city.
FAQs
What type of cuisine can I expect to find in Boise?
Boise offers a wide range of cuisines, including American, Basque, Mediterranean, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, and more. You’ll find everything from fine dining establishments to casual eateries serving up delicious dishes from around the world.
Are these restaurants suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Many of the listed restaurants in Boise offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus, catering to a diverse range of dietary preferences. Be sure to check with the restaurant beforehand if you have specific dietary requirements.
Do I need to make reservations at these restaurants?
While some of the more upscale restaurants may require reservations, many of the casual and mid-range eateries in Boise welcome walk-in customers. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website for their reservation policy.
What is the average price range at these restaurants?
Boise’s dining scene offers a wide range of price points to suit every budget. From affordable food trucks and casual cafes to high-end fine dining establishments, you can expect to find something that fits your wallet at the 30 essential restaurants in Boise.
