29 Best Boise Restaurants (Where to Eat in 2023)

I’m a Boise local and I’ve experienced many of the best Boise restaurants. In this article, I’ll take you on a virtual culinary tour through the City of Trees’ most delicious and trendy restaurants. 

I’ve chosen a wide selection of the best places to eat in Boise, from fine dining to affordable ethnic cuisine. I include a few unexpected gems, too, like where to find the city’s famous ice cream baked potato! 

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29 Best Restaurants in Boise

Barbacoa Grill

🍽️ Steak house | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 338-5000

This upscale steak house offers unique dishes in a trendy, exotic atmosphere. It is perfect for a date night or celebration. Barbacoa combines flavors from Mexico, Spain, and the Caribbean for a flavor explosion.

It is one of the best restaurants in Boise to grab a steak or a yummy seafood dish like blackened calamari. Make sure to order the table-side guacamole as an appetizer. Servers make it right at the table, so you know it is fresh and delicious.  

In the summertime, they even have rooftop seating available!

👉 Pro Tip: Barbacoa is a happening restaurant in the Boise food scene. Make sure to reserve a table as soon as possible, as they often book out a few weeks in advance. 

BACON

🍽️ American | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 387-3553

You can never have too much bacon, right? At least that’s the idea at this famous Boise restaurant. This casual yet classy bistro offers indoor and patio seating. It is the ideal brunch or breakfast option for bacon lovers. 

Each dish offers a unique twist on this breakfast food, elevating crispy bacon to a new level. BACON even has “bacon” options for vegetarians. There’s something for everyone!

📚 Related Reading: BACON is one of several restaurants featured in our Where to Stay in Boise guide! 

Boise Fry Company

🍽️ Hamburgers | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 949-7523

Idaho is known worldwide for its potatoes, and Boise Fry Company has taken this fame to heart. They offer unique french fry options from sweet potato french to purple potato french fries.

They also have incredible sauces and seasonings that you can mix and match to find your ideal flavor. All the fries come from locally-sourced potatoes, so they’re fresh when they reach your plate. 

If you’re still hungry after loading up on fries, you can always get a burger on the side. My first time here, I tried the blueberry habanero burger, but I was sweating after a few bites. Only order this if you’re ready to handle the spice!

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

🍽️ Southern | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 803-6721

This is one of my favorite lunch or brunch spots in downtown Boise. It has a relaxed, airy atmosphere and spacious outdoor seating with a great view of the city.

Tupelo Honey creates made-from-scratch Southern comfort food with a twist. Enjoy craft beers and cocktails at happy hour, or try their rosemary-peach lemonade.

I also love their crispy fries and flavorful twists on traditional sandwiches. Many people rave about their fried chicken as well. Their extensive food menu makes finding something delicious to eat super easy.  

Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro

🍽️ Bistro | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 345-4100

Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro is one of the best casual breakfast spots in the city. Delicious coffee and the laid-back dining room will make you want to linger over your meal.

Goldy’s is known for its homemade Hollandaise sauce, unique a la carte menu, and spinach frittata. 

The Matador

🍽️ Mexican | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 342-9988

Located on historic 8th St. in downtown Boise, the Matador is one of my favorite restaurants. Their bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are stuffed with cheese and grilled to crispy perfection. 

The Matador is the perfect place to grab a bite if you’re hitting any local sites. It is right around the corner from the Boise State Capitol and just a short walk to the Boise Greenbelt. 

Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood

🍽️ Steak house | $$$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 383-4300

Enjoy mouth-watering steaks at Chandlers

Chandlers is one of the best restaurants in Boise. It’s the place to experience upscale steak house dining at its absolute finest. Live jazz music and a full-service martini bar elevate this fancy restaurant to a new level. 

Enjoy delicious steak or seafood entrees, and choose from a top-shelf wine-tasting menu with over 700 options. 

Fork

🍽️ American | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 287-1700

Take in the hustle and bustle of Boise on Fork’s street-facing outdoor patio. On summer nights, their warm string lights create a romantic atmosphere. It is the perfect option for a date night. 

Fresh, local ingredients, yummy salads, and slow-roasted prime rib are just a few of Fork’s delicious dishes. There’s something to please every palate at this downtown favorite. Fork has some of the best food in the city and is one of the most popular restaurants in Boise.

📚 Related Reading: Are you looking for other date night activities? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Boise.

Lucky Fins

🍽️ Seafood | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 888-3467

Seafood, sushi, and grill, oh my. Lucky Fins is one of the best restaurants in Boise for all things seafood. Fresh seafood is flown in daily for the best quality and flavor. Try the fish tacos or the fish and chips and enjoy the light, airy atmosphere of the dining room.

Luciano’s Italian Restaurant

🍽️ Italian | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 577-6415

Many locals claim that Luciano’s is one of the best restaurants in Boise for authentic Italian food. It has even been rated Treasure Valley’s number-one Italian restaurant many years in a row. This is an excellent restaurant if you’re looking for good, quality food in a relaxed atmosphere. 

Luciano’s is known for its chicken marsala and spaghetti bolognese. Of course, they also have fantastic traditional pizza that is delicious every time. 

Alyonka Russian Cuisine

🍽️ Russian | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 344-8996

Owner and Chef Elena DeYoung was born and raised in Kazakhstan. She has served Russian food to the Treasure Valley for nearly two decades. 

Alyonka Russian Cuisine is a locally-owned restaurant with an extensive menu of traditional dishes. Popular choices are beef stroganoff, cabbage rolls, smoked gouda spread, and the shuba pictured above. 

This is a fun restaurant to visit if you want to try something new! Make reservations, as the small dining area fills up quickly. 

The Wylder

🍽️ Pizza | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 209-3837

Anytime you read the words “craft pizza and cocktails,” you know it will be good. This elevated pizza joint offers fun specials like the Honey Badger and mushroom toast loaded with unique mushrooms. 

All the crusts at the Wylder are handmade from a 55-year-old sourdough starter.

👉 Pro Tip: They don’t take reservations, but you can put your number in, and they’ll call you when your table is ready. Walk around and enjoy downtown while you wait!

Bittercreek Alehouse

🍽️ American Pub | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 345-1813

There’s something for the whole family at this downtown Boise alehouse. Bittercreek offers a wide selection of pub foods such as cheese curds, pretzels, and burgers.

Plus, they boast one of the largest and most unique craft beer selections in Idaho and have a full bar. Their ingredients are even locally sourced, making this one of the most popular restaurants in the city. 

Bardenay Restaurant and Distillery

🍽️ American  | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 426-0538

If you’re looking for somewhere in downtown Boise to grab locally-distilled craft liquor, Bardenay Restaurant is the place to go. It was the first distillery restaurant in the nation with a top-notch drink menu. 

While it might be known for its spirits and the full bar, the food selection is just as impressive. Choose from various entrees, such as cinder-brined pork chops and the albacore tuna and cheddar sandwich. 

Wild Root

🍽️ Café | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞(208) 856-8956

If veggies and seasonal cafe food are more your speed, you’ll want to make a trip to Wild Root. This is one of the best restaurants in Boise for those with dietary requirements. They have a selection of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

The Power Bowl and Nicoise salad are excellent choices for the health-conscious diner. Colorful fresh ingredients, craft cocktails, and kombucha make this spot a local favorite. 

👉 Pro Tip: Bring your dog and enjoy your meal on their pet-friendly patio!

The Basque Market 

🍽️ Basque | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 433-1208

Visit this explosion of culture in the heart of the Basque Block in downtown Boise. The Basque Market has kept the flavors of the Basque people alive in the Treasure Valley for over 20 years. 

Try Spanish-style pintxos, famous meat and seafood paella, or book a spot in one of the monthly wine tastings and cooking classes. 

The family-style dining experience brings people together and allows you to try a little bit of everything. It is the perfect restaurant if you’re looking to try something new and delicious, like the yummy Basque Cuisine. 

Saint Lawrence Gridiron

🍽️ Barbeque | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 433-5598

Saint Lawrence Gridiron draws diners off the street with the enticing smell from their massive outdoor smoker. The inviting scent is just the beginning. Bold barbeque flavors and Southern cooking dominate this lively restaurant. 

Order the brisket platter for a delicious sampling of those fragrant smoked meats. The pulled pork sandwich is also a crowd favorite. Saint Lawrence Gridiron has some of the best wings in the city, so it is worth visiting!

👉 Don’t Miss: While you’re here, walk a few steps for a great view of the Boise State Capitol Building. 

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

🍽️ Steak house | $$$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 426-8000

Ruth’s Chris uses the highest-quality, custom-aged beef to create steaks with unparalleled flavor. Enjoy a classy atmosphere as you eat your sizzling, butter-topped beef. Sip on a hand-crafted cocktail while you wait for your food to arrive.   

Cottonwood Grille

🍽️ American | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 333-9800

Visit Cottonwood Grille for a fine dining experience like a multi-course dinner or a high-class entree. Their riverside patio is one of the best restaurants in Boise to take in the beauty of the Boise River as you try their amazing elk steak or buffalo loin. 

👉 Pro Tip: This is one of the best restaurants if you don’t like fighting for street parking downtown. They have a large corner parking lot with plenty of room! Plus, parking is always free.  

Eureka!

🍽️ Burgers | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 286-4410

Grab a gourmet burger, local craft beer, and small-batch whiskey at this Boise restaurant. Eureka! offers a fun, industrial-chic atmosphere and weekly events that make it one of the top hang-out bar spots in the city. 

Capitol Cellars

🍽️ Fine Dining | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 344-9463

Capitol Cellars lives up to the name, as you have to go downstairs and into a cellar to enter the restaurant. This creates a comfortable, romantic dining experience. Plus, they have an excellent wine menu from local vineyards. 

Any of the gourmet dining options are incredible, but the prime rib and seafood risotto are two local favorites. This is one of the best restaurants for a romantic evening out.

🍷 Love Wine? Don’t miss the Sunnyslope Wine Trail, one of the best day trips from Boise! 

Álavita

🍽️ Italian | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 780-1100

Alavita is Fork’s sister restaurant in the heart of downtown and Italian dining at its finest. They offer creative and traditional Italian dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Start with a tray of cured meat and fancy cheese, or try their famous burrata. They even have a gluten-free option! 

Their black ravioli and tagliatelle are both excellent, but you really can’t go wrong with any of their delicious entree options.

The Funky Taco

🍽️ Mexican | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 488-4593

Tacos like you’ve never seen them before! Located on Boise’s “restaurant row,” The Funky Taco is an apt name for this eccentric Boise restaurant. They push the word “taco” to its absolute limit, creating bold takes on this traditional Mexican dish. 

Their tacos are made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally to match the available produce. The Funky Taco also hosts local bands and artists. 

👉 Don’t Miss: Freak Alley is just around the corner from The Funky Taco. This must-see Boise landmark is the northwest’s largest open-air art gallery. 

Westside Drive In 

🍽️ American | $ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 342-2957

Westside Drive In is a fast-casual American restaurant that has earned its spot on the list of the best restaurants in Boise. It has been operating since the 1950s and has become a Boise staple. 

They have massive burgers filled with delicious toppings and some of the best fries in the city. Westside Drive-In is also home to the famous baked ice cream potato. Don’t worry; it isn’t a potato, just ice cream made to look like one. 

The unique ‘50s-style decor and immaculate retro vibes make this the most fun “fast-gourmet” option in the city. Located just off State St., you’re sure to pass by Westside Drive In as you adventure around the city. 

Kibrom’s Ethiopean & Eritrean Food

🍽️ Eritrean | $ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 917-8005

Try authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes at this hidden local gem on State St. Make sure to try the doro wot and tips in a spicy red or mild white sauce.

Kibrom’s Ethiopean & Eritrean Food is an affordable, laid-back place to sample unique cuisine. They also offer great vegetarian options as well. 

KIN 

🍽️ Fine Dining | $$$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 342-0600

KIN is a small, reservation-only restaurant known for its prix fixe meal. This five-course menu changes every five weeks, keeping you coming back for more. 

They are only open for limited hours each week, and the reservation-only system means getting a table can be tricky, but it is worth it. KIN offers plenty of optional beverage pairings, plus vegan and gluten-free options. 

Make sure you set aside plenty of time in your evening to spend at KIN, as you don’t want to feel rushed. It isn’t just dinner. It’s an experience. 

Little Pearl Oyster Bar

🍽️ Oyster Bar | $$ | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 889-8555

While an oyster bar might seem strange, this is one of the best restaurants if you’re craving something different. Little Pear Oyster Bar has a wide variety of seafood options, specifically oyster dishes.

This is a great option if you like oysters and want to try a hidden local gem. 

Red Feather Lounge

🍽️ American | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 429-6340

Enjoy one of the best restaurants for seasonal American comfort food in Boise. Red Feather Lounge is the sister restaurant of Bittercreek Alehouse and serves a similar fare. This cozy eatery and cocktail bar is the perfect setting for an intimate, private meal.

Their handcrafted cocktails deliver fresh takes on traditional versions. Red Feather also has a diverse menu inspired by local Basque cuisine and locally-sourced food. 

Sunshine Spice Bakery & Cafe

🍽️ Art Cafe | $$  | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (208) 991-3920

Visit Boise’s first Afghan bakery and cafe for some seriously good food. This locally-owned restaurant is a delightful stop for tea, coffee, and baked goods. Sunshine Spice Bakery offers Turkish bagels, cheese bread, saffron green tea, Turkish coffee, and much more!

I love stopping by Sunshine Spice Bakery for a quick breakfast and some authentic pastries. Their saffron pudding is so unique! 

FAQs About Places to Eat in Boise

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Thanks for reading my guide to the best Boise restaurants! You won’t run out of new and exciting places to try in this culturally-rich city.