The Boise food scene is diverse, with a range of offerings for any taste or dietary preference. From farm-to-table restaurants serving locally-sourced ingredients to unique ethnic cuisine and trendy gastropubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try some Idaho specialties like finger steaks, fry sauce, and huckleberry jam while you’re here.
Boise’s Diverse Culinary Landscape
Boise’s culinary scene is a smorgasbord of flavors and influences that cater to every palate. From globally inspired cuisine to regional staples, the city has a lot to offer. The growing food industry in the area has attracted chefs from all over the world who are putting their own spin on traditional dishes. One can say that Boise’s diverse culinary landscape is a reflection of its population – diverse and vibrant.
One of the most notable cuisines found in Boise is Basque food. Thousands of people from Basque country settled in Idaho during the 20th century, making Boise one of the best places outside of Spain to enjoy this delicious cuisine. A must-try dish is paella, a rice dish cooked with seafood, meat, and saffron.
Another example of diversity in Boise’s culinary landscape is its thriving vegan scene. Plant-based options can be found all over town, even at non-vegan restaurants. Restaurants like Wild Root Cafe and Guru Donuts have plant-based menus that cater to vegans and non-vegans alike.
Some may argue that Boise’s culinary scene lacks diversity because it is dominated by American cuisine. Although it’s true that you can find a variety of burger joints and diners around town, it doesn’t diminish the fact that there are many international options available.
Boise’s culinary landscape is like an artist’s palette with various colors waiting to be mixed and matched. Those living in or visiting Boise need to keep their eyes open for the launch of The Avery on Main Street downtown. Bolstered byCal Elliott, Michelin-starred Chef, The Avery is sure to add spice to the Boise dining scene.
Chefs approach cooking as an art form, combining different ingredients and techniques to create unique dishes that represent their individual styles.
Top Eateries in Boise
If you’re looking for delicious food to try in Boise, you won’t be disappointed. From fine dining to food trucks to quick bites, Boise has something for everyone.
A must-visit is Alavita, an Italian restaurant located in downtown Boise that serves classic dishes such as handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. Their ingredients are locally sourced with a focus on farm-to-table sustainability. And if you’re a wine lover, their extensive wine list will impress you.
Another great spot is Bittercreek Alehouse, known for its craft beers and unique twists on pub fare. The debate among locals continues over whether the Brisket Burger or Bison Burger is the best dish on the menu. One thing is for sure though, you won’t find better beer anywhere else in town.
On the other end of the spectrum, locals love the flourishing food truck scene in Boise. One standout is Mad Mac, which features gourmet takes on a classic comfort food: mac n’ cheese. Their specialty macs feature toppings like bacon jam, lobster, and truffle oil.
For those who enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, it’s hard to beat Los Betos. This small chain of Mexican restaurants has expanded across southern Idaho due to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Their carne asada tacos are particularly noteworthy and always packed with flavor.
Just like how Idaho’s landscape offers a diverse mix of forests, mountains, rivers, and deserts; Boise offers a dining landscape that blends together different cuisines ranging from Italian to American fusion to Asian flavors.
As evidenced by these top eateries and much more available all around town, Boise’s culinary scene makes it an ideal spot for foodies looking for their next adventure in dining exploration.
Fine Dining Options
Boise’s fine dining scene is something to behold. For those seeking an elevated gastronomic experience, the city has plenty to offer. From modern American cuisine to international flavors with a local twist, there’s no shortage of culinary innovation in Boise’s fine dining restaurants.
One of my personal favorites is Chandlers Steakhouse. The restaurant boasts a grand piano and live jazz music, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Their menu features top-quality cuts of meat and fresh seafood, such as their famous Snake River Farms Wagyu beef and Idaho Rainbow Trout. With an extensive wine list and impeccable service, Chandlers is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
Another great option in town is State &Lemp, where patrons can enjoy a unique prix-fixe menu that changes every month. This farm-to-table restaurant takes pride in sourcing its ingredients from local farms and producers, resulting in dishes bursting with seasonal flavors and creativity. The intimate seating and personalized attention from the chefs make for an exclusive, one-of-a-kind dining experience.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something completely different, check out Casa del Matador’s Chef’s Table Experience. It is a multi-course tasting menu featuring Latin-inspired dishes crafted by the chef himself. Think wild mushrooms empanadas, pork belly tacos, ceviche, and other mouth-watering plates that showcase Chef David Gomez’s eclectic style.
With so many excellent fine dining options available throughout Boise, it can be challenging to choose just one place to go. Fortunately, another unique segment of the city’s food scene makes it easier to find affordable yet delicious meals on the go: food trucks.
Hidden Food Truck Gems
Food trucks are all the rage these days, offering gourmet meals at a fraction of what you would pay at a traditional restaurant. Boise’s food truck scene is no exception, featuring dozens of trucks parked on street corners and at local markets. Though many are well-known favorites, a few hidden gems like the ones below deserve attention.
B-Town Bistro is a prime example of this new wave of food trucks in Boise. They serve up scrumptious sandwiches with funky names like “The Gogi” and “El Jefe,” which are stuffed with fillings such as Bulgogi beef, bacon jam, fried egg, and cilantro lime aioli. They also offer salads, soups, and tasty sides such as truffle French fries and brie mac and cheese.
For those who crave more variety, The STIL’s ice cream truck offers unique flavors such as roasted banana whiskey, strawberry basil, and lavender honeycomb. Some may argue that dessert shouldn’t be considered a meal; however, this truck’s expertly crafted ice cream creations can stand alone as a satisfying snack.
Across town lies Kibrom’s Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine, where they serve traditional dishes such as injera bread with lentil or beef stews, chicken tibs, and sambusas filled with spiced ground beef or veggies. Their flavorful sauces and spices transport you to East Africa in an instant. With generous portions for reasonable prices, you won’t regret stopping by this hidden gem.
Overall, Boise’s food truck scene is thriving with diverse eats. From distinct international cuisines to classic All-American burgers and fries, there’s no shortage of options to suit everyone’s taste buds. Be sure to explore these lesser-known food trucks, not only will you support small businesses but may also discover your new favorite meal in town.
Boise’s food truck scene is a great source of tasty and affordable meals. While familiar trucks may attract the most attention, some hidden gems like B-Town Bistro, The STIL’s ice cream truck, and Kibrom’s Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine offer unique, delicious options that are worth trying out. With diverse international cuisines and classic American fare available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Supporting small businesses by exploring these lesser-known food trucks may lead to discovering a new favorite meal in town.
Boise’s Best Bars and Breweries
When it comes to grabbing a drink in Boise, there are endless options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail or a cold brew, the city has plenty of bars and breweries to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the best spots you won’t want to miss.
If you’re a fan of beer, then Barbarian Brewing is a must-visit spot. Located on Chinden Boulevard, this brewery offers an expansive selection of hoppy IPAs, fruit-infused sours, and rich stouts. What makes Barbarian stand out, though, is its unique flavor combinations that push the boundaries of traditional brewing methods. Try their apricot sour or their peanut butter porter for something truly memorable.
For those looking for artisanal cocktails, Press & Pony is the place to be. The dimly lit bar located in downtown Boise is perfect for anyone seeking a cozy atmosphere to enjoy drinks with friends or loved ones. Their menu highlights locally sourced ingredients and carefully crafted flavor combinations, resulting in some of the best cocktails around town. Think of it like stepping into an old movie from the 1950s where every detail matters.
If you’re interested in checking out one of Boise’s newest breweries, stop by Mad Swede Brewing Company. Their taproom opened its doors in 2019 and has already gained a loyal following among beer enthusiasts thanks to their high-quality craft brews and laid-back ambiance. The brewery boasts fourteen beers on tap plus a variety of hard seltzers and kombucha for those looking for other drink options.
For those hoping to find great music alongside their drinks, Neurolux Lounge is definitely worth a visit. The venue hosts live music performances several nights each week and serves up an extensive selection of spirits and beer. Some say the music is too loud, while others appreciate the atmosphere that can only be created by roaring music and clinking glasses. The drink menu focuses on classic cocktails and a rotating selection of craft beers.
Creative Craft Beer Destinations
Boise’s craft beer scene continues to grow year after year, with new breweries, distilleries, and taprooms cropping up all over town. While many of these spots serve delicious beer, there are a few that go above and beyond when it comes to creativity and experimentation.
Woodland Empire Ale Craft is one such example. This downtown brewery is known for taking risks when it comes to crafting new beers, resulting in unique brews like their peanut butter cream ale or their grapefruit IPAs. Their taproom is cozy and hip with games setups perfect for a low-key evening with friends.
Payette Brewing Company, located in Boise’s Garden City neighborhood, is also worth checking out. Their expansive taproom features large communal tables and a laid-back vibe perfect for an afternoon of sipping on refreshing brews. While they have several flagship beers that are popular among locals, including their Mango Sour Ale or Rustler IPA., this place is famous for always trying new things.
Another spot that stands out as a must-visit destination is Edge Brewing Company. This brewery boasts an impressive selection of both traditional and experimental beers featuring flavors like banana nut bread hefeweizen or cold brew coffee stout. Their outdoor patio provides an inviting atmosphere during warmer months where you can sit with your dog on your lap and enjoy their world-class drinks.
Some people consider Pendleton’s Country Winery & Oregon Trail Brewery as the best option in the area. While it’s located just outside of Boise, the brewery and winery is worth the short drive for those looking to expand their beer palate. They have several award-winning beers on tap that visitors can enjoy while taking in picturesque views of the Snake River Valley. People who don’t favor long rides might disagree.
Boise’s bar and brewery scene is vibrant, diverse and exciting. It’s easy to get lost in all the drink options available, but these spots are guaranteed to give you a true taste of what this city has to offer. Before leaving town, make sure to visit your favorite spot again or drop by both of these amazing creative craft destinations.
