restaurant + bar guide Boise Weekly’s
NEW AND NOTABLE
Keeping up With the Foodies p 74
THE SHORT LIST FRied BALLs BuRgeRs soups piZZA sALAds and more
GET YOUR DRINK ON the gLoRY oF the diVe BAR p 65
inside
Favorite Foods 14/ Fried Balls 15/ Burgers 16/ Soup 18/ Pizza 20/ Salad 22/ Breakfast 24/ Appetizers 26/ Grilled Cheese 30/ Hot + Spicy 34/ Mac + Cheese 36/ Vegetables 42/ Ethnic Dishes 46/ Spuds 48/ Bone In 50/ Vegetarian 64/ Stuffed 68/ Bar Diversions 70/ Desserts
38 stuFF Your Face The city’s best you-vs.-food challenges by Deanna Darr
44 take it and claim it
Grab-and-go the gourmet way by Sheree Whiteley
65 ode to the dive bar
Without them no bar scene would be complete by rachael Daigle
74 new & notable The newbies you need to know about by tara Morgan
also in this issue 23/ Boise’s bar scene
from A to Z 52/ Breakfast: klassy vs. classy 58/ Best bang for your buck
staff publisher: Sally Freeman Sally@boiseweekly.com office manager: Shea Sutton Shea@boiseweekly.com Editorial editor: rachael Daigle rachael@boiseweekly.com managing editor: Deanna Darr Deanna@boiseweekly.com listings: Sheree Whiteley, Jay Vail calendar@boiseweekly.com proofreaders: Jay Vail Sheree Whiteley contributing writers: rachael Daigle, Deanna Darr, tara Morgan, Sheree Whiteley
6 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
advErtising Advertising Director: lisa Ware lisa@boiseweekly.com Account executives: Sabra brue Sabra@boiseweekly.com Jessi Strong Jessi@boiseweekly.com Doug taylor Doug@boiseweekly.com Jill Weigel Jill@boiseweekly.com CrEativE Art Director: leila ramella-rader leila@boiseweekly.com Graphic Designers: Jen grable Jen@boiseweekly.com adam rosenlund adam@boiseweekly.com photography: all photographs by laurie Pearman unless noted.
CirCulation Shea Sutton Shea@boiseweekly.com man About Town: Stan Jackson Stan@boiseweekly.com Boise Weekly prints 30,000 copies every Wednesday and is available free of charge at more than 750 locations, limited to one copy per reader. additional copies of the current issue of Boise Weekly may be purchased for $1, payable in advance. no person may, without permission of the publisher, take more than one copy of each issue. Boise Weekly is owned and operated by bar bar inc., an idaho corporation.
To conTAcT us: Boise Weekly’s office is located at 523 broad St., boise, iD 83702 Phone: 208-344-2055 Fax: 208-342-4733 e-mail: info@boiseweekly.com www.boiseweekly.com Address editorial, business and production correspondence to: boise Weekly, P.o. box 1657, boise, iD 83701 the entire contents and design of Boise Weekly are ©2011 by bar bar, inc. boise weekly is An inDepenDenTly owneD AnD operATeD newspAper.
FooD phoToGrAphy by lAurie peArmAn www. b o i s e we e kly. c o m
Boise Weekly’s Restaurant + Bar Guide/editor’s
note
OUR FAVORITE DESSERTS p 70 Welcome to the 2012 Boise Weekly Restaurant and Bar Guide. As a keen observer, you may have already noticed a few changes in the publication you now hold in your hands—primarily that it is a restaurant AND bar guide. This year we decided that just like the other great duos in the world—peanut butter and jelly, Milli and Vanilli—food and drink belong together. After all, isn’t a good meal only made better by the perfect glass of wine? Just like a juvenile night of over-indulging is improved by a plate of nachos at 2 a.m. It’s in this spirit of unity that we bring these two subject matters together to create a grand celebration of Treasure Valley dining and imbibing, offering you a look at some of the best places to indulge your culinary craving du jour and then where you can wash it all down. And what better temptation than something we lovingly call “food porn.” Don’t worry, there’s nothing indecent about it. In fact it’s quite the opposite. This issue is overflowing with stunning images of the most delectable, enticing, crave-worthy culinary creations in the valley. From comfort food like mac-and-cheese 8 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
and pizza to breathtaking desserts and Boise-centric creations, this guide is all about the eye candy. We’ve put the focus on what diners really want to know: What it is and where to get it. If you can tear your eyes away from the images—and if the puddles of drool haven’t made the ink run too badly—you’ll find pages of bar and restaurant listings organized by neighborhood so you can find just the thing to satiate your craving wherever you are. In keeping with Boise Weekly’s long-standing mission to support locally owned and operated businesses, all of the restaurants and bars listed here meet both of those criteria. While we appreciate the impact franchises and national chains have on the local economy, this guide is a celebration of what makes this area unique, and the local places are what define its character. The Treasure Valley’s dining scene is one that is both ever-evolving and surprising, meaning that if you’re willing to look for it, you can most likely find it somewhere in the area. Now, go forth and, as the old saying goes: eat, drink and be merry. —Deanna Darr
www. b o i s e we e kly. c o m
/restaurants + bars
directory
22
The Gyro House
50
30
The Egg Factory 36, 46, 70
The Gyro Shack
36, 48
Cancun Authentic Mexican
Hamburger Connection
48
Eighteen 1 at Eagle Hills Golf Course 68
The Capri
16
El Gallo Giro
58
Casa del Sol
16
El Gallo Giro Kuna
72
Casa Mexico
30, 46, 68
El Rinconcito
70
13th Street Pub and Grill 30
Cafe Ole
20th Century Lanes
36
Cafe Vicino
36th Street Bistro
30
A Taste of Thai
46
Addie’s
15
Ahi Sushi
66
Ali Baba
42
Alia’s Coffeehouse
15
Amigo’s Mexican Restaurant
36
Andrade’s
48
Andy’s Deli
15
16, 46
Casanova Pizzeria
48 16
Chandlers Steakhouse
16
48, 58, 70
Characters
16
Charlie Brown’s
48
Angell’s Bar and Grill
15
Artisan Food Co-op
46
Asiago’s
15
Asian Wok
36
A’Tavola
15
Athena’s Greek Grille
70
Bacon
15
Bad Boy Burgers
48
Chicago Connection 16, 46, 48, 70
Bad Boy Burgers 2
46
China Palace
68
China Wok
62
Baguette Deli
15, 48
Bangkok Thai
Barbacoa Bardenay
Cheerleaders Sports Bar and Grill
62
The Chef’s Hut
56
Chiang Mai House Thai Restaurant
48
Hawkins Pac-Out
32
Highlands Hollow Brewhouse
32
Hong Kong Restaurant and Lounge
72
Falcon Tavern
22
The Huddle
23
Fanci Freez
36
Hungry Onion
64
Hyde Park Pub
32
Fiesta Guadalajara 54, 62, 68, 70, 71, 72 Firehouse Pub and Grill
62
Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse
Firehouse Sports Pub
71
Idaho Burger
Flatbread Community Oven 22, 54, 62
Idaho Pizza Company
42 68
42, 50, 58, 64
The Flicks
22
Imelda’s Mexican Food
70
Flying M Coffeegarage
71
Ishtar
50
Flying M Coffeehouse
22
Island Kine Grinds
71
Jack’s Drive In
70
Fork
22
Jade Horse
64
15
Fresh Off the Hook
46
Jade’s Chopstick
36
53
Cobby’s
Front Door Northwest Pizza and Tap House
22
Jaker’s Steak, Ribs & Fish House
Fujiyama
46
Fusion Asian Grill
62
Jalapeno’s Bar and Grill
The Galley
36
Java
Gathering Place
68
Jenny’s Lunch Line
Gelato Cafe
62
Jerry’s State Court Cafe 50
Getaway Bar and Grill
71
Jim’s Coffee Shop
32
Gino’s Italian Restaurant 62
Joe Mama’s
68
Golden Phoenix Oriental Express
22
Kahootz Steak and Alehouse
64
Golden Star
48
Knitting Factory Concert House Korner Bistro
42, 48, 58
The Coffee Shop
70
Basque Market
16
The Cookie Lady Deli
48
Bella Aquila
68
Copper Canyon
70
Ben’s Crow Inn
54
Corkscrews Wine Shop and Pub
62
16
Corona Village
36, 42
Cosmic Pizza 54
20
Cottonwood Grille
20
Big Bun Drive-In
48
The Creperie
56
Big City Coffee
16
The Crux
20
Big Juds
16
Cucina di Paolo
48
Bittercreek Ale House
16
Curb Bar and Grill
62
Blue Cow Frozen Yogurt
54
Darby’s Bistro and Lounge
Boise Fry Company
62
62
56
46
Bogie’s Bar and Grill
Express Cafe
Harry’s Bar and Grill
46
Confucius Restaurant
Blue Sky Bagels
48
22
CK Hawaiian BBQ
16
The Blue Moose Cafe
Europe Delicious
Happy Fish Sushi & Martini Bar
Cinco de Mayo
15, 68
Bier:Thirty Bottle and Bistro
Epi’s Basque Restaurant 62
22
Flying Pie Pizzaria
Basque Center
Berryhill & Co. Restaurant
22
Ha’ Penny Irish Pub and Grill
45
15
The Bar at the Grove Hotel
46, 62, 70
70
Chris’ On Broadway Featuring Saladman
46
Bar Gernika
El Tenampa Emelio’s
Cazba Restaurant and Opa Lounge Chapala
The Edge
68 16, 62 62 42, 54
70
Darla’s Deli
20
DaVinci’s
68
Dawson’s Downtown
20
Bombay Grill
16
Deli George
42
Bosnian Express
48
Deli at the Grove
20
Bowl of Heaven
68
Brew 30
62
Delsa’s Ice Cream Parlour 46
Brick 29 Bistro
70
Brick Oven Bistro
16
The Brickyard
16
Don Diego’s
62
The Bridge Cafe
16
Dong Khanh
42
Broadway Deli
42
Doug’s Burger Den
68
Burger Belly
42
Dry Creek Merchantile
32
Burger ‘N Brew
36
Dutch Goose
Buster’s
42
Dutch Oven Cafe
48
Busters Bar and Grill
68
Eddie’s Diner
36
Buzz Cafe
36
Eddie’s Restaurant
48
Digg’s Pizza The District Coffee House
36, 48
Golden Wheel Drive-In
46
Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro 22
Papa Joe’s
24
68
Parrilla Grill
36
Lindy’s Steakhouse
46
Pat’s Thai Kitchen
56
Locavore
54
Patty’s Burger Time
50
Lock, Stock & Barrel
24
Peregrine Steaks and Spirits
72
The Perks of Life
68
Pho 79
42
Pho Nouveau
24
Lorenzo’s Pizza Los Betos
54 36, 50
Los Mariachis
46
Louie’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant Lucky 13 Pizza/ The Garage
64 56
Lucky Fins Seafood Grill 64 Lucky Palace Chinese Restaurant
58
Lulu’s Fine Pizza
32
Madhuban
36
Mai Thai
24
Mancino’s Subs and Pizza
70
50
Messenger Pizza
71
50
R & R Public House
64
Raw
50
Red Feather Lounge
28 58
MickeyRay’s Roadhouse Barbecue 56, 68 Miss Tami’s Cottage Expressions and Tea Room
64
Red Letter Books and Cafe
23
Modern Hotel and Bar
24
The Red Room Tavern
28
23
Mongolian Barbecue 36, 45
Reef
28
Mongolian BBQ and Grill
24
The Refuge
56
Mongolian Stir Fry
46
Rembrandt’s Coffee Shop
68
Moon’s Kitchen Cafe
24
Rick’s Press Room
64
Muse Bistro and Wine Bar
64
River City Coffee and Cafe
42
23
Nam King
42
The River Rock Eagle
70
64
New York Richie’s Sandwiches & Pizza
60
Rockies Diner
53
The Rooster
72
Rooster’s Eatery
53
Royal Delight Chinese Restaurant
56
Rudy’s Pub and Grill
64
Russian Bear Cafe
68
Sa-Wad-Dee Thai Restaurant
64
Sakana Japanese Sushi and Steak
64
Sakura Sushi
68
46, 71
‘Ohana Hawai’ian BBQ
64
La Tapatia
54
O’Michael’s Pub & Grill
32
La Vie En Rose
23
Ono Hawaiian Cafe
45
Le Baron’s Honker Cafe 71
The Orchard House Restaurant
70
Orphan Annie’s Bar & Grill
70
Pad Thai House
58
Panda Garden
50
The Pantry
24
22
50 28, 58
Quinn’s Restaurant and Lounge
71
Guido’s Original New York Style Pizza 22, 46
Pollo Rey
36
La Belle Vie
58
28
The Pocket
Merritt’s Country Cafe
Grape Escape
62
24
Plaza Grill
28
24
Groove Coffee, Espresso & Wine Cafe
42
Plan B Lounge
Q’s Billiards and Eatery
36, 56
North Shore Hot Dog Company
36
24
Pizzalchik
Merr’s Family Restaurant 71
Mazzah
46
The Green Chile
64
Piper Pub & Grill
28
Kyoto Japanese Steak House
56
Pinnacle Sports Grill
Proto’s Pizzeria Napoletana
72
42
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
24, 45, 64
28
North End Chinese
22
50
Pie Hole
The Press
71
22
Pho Tam
Pot Belly Deli
Matteeo’s Firehouse Cafe
Goodwood Barbecue Company 56, 62
Goldy’s Corner
56
10 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
24
Lily Jane’s Cupcakes
Krung Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Guang Zhou Chinese Restaurant
36, 70
64
Life’s Kitchen
Le Cafe de Paris
23
Le Coq Rouge
58
Legends Sports Pub and Grill
58
Leku Ona
23
Salt Tears Coffeehouse & Noshery 42
Stay on top of restaurant and bar openings in the valley with Boise Weekly’s online listings. Scan the QR code on the right or visit boiseweekly.com and click on “Food.” Updates from diligent readers and listed restaurateurs are heartily encouraged. E-mail to food@boiseweekly.com or fax to 208-342-4733.
www. b o i s e we e kly. c o m
/restaurants + bars
directory Sam’s Place
46
Seasons Bistro Wine Bar and Catering
68
Shaka Shack
45
Shanaz Home Kitchen Cuisine
66
Shangri-La Tea Room
53
Shige
28
Shige Express
28
Shige Red Carpet Fine Dining
30
Shige Teriyaki
66
Shotsies
42
Siam Thai
56
Simple Sushi Bar
72
Smoke Inn
42
Smoky Mountain Pizza and Pasta 42, 56, 66, 68, 72
The Trolley House
56
Twig’s Cellar
30
Twin Dragon
30
56
Uncle Giuseppe’s
60
Humpin’ Hannah’s
23
Varsity Pub
66
Jim’s Alibi
45
Victors, Hogs and Horns 70
Jo’s Sunshine Lounge
50
Viking Drive In
42
Jumpin’ Janets
50
Vina
66
Kay and Traci’s 127 Club
64
Kit Kat Club
64
The Lift Bar and Grill
36
Little Dutch Garden
50
Liquid
24
Longhorn Lounge
72
Lucky Dog
24
Mack and Charlie’s
24
Westside Drive-In Wicky Wicky Sushi Wild West Bakery and Espresso Willi B’s Sandwich Saloon Willowcreek Grill
42, 56 53 70 48 53, 70
Wiseguy Pizza Pie
30
Wok-Inn Noodle
53 72
Sofia’s Greek Bistro
60
Yen Ching
30
Solid
30
Yoi Tomo
30
Sono Bana
53
Yokozuna Teriyaki
53
Sports Zone
30
Zen Bento
30, 70
Squeezers Boise
46
Zeppole
30, 56
Stagecoach Inn
60
66
Strikers in the Meridian Bowling Alley 66
Main Street Bistro McCleary’s Pub
24 36, 50
Moe’s Place
60
Monkey Bizness
71
Montego Bay
42
Mulligans Bar
24
Navajo Room
50
Neurolux
24
The New Frontier Club
64
Overflow Bar
71
Overland Bar
50
Pengilly’s
24
Stubs Sports Pub
56
Pete’s Tavern
71
The Stuffed Olive
68
Pitchers and Pints
24
Sugar Rush Cupcakery
46
Players Pub & Grill
60
Sun Ray Cafe
36
Quarter Barrel
60
Sunrise Cafe
66
R Bar
45
The Ranch Club
60
Red Eye Saloon
72
The Red Room Tavern
28
Schooner’s
64
Shorty’s Saloon
60
Suds Tavern
45
Symposion
30 42
Sunshine Bagel Bakery Superb Sushi
46 30
Sushi Joy
30
Sushi Ya
58
10th Street Station
15
1918 Lounge
70
44 Club
36
4-E’s Bar
72
Balcony Club
15
Barb’s Barr
70
The Beerhouse
46
Bill-N-Lynn’s Place
60
Sweet Valley Cookie Company
70
Boulevard Bar
58
Symposion
30
Brews Brothers
36
Broadway Bar
42
Tablerock Brewpub and Grill
30
Buddies Pub & Deli
46
Terry’s State Street Saloon
Taj Mahal Restaurant
30
The Buffalo Club
46
Tiny’s Lounge
72
Busted Shovel
62
Tom Grainey’s
30
Cactus Bar
16
The Torch
30
China Blue
20
The Torch 2
53
Cowgirls
72
Turner’s Sports Bar
42
56
Creekside Lounge
72
Village Pub
48
Tepanyaki Japanese Steak House
30
Crescent No Lawyers Bar/Grill
Vista Bar
53
48
Thai Cuisine
53
White Water Saloon
66
Crickets
20
Time Out Sports Pub and Restaurant
58
Dirty Little Roddy’s
20
The Woodshed Neighborhood Bar
72
Tony’s Pizzeria Teatro
30
Eastside Tavern
54
Woody’s
53
Top Wok
48
End Zone
42
Fatty’s
22
Fireside Inn
36
Gamekeeper Lounge
22
Tango’s Subs and Empanadas Tapia’s Gourmet on Broadway Tavern at Bown Crossing
Tree City Juice and Smoothie Cafe Tres Bonne Cuisine
12 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
22
Hooligan’s Pub
Wrap Shack
Steve’s Cafe
22
Grainey’s Basement 58
46
53
36
Gil’s K-9 Bar
Twisted Timber Pub and Grill
Sockeye Grill and Brewery
Stan’s Char-Broiled Hot Dogs
Gaslight Lounge (20th Century Lanes)
53 45
30, 66 53
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www. bo iseweekly.co m
boiseweekly | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | 13
favorite foods/fried
balls 2
1
3
4
8 7
6
5
[1] Malasadas
[4] Mac-and-Cheese
[6] Risotto Bites
CK’s Hawaiian BBQ (Portuguese dough balls)
Balls
Solid
[2] Fried Zucchini Bad Boy Burgers
[3] Falafel
The Basque Market
[7] Croquettes [5] Lawyer Fries The Crescent “No Lawyers” Bar and Grill (Rocky Mountain Oysters)
Ali Baba
14 | RESTAURANT ANd BAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
Leku Ona
[8] Hush Puppies Mickey Ray’s Roadhouse Barbecue
www. b o i s e we e kly. c o m
downtown & fringe/restaurant + bar listings Downtown & Fringe 10th Street Station— This subterranean space with plush rolling chairs and sports memorabilia has been 10th Street Station since 1982, but it’s been a bar, saloon or tavern of some kind for more than a century. Located in the Idanha Building, it’s a favorite with hipsters but also attracts a steady stream of college students and the blue-collar crowd. 104 10th St., 208-344-2677. addie’S—If your butt enjoys a quality booth and sitting for a full meal, this is the breakfast place where your tookus needs to be. Addie’s is a friendly, high-quality choice for the first meal of the
day. All the traditional stuff is served here: pancakes, chicken fried steak, choose-your-ownadventure omelet, bacon and bottomless coffee. Vegetarians delight in the tasty veggie sausage. 501 W. Main St., 208-338-1198. alia’S CoffeehouSe—For the slightly hungry and very daring, daily desserts and bagels are made fresh but the crowds come in flocks for the specialty espresso drinks. Namely, the Dark & Spicy, a chocolaty delight with a kiss of cayenne. 908 W. Main St., 208-338-1299. andy’S deli—Every city has a Seinfeld sandwich/coffee place. Andy’s is Boise’s. Some say it’s the best Philly Cheese
this side of the Mississippi. It’s certainly a place to go where $5 can stretch. 840 W. Idaho St., 208-336-5186. angell’S Bar and grill— Angell’s is an elegant and cozy stop in the winter as well as a relaxing patio place to cool off in the summer. Best for impressing a client over happy hour or taking in a quiet dinner for date night. The prime rib and prawns combo is a favorite. 999 W. Main St., 208-342-4900. angellsbarandgrill.com. aSiago’S—No single region of Italy gets all the attention here. Well-heeled staff happily suggest an Italian wine with any meal, but finding a table adorned with a vintage Italian tourism poster
favorite foods/burgers
is easiest with a reservation. Reward yourself with a freshmade cannoli on Fridays and Saturdays. 1002 W. Main St., 208-336-5552. asiagos.com. a’tavola—Cafe Shakespeare’s Lisa Peterson and head chef Tim Holley are the talent behind this marketplace, which offers a casual cafe menu, bakery, espresso, cheeses, charcuterie, and many other food-related things. 1515 W. Grove St., 208336-3641. atavolaboise.com. BaCon—Berryhill’s sister restaurant gets going early in the morning for the downtown breakfast club. The raspberry cream cheese coffee cake is worth crossing counties for. But don’t forget a signature side of Berryhill bacon, in a slew of varieties including tempeh. 915 Idaho St., 208-387-3553. baconboise.com. Baguette deli—If French colonization brought Vietnam any gifts, it was the baquette. Choose from 18 different 12-inch sub sandwich choices at the Vietnamese deli. Spring rolls, smoothies and French pastries round out the super value menu, on which no sandwich will set you back more than a five spot. 276 N. Eighth St., 208389-2888. baguettedeli.net. BalCony CluB—Balcony offers up the dance party seven nights a week. It may be the fiercest gay bar in town, but the straight crowd just can’t stay away. Check out drag Bingo and regular drag shows throughout the year. 150 N. Eighth St., Ste. 226, 208-336-1313. thebalconyclub.com. the Bar at the grove hotel—The best place to watch for famous people when they come to Boise. Pretend like you’re visiting Boise from some faraway city and belly up at the Grove Hotel’s lobby bar. This is a very nice, high-end, quiet bar perfect for a casual business meeting or a rendezvous with someone special. 245 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-333-8000.
Hercules Burger
Huntsman Burger
Big Jud’s
Sofia’s Greek Bistro A double cheeseburger with gyro meat and bacon. Good luck.
Bittercreek Ale House Multiple wins for Best Burger in Best of Boise.
Big Jud’s Round up six friends and order the Man v. Food Burger. Only order one.
Eagle’s Best Burger
Highland Burger
Wild West Bakery and Espresso It lives up to its name.
36th Street Bistro Meat from the shaggy Scottish cows is leaner than traditional beef.
Bison Burger Boise Fry Company Duking it out with the Huntsman Burger to claim Best of Boise titles.
www. bo iseweekly.co m
Verde Burger Falcon Tavern With zing courtesy of Anaheim peppers.
Niman Ranch Burger Brick 29 Don’t forget to add some of the house-made Bristol bacon.
Spicy Local Lamb Burger Red Feather Lounge The Ballard feta, crispy onion and jalapeno throw this over the top.
Bar gernika—Can you say croquettes in Eskudi? Basque favorites in a dark and cozy little bar. The chicken and chorizo paella, lamb grinder and beef tongue are the beginning of a long list of food-centered reasons to visit, and this frequently packed establishment makes a mean grilled cheese as well. 202 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-3442175. bargernika.com. Bardenay—If a mushroom should ever replace a beef patty, it should be enjoyed here. The portabello burger is enough reason to turn vegetarian for life, but a host of steak and seafood entrees could tempt one back. Bardenay makes its own fabulous spirits—and they’re dangerously tasty. And then there’s the big patio that pairs oh-so-nicely with a pitcher of mojitos. Weekend brunch is tasty and be ready to fight for a table on the weekends at this happenin’ Boise hotspot. 610 Grove St., 208-426-0538. bardenay.com.
boiseweekly | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | 15
restaurant + bar listings/downtown BaSque Center:—Little known fact: The Basque Center is open to the public. It’s the official watering hole for Boise’s large Basque population, but it also has a reputation for stiff drinks and outrageously fun crowds anytime the block is throwing a party. And hangin’ there is for a good causebar proceeds benefit the Basque Center and Museum. 601 W. Grove St., 208-331-5097 or 208-3429983. basquecenter.com. BaSque market—The Market is a fine place to make new friends. The cafe seating area is family
style, so saddle up to the wooden feast-size tables and order some tapas. Paella on the patio and various classes are Boise-only experiences. So uncork a bottle of LAN and toast your new tradition of taking two hours for lunch. 608 W. Grove St., 208-433-1208. thebasquemarket.com. Berryhill & Co. reStaurant—Whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience for a date night or you need an elegant space for a private party, Berryhill has you covered. Chef John Berryhill has carefully pieced together a
& fringe
discerning selection of dishes at his eponymous downtown restaurant. The lunch menu is a balance of cosmopolitan comfort food (meatloaf sands, crab melts and baked mac and cheese) and a walk on the lighter side (grilled veggie pitas). Dinner pulls out all the stops with local Kobe cuts, a variety of chicken and pasta dishes, as well as rack of lamb and plenty of seafood. Early evening it’s a see-and-be-seen happy hour crowd. 121 N. Ninth St., 208-387-3553. berryhillandco.com.
favorite foods/soup
Big City Coffee—This coffee shop serves a variety of hot drinks for your on-the-go life and wellproportioned meals for the times when you slow down. The menu is surprisingly large and creative for both breakfast and lunch and the deli case has an assortment of bakery sweets and savory items. It’s like getting a meal in grandma’s kitchen. 1416 Grove St., 208-345-3145. bigcitycoffeeld. com. Big JudS—This place has been on Man v Food—need we say more? There are burgers as big as your head and the wall of burger fame for those who dared to down the one-pound Big Jud, tots, pie, grilled cheese sandwiches, onion rings and fries. 1289 Protest Road, 208343-4439. bigjudsboise.com. BitterCreek ale houSe—Bittercreek is always classy and busy with an eclectic bunch of patrons. A beer selection listed by geographical proximity and a menu with a serious local focus. This Northwestern pub is a favorite among those looking to relax with friends, and the summer streetside patio offers prime peoplewatching opportunities. Happy hour is low-power, which means a nice, cozy candlelit time. 246 N. Eighth St., 208-345-1813. bcrfl.com/ bittercreek. Blue Sky BagelS—Cruise into this shop for fresh, house-made bagels, for this is a place of principles. No soup is eaten without an offering of a free bagel. No bagel sandwich goeth without plenty of cream cheese and veggies. Coffee is a bottomless product. Three updated soups of the day online, not to mention, when you buy 12 bagels, Blue Sky will round it up to a baker’s dozen for free. 407 W. Main St., 208-388-4242. blueskybagels.com.
Creamy Tomato Basil with Cheddar Jenny’s Lunch Line Multiple varieties of vegetarian/ vegan/gluten-free soups every day.
Cheddar Vegetable Brick Oven Bistro Most soups come with a scoop of mashed potatoes or rice on top.
White Bean Chili Willi B’s Keepin’ the chill out on a winter day.
Pho
Wild Mushroom Miso
Pho Tam One giant bowl of Vietnamese beef soup.
Shangri-La Tea Room Home of the vegetarian/veganfriendly menu.
Clam Chowder
Borscht
Fresh Off the Hook Regular winner of Best Seafood in Best of Boise.
Russian Bear Cafe It doesn’t get more Russian than this.
Seafood Soup
Cioppino
Leku Ona This Basque-style soup is an ode to the ocean.
Tom Ka Gai Saim Cafe As spicy as you want—or don’t. 16 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
Cafe Vicino Plan ahead—it’s only available on occasion.
BomBay grill—Exotic mirror and wall decor, the distant hum of the Orient, provokes a memory of Mumbai—but it is, in fact, the Bombay Grill in the historic Idanha Hotel. Enjoy samosa, curry, or settle in for a homemade meal at dinner. 928 W. Main St., 208-3457888. bombaygrillonline.com. BriCk oven BiStro—This has been a family favorite for 20 years running. Lovingly called the Beanery by longtime patrons, this Grove hot spot with everything homemade has some of the best comfort food around. Though it’s better known for the down-home cookin’ the bistro features a surprisingly tasty list of bottles and a sophisticated tap, sure to pair with your tray full of wholesome goodness. It’s comfort food with a brew. And on hot summer afternoons, you can sit on the Grove-front patio, making it food ’n’ brew, with a view. 801 N. Main St., 208-3423456. brickovenbistro.com. the BriCkyard—The new inhabitant of Boise’s historic corner at Sixth and Main streets is a casual spot for a week-day lunch that transforms in to a fine-dining steakhouse for dinner, and then morphs into a joint where dueling pianos battle it out for the late-night crowd. 601 Main St., 208-2872121. brickyardboise.com. the Bridge Cafe—Stop in for breakfast, lunch or a snack. Continental breakfast and coffee, build-
your-own wraps and sandwiches, hot lunch and a rack of snacks for the in-between times. 123 N. Sixth St., 208-345-5526. CaCtuS Bar:—Watering hole for the serious drinker by day, 20-something magnet by night. Dance on the bar or lounge on the alley patio any time of day. Cash only. 517 W. Main St., 208-3429732. Cafe ole—For being in a basement, Cafe Ole is surprisingly welcoming. Whether it’s the friendly staff or budget-friendly prices, this downtown cantina has both privacy and a social atmosphere. Don’t forget to go in on your birthday for free dessert. This Mexican restaurant has been serving for the last 28 years, and has a killer latenight happy hour on the weekends. 404 S. Eighth St., 208-344-3222. cafeole.com. the Capri—In this day and age, if a business doesn’t have a website, it clearly doesn’t need one. As is the case with this Boise breakfast and lunch staple. Seating here is a matter of logistics—supply maximum happiness in minimum space. Be sure to order a cinnamon roll. 2520 W. Fairview Ave., 208-342-1442. CaSa del Sol—American/Mexican menu in the heart of BODO featuring $2 authentic street-style tacos. 409 S. Eighth St., 208-2873660. CazBa reStaurant and opa lounge—What was once two spaces is now one: Cazba dishes the food, Opa slings the drinks. Cazba transports you to the Eastern Mediterranean with cloud-painted walls, elegant decor and food from Greece, Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey and Iran. After the dinner crowd leaves, the dance party starts. With a bar as you walk in the door, and another upstairs in the intimate lounge decked out with plush draperies and sofas, this restaurant turns into a hot spot at night, where the pretty people mingle and dance, dance, dance. 211 N. Eighth St., 208-381-0222. ChandlerS SteakhouSe— Chandlers is for the fine-diner in you. With filet mignon, porterhouse and Kobe cuts, as well as an appetizer menu that offers oysters, lobster cakes, escargot and the restaurant’s signature Tower of Tuna. It’s as popular a stop for cocktails as it is for a fine dinner. The lights are low and the live jazz is always on. What to order from the bar: the Ten Minute Martini. 981 W. Grove St., 208-383-4300. chandlersboise.com. CharaCterS—All hotel bar, all the way. Characters doesn’t exactly draw a consistent crowd—sometimes you’ll find college kids, sometimes only hotel patrons. Other times, you’ll find runoff from the bikini bar across the street. And if you’re really unlucky, you’ll run into a bachelorette party. Go as you are, and if you stay too long, sleep in a room upstairs. 1800 Fairview Ave., in the Red Lion Downtowner, 208-344-7691. ChiCago ConneCtion—Standard pizza and sandwich fare, but the stellar beer menu more than makes up for it. 310 N. Fourth St. 208-342-3434. chicagoconnection. com.
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favorite foods/pizza
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[1] Bianco Magnifico Flatbread Community Oven All pizzas can be made gluten-free.
[2] Thailand Express Front Door Northwest Pizza and Tap House No domestic or bottled beers and unique pizzas.
[3] All Meat Chicago Connection Also known for its great salad bar.
[4] Chicken, bell peppers, jalapenos, feta and barbecue plum sauce Pie Hole The valley’s favorite post-bar, late-night, impromptu slice.
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[7] Arugula Porchetta
[10] Zerto Magnifico
[13] Clam Bacon
Tony’s Pizzeria Teatro Neapolitan and classy.
Flying Pie Pizzaria Frequent winner of Best Pizza in Best of Boise.
Casanova Pizzeria Does half-and-half on anything— including all the clam pies.
[11] Basque Special
[14] Canadian bacon,
Louie’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant Put Basque chorizo on anything and Boise loves it.
Guido’s Pizzeria The house specialty: the white slice.
[8] BBQ Chicken Smoky Mountain Pizzeria As dedicated to pasta as to pie.
[5] Sun Valley Veggie Idaho Pizza Company All-you-can-eat pizza at lunch.
[6] Wise Guy Wise Guy Pizza Slices are always on.
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[9] Jalapeno Popper Messenger Pizza and Brewery Crazy giant slices with wild combos in Nampa.
[12] Lucky 13 Supreme Lucky 13 Longtime local fave.
green peppers and tomatoes
[15] Lowrider Proto’s Pizzeria Napoletana With the movie theater nearby, this is a great urban escape.
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restaurant + bar listings/downtown China Blue—A party girl all sassied up for the night would have to be a wellseasoned drinker just to order a drink at every bar. With a bar in the women’s bathroom, one made of ice, one hidden away in “very-important-people” areas, and one for the masses, China Blue is committed to a party. The music is always thumpin’, the people always pretty and the dance floor always fun. Boise’s only bottle service is upstairs. 100 S. Sixth St., 208-3459515. CoSmiC pizza—You’ll find original pizzas in a relaxed atmosphere at this pizza place. The menu includes salads, sandwiches and microbrews in addition to out-of-this-world pizzas topped with unique items like corn dogs and eggs over easy. Play a game of ping pong while you wait for your pie. 1221 W. Boise Ave., 208-258-3871. cosmicpizzaboise.com.
Cottonwood grille—Cottonwood Grille is a swanky yet unpretentious quality restaurant along the Greenbelt. Specializing in scratch-made food, recipes are infused with local ingredients. This eatery has one of the best patios in town within earshot of the Boise River. If you’re into an apres ski atmosphere, think drinks in the lodge by a big ol’ fire. Cottonwood is your in-city destination. 913 W. River St., 208-333-9800. cottonwoodgrille.com. the Crux—This coffee shop/ music venue features the muchloved Stumptown Coffee from Portland, Ore. Enjoy a cup, or a barley pop if you’re of age, bask in the tunes and enjoy the scenery of recycled/sustainable furnishings. 1022 W. Main St. CriCketS—This little corner bar off Boise Avenue is a favorite hangout for the Boise State set. Just a couple of blocks from campus, you’re likely to see a bunch of kids taking a break from the books,
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tossing back cheap beer, playing pool and video games or warbling through a karaoke rendition of “Summer Lovin’.” And since these are the folks who are going to rule the world someday, maybe the latter is better. At least our new leaders will know how to have a little fun. 1228 Oakland Ave., 208344-6235. darla’S deli—Slamming breakfast choices at order-seconds prices. From hashbrown/ bacon breakfast burritos, mixed bagel sandwiches, Idaho or kitchen sink omelets—this is a late riser’s brick and mortar savior. You’ll be so impressed, the decision of where to go to lunch will be a done deal. Best find on the menu? Half a grilled-cheeseand-tomato sandwich for $2.83. 250 S. Fifth St., 208-381-0034. cwmooreplaza.com/darlasdeli. dawSon’S downtown—This Eighth street staple allows you to soak up some sugar and caffeine on the patio with locally roasted coffee concoctions.
Owners Dave and Cindy Ledgard know where to find the best fair trade, organic, shade grown and just plain excellent coffees. 219 N. Eighth St., 208-336-5633. dawsontaylor.com. deli at the grove—Head inside the bank building and enjoy a classic deli-style menu equipped with sandwiches, salads and soup. 101 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-336-3500. dirty little roddy’S— Maybe the only thing you need to know about DLR is that you can ride a mechanical bull when things get dull (or when they get interesting, depending on your perspective). The crowd is often the type that’s searching for a little one-nightonly action, but when the music gets bumping, that’s the kind of crowd that knows how to have fun. Check the bar’s myspace page for specials like monthly bikini and boxer brief bull riding competitions and deals on drinks. 100 S. Sixth St., 208345-9515.
favorite foods/salads
Apple Gouda Salad Chris’ on Broadway A joint where salad is the star.
The B.C.S. Fork Huge emphasis on local and organic.
Chicken Salad Bacon Avocado Salad Deli George George’s makes a mean sando but the salads are the real secret.
Tableside Service
Grilled Kale Caesar Red Feather Lounge They grill the greens not the meat.
Shaken Beef Salad Pho Nuveau Layers and layers of freshness and flavor.
The Brickyard Get it like you like it as you watch. 20 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
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restaurant + bar listings/downtown the diStriCt Coffee houSe— Faith-based coffee shop. 110 S. Fifth St., 208-343-1089. districtcoffeehouse.com. the edge—Get a cup of joe in between shopping for music at The Record Exchange and knickknacks at The Edge gift shop. 1105 W. Idaho St., 208-344-5383. emilio’S—With Chef Chris Hain in charge of preparing cuisine and over 450 wines in this restaurant in the Grove Hotel, you’ll think you’re in some big city, not downtown Boise. Oh, and they have sushi, too. 245 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-3338002. emiliosboise.com. falCon tavern—Many places can make a Reuben, but serving it with lip-smacking good beer—that
sounds like the Falcon. The “Boise neighborhood pub” of downtown, it’s known for its hand-pressed Kobe burger and ample beer selection. 705 W. Bannock St., 208-9473111. falcontavern.com. fatty’S—Fatty as in fat beers, not as in its patrons. Fatty’s has become party central just about every night of the week, with a college-aged crowd looking for everything from beer pong to hiphop concerts to cheap shots and, of course, fat drinks. 800 W. Idaho St., Ste. 200, 208-514-2531. drinkfattys.com. flatBread Community oven— Forget your pizza craving of simple pepperoni. Stone-fired pizza, pasta and sandwiches served up from the community oven. Flatbread
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is a win-win for the entire family. The wine and beer selections are excellent, kids make their own pizzas and the patio is a definite summertime draw. Stopping in for just a drink with 10 of your closest friends? Chances are you won’t even have to pull tables together. The long tables encourage major socialization, be it within your group or with the strangers next to you. The pick two lunch is one of the best deals in town. 615 W. Main St., 208-287-4757. flatbreadpizza.com. the fliCkS—Boise’s only art film house where you can grab some soup and a sandwich or maybe some popcorn sprinkled with brewers’ yeast, an adult beverage and enjoy the flick of your choice.
favorite foods/breakfast
Not feeling like a film? That’s OK because you don’t actually need a movie ticket to share a drink with friends. Food good enough to bring you in without a ticket includes burgers, chicken and brie on ciabatta, lasagna, gyro wraps, salads and daily soups. 646 Fulton St., 208-342-4222. theflicksboise.com. flying m CoffeehouSe—In addition to a fantastic atmosphere— cool tunes, friendly employees, art on the walls and comfy seating— “the M” makes killer coffee drinks and pastries. With a small kitchenbakery, its items are fresh and satisfying for breakfast, lunch and snack time. 500 W. Idaho St., 208345-4320. flyingmcoffee.com. fork—Fork may have broken the curse of its downtown location. Perhaps instead of shutting up shop not long after its opening, this one could be here for the long haul. This restaurant’s entrees could win Grammys, its desserts, Emmys. Its local flair, friendly staff, and beautiful, well-lit interior make it a cool place to hang in downtown Boise, and in the summertime, hanging flower baskets and a patio situated for prime people watching make it a go-to spot. 199 N. Eighth St., 208-287-1700. boisefork.com. front door northweSt pizza and tap houSe—Two words sum up a drinking experience at Front Door: “domestic free.” Front Door consistently bottoms out Boise’s Coldest Beer Contest and for good reason: good beer don’t need no cold. Serious beer drinkers find safe haven with more than 60 choices, including 14 rotating taps and 20 bottles of Belgian Ale. The food will satisfy serious pizza people. And it has liquor too. Eat -in or take-out. Offering tasty pizza, sandwiches, soups and salads. Features a stellar line of beers, including more than 60 beers to choose from. 105 S. Sixth St., 208-287-9201. thefrontdoorboise. com.
Orange Caramel French Toast La Vie En Rose Made with homemade brioche and served with Gran Marnier caramel sauce—and definitely get the cheese browns as a side.
Local Breakfast Le Cafe de Paris Keeping it local with Morning Owl duck eggs and locally-made chorizo.
Specialty Waffles Locavore Thick, heavenly waffles topped with fruit or Nutella for a bargain price.
Speciality Pancakes The Egg Factory Don’t miss the Red Velvet pancakes. Or the oatmeal pancakes. Or the loaded hashbrowns.
Cinnamon Rolls Jo Mamma’s Breakfast Eatery Homemade every weekend.
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Potato and Egg Breakfast Pizza Red Feather Lounge With tomatoes, bacon, roasted onions and sausage gravy, it‘s perfect for brunch.
Breakfast Pizzetta of the Day Salt Tears Coffeehouse and Noshery With a rotating cast of toppings.
gamekeeper lounge— Slip into the shadowy lounge for a little down time after work and sink into one of the lavish rolling lounge chairs or a deep booth. Order a martini. Peruse the happy hour hors d’oeuvres menu. Close your eyes and listen to the sweet sound of live jazz. Sigh. 1109 W. Main St., 208-343-4611. owyheeplaza. com. gil’S k-9 Bar—Gil’s is a serious locals bar with a well-appreciated older crowd of customers who can’t think of any place they’d rather be. Perched near the industrial, Connector end of Main Street, it’s a windowless dive you’ve probably motored by a million times without throwing it so much as a glance. But don’t be scared of the unknown. Pub grub and a healthy selection of libations lurk inside. 2506 Main St., 208345-4420. golden phoenix oriental expreSS—In the heart of downtown, Oriental Express offers fresh, hot, delicious Chinese food seven days a week at very affordable prices with some awesome vegetarian and vegan options. 110 N. 11th St., 208-345-8868.
goldy’S BreakfaSt BiStro— We imagine that Goldy’s heavy curtain is a simulation of heaven; it separates the blessed from those praying for a table on Earth. It continually wins Best of Boise awards, appeases the waiting with free Dawson Taylor coffee outside and warm service inside. You know the drill—no reservations, but well worth the half-hour wait. And now, Goldy’s Corner offers tasty confections right next door, too. Can’t make it for breakfast? This beloved local spot’s got lunch, too. 108 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-345-4100. goldysbreakfastbistro.com. goldy’S Corner—This relaxed extension of Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro serves coffee, beer and wine that can be consumed while picking out a work of art to purchase. Or pick up some Goldy’s swag while enjoying happy hour or an entree on the casual dinner menu. 625 W. Main St., 208-433-3934. goldysbreakfastbistro.com. grainey’S BaSement—A varied lineup of live music and a fun-loving clientele mean that regardless of the night, everyone’s guaranteed a good time. One flash of ID and a stamp on the hand provide access to both Grainey’s bars. Whether you choose the dark-wood, English-pub environment upstairs, or the concrete, low-ceilinged, urban feel of downstairs, Grainey’s is a great place to get your party on. 107 S. Sixth St., 208-345-2505. grape eSCape—There isn’t a happy hour because nobody leaves unhappy. The Grape has a full menu and wine from (arguably) every country that makes it. One of the only patios offering blankets in the winter, Grape Escape anticipates nearly every need. Make a reservation for your Tuesday night $5-$7 white-and-red sampler. 800 W. Idaho St., 208-368-0200. guido’S original new york Style pizza—There’s nothing like a slice (or three) of Guido’s New York-style pizza for lunch. The giant pies are inexpensive and addictive. 235 N. Fifth St., 208-3459011. guidosdowntown.com. ha’ penny iriSh puB and grill—Looking for some good craic right in little old Boise? This pub has it, bringing a little taste of the Emerald Isle to the City of Trees. With a cozy, old-world pub atmosphere, the prerequisite number of taps lining the long, wood bar and a menu filled with both Irish and American favorites, Ha’ Penny is a place that quickly earns regulars. Live music and patio seating top off the evening. Slainte! 855 Broad St., Ste. 250, 208-3435568. hapennybridgepub.com. happy fiSh SuShi & martini Bar—It is a happy fish, indeed, that becomes an entree here. With a wide array of sushi rolls, sashimi and more, including several creative vegetarian options. The martini menu at Happy Fish may be bigger than its sushi menu. Maybe. Sweeties like the Jackie O and the G-Spot keep the frou frou drinkers hooked, while those with more refined palates go with classics like the Dutch or James Bond. Ditch the hard stuff for sake, beer or wine, if you please, but you’ll want at least a sip of your friend’s martini. After all, it does have martini bar in its name. 855 Broad St., 208-3434810. happyfishsushi.com.
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restaurant + bar listings the huddle—Family friendly sports grill with 10 televisions, virtually guaranteeing that your game will be on. Sixteen taps mean that you can have anything from a Guinness to a Coors Light while watching sports and chowing down on one of this joint’s mac-and-cheese varieties. 205 N. 10th St., Ste. 110, 208-338-5454. humpin’ hannah’S—For three decades, Hannah’s has been the place to get your dance on to live music. On any given night, the place is packed and you’ll have to thread through a throng of smiling party people to order a drink from the bar. Groove to your favorite cover song by the Rocci Johnson Band. There’s enough kitsch on the walls and hanging from the ceilings to keep you entertained for hours and hours. 621 Main St., 208-345-7557.
A-Z’s of Boise’s BAr scene
An alphabetical roundup of what makes Ada County’s boozing awesome. ILLuSTRATIONS BY ADAM ROSENLuND
Java—Three words: Bowl of Soul. This coffee/espresso/chocolate concoction is liquid redemption. In addition to all things coffee, Java also serves scones, muffins and tasty breakfast and lunch offerings, including an early bird slamming breakfast deal until 9 a.m. with $5 eggs, toast, jam, and coffee. 223 N. Sixth St., 208-345-0777. Jenny’S lunCh line—The menu, which changes every day, always features fresh soups, salads and sandwiches made daily. Vegetarian and healthy options are the mainstay with a single yummy dessert treat for the times when your sweet tooth needs a little loving, too. 106 N. Sixth St., 208433-0092. jennyslunchline.com.
Absinthe at The Modern Hotel and Bar and Red Feather Lounge
knitting faCtory ConCert houSe— With locations in Los Angeles and New York, Knitting Factory’s Boise HQ has the same major concert connections. Sometimes you want to get to a concert early to get a good seat. That might mean having to miss out on dinner somewhere else, but not if you’re going to the Knitting Factory. While you wait for the show to start, you can dig into a heaping plate of nachos, sink your teeth into a stacked sandwich and fries or wrap your mouth around a pile of buffalo wings; you’ll be eating like a rock star. Open Sunday (show nights). 416 S. Ninth St., 208-367-1212. bo.knittingfactory.com. la vie en roSe—A European-style bakery where the digs are as beautiful as the grinds. Enjoy fresh baked croissants, brioches, tarts, eclairs and more from chef Patrick Brewer. Check out the breakfast menu, featuring everything from omelets and frittatas to biscuits and gravy and pancakes. Lunch features a selection of homemade soups, sandwiches and salads, and Illy coffee is available all day, every day. 928 W. Main St., 208-331-4045. lavieenrosebakery.com.
Board Games at Solid, Bottle Service at China Blue, Brewery Explosion in Boise, Bikini Bull Riding at Dirty Little Roddy’s
le Cafe de pariS—Do you love rich dishes such as duck confit or rack of lamb? Oui. Does the thought of a mimosa and a croque-monsieur, croissant jambon fromage or Nutella banana crepe make you yearn for the weekend? Oui. Does a flaky tarte aux fraises or mille feuille make you giggly? Chef Mathieu Choux brought his family’s longstanding French restaurant tradition to Idaho and offers “casual French food in a relaxed atmosphere.” The display case offers a glimpse of the height of French pastry baking. The food is among Boise’s best: lush, buttery, delicious. 204 N. Capitol Blvd., 208-336-0889. lecafedeparis.com. leku ona—Step into a little piece of a traditional Basque home, family and heaven when you visit Leku Ona. Relax in the friendly atmosphere with lunch or dinner, either inside or out on the patio on warm days. Leku’s three-sided bar invites conversation, and it’s decently priced liquor stimulates loose lips. Perhaps that’s why it’s one of the favorites with the political set. But it has a positively sophisticated, Old World feel to it, set right on the corner of Boise’s Basque Block. Ask for a picon punch and enjoy. 117 S. Sixth St., 208-3456665. lekuonaid.com.
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Coldest Beer in Boise Weekly Crooked Fence Brewery 28
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restaurant + bar listings/downtown life’S kitChen—Help nourish new beginnings, and receive a little nourishment yourself. Students learn skills for life and for the restaurant business at Life’s Kitchen. A new menu is published every week online. 1025 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-331-0199. lifeskitchen.org. liquid—The club’s motto is “Life’s good. Flow with it,” which may take its cue from the floor-to-(nearly) ceiling fountain at the entrance, but it also describes the ever-changing music and entertainment schedule. Looking for a little loud music? Head to Punk Mondays. Looking for laughs? Liquid is home to Boise’s only serious comedy with nationally touring acts regularly on the bill. An owner who knows a thing or two about bartending means that if cheap drinks, plenty of space and service are what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Liquid. If all the fun makes patrons hungry, they can order delivery from the restaurants nearby. 405 S. Eighth St., Ste. 110., 208287-5379. liquidboise.com.
loCk, StoCk & Barrel—A Boise staple featuring steaks aged on average 28 days and hand-cut. Portions are generous and the drink specials are so good you’ll think you’re getting paid to drink. Red-meat, happy hour lovers: This is your haven. 1100 W. Jefferson St., 208-336-4266. lsbboise.com. luCky dog—This happening little gay-friendly bar is just outside the downtown grid. It’s a great place to meet up with friends after work or start your weekend craziness. Great prices and strong drinks make Lucky Dog your neighborhood bar—even if it’s nowhere near your ’hood. Don’t miss Flesh Thursdays. 2223 Fairview Ave., 208-333-0074. luckydogtavern. com. maCk and Charlie’S—Dark and sleek interiors will help you decompress any weeknight while you knock around some billiards, but stop in on a weekend and you’ll be able to peruse what seems like the city’s entire population of 21-
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to 25-year-olds. Looking for a date? Eenie meenie miney mo. 507 W. Main St., 208-830-9977. mai thai—Hip and colorful, trendy and swank, its downtown atmosphere is perfect for a bite and perhaps a groovy cocktail or beer beneath the palm frond fan. Mai Thai has been serving up style along with fine Thai cuisine and colorful cocktails for years. Known for its selection of outrageous drinks, many of which were concocted to snag awards during the annual Martini Mix-Off, Mai Thai is as much bar as it is restaurant. Soak up the sophisticated atmosphere while waiting for a table, or make it the jumping-off point for the rest of a night out. Daily lunch specials, an always superior list of noodle dishes and wicked cocktails. This place is great day or night, hungry or just in the mood to nibble. 750 W. Idaho St., 208-344-8424. maithaigroup.com.
favorite foods/appetizer
main Street BiStro—College kids from all over Idaho hear the call of the Bistro. You can find Boise’s young adult crowd clamoring to find a partner for the dance floor, and during the summer, they’ll be showing off their tans out on the big patio. The “MSB” has long been known as the place to go looking good and looking for a good time. It’s a boozearama kind of bar, with the freshly 21 shooting ’em down and grinding the night away. In the summer, the patio is barely standing room only, so if you find a lap you like, get cozy and keep the drinks coming. 609 Main St., 208-345-9515. modern hotel and Bar— Handcrafted cocktails are the focus here so don’t even think about ordering a vodka soda. The Modern is a destination for folks who put a lot of stock not just in what they drink but where, and the Modern Hotel Bar is one of the most chic lounges in all of Boise. It’s the go-to location for many businesses and organizations when they’re looking to schedule a meeting, an after-party or just a friendly gathering. With 45-rpm record players in each bathroom, unique bar snacks and stellar food, the Modern Hotel Bar is definitely not your average juke joint. 1314 W. Grove St., 208424-8244. themodernhotel.com. mongolian BBq and grill— Go in for the show. The flatbed grills are the highlight of this downtown corner stop, and fresh veggies and Asian meats dance before your eyes. Pile it high and don’t be afraid to use a lot of sauce. 801 N. Eighth St., 208-433-9334. moon’S kitChen Cafe— Founded in 1955, Moon’s has the best breakfast and milkshakes in town. Among the regulars at the counter, you’re bound to see a few old friends sipping Guinness milkshakes. It’s a place that makes you feel the whole day is yours—that two hours for breakfast should be a constitutional right. As for the food, be it sandwiches or pancakes, one cannot go wrong. 712 W. Idaho St., 208-385-0472. moonskitchen.com.
Chorizo-Stuffed Mushroom Bier:30 Good beer and chorizo—the essence of Idaho.
Izakaya Mai Thai The happy hour apps and drink specials are based on the Japanese Izakaya tradition.
Oysters Rockefeller
Bruschetta
Angell’s Grill Yes, you can get oysters in a land-locked state.
Bardenay Nice, thick bread slices help—as do the speciality martinis.
Tableside Guacamole El Gallo Giro Everything done from scratch in front of you with your choice of spice level.
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Agedashi Tofu Happy Fish Sushi and Martini Bar Tofu the way it should be—fried.
mulliganS Bar—An innercity standby, Mulligans serves up strong, cheap drinks, plenty of bar games (darts, anyone?) and pub grub. The spacious interior allows for large groups and corners for intimate conversation. It’s a cliquey kind of bar, though, so unless you’re one of the cool kids (visually identified by tattoos and piercings), keep on walking, pardner. Typically packed, this bar supplies only the best for the eyes, mouth, hands and “gamer” mentality in all of us, including foosball tables, video games and ping pong. 1009 W. Main St., 208-336-6998. neurolux—Not only is this the most convivial, mysterious, diverse bar in town, but it’s also the only one with a sexy red pool table and stiff drinks that will make you wish you’d asked for a tall glass. Drink. Talk. Listen to music. Repeat. Feel the need to break dance? Neurolux. Sunday bloody Mary-fest, where you’ll have the best juke in town all to yourself? Neurolux. Want to feel like you’re just not hip enough no matter how hip you are? Neurolux. 111 N. 11th St., 208-343-0886. neurolux.com.
north Shore hot dog Company—These island-style hotdogs are toasted from the inside out and topped with some tropical condiments including mango and pineapple relishes. 904 Main St., 208-308-7907. facebook.com/ thehawaiianway. the pantry—Offering daily specials. This kitschy comfort joint serves up breakfast, brunch and lunch, killer weekend brunch deals and specials and free coffee refills. The menu tops out at $11.75 for prime rib and eggs and starts out around $3.95 for a basic eggs, hashbrowns and toast meal. Oldschool phone ordering during lunch hours throughout the week. 1545 Shoreline Drive, 208-344-5486. papa Joe’S—Papa Joe’s has been the cornerstone of home-style Italian cooking in Boise for 20 years. The eggplant parmesan would convince a meat-lover to go vegetarian. Joe’s has a conference room, patio and cafe. 1301 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-344-7272. papajoesboise.com. pengilly’S—This downtown landmark needs no accouterments. With an old wood bar that dates back at least a century, this is one of the friendliest, cleanest bars around. Look up “pub” in the dictionary and you might just find a picture of this classy, dark wood place. Pengilly’s is America’s favorite bar. Cosmo rated it the best bar in the country to steal a kiss. Esquire called it one of the greatest bars in America. A bar could get a big head over all that flattering attention, but not Pengilly’s. It’s been around long enough to be an antique and knows how to take a compliment. 513 W. Main St., 208-345-6344. pho nouveau—Vietnamese comfort food. Cha gio with a mound of cellophane noodles, lily blossom salad of young lotus root, shrimp and pork, shaken beef salad and big bowls of pho. If strong brew is your thing order some Vietnamese coffee which comes properly served dripping from the Vietnamese “coffee pot”—a tin hat sort of thing that sits on a glass. 780 W. Idaho St., 208-367-1111. phonouveau.com. pie hole—What isn’t there to say about this open-late, $1 PBR mainstay that’s a part of nearly every Boisean under 25’s diet? Whether it’s potato bacon or creative daily specials, Pie Hole is a must for visitors and the post-bar weekend crowd. Love the pie? You can buy the pizza dough. 205 N. Eighth St., 208-344-7783. pieholeusa.com. piper puB & grill—Perched high on Eighth Street with a wraparound patio, “the Piper” serves up yummy, creative pub fare. The extensive apps menu is perfect for those who like to graze all night long while slinging back cocktails. 150 N. Eighth St., 208-343-2444. thepiperpub.com. pitCherS and pintS— You’ve driven by this place a hundred times on your way home, now it’s time to stop in. Don’t let the scruffy exterior scare you, the folks inside are quite nice. It’s a shoebox of a dive but it comes highly recommended as a final stop—be it after work or after a night of hard partying. 1108 W. Front St., 208-906-1355.
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favorite foods/grilled
cheese 1
[1] Grilled Cheese Capri About as white bread and American cheese as you can get. 2
[2] Grown-Up Grilled Cheese Fork One of the best-smelling grilled cheeses ever made.
3
[3] Grilled Cheese Pup’s Local and regional options from a food truck.
4
5
[4] Grilled Cheese and Chorizo Falcon Tavern Lots of slices of chorizo hiding between the layers of cheese.
[5] Grilled Ch-Ch-Cheese on
Cheddar Scallion Bread Bar Gernika Complement the cheese overload with sauteed mushrooms.
6
[6] Sloppy Grilled Cheese Archie’s Place The Mean Joe Green pork sloppy joe makes an excellent stuffing. 7
[7] Grilled Cheese Red Room Lots of grilled cheese options in this night club.
8
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[8] Grilled Cheese B29 Streetery A plank of cheese is panko breaded and fried before being topped with pulled pork.
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restaurant + bar listings
23
plan B lounge—Man cave all the way. Consider the smooth aged scotch, leather sofas and intimate setting of this lounge your backup plan or your first stop on a night out. 121 N. Ninth St., 208-387-3553. berryhillandco.com.
Dagger Falls IPA at Sockeye Darts at Charlie Brown’s Drag Bingo at Balcony Club Dogs Welcome at Symposion and R Bar
plaza grill—Retro Boise at its best. Still a place to find pie in a display case—now that’s throwback. Splendid historical architecture inside The Owyhee Plaza matches its splendidly prepared food. 1109 Main St., 208-343-4611. pollo rey—A downtown lunch hot spot offering burritos and tacos and juicy, perfectly spiced, grilled and rotisserie-cooked chicken. 222 N. Eighth St., 208-345-0323. polloreyboise.com. pot Belly deli—We think the name says it all. Satisfy your belly from morning ’til night with breakfast burritos, gourmet sandwiches, salads and a selection of veggie choices. 216 W. Front St., 208-336-2030. the preSS—Definitely cheaper than a trip to the Mediterranean, light and airy space meets Italian flair at this quiet spot. The menu boasts margherita pizza, paninis and more, along with a diverse selection of beer and wine. 212 N. Ninth St., Ste. B, 208-336-9577.
Eggs used in the cocktails at Red Feather Lounge
proto’S pizzeria napoletana—Stop in this downtown pizzeria, where thin crust neapolitan-style pizza meets colorful drink specials. Try the signature Prototini, which is a brilliant concoction of Absolut Vanilla Vodka sprinkled with coffee beans, then shaken and topped with Kahlua. In the summer, the bar goes indoor/outdoor thanks to some garage doors. Belly up outside for a change. unlike traditional pizzerias, Proto’s serves pizza and nothing but pizza in a hip joint with an indoor/outdoor bar that’s all the rage during summer. 345 S. Eighth St., 208-331-1400. protospizza.com. red feather lounge—Red Feather Lounge is a wine haven paired with local produce and righteously whipped-up cocktails. And not “righteous” in the Bill and Ted sense, but in the “I sure do feel good about myself for supporting local maraschino cherry farmers by drinking this Manhattan” righteous. Red Feather is a good place for you and a special dude- or lady-friend to nibble on local apps, get buzzed on handcrafted cocktails made from local booze. 246 N. Eighth St., 208-429-6340. bcrfl. com/redfeather.
Fried Food after a night of hard boozing Flesh Thursday at Lucky Dog Fifty-Cent Beers at Grainey’s
the red room tavern—The venue’s deep red walls and velour kitsch decor are reminiscent of the old Sixth and Main location, but the new space has an elevated stage that is sure to appeal to both bands and live-music fans alike. Order from the crazy grilled cheese menu when you’ve had too many PBRs. 1519 W. Main St., 208331-0956. redroomboise.com. reef—First off, this is Boise’s only rooftop deck—think flaming torches, grass umbrellas, bamboo—you can almost feel an unnamed island’s ocean breeze. With live music and creative tiki-themed cocktails, along with island food, this is always a fun spot to stop at. 105 S. Sixth St., 208-2879200. reefboise.com. Shige—Watching sushi master Shige Matzuzawa, it’s understandable to be dazed and amazed, and perhaps drop a chopstick on the floor. His masterpieces include the Boise roll. Chopstick away and follow with a swallow of sake. Shige has a blend of traditional rolls and sashimi, as well as tempura and teriyaki dishes. 100 N. Eighth St., Ste. 215, 208-338-8423. shigejapanesecuisine.com.
Gelato Martinis at Gelato Cafe Geeks Who Drink Trivia Gold Fish Races 32 at Mack and Charlie’s 28 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
Shige expreSS—Dollar sushi on boats— enough said. 100 N. Eighth St., Ste. 215, 208-338-8423. shigejapanesecuisine.com.
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restaurant + bar listings/downtown Shige red Carpet fine dining—Sushi master Shige Matsuzawa has created a finedining experience that blends his traditional Japanese cuisine with the essence of French cooking. This unusual combination of flavors and techniques means diners are in for an experiences as much as a meal. 100 N. Eighth St., Ste. 215, 208-338-8423. shigejapanesecuisine.com. Solid—The two-for-one happy hour is a popular draw, as are the two giant patios, private room for your gathering, and an open, airy dining room for lunch, dinner and late-night breakfast. The Northwest-focused menu has a smattering of the usual suspects, including nachos and mac and cheese, as well as a build-aburger option (which includes a veggie patty) and, of course, the Northwest menu requisite salmon. At midnight on Friday and Saturday, the lunch/dinner menu is put away, and the late-night menu--featuring fried chicken and waffles on the same plate—comes out to play. 405 S. Eighth St., 208-345-6620. solidboise.com.
SportS zone—If you prefer to devour a plate of nachos while you watch a couple of dudes beat the snot outta one another on ice, or b-ballers shooting hoops, then The Zone is a good place to go. 245 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-472-3333. SuperB SuShi—If you seek it, you will find it. In the lower level of the Idaho Building, sushi rules. With a great courtyard and eclectic sushi rolls, Superb Sushi is looking to give you something different than the about-town sushi joints. It has wine, beer and a variety of sake. 208 N. Eighth St., 208-3850123. superbsushidowntown.com. SuShi Joy—The name says it all—well, almost, except it doesn’t mention that this eatery blends Chinese and Japanese cuisine, and offers exotic starters and fairpriced platters. 2275 W. Main St., 208-433-8888. sushijoyboise.com. SympoSion—The Sympo, as it’s called, is a quirky little joint. If you can find it—behind a grove of trees off Fairview—don’t forget to bring your dog (four-legged friends are welcome). It’s a great stop for a low-key session or a nightcap. 2801 Fletcher St., 208-342-9420.
favorite foods/hot
& fringe + north boise
taBleroCk BrewpuB and grill—Savor the suds at this downtown brewery that not only boasts killer beers, but a menu that includes everything from shepherd’s pie to tasty burger concoctions, not to mention a wine list that would be impressive anywhere, and especially at a brew pub. 705 Fulton St., 208-3420944. tablerockbrewpub.com. taJ mahal reStaurant—Stopping in here will remind a person why he/she can thank globalization. Indian food isn’t the only specialty found here—there are Greek dishes and a mind-spinning number of beer choices. 150 N. Eighth St., Ste. 222, 208-4737200. tajmahalofboise.com. tepanyaki JapaneSe Steak houSe—Ever seen a chef play with your food? This restaurant offers tricks and flicks of the spatula as skilled chefs perform at your table. Starve yourself for three days before coming in—the meals are hot, fresh and huge. It’s a Japanese-style steakhouse and a nice place to get to know your table neighbor. 2197 N. Garden St., 208-343-3515.
+ spicy
tom grainey’S—There has long been a bar at this Sixth and Main space, and for many, many moons that bar has been Grainey’s. With live music both upstairs and down, you get two different experiences without ever leaving the building. Grainey’s is comfortable and homey with an old Wild West feel to it. It’s always been a great spot to listen—and dance—to live music. Hot tip: don’t miss 50-cent beers on Sunday. 109 S. Sixth St., 208-345-2505. tomgraineysboise.com. tony’S pizzeria teatro—Piazzas and sweeping terraces are not a regular part of the Boise landscape, but if you search hard enough and squint your eyes a little, you can find tiny nooks around that city like Tony’s that may remind you of a European vacation. Sit outside, order a slice of pie and a good glass of vino and, for at least a couple of hours, the world will be molto bene. 103 Capitol Blvd., 208-343-1052. the torCh—This is the kind of bar your mom warned you about. It’s not much to look at from the outside (nor is the building, anyway, much to look at from the inside), but the entertainment is the draw: bikini-clad dancers. Boise’s best-known gentleman’s club is also a Best of Boise winner. Settle into the darkened neon haze, enjoy the scenery and take a load off with a cold one. Nightly specials range from the Power Hour, with $1 wells and drafts, to deals on dances that you’ll definitely want to keep between you and your best friends. 1826 Main St., 208-3440218. thetorchlounge.com tree City JuiCe and Smoothie Cafe—More than 30 smoothie combinations, 10 ways of serving fresh-squeezed juice, and for the calorie conscious who still want a straight shot of vitamins, Tree City offers wheatgrass, ginger and acai shots. 1265 S. Capitol Blvd., 208342-0467. treecityjuice.com. twig’S Cellar—Subterranean, cozy and elegant with classic bistro fare. 816 W. Bannock St., Lower Level, 208-344-8944. twigscellar. com. twin dragon—No fuss, no frills—just delicious Americanstyle Chinese food at prices that won’t cripple your wallet. This place doesn’t need any bells and whistles to satisfy a hungry diner. 200 Fairview Ave., 208-344-2141.
Volcano Roll
Korean Tacos
Hot Rock Filet
Shige Japanese Cuisine Battered, fried, filled with cream cheese and doused in sriacha, it’s what the cool kids order.
Rice Works Crazy-hot tacos from a food truck.
Barbacoa The heat comes from the steaming hot rock it’s served on.
Green Chili
Flying Pie Pizzaria There are three heat option for this one. The Tripple uses 18 habaneros on this pizza that’s so hot it’s been featured on Man v. Food.
Habanero Pizza The Green Chile Featuring real Hatch chiles in this Southwesten favorite.
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Habanero Curry Taj Mahal Herbs help balance the dish to create an addictive kind of heat.
wiSeguy pizza pie—This Sun Valley favorite is bringing its brand of New York-style, hand-tossed pizza with local ingredients to the City of Trees. Not in the pizza mood? Try a sandwich or calzone, and wash it back with a beer or glass of wine. 106 N. Sixth St., 208-3367777. wiseguypizzapie.com. yen Ching—Have a martini with your potstickers and chow mein if you please. There’s nothing fancy about Yen Ching, but it has an air of class nonetheless—must be the full bar, which, thanks for asking, is why it’s a popular spot for downtowners to lunch. 305 N. Ninth St., 208-384-0384. yenchingboise. com. yoi tomo—All-you-can-eat sushi for $17.99 at lunch or $24.99 for dinner. 405 S. Capitol Blvd., 208344-3375. yoitomo.us.
zen Bento—Zen Bento does well by its simple little menu. This mostly take-out, affordable, lunchonly joint serves up healthy, fresh, tasty salads and bento boxes. 1000 W. Main St., 208-388-8808. zenbento.com. zeppole—Nothing beats the low prices and fresh-baked goodness of Zeppole on a lunch break, unless it’s taking home a loaf of its near-legendary bread to enjoy later. This modest bakery provides a good bit of bread to restaurants in the Treasure Valley, not to mention holiday-themed loaves that droves of people reserve ahead of time, like fall’s pumpkin loaf. 217 N. Eighth St., 208-345-2149. zeppolebakery.com.
North Boise 13th Street puB and grill— Situated on prime Hyde Park corner space in Boise’s North End, 13th Street Pub and Grill is a summertime patio hot spot and a welcoming warm den in wintertime. Families brunch on weekends, sports fans gather in the lounge over appetizers and beers, and the occasional group of cyclists claims table space after a long ride. Cuisine is typical pub food with an upscale boost: brie en croute, steak salad, lamb chops (sorry, no nachos here). 1520 N. 13th St., 208-639-8888. 36th Street BiStro—It may be in the middle of the sprawling 36th Street Garden Center, but the bistro goes for simple European elegance with lofty ceilings and clean lines. Sunshine streams in through walls of glass, making it the perfect setting to sip and snack a weekend away. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner with a glass of wine, coffee or espresso. Weekend brunch is a popular option, and the Bistro serves up faves like eggs benny alongside adventurous new takes. The menu focuses on locally grown, seasonal selections. If you’ve never tried grass-fed Highland beef, give it a tasty test run in the entrees here. 3823 N. Garden Center Way, 208-433-5108. 36streetgardencenter.com. Cafe viCino—Chefs Richard Langston and Steve Rhodes serve up fresh and innovative foods. They offer a casual lunch menu with choices like daily quiche, salads and portobello mushroom sandwiches. Dinner kicks it up another notch with mouthwatering pasta offerings and entrees ranging from American favorites like T-bone steak and pork tenderloin to Italianinspired classics like cioppino, all with a local and seasonal flair. 808 W. Fort St., 208-472-1463. cafevicino.com. CaSa mexiCo—With restaurants all over the Treasure Valley, Casa Mexico is family owned with an extensive menu and an attentive staff. The Hyde Park location, with its intimate underground setting and two patio levels outside, has a unique feeling other joints don’t match. Check out the daily specials, which provide deals on menu items like crab enchiladas. 1605 N. 13th St., Ste. B, 208-333-8330. casamexicoidaho.com.
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restaurant + bar listings
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dry Creek merChantile—Better known as “the merc,” this general store and eatery is a hub for HIdden Springs residents. The store/restaurant features a long oak bar, dining tables, a full menu that boasts pizza and popular sandwiches like the Reuben, and weekends are filled with live entertainment and buffet-style dinners. 5892 W. Hidden Springs Road, 208-2292001. drycreekmerc.com.
Hippie Shake at Highlands Hollow, Holy Oly Tuesday at The Lift Happy Hour everywhere Hair of the Dog at Cactus Bar
Ice Cubes at Modern Hotel and Bar and Red Feather Lounge—perfectly square, no bubbles, perfectly ridiculous
hawkinS paC-out—For years, Hawkins’ iconic sign has been a siren song to Boiseans looking to get pumped up for a day at Bogus, or refuel after a long day of play in the mountains. Hawkins boasts crispy tots (“gems”), classic malts, twist cones and daily specials on its Facebook page. 2315 N. Bogus Basin Road, 208-338-9627. hawkinspacout.com. highlandS hollow BrewhouSe— Whether it’s the appetizers (Monty’s Hummus, Hollow Hot Wings), the entrees (the molasses-y Mess-O-Chops are sure to satisfy) or the burgers and sandwiches (try the open-faced Avalanche Burger or go more traditional with a Reuben), stopping in at Highlands Hollow after winter skiing or a summertime hike up Camel’s Back hill is always a great idea. Packed to the rafters with sports memorabilia and tons of Idaho charm, Highlands Hollow also features hearty brews, running the rainbow from the Gingerwheat and the light, fruity Berry Good Wheat to the dark and satisfying Doolie’s. 2455 Harrison Hollow Lane, 208-343-6820. highlandshollow.com. hyde park puB—Hyde Park Pub is always packed, no matter the day or time. If pub food’s your forte, you’ll be right at home watching the game on one of the many flat screens at HPP. The menu’s chock full of finger foods, and trust us, you’ll be chock full if you try one of HPP’s enormous burgers. There’s even a create-your-own sandwich option that guarantees extra variety. And speaking of variety, the broad selection of tap brews varies seasonally, so revisit this neighborhood hot spot often. 1501 N. 13th St., 208-336-9260. harryshydepark. com. Jim’S Coffee Shop—Can’t question a place with a big chicken on the roof now, can you? Enjoy the retro atmosphere and tasty breakfast at this North End hub. 812 W. Fort St., 208-343-0154.
Jello Shots at Symposion, Jaeger Bomb Deals at Ha’ Penny Irish Pub
lulu’S fine pizza—This spot boasts Big Apple-style gourmet pie for pizza lovers of every kind and has some great, unique meat-free offerings. Get a wheel, go by the slice or take a look at the greens on the salad menu. Check out the usual toppings or get adventurous with some tasty things you’re not used to seeing on a pizza menu (figs, anyone?). A great North End pizza place that prides itself on semi-sophisticated wine pairing and a fine beer list. And if you change your mind once you get there, you can grab some freshly rolled Superb Sushi instead. 2594 Bogus Basin Road, 208-387-4992. ilovelulus.com. o’miChael’S puB & grill—In Boise, it seems all roads lead to Bogus. Those same roads lead back home, and after a day on the slopes, a person often needs to refuel with a stiff drink and big plate of grub … especially if that grub includes an order of O’Michael’s garlic fries. For Sunday mornings, O’Michael’s has a breakfast menu that provides the protein you need for serious sports. But O’Michael’s isn’t just a wintertime pit stop; the outdoor patio is a great place to watch some of Boise’s craziest folks on two wheels shooting down Harrison Boulevard after a day tackling the surrounding hills’ summertime terrain. 2433 N. Bogus Basin Road, 208-342-8948. omichaelspubboise.com.
Karaoke at Terry’s State Street Saloon and the 44 Club Kalimoxto on the Basque Block 45 32 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
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favorite foods/mac
& cheese 2
1 3
7
4
6
5
[1] Flatbread
[3] Berryhill
Try adding some caramelized onions.
Baked penne A grown-up version with mushrooms, fresh tomatoes, bacon and four cheeses.
Southern-style comfort food from a food truck.
[4] Bittercreek Ale House
Gotta love the artichoke hearts.
Community Oven [2] The Huddle
Check out the daily mac-n-cheese specials.
Try it with the grilled porter-marinated chicken.
[5] Brown Shuga Soul Food
[6] Solid
[7] Mickey Ray’s
Roadhouse Barbecue The bacon makes it.
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restaurant + bar listings/north parrilla grill—Known for inexpensive, delicious eats, Parrilla Grill is popular with Hyde Park regulars, high-school and college students, and folks from all over who enjoy grabbing a wrap or salad on the quick and cheap. If you’re looking for a casual, lively place to chill with a beer or meet with a group of friends, this redundantly named hangout with awesome $2 tacos every Thursday is right up your alley. 1512 N. 13th St., 208323-4688. Sun ray Cafe—With its bright, renovated space, Sun Ray looks like its name, and the expansive patio is a great place to get your daily vitamin D and work on your tan while people watching in Hyde Park. Good weather finds bikes and their riders flocked to the outdoor tables, while cooler climes send everyone indoors for a pick-me-up. Daily food and beer specials keep things interesting. 1602 N. 13th St., 208-343-2887. sunray-cafe. com.
boise + state street
State Street 20th Century laneS—The list of respectable establishments in which you can find a chili dog is no foot-long. You can get one at 20th Century Lanes, but you can also get sliders and fries, Idaho’s ubiquitous food, fingersteaks, and—believe it or not—breakfast. 4712 W. State St., 208-342-8695. 20thcenturylanes.net. 44 CluB—There are dive bars, and there are bars that take a high dive into an Olympic swimming pool. The seminal 44 Club is the latter, with a feel that’s old-world and full of local color. No taps at this joint, just ice-cold bottled beer and legendary karaoke. 4340 W. State St., 208-344-0693. amigo’S mexiCan reStaurant—Family-run Mexican eatery with a small, clean space. 2870 W. State St., 208-343-1001. aSian wok—Locally owned Chinese joint offering up all of the usual suspects, with a Dim Sum menu that might entice you to “stop in for tea” frequently. They’ll
even deliver it to your door. 3504 W. State St., 208-384-9200. asianwok.com. BrewS BrotherS—With loads of draft beers on tap—23 in all—Brews Brothers sits quietly in a State Street strip mall. While the darkened location keeps out the un-versed, it offers the perfect place to slip away for a mid-day nip. No longer smoky, this place hasn’t lost any of its hole-in-thewall charm. 6928 W. State St., 208-853-0526. Burger ‘n Brew—This sports bar blast from the past has two big, beefy goals: serve up burgers and beer in the best way possible. With kick-ass wait staff, a sports-bar feel lost on the chain restaurants, and a healthy selection of brews to choose from, this State Street saloon/eatery is a great game-watching spot. 4295 W. State St., 208-345-7700. Buzz Cafe—Located in the Idaho Athletic Center. Coffee, lunch and breakfast early in the day. Wine tastings and music aplenty at night. 2999 N. Lakeharbor Lane, 208-344-4321. buzzbeans.com.
favorite foods/vegetables
Brussels Sprouts Red Feather Lounge This will get you over your Brussels sprout phobia.
Grilled Jumbo Artichoke Fork A unique take on a unique vegetable.
Dry-Cooked String Beans Yen Ching Consistent winner of Best Chinese Food in Best of Boise.
Chipotle Grilled Corn on the Cob Barbacoa The menu of side dishes is impressive.
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Asparagus Lock, Stock and Barrel The perfect accompaniment for the big, juicy steaks.
Eggplant Donkaku Mai Thai Part of the Izakaya menu.
Corona village—Gut-busting burritos, incredible chips and Dos Equis on tap make the Village stand out among Boise’s family style Mexican restaurants. 4334 W. State St., 208-338-9707. dutCh gooSe—With a nosmoking policy long before the city of Boise instituted the smoking ban, the Dutch Goose is in a class of its own. First, it has a horseshoe pit, foosball, pool and darts, and all alongside well-crafted burgers and everything from steamed clams to rumored legendary fish and chips. Televisions offer sports galore for the fanatic, and salads for lighter fare. 3515 W. State St., 208-342-8887. dutchgoose.com.
gaSlight lounge (20th Century laneS)—Most bowling alley bars offer little more than a respite from the kids; the Gaslight Lounge goes so far as to offer up classy martinis and a large stock of brews to accompany that weeknight bowling tourney. 4712 W. State St., 208-342-8695. the green Chile—The Green Chile specializes in all things Southwest while keeping late-night faves like burgers and salads on hand, just in case. 5616 W. State St., 208-853-0103. thegreenchileidaho.com.
eddie’S diner—’50s style diner with burgers and fries. 3095 N. Lakeharbor Lane, 208-853-9800.
the gyro ShaCk—Feel like going Greek? Savor some hummus, Greek salads, pita sandwiches and made-from-scratch gyros at this eatery. 5602 W. State St., 208853-2684, thegyroshack.net.
egg faCtory—Homestyle cooking focused on the details; featuring a new omelette every week and a new benedict every month. 6882 W. State St., 208-853-2037. eggfactorycafe.com.
Jade’S ChopStiCk—A lunch-time stopover on State Street with reasonably priced Chinese food fit for a king. This family-owned restaurant has beer, too. 6970 W. State St., 208-853-1302.
fanCi freez—A staple of the State Street dining scene, Fanci Freez is the drive-through burger spot specializing in all manner of American eats and frozen treats. Whether you prefer a Flavor Burst cone, a CrunchiCreme or the famed Boston shake (one part sundae, one part shake), this burger spot’s got you covered. And for the vegetarians, Fanci Freez offers a cheesy mushroom “burger” that’s meat-free. 1402 W. State St., 208344-8661.
the lift Bar and grill— This innocent-looking State Street haunt has a secret: ridiculous drink specials and an all-you-can-eat spaghetti feed. Tuesday nights mean Holy Oly night, with 50-cent Olympia cans ready for popping from 4 p.m.close. If red sauce and noodles aren’t your bag, this place features a variety of vegetarian options, nachos and nigh-legendary tacos. 4091 W. State St., 208-342-3250. theliftboise.com.
fireSide inn—When you’re tired of the same old, same old and the fast pace of the Main Street bar block, the Fireside Inn is there to welcome you to many of its regulars’ home away from home. Though this neighborhood dive bar exudes a regulars-only feel, there’s plenty of space inside for everyone, and plenty of pool tables, too. Dark and windowless, the Fireside Inn is like a comfy old cavern where you can easily escape the world. The atmosphere isn’t the only thing that takes you away from it all—the drinks are so strong, they can knock you flat. 1610 N. 31st St., 208-342-9075.
loS BetoS—Street-style Mexican food—like a burrito as big as a baby—available all night. 6906 W. State St., 208-853-1494.
flying pie pizzaria—With dozens of beers on hand, Flying Pie Pizzaria is more than just a place to get a pie. Winner of multiple Best of Boise awards, the place retains its classic charm despite new ownership. Its “whirled famous” pizzas use gourmet ingredients, and with a family friendly atmosphere and fun promos like the Its Your Day, make-your-own pizza from scratch events, the place is renowned as the Boise creme de la creme. 4320 W. State St., 208384-0000. flyingpie.com. the galley—If you’re ever lost in the catacombs beneath the Idaho State Capitol mall, the Galley will help you fill your stomach while you wait for the search party to find you. Whether it’s fried foods, burgers, grilled cheese or other snack foods, this hideaway shop fuels countless state worker bees employed at the Idaho hive. 650 W. State St., 208-336-3663.
madhuBan—This Indian eatery boasts a huge menu that includes traditional favorites and original new dishes that put a western twist on eastern flavors. You’re gonna love the curry, and this is a stellar place for vegetarians. Be sure to scope out the $7.99 lunch buffet. 6930 W. State St., 208-853-8215. madhubanindiancuisine.com. mazzah—Boasting a Mediterranean menu complete with gyros (with sliced lamb or chicken), hummus, falafel and baklava for stay or takeout. There’s also vegetarian-friendly options, and an atmosphere fit for the Acropolis. 1772 W. State St., 208-333-2566. mazzahboise.com. mCCleary’S puB—Seemingly always open, McCleary’s Pub is Boise’s outlying Irish watering hole, specializing in horseshoe pits, dart boards, pool tables and a beer garden to juxtapose why you’re really there—the drinks. 9155 W. State St., 208-853-9910. merritt’S Country Cafe—This decades-old bastion of diner food may have changed to only being open 24-hours on the weekends, but it continues to offer everything under the sun. The “home of the scone” is often the pit stop to bookend a night of libations. 6628 W. State St., 208-853-1801. merrittscafe.com. mongolian BarBeCue—Look over the wide selection of Asian meats and vegetables. You pick it, they grill it. Culinary collaboration at its tastiest. 6920 W. State St., 208-853-7964.
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La Bamba Roll Challenge at Superb Sushi
Your mission: stuff Your fAce Restaurants challenge you to eat the impossible DEANNA DARR | PHOTOGRAPH BY LAuRIE PEARMAN
Rockies Diner The Johnny B. Goode Challenge: a burger challenge so big it was featured on the national television show Man v. Food. Start with a burger big enough to need a cart, a side of chili fries and a large shake—all together, it amounts to roughly 7 pounds of food. Rockies serves up its massive challenge from 6-9 p.m. nightly. Number of successful eaters: 43 what you Get: Your name on the plaque, as well as a guitar or $100 gift certificate.
Big Jud’s It’s a burger so big, it nearly has its own zip code. The Double Big Jud is 2 pounds of beefy goodness that comes topped with the works and accompanied by 1.5 pounds
of fries and a large drink—and you only have 30 minutes to finish it all. It’s another challenge featured on Man v. Food and the stuff of legend. Of course, the lightweights can go for the 1-pound single challenge but the glory is also cut in half. Number of successful eaters: Double Big Jud: roughly 70 in 15 years. Single Big Jud: several thousand. what you Get: Your picture on the Wall of Fame. Double Big Jud winners also get a free T-shirt and their meal, while Single Big Jud winners get a discount on a T-shirt.
Superb Sushi It’s called the Demon’s Delight Challenge for a reason: 10 minutes to finish one bowl of miso soup
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from hell—wasabi powder, Sriracha sauce, Hot Streak death sauce, cayenne pepper, sesame oil, diced habanero pepper—followed by a Demon’s Delight sushi roll with a side of death sauce infused with habanero. No water, no puking— seriously, that’s in the rules. You must wait 5 minutes before eating anything else. But you’re not done yet. Next is the Hot Streak Challenge—two spicy-tuna hand rolls with two sides of ghost pepperinfused Hot Streak death sauce, topped with two diced habaneros. Need more? The Death Roll Challenge includes one Spicy Tuna roll infused with Jolokia Powder, two habanero peppers and one jolokia pepper and topped with spicy Tobiko sauce, another habanero pepper, No. 2 Death Sauce, Sriracha pepper sauce and dusted
with more jolokia powder. While there’s no time limit, you must wait five minutes after your last bite, and there’s no nose-bleeding or vomiting—yes, nose bleeding is a risk. For the bulk eaters, there’s the La Bomba Roll Challenge. You have one hour to eat four giant La Bomba Rolls, a bowl of miso soup and four sides of Asian slaw. Number of successful eaters: 19 what you Get: Make it through the Hot Streak Challenge and get your meal free, a T-shirt and your picture on the Wall of Flame. The Death Roll Challenge puts your picture on the highest challenge wall and gets you a T-shirt, your meal free and a $25 gift certificate. The La Bomba Roll challenge will get your picture on the wall, a free T-shirt and your meal.
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facebook.com/sunvalleyharvestfestival
restaurant + bar listings/state montego Bay—Montego Bay is known for an extensive network of patios and floating docks, stacked from the restaurant down to the water in the relaxing Lakeharbor development. There are multiple bars inside and out, and customers can find plenty to fill their stomachs besides boat drinks and beer thanks to the menu of “bar food and sandwiches,” perfect for soaking up all those tikitastic drinks. 3000 N. Lakeharbor Lane, 208-853-5070. montegobayidaho.com. nam king—Neighborhood eatery with a selection of stir-fried dishes and all the favorites you’d expect to find at a Chinese restaurant, like pork and seeds, general’s chicken and egg rolls. 4624 W. State St., 208-345-0260. north end ChineSe—With takeout and drive-thru options, this is downtown’s go-to for fast, reasonably priced Chinese food. 1806 W. State St., 208-343-1080. northendchinese.zoomshare.com. pho 79—This family restaurant serves up egg rolls, salads, deep fried goods and pad thai to make you mad for thai. Soups are big at this State Street eatery. 7310 W. State St., 208-853-8889.
street + broadway avenue
pizzalChik—Perfect robust salads, plus delicious original pizzas and whole chickens roasted in a stone-hearth oven. Many toppings made in house. Good beer and wine complement great food at this oddly located, oddly named eatery. 7330 W. State St., 208-853-7757. pizzalchik.com. river City Coffee and Cafe— This coffee shop and eatery features beans roasted in Coeur d’ Alene and Boise, as well as fresh pastries, breakfast and lunch. 5517 W. State St., 208-853-9161. Salt tearS CoffeehouSe & noShery—Restauranteurs Mitchell and Andrea Maricich (formerly of The MilkyWay) offer a selection of light, homemade snacks, breakfast and sandwiches along with tasty weekly specials and family style dinners. The artist co-op Green Chutes provides diners with plenty of neat things to peruse in this big, open space. 4714 W. State St., 208-275-0017. salttears.com. ShotSieS—This eatery features pizzas, salads, nachos, quesadillas, paninis and claims of the coldest draft and bottled beer in town. Lunch specials Monday-Friday. 6100 W. State St., 208-629-7381. shotsiespub.com.
Smoke inn—With a drive-thru and a wide variety of meat and fried foods, the Smoke Inn is a decades-old staple of the State Street food stops. 3912 W. State St., 208-344-7334. Smoky mountain pizza and paSta—This State Street pizza joint is more than just pies—pasta, salads, sandwiches and brews are served up in an expansive patio area with loads of seating indoors and a cute-yet-casual feel. 1805 W. State St., 208-387-2727. smokymountainpizza.com. terry’S State Street Saloon—Terry’s looks like it’s been around for ages, and for good reason. While it seems about to fall down any minute—just like anyone after a few strong drinks— Terry’s is just getting the party started. The crowd is a fusion of blue collar and North End. Better know what you want when you finally get your 10 seconds with the bartender, because they don’t wait for anybody. 3301 N. Collister St., 208-331-8225. turner’S SportS Bar—If you’re looking for a neighborhood bar where 20-year customers are the norm, Turner’s is the place to go, but it’s also the kind of
place that takes a while to warm up to strangers. One of many stops on the State Street dive-bar-crawl line, Turner’s is about as classy as its exterior would let you believe. Though this rickety box of a bar is crawling with a steady selection of weary regulars, don’t forget that you’re all there for the same thing: the cocktails. 4022 W. State St., 208-342-9090.
BuSter’S—It’s one of Boise’s original sports bars and it remains one of the city’s favorites. With televisions blaring sports every which way you look and waitresses clad in skimpy outfits, it stays true to the noble genre of sports bar. There’s a full menu of pub-style food and it’s family friendly. 1326 Broadway Ave., 208-345-5688. busterssportsbar.com.
viking drive in—This place is equipped with a multi-car drive-thru and lightning-fast staff. If you need the typical American cuisine of burgers, fries, shakes, ice cream— you name it, the staff will make it. Cutting calories? The “baby size” sweets are tops. 3790 W. State St., 342-7289.
CoBBy’S—Serving up soup, salad, brews and wine since 1978. Enjoy deli meats like pastrami, bologna, mortadella, colto and genoa, in addition to all the standards. Every size soup and sandwich can be combined. Beef up your meal with unlimited helpings at the fruit and chip bar. 1030 Broadway Ave., 208-345-0990. cobbys.com.
weStSide drive-in—We’re fairly sure the Westside Drive-In menu has everything under the sun. From prime rib, BBQ ribs, burgers, finger steaks and all manner of other goodies, it’s been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives television show. Need something to take home and cook up? Check out this Boise staple’s website. 1939 W. State St., 208342-2957. cheflou.com.
Broadway Avenue ali BaBa—Middle Eastern food from shish kebab to shawarma. All ingredients on their vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free friendly menu are made from scratch. 111 S. Broadway Ave., 208-343-4536.
favorite foods/ethnic
BoiSe fry Company—One would hope that the Boise Fry Company has great fries. And it does. Their tagline is “Boise Fry Co. Burgers on the side.” The perfect Boise burger joint features six different potatoes cut five different ways. Local favorites include purple fries and bison burgers. Add to that goodness with house-made sodas. To complement the scrumptious food and beverage offerings is an outgoing staff who provide superb customer service. 111 Broadway Ave., Ste. 111, 208-495-3858. boisefrycompany.com.
Larb
Ink Fish (Tximinoiak)
Huarache
Chiang Mai House Thai Putting the name of Thailand’s cuisine capital to good use.
Epi’s Done the way they do it in the Basque country. Don’t go without reservations.
Campos Market Not a gringo item on the menu. Ole.
Menudo El Rinconcito If you want authentic, you’ve got it.
Beef Tongue Bar Gernika Basque favorite served on Saturday only.
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KC Roll Shige Japanese Cuisine Consistent winner of Best Sushi in Best of Boise.
Broadway Bar—Find another place in town where drinks are as cheap and as stiff as they are at “the Broadway” and you might win a medal. With pool and shuffleboard and dark at all times of the day or night, the crowd is as diverse as the liquor selection. Although the mirrored bar and dark vinyl seats are a total throwback to the glory days of disco, there’s something irresistible about quaffing on the cheap. 1712 Broadway Ave., 208-342-9951. Broadway deli—unique sandwiches piled high, fried chicken, deli salads and some of the biggest and best fries in town. 2789 Broadway Ave., 208-385-9943. broadwaydeliboise.com.
Corona village—Gut-busting burritos, incredible chips and Dos Equis on tap make the Village stand out among Boise’s family style Mexican restaurants. 2137 Broadway Ave., 208-336-6711. deli george—Behind the upsidedown sign on Broadway, look for more than 30 sandwich options full of homemade ingredients and plenty of imagination. Home to signature box lunches that include cold subs, snack and a drink. 220 S. Broadway Ave., 208-323-2582. deligeorge.com. dong khanh—Vietnamese goodness. Lunch specials are a bargain and the banquet dinners are a definite crowd pleaser. For more than 20 years, it has called the Broadway location home, operating solely by word of mouth. No advertising is necessary for the family oriented business which has earned a first-class reputation. 111 Broadway Ave., 208-345-0980. end zone—End Zone is the ultimate college dive bar with a few unique touches. The large patio includes a horse shoe pit perfect for summer fun. Too cold to play outdoor games? Not a problem, play a game of shuffle board instead. Beer drinkers will love the option of a 20-ounce draft. Join the mug club for $50 a year and leave your 20-ounce mug behind the bar and get it filled for cheaper than a 16-ounce beer. 1010 Broadway Ave., 208-384-0613. iChiBan JapaneSe SteakhouSe—A sushi and sashimi bar as well as tepanyaki grill. The Ichiban roll is a tasty mouthful of soft shell crab, shrimp tempura, eel, cuke, lettuce, avocado and cream cheese with sweet sauce. If you’re in for the grill, the chef’s slice-and-dice and entertain all at once. 1233 Broadway Ave., 208426-9188. idaho pizza Company—Pizza, sandwiches and an all-you-can-eat salad bar with prices that won’t break the bank. 1677 Broadway Ave., 208-343-1011. idahopizzacompany.com.
Burger Belly—Casual family friendly burger and hotdog place near Boise State. It keeps things simple with fresh burgers and great prices. For less than $4 you can pick up a breakfast burrito and coffee on the way to your morning class. 1079 Broadway Ave., 208336-1240.
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eat/take
home Tapia’s Gourmet
tAke it And clAim it Gourmet take-home specialists up the ante
SHEREE WHITELEY I PHOTOGRAPHS BY LAuRIE PEARMAN
Hosting dinner parties can be a blast—it’s a chance to showcase your culinary skills, cork a wine you’ve been saving and bask in the company of your most awesome friends. But what if the only skills you have in the kitchen are dirtying dishes and extinguishing the fires your attempts at cooking inevitably result in? Fret not. We may not have yet reached the age of in-house cooking robots, but we’ve escaped the time when cooking skills were as necessary as vital organs. There are a plethora of places that provide take-n-bake, put-it-inyou-own-dish-and-pass-it-off-as-homemade options, so if you still feel compelled to try to pass entrees off as your own culinary creations, pick up one of these easier-than-pie edibles. cucina di Paolo, the love child of Paul and Mary Jean Wegner, is a lasagna haven. The duo has been crafting perfect pastas since 1993 and prepare most everything from scratch, including soups and stocks. The two also slow roast their lasagna sauce for hours. Stop in and sample the Wegner’s culinary creations for lunch and choose from a dizzying array of chicken potpie and lasagna to take home. Potpies are $5 for an individual portion and $25 for a family style casserole. Lasagnas range from $14 for an individual pan to $75 for a 24-piece pan. If you’ve ever tried to make your own, you know it’s worth every penny. Visit cucinadipaolo.com. 44 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
Want an entire dinner delivered to your door Check out atavola-ofthetable.com for more info right before your party guests arrive? Tapia’s on how to enroll in the Tuesday program and Gourmet on Broadway Avenue offers a slew of for the week’s menu selections. weekly dinner options that can be taken out or And of course, boise co-op provides more delivered. Dinner for four runs about $42 and options for take-n-bake than you can shake a includes entrees worth salivating over, such as fork at. Head through the front door and make pineapple pork empanadas and beef pot roast a right, and you’ll be entranced by a pastry case with mashed potatoes. A dessert you’ll want to live in. Back away option can be added for $25, and take notice of the perfectly and tack on a quart of madepackaged pastas delivered daily The lisT from-scratch soup for $9 if from local carb purveyor Fercucinadipaolo.com you want your diners to think ranti Fresh Pasta, which are tapiasgourmet.com you spent all day in the kitchen. ready for your oven and conatavola-ofthetable.com cheflou.com Menus change weekly, so visit veniently located next to a deli boisecoop.com tapiafamilycatering.com or call counter offering everything 208-906-8755 for options. from salads to tamales, with If you’re dining at the restauplenty of vegetarian-friendly rant, plan ahead—you’ll have options and myriad gourmet to squabble over one of the four tables. And if cheeses. Visit boisecoop.com for more info. you’re doing a delivery or take-away thing, also Feel like selecting your entrees online? plan ahead—Tapia’s suggests a 24-hour miniwestside Drive-in, a Boise staple for 55 years, mum on dinner-away options. allows you to take home frozen versions of Chef Have houseguests? A’Tavola has you covered. Lou’s creations with the added convenience of This catering business with a storefront in the shopping for them from your home. Featured Linen District offers a home meal program, products include beef and cheese enchiladas and which means the A’Tavola culinary geniuses will beef stroganoff, and run about $7.99. Online plan, prepare and deliver meals to your door. orders require up to 48 hours processing time, On A’Tavola Tuesdays, you’ll get three nights’ so plan ahead. Visit cheflou.com for more info. worth of dinners ready to freeze or heat up So break out the good china and get ready to and pass off as your own delivered right to you. gorge. Bon appetit, you sly imposter.
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restaurant + bar listings Jim’S aliBi—Come down to the neighborhood and chill with the locals in the luscious back yard of this small, though spacious bar. Drinks are cheap, the folks are friendly and the hours make it a convenient place, anytime. The busiest bar for the middle of the day, and even busier in the morning as the night shift from Micron gets off. We’re not quite sure what Jim’s alibi was the last time, but we do know the 20 or so regulars who appear on the outside mural sure aren’t going to rat him out to the missus or the cops. That’s just how things work at this haunt. So if you’re not a regular, or in with someone who is, keep your head down, sling your horseshoes with care and play by the rules, or one of these nights, you might just be the reason Jim invents his next alibi. 2710 S. Broadway Ave., 208-342-9220. jimsalibi.com.
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Last Call Trivia at numerous Boise bars Live Music at Pengilly’s Saloon and Neurolux
mongolian BarBeCue—Look over the wide selection of Asian meats and vegetables. You pick it, they grill it. Culinary collaboration at its tastiest. 1808 Broadway Ave., 208-387-0393. ono hawaiian Cafe—Sample the flavors of Hawaii in the form of pupus, sushi, sandwiches and satays. Ono serves sushi as well as featuring spam musubi, known as Hawaiian sushi, shoyu poke and ahi poke spring rolls. 2170 S. Broadway Ave., 208-429-6800. onocafe.net. pie hole ii—Pizza plain and simple. Nineteen-inch pies by the slice or by the pie and calzones every day. Try the infamous potato and bacon, or go cheap with the special of the day for two bucks. 1016 S. Broadway Ave., 208-424-2255. pieholeusa.com. r Bar—Neighborhood bar near Boise State that opens daily with an extended happy hour—just in time for the college crowd to take a break. This cozy, conveniently located bar is the perfect hangout spot for any style. Flat screens are dispersed around the small joint giving customers a 360 degree view of the big games. Tuesday Bingo nights are growing in popularity with bar tabs reaching $300 up for grabs. Any day is a good day to check out R Bar. 1041 S. Broadway Ave., 208629-0029. rbarboise.com.
Mai Tais at Mai Thai Mimosas at The Lift—$1 single, $2 double or $3 triple
ChriS’ on Broadway featuring Saladman— The 12-year food-truck purveyor of all things salad has found a permanent home in Boise. Chris “the salad man” still offers his namesake lettuce-laden concoctions, including his favorite crab louie salad. The new menu also features fingersteaks, chili and the oh-so-interesting chicken-fried bacon. 1716 S. Broadway Ave., 208- 8662780, saladman-chrisonbroadway.com. Shaka ShaCk—Traditional authentic Hawaiian teriyaki, and you can get it without even having to get out of your car. 2100 S. Broadway Ave., 208-331-0404. shakashakboise.webs.com.
Naughty Dancing at Balcony Club No Lawyers at Crescent “No Lawyers” Bar and Grill
SudS tavern—You can bank on affordable drinks any day of the week at Suds Tavern. While Suds usually maintains a diverse crowd, $1 domestic bottles on a Thursday night are an attractive incentive for tight budgeted college students. Great location, awesome prices and a solid bar staff keep regulars coming back. Appearances around Suds keep a consistency, but don’t rule out changes such as live bands or free taco nights. 1024 Broadway Ave., 208-345-9656. sudstavern.com. tapia’S gourmet on Broadway—Boise’s “to go” bistro, meaning you can pop in to grab one of the delish dishes served up daily, or Tapia’s will gladly deliver a scrumptious meal to you and the family. Choose from favorite menu staples or select from the daily specials. Catering for larger groups is available. Visit the website for more info. 2132 S. Broadway Ave., 208-906-8755. tapiasgourmet.com.
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Outlaw IPA at Payette Brewing Company Over the Limit .08 in Idaho
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restaurant + bar listings/west West Boise a taSte of thai—Authentic Thai dishes made with the freshest ingredients. Full beer and wine menu includes domestic and imported selections. 8053 Emerald St., 208323-8424. atasteofthaiboise.com. artiSan food Co-op— Enjoy a trifecta of craft foods with Dhondalicious Butter Toffee; Louis’ Place, which features smoothies, chile relleno and a slew of special tamales, including fruit varieties; and Ruth-Joanne Bakery, which offers pastries, cakes, all natural and gluten-free breads. Eat in-store or take something tasty to go. 8716 Fairview Ave., 208-376-2121. Bad Boy BurgerS 2—This burger joint offers all the requisite fare of a classic walk-up/drive-thru, plus some tasty surprises: it will take two of you to get through one of the burritos. 7000 W. Fairview Ave., 208-373-0020.
boise
Bangkok thai—Local Thai joint with quality lunch specials, a slew of vegetarian-friendly options, crazy amounts of curry and a website featuring the “Pho hall of fame,” with pictures of lots of happy diners holding empty bowls high. 477 N. Milwaukee St., 208-375-0946. bangkokthaiboise.com. the BeerhouSe—It doesn’t get any more local than this. Though it’s hard to tell by the name, The Beer House is essentially an old house. That serves beer. Smack in the middle of a residential neighborhood off Maple Grove, this joint draws equal parts regulars and ripped sand volleyball aficionados. With sweet deals on mini-pitchers, spicket-heavy pours of chilled boxed wine and a lawn worth digging your toes into, the Beer House feels like a perennial summer barbecue at your drunk uncle’s double-wide. Play foosball, darts, horseshoes, and hit the two volleyball courts. 9751 Cory Lane., 208-322-9958.
BuddieS puB & deli—Buddies is a little hidden treasure. Buddies, apparently, grew out of necessity. Without another bar in sight, Buddies is Southwest Boise’s answer to booze prayers. Nevermind that it’s in a strip mall. If you really need a fix, Buddies can deliver. Otherwise it’s best suited for regulars and wayward wanderers. Surprisingly well-lit and stocked with Bath and Body Works soap in the women’s restroom. Full of blonde wood bars and happy regulars, you can order a deli sandwich piled high with meats and cheeses for only $5. 8654 W. Overland Road, 208-658-0906. the Buffalo CluB—Part of the Fairview and Five Mile mini mall, the place is perfect for Idaho outdoorsy and friendly locals. Clean interior and a nice long bar with a huge dance floor, mounted animal heads and natural wood dominate. Anyone who has a hankerin’ for Hank will feel right at home at the country-Western bar where there
favorite foods/potatoes
are line dancing lessons, live music, poker and pool. 10206 W. Fairview Ave., 208-321-1811. Cafe ole—The mall zone sibling of the downtown Boise cantina, this Mexican eatery offers needed respite from the head-spinning chaos of the Boise Town Square. Escape the stores and saunter up to the bar for some needed cerveza while refilling with some chips and salsa. 210 N. Milwaukee Road, 208-322-0222. cafeole.com. CaSa mexiCo—With restaurants all over the Treasure Valley, Casa Mexico is family owned, with an extensive menu and an attentive staff. 10332 Fairview Ave., 208375-0342. casamexicoidaho.com. ChiCago ConneCtion—Standard pizza and sandwich fare, but the stellar beer menu more than makes up for it. 7070 W. Fairview Ave., 208-377-5551. chicagoconnection.com. CinCo de mayo—Family owned restaurant serving Americanized Jaliscan fare. 10386 W. ustick Road, 208-377-7959. ConfuCiuS reStaurant—Fine Chinese restaurant offering a variety of Chinese food options. 8775 W. Fairview Ave., 208-322-7851. confuciusboise.com. delSa’S iCe Cream parlour—If it is ice cream you crave, Delsa’s Ice Cream Parlour has it. With specialty flavors like Licorice, Lemon Custard, and Swiss orange Chip, Delsa’s provides that necessary relief for that hurtin’ sweet tooth. It also offers a diner menu with burgers, fries and sandwiches. So go for the ice cream, stay for a bite to eat, and then finish up with some more ice cream. Yum. 7923 W. ustick Road, 208-377-3700. the egg faCtory—Homestyle cooking focused on the details; featuring a new omelette every week and a new benedict every month. 8061 W. Fairview Ave., 208-3220191. eggfactorycafe.com. el tenampa—Offering authentic and fresh Mexican food. 3423 N. Cole Road, 208-377-0250. eltenampaidaho.com. freSh off the hook—Gourmet seafood in a casual setting. Try the Halibut bruschetta or coconut prawns. It’s the best place in town for fresh, inexpensive seafood. 507 N. Milwaukee St., 208-322-9224. freshoffthehookseafood.com.
Bourgeois Fries
Tater Tot Nachos
Gnocchi
Boise Fry Company Cooked in duck fat and sprinkled with black truffle salt—these are no blue-collar fries.
Parrilla Grill School lunch was never like this.
Gino’s Italian Restaurant Get it with the wild boar or lamb shank.
Cosmic Fries Cosmic Pizza There’s everything but the (space) kitchen sink on these: mozzerella, salami, italian sausage, tomatoes, jalapenos and red onions
Bleu Cheese Chips Piper Pub and Grill Topped with bleu cheese dressing, bacon and melted gouda. Kiss your calorie-counting good-bye.
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Potato Crab Cakes Bella Aquila A traditional starter with an Idaho twist.
Truffle Chips Cafe Vicino Simply decadent.
fuJiyama—Fresh sushi in a serene atmosphere incongruously nestled in a strip mall. For the sushi-phobes out there, it has an extensive selection of teriyaki and tempura dishes, soups and salads. Reserve one of the tatami rooms for the ultimate in private dining. 283 N. Milwaukee St., 208-6728227. fujiyamaboise.com. golden wheel drive-in—An old-style American drive-in that will make you crave a burger and shake. 11100 W. Fairview Ave., 208-375-4262. guido’S original new york Style pizzeria—There’s nothing like a slice (or three) of Guido’s New York-style pizza for lunch. The giant pies are inexpensive and addictive. 12375 Chinden Blvd., Ste. G, 208-376-1008. guidosdowntown.com.
Jalapeno’S Bar and grill— Family friendly Mexican food restaurant with a huge tequila selection. 8799 Franklin Road, 208-3752077. jalapenosidaho.com. kyoto JapaneSe Steak houSe—With cooked-in-front-ofyou freshness, chicken, steak, seafood and vegetarian options and a sushi bar, this Japanese eatery will satisfy your cravings. 6002 W. Fairview Ave., 208-378-8808. kyotorestaurantboise.com. lindy’S SteakhouSe—Lindy’s is like your aunt Lola, she’s a lot older than she looks and parties a lot harder than you’d suspect. Bar on one side, restaurant on the other, smooth black leather seating all over. The restaurant is known for its fingersteaks while the bar has a slightly wilder side to it. No specific happy hour, but “A fair drink at a fair price all the time.” 12249 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-3751310. theplaceforsteak.com. loS mariaChiS—Los Mariachi’s bills itself as the happiest Mexican restaurant in town. And with the affordably priced lunch buffet, it’s hard to disagree. 6565 W. Fairview Ave., 208-323-5917. losmariachis. com. mongolian Stir fry—Look over the wide selection of Asian meats and vegetable. You pick it, they grill it. Culinary collaboration at its tastiest. 8037 W. Fairview Ave., 208-376-3662. Sam’S plaCe—This strip mall dive has all the hard-drinking, poolplaying appeal of a Garth Brooks song. With the weathered “what’ll you have, hun?” bartenders serving enough well whiskey to keep the local cowboys lubricated and enough chili bombs to keep the frat boys belting karaoke all night long. 3395 N. Five Mile Road, 208376-0074. SoCkeye grill and Brewery—Sockeye is the serious beer connoisseur’s brewpub. Dagger Falls IPA and the Hell Diver Pale Ale get rave reviews. The menu is pub fare with a healthy bent, there’s frequent free live music, and a patio perfect for lazy, beer-filled summer days. 3019 N. Cole Road, 208-658-1533. sockeyebrew.com. SqueezerS BoiSe—This burger joint features a mini-menu of no-frills burger varieties, chicken and fish, along with a slew of milkshakes so you can indulge in an oh-so-American lunch. 9140 W. Emerald St., 208-377-5353. squeezersboise.com. Sugar ruSh CupCakery— Cupcakes from the ordinary to the exotic. 10804 W. Fairview Ave., 208-376-1918. sugarrushcupcakeryboise.com. SunShine Bagel Bakery—Delicious fresh made bagels served with in-house cream cheese that costs as much as a bagel should cost—just less than $2. The Sunshine Bagel Bakery makes a fine lunch spot too, with bagel sandwiches for $4. 12375 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-323-6553.
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restaurant + bar listings/west top wok—Traditional Chinese menu and dishes. 12375 W. Chinden Blvd. Ste. C. 208-327-8889. village puB—It’s set back from the main drag in a clubhouse-like building. But inside you’re immediately drawn to the central fire, the classic booth seating or a stool at the bar. It’s a long-standing institution that has a new feel, pool table and lunch specials to boot. 9936 Fairview Ave., 208-375-3085. willi B’S SandwiCh Saloon— Willi B’s specializes in bunkhouse cooking and lunch specials are homemade daily by the friendly
boise + bench
staff and rotate between hefty hot and cold sandwiches, side salads and soups. Home of the $4 martini and $3 well drinks. 12505 Chinden Blvd., 208-331-5666. willibs.com.
Bad Boy BurgerS—This Bench burger joint offers all the requisite fare of a classic walk-up/drive-thru, plus some tasty surprises: it will take two of you to get through one of the burritos. 815 S. Vista Ave., 208-331-1580.
Bench
Baguette deli—Choose from 18 different 12-inch sub sandwich choices at the Vietnamese deli. Spring rolls, smoothies and French pastries round out the super value menu, on which no sandwich will set you back more than a five spot. 5204 W. Franklin Road, 208-3362989. baguettedeli.net.
andrade’S—From albondigas to zopes, Javier Andrade serves up some of the best authentic Mexican fare in town. Great service, generous portions, decent prices. 4903 Overland Road, 208-4248890. andradesboise.com.
Big Bun drive-in—A Boise institution, Big Bun has teamed up with Fanci Freez to bring not just burgers, fries, fish and tots, but cold treats to carry you through the summer months. The retro feeling will leave you with a sense of nostalgia and the finger foods will kick up your appetite. 5816 W. Overland Road, 208-375-5361. BoSnian expreSS—One part market, one part cultural center and one part restaurant serving gyros, sandwiches and soups with homemade bread. 4846 Emerald St., 208-433-9955. CanCun authentiC mexiCan— All but hidden in the Overland Park strip mall, Cancun is a buried treasure, featuring fresh Mexican fare and homemade tortillas. Find your old favorites on the menu or try the weekday lunch buffet. 6919 W. Overland Road, 208-375-3882.
favorite foods/bone-in
CaSanova pizzeria—This Italian restaurant offers “neoNeapolitan” eats, many cooked in the wood-fired brick oven. Standard pizza and sandwiches are perfect for purists, and more adventurous eaters will also find daring choices like the Pearl, a pie covered in Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, shrimp, scallops and clams; or the hot roasted veggie sandwich, replete with eggplant, zucchini, peppers, onion, provolone and aioli. A beautiful beer and wine selection complements any meal choice, all served in a comfortable, casual environment. Fresh sauces, thin crusts, and toppings from figs and bleu cheese to prosciutto and arugula. And of course real clam pizza from folks hailing from the homestate of “clam pizza” Connecticut. 1204 S. Vista Ave., 208331-3535. casanovapizzeria.com. Chapala—Locally owned chain of restaurants offering freshly prepared Jaliscan food. 1201 S. Vista Ave., 208-429-1155. chapalarestaurants.com.
Baby Back Ribs
Hot Wings
Chicken and Waffles
Bob’s Texas Style BBQ Actual Texas-style barbecue done from a street-side location.
Firehouse Pub and Grill Nine different types of wings to explore.
Solid Part of the late-night menu served until 4 a.m.
Boar Shank
Duck Confit
Veal T-Bone
Gino’s Italian Restaurant There are also lamb and beef shank options.
Chandlers Pair it with one of Chandlers’ famous martinis.
Cafe Vicino All we need to say is mushroom and brandy sauce with potatoes roasted in cream.
Lamb Lollipops La Belle Vie They come three to a plate and are completely addictive. 48 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
Charlie Brown’S—When “Boise institutions” are mentioned, the name Charlie Brown’s should always come up. Around almost longer than electricity, it used to be one of the few clubs in town where a young couple, dressed in their finest bellbottoms or denim leisure suits, could party the night away. unlike its early patrons, not much has changed about Charlie Brown’s except the neighborhood. Housed near Erotic City and Video Vixen, Charlie Brown’s is like the old guy who’s lived in the same place his whole life; he doesn’t plan on going anywhere and as long as you’re nice to him, he’ll be nice right back. 5783 Overland Road, 208375-6541. Chiang mai houSe thai reStaurant—Casual for the whole family but elegant for just two. Traditional Thai food named after the infamous Thai cuisine capital, Chiang Mai. 4898 W. Emerald St., 208-342-4051. ChiCago ConneCtion—Standard pizza and sandwich fare, but the stellar beer menu more than makes up for it. 3931 W. Overland Road, 208-344-6838. chicagoconnection.com.
CoBBy’S—Serving up soup, salad, brews and wine since 1978. Enjoy deli meats like pastrami, bologna, mortadella, colto and genoa, in addition to all the standards. Beef up your meal with unlimited trips to the fruit and chip bar. 6899 W. Overland Road, 208-323-0606. cobbys.com. the Cookie lady deli—Fresh, handmade sandwiches offered in a variety of choices, including a tasty chicken salad. Don’t forget your homemade cookie on the way out. 880 Vista Ave., 208-385-7727. clbakerydeli.com. CreSCent no lawyerS Bar/grill—To eat and drink at the Crescent, one must follow a small, but important set of rules: One must enjoy cold beer, a varied selection of delicious pub food (the burgers will knock your athletic socks off); one must, if not love, at least like, sports, for the interior fairly glows from the light of several TVs; one must enjoy good service and kick-ass happy hour prices; and above all, one must not be a lawyer. Don’t believe us? Just try taking your solicitor or barrister in for scotch with a beer back. We dare you. 5500 W. Franklin Road, 208-322-9856. no-lawyers.com. CuCina di paolo—After years of catering in the valley, Cucina di Paolo now offers heat-and-serve gourmet entrees, as well as a deli case full of goodies to enjoy in the small dining area. 1504 Vista Ave., 208-345-7150. cucinadipaolo.com. dutCh oven Cafe—Fries and big breakfasts served quickly by a one-man hunger-fighting army. The Dutch Oven Cafe has been around for decades and remains a favorite local hangout for breakfast and lunch. 599 N. Orchard St., 208888-8888. eddie’S reStaurant—An old-fashioned American diner that serves up home-style meals. A friendly wait staff and a stellar breakfast menu make this a great spot to scarf up a greasy hangover cure. 7067 W. Overland Road, 208377-3340. europe deliCiouS—Bosnian bakery/deli/grocery with an adjacent restaurant/sports bar/ banquet hall. 9958 W. Fairview Ave., 208-367-9109. flying pie pizzaria—Boise’s longest-lived and most inventive pizzaria. It has its own beer and pies to please even the pickiest eaters. This pizza joint lands on BW’s radar for one reason and one reason only: Triple Pi. Brewed exclusively for Flying Pie by Sockeye Brewery, any restaurant that has its very own beer is worthy. The Flying Pie stands by its beverages with a staunch guarantee—if you don’t like your drink, trade it for something that you do like. 6508 Fairview Ave., 208-376-3454. flyingpie.com. golden Star—Delicious Chinese-American cuisine served at one of the best preserved old storefronts in town. 1142 N. Orchard St., 208-336-0191. golden-star.us. the gyro ShaCk—The best lamb-on-a-pita value in town. Walk in or drive-thru. 6935 W. Overland Road, 208-375-7424. thegyroshack.net.
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favorite foods/vegetarian
restaurant + bar listings/bench
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chimichanga Bardenay Pair it with one of Bardenay’s house-distilled hooches.
Grilled Polenta Highland’s Hollow Brewhouse A favorite among local vegetarians and beerlovers.
General Tso’s Tofu Golden Phoenix Oriental Express Like a tofu donut.
Veggie Dog North Shore Hot Dog Co. Check out the wide range of unusual condiments including pineapple and coconut relish, and passion fruit mustard.
Cheesy Zesty Kale Chips Shangri-La Tea House The whole menu is dedicated the vegetarians and vegans.
Veggie Kabobs Mazzah The platter served with rice and two sides makes a veggie feast.
Vegan Burger Boise Fry Company Choose your fries by the spud and the cut.
Eggplant Rosarno Asiago’s Substitute eggplant for chicken. Served with half red and half white sauce, this little number manages to stay crisp.
Portabello Melt Willowcreek Grill Pair it with their regular or sweet potato fries called twigs.
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the gyro houSe—Get chicken, lamb or chicken and sauerkraut on your pita and a fat slice of baklava for desert. 6631 ustick Road, 208378-1325. iShtar—Mid-eastern fare served up in a simple atmosphere that let’s you know the focus is on the food. Feel like falafel? This is the place. 4516 W. Overland Road, 208-275-8437. idaho pizza Company—Pizza, sandwiches and an all you can eat salad bar with prices that won’t break the bank. 4218 W. Overland Road, 208-343-5455. idahopizzacompany.com. Jerry’S State Court Cafe—Big windows, booths and hashbrowns. Jerry’s is the kind of diner chain diners imitate. 6767 W. Fairview Ave., 208-376-6767. jerrysstatecourtcafeboise.com. Jo’S SunShine lounge— Sing some tunes, swig back some beers and shoot some pool at this sweet little spot adjacent to the Rodeway Inn. 1115 N. Curtis Road, 208-376-2700. jossunshinelounge.com. Jumpin’ JanetS—The best thing about Janets is her retirement fund ... it’s on the ceiling. We tried our hand at throwing tack-stuck dollars onto the ceiling but after many near-misses with other customers’ eyes, we asked for help. It’s a cozy bar with entertainment and drink specials aplenty, and the staff laughs as hard as they work. In a strip mall on Vista, Janet’s is a regular stopoff for a number of fun-loving folks (including many of BW’s staffers) and a menu of sandwiches and surprisingly delicious pub food gives patrons a little something to soak up the happy-hour cocktails. Here’s the real draw for you health conscious out there: you won’t find a deep fryer in the kitchen—it’s all baked. Loves it. 572 Vista Ave., 208-342-7620. jumpinjanets.com. little dutCh garden—The LDG sits smack dab in the middle of a neighborhood, and the selection of beers might be reminiscent of what patrons stock in their own refrigerators. In the cold weather, huddle around the fireplace, and when it’s hot, practice for the LDG-sponsored horseshoe tournaments in the bar’s huge fenced back yard. 1910 S. Owyhee St., 208-342-9034. loS BetoS—Street-style Mexican food—like a burrito as big as a baby—available all night. 5220 W. Fairview Ave., 208-658-1185. mCCleary’S puB— This place is dark, cool and decorated in varying shades of green. It’s like St. Patrick’s Day every day. There are plenty of beers on tap and a happy hour that boasts gotta-see-it-to-believe-it prices. 604 N. Orchard Ave., 208-342-3007, mclearys.net. navaJo room—Ah, the soothing comfort of wooden decor with a Western theme. Largerthan-life photos of the Duke and Clint Eastwood share wall space with Native American murals and a corner stage serves as a karaoke corner. Entertainment options include a couple of pool tables, a jukebox and dartboard. The establishment has served up suds
and stiff drinks for more than 40 years and remains a low-key place to meet with some loyal regulars around the bar, in front of a woodburning brick fireplace or stake a claim in a cushioned corner booth. 4900 Emerald St., 208-343-5817. overland Bar—The place is dark, but the employees are friendly, the customers are nice, there’s a high-tech Jaegermeister dispensing machine, the beer is cheap and there’s free popcorn. How could you not love a place that has a schmuck’s corner and nudes on black velvet hanging on the walls? Karaoke daily. 3907 W. Overland Road, 208-336-4707. panda garden—Small but comfortable, Panda Garden has a huge selection of menu items. Generous portions from Chinese to sushi, and it’s all good stuff. 2801 Overland Road, 208-433-1188. boisepandagarden.com. patty’S Burger time—The only Idaho Preferred fast food restaurant uses fresh-ground hamburger from Gem Meat Packaging and has more varieties of burgers than we thought possible. It also hosts classic car shows every Saturday night and is home to the foot-long, hand-dipped corn dog. 1273 S. Orchard, 208-424-5073. pattysburgertime.wordpress.com. pho tam—This hole in the wall serves up some of the best pho in town. With a simple menu, traditional style food, and friendly staff, it’s a great spot to enjoy a quiet dinner or reasonably priced lunch. 1098 N. Orchard St., 208473-2386. the poCket—Venture inside this expansive pool hall full of patrons of all ages and abilities for a cold brew or a stiff cocktail. Regulars boast that the best pocket billiard players to ever wield a stick in the Northwest choose to rack one up at The Pocket. If knocking around solids and stripes isn’t your thing, the bar has plenty of electronic distractions such as TVs, video games and jukeboxes. 1487 N. Curtis Road, 208-375-2474. q’S BilliardS and eatery— Q’s is a Boise standard that defines the term “pool hall.” You’ll probably hear Ted Nugent blasting in the background as you drink your brews and line up for the next shot. Focus is on games (hence the bar’s name) but nice to relax in if you’re not playing. 6570 Fairview Ave., 208-322-9122. quinn’S reStaurant and lounge—The Bench denizen has a family friendly atmosphere on the restaurant side and drinkers can imbibe with impunity on the bar side. And Quinn’s is a must-stop on any St. Patrick’s Day bar tour. 1005 S. Vista Ave., 208-345-0135. raw—The owners of conjoined and very popular Willowcreek Bar and Grill opened up Raw to sate the sushi cravings up on the bench. Striving for sushi art in a comfortable atmosphere and promising rolls that make your money worth it. 2237 Vista Ave., 208-343-0270. rawsushiboise.com.
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bar 101/drink
liquid lowdown
What you need to know to properly party in Boise Maybe you’re fresh off the bus from Salt Lake City for a weekend of Boise drinking. Or maybe you just recovered from the birthday that made you legal to drink. Here’s what you need to know about tipping back a few in the crazy metropolis of Boise.
Deals
It has been a long day. You’re thirsty. You’re wallet is on fumes. The good news is, it’s happy hour. The bad news is, you don’t know where to start. Who has a good deal on what you want to eat or drink? And how are you supposed to know—randomly wander into a bar and ask? Nope. It’s simple: download Cocktail Compass, Boise Weekly’s happy hour app. That bad boy will geolocate you, tell you which happy hours are closest and who has what for deals. Who has two-for-one specials? Cocktail Compass. Want to belt out a little karaoke while you’re de-stressing from the day? Cocktail Compass. It’s now available on iPhone and Android for all your drinking needs. (No phone? Turn to page 58 for “Best Bang for Your Buck,” which includes a few of our favorite el cheapo suggestions.)
Smoking
If you’re in Boise just don’t do it. If you’re the kind of drinker who likes a beer in one hand and a cigarette in the other, off to Garden City with you. A recent smoking law in Boise has banned smoking in bars, but in Garden City smokers can puff with impunity.
Booze and Boobs
In Boise, the two don’t mix. You have to pick your poison: Pasties and pop or bikinis and beers?
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Hometown Brew
Boise is in the middle of a brew pubs and breweries boom. The recently opened Crooked Fence and Payette brewing companies have joined the longtime microbrewery line up in Boise and by year’s end, we expect to see the opening of The Taphouse and Bend, Ore.—based 10 Barrel Brewing. In addition to local micros, the west end of the valley has what’s quickly becoming an impressive collection of wineries. See boiseweekly.com for a full list of microbreweries and wineries.
The Details
An expired ID doesn’t cut it in Idaho. Bars close shop at 2 a.m., so expect last call about 1:45 a.m. Need a taxi downtown on the weekend? You have to queue up outside the US Bank building at Idaho Street and Capital Boulevard or between Capitol Boulevard and Ninth Streets on Idaho Street. Food makes the next morning more bearable. Late night food is available at the intersection of Sixth and Main streets and visit boiseweekly.com for a full list of late night eats. And on behalf of the bartenders and servers who get we BW staffers cupped up on the regular: tip well, tip always and never, ever whistle.
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eat/breakfast Kitschy
Capri Voted Best Hangover Breakfast by Boise Weekly readers. Jerry’s State Court Cafe An institution. Merritt’s Country Cafe Scones or die. The Egg Factory Pancakes and syrup come in a million flavor combos—well worth the wait. DK’s Donuts Local donuts. Bacon maple bar is all the rage.
Quinn’s Two breakfast entrees get you a free bottle of champagne, which makes Quinn’s best for the day drinking crowd. Addie’s Daily breakfast specials and on the Boise Weekly Card. Parrilla Grill For b-fast on the go before a ride or run on the trails. Moon’s Kitchen Cafe Order a milkshake with your sunnyside ups. The Lift Yeah, there’s food but mimosas come as singles ($1), doubles ($2) and triples ($3).
Solid For breakfast so early it’s late. Order chicken and waffles until 4 a.m. two nights a week.
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Classy
Berryhill and Co. The classiest all-you-caneat buffet in town. La Vie en Rose Whatever you do, order the cheesy browns.
Salt Tears Coffeehouse and Noshery Pizzetta and pierogies.
La Belle Vie Elegant buffet brunch in the 2C.
Cafe de Paris If you can pry yourself away from the Nutella, order the local breakfast.
Bella Aquila Lovely, riverside dining with superb attention to the small things that make a great dining experience.
Plaza Grill This ain’t the cool kids’ brunch stop, which is why it’s so cool.
Cottonwood Grille For those times when you’re all dressed up in your Sunday best.
Tavern at Bown The specials are good bets.
Bacon The breakfast sundae is baconless but beyond awesome.
36th Street Bistro A quiet spot for a pastry or a plate of stuffed French toast.
Locavore The waffles are hefty, homemade and a great bargain.
Red Feather Lounge Oatmeal souffle and grapefruit brulee is the best rhyming breakfast around.
Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro Boise’s Best Breakfast according to Boise Weekly readers 11 years running. Salmon cakes and Goldy’s potatoes are must-have sides.
Basque Market Monthly Basque sheepherders breakfasts. Brick 29 A buffet loaded with good stuff but all you really need is the bacon and the bread pudding.
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bench + east/restaurant + bar listings roCkieS diner—This old-school diner blends in with the rest of Overland Road, but once inside, customers are greeted with perky waitresses on roller skates, classic rock emanating from the jukebox and guitars puncturing the ceiling-not to mention the massive Harley mounted above the checkerboard floor. The burgers are big and tasty. Even if you weren’t born before the ‘50s, you’ll have flashbacks. A DJ booth to boot. 3900 Overland Road, 208-336-2878. rockiesdiner.com. rooSter’S eatery—Located in historic Vista Village, Rooster’s offers fine lunch fare. If you’re in the mood for salad, try the San Diego with Rooster’s own creamy Q-min dressing. For a hot sandwich, try the tri tip melt. For a cold one, check out the albacore tuna. 930 S. Vista Ave., 208-336-9300. roosterseateryboise.com. Shangri-la tea room—With its own lines of herbal and organic teas and herbal medicines, Shangri-La Tea Room offers a basic menu of vegan and vegetarian offerings. Some items include five types of soup, pita sandwich and falafel sandwiches, curry and southwestern wraps, and one of the best organic salads in the valley, according to customers. Teriyaki tofu, tea cakes, and cookies round out a variety of delightful items. On any given day, choose between 80-100 small batch, limited quantity teas produced on small tea farms. The owners pride themselves on knowing where their teas come from. 1800 W. Overland Road, 208-424-0273. shangri-la-tea.com. Sono Bana—Boise’s oldest sushi joint can still hold its own against more stylish newcomers. Chef Yugi Hagino even offers ginger and adzuki bean ice cream. 303 N. Orchard St., 208-323-8822. sonobanasushi.com. Stan’S Char-Broiled hot dogS—New York hot dogs arrive fresh from the East Coast courtesy of Sahlen’s Smokehouse and are char-broiled to perfection by welltrained and friendly employees. Other menu selections include Brotwurst, burgers and the Beef On Weck-thin-sliced Black Angus Prime Rib piled high on a kummelweck roll topped with homemade horseradish sauce. Add a deep-fried accompaniment such as Stan’s famous thick-cut, extra crunchy onion rings or fries. Don’t miss the super-secret, coveted Bronco Sauce. The recipe for the sauce took years for Stan to pry out of the hands of a fellow hot dog purveyor. New York frozen custard in vanilla or chocolate is a delicious treat anytime. 818 S. Vista Ave., 208-342-1199. stanshotdogs.com. tango’S SuBS and empanadaS—Empanadas: an exotic word that roughly translates to “to-die-for two-dollar treat.” Tango’s 16 different styles of savory and sweet empanadas, priced at $2.50 each, include the Fugazza empanada, packed with onions, olive oil and mozzarella cheese, which was the biggest hit around the BW office, but the Del Mar (tuna, tomatoes, bell peppers and onion) and the Beef Gaucho (ground beef, eggs, olives, onions, peppers and spices) were right behind it in the savory category. For dessert, Tango’s offers a sacred trinity: dulce de leche, coconut dulce de leche and chocolate dulce de leche. The owner likens the subs to the style of the torta sandwich sold on the street in Cuba. 701 N. Orchard St., 208-322-3090. tangos-empanadas. com. thai CuiSine—Delicious, authentic Thai dishes served with an extra helping of elegant atmosphere. Curries of every color, plenty of peanut sauce and of course, fragrant spices round out a menu that’s full of old favorites and new discoveries. Even basics like fried rice have their own distinct Thai Cuisine touch here—sweet, spicy and fresh. Thai iced tea with your meal is a must here. 6777 W. Overland Road, 208-6580516. boisethaicuisine.com.
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the torCh 2—Stepsister to the original bikini bar on Fairview, The Torch II is almost a more popular stop these days. Drink in the company of Boise’s faux busty, faux tanned finest ladies as they dance to the sounds of the DJ in his cool log cabin booth. 610 S. Vista Ave., 208-336-4747. thetorchlounge.com. treS Bonne CuiSine—European-style deli inside a wine and beer shop. Sandwiches focus on German-style meats. 6555 W. Overland Road, 208-658-1364. tresbonnescuisine.com. viSta Bar:—The little A-frame building has been a watering hole for many a Bench dweller for many a year, and it continues to maintain its neighborhood bar feel. Grab your friends—or better yet, your neighbors—chalk your pool cue and spend an evening tossing back a brew or two. Or three. Or four. Call a cab. According to the sign, “It’s where the fun begins.” We tend to agree. It’s a must stop on the Vista bar crawl. 813 Vista Ave., 208-345-5058. wiCky wiCky SuShi—Sushi joint on the bench offering unique dishes like the “Dead Cat.” 6555 Overland Road, 208-367-1314. willowCreek grill—Contemporary cuisine in a casual atmosphere and a fine place to dine with friends and family for lunch or dinner. The extensive menu features Northwest favorites such as salmon served up a little differently in a fish and twigs option (twigs are fries at Willowcreek). Choose from a selection of yummies like fried portobello sticks and a wide selection of burgers topped with treats like pastrami and Swiss. Grab some sushi from the sister establishment right next door at Raw Sushi. Along the windows, numerous tables are placed with both regular-sized chairs and high bar chairs for those who like to dangle their legs while enjoying a wide selection of microbrews and fine wines. The menu of Northwest fare comes with subtle beverage recommendations. 2273 S. Vista Ave., Ste. 150, 208-343-5544. willowcreekgrill.com. wok-inn noodle—Don’t let your first impression drive you away from this oh-sotasty eatery. The owner makes his noodles from scratch, and offers Chinese and Thai dishes that will have you coming back time and time again. 4912 Emerald St., 208-3437262. woody’S—The bar sports two patios, more than 55 international beers and a jukebox with tunes you’ve never heard before. This Bench haunt may be one of Boise’s most interesting little watering holes. Bar grub, live music and a regular crowd make for plenty of merriment. 650 S. Vista Ave., 208-336-1790. yokozuna teriyaki—Delish contemporary Japanese cuisine on the cheap. Chicken, salmon, steak or shrimp meet bright crispy vegetables on a huge bed of steamed rice under a blanket of teriyaki sauce while gyoza. yakisoba, curry, tonkatsu and bubble tea round out the menu. Get there early for the daily lunch special and to score an order of daily made sushi. 824 S. Vista Ave., 208377-3064. yokozunateriyaki.com.
East Boise BarBaCoa—Though this classy Latinfusion restaurant is the go-to place for a candle-lit, wine-and-dine night on the town, but it also offers a solid two-for-one early and late-night happy hour for those more charmed by a river of strong booze than all of that lakeside romantic crap. Theatrical tableside service is the standard in this carnivore’s restaurant. 276 Bobwhite Court, 208-338-5000. barbacoa-boise.com.
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Ben’S Crow inn—The shack looks a little worse for wear from streetside, and if you creep up on the backside from the Greenbelt, you might wish you’d kept on cycling. The Inn hasn’t changed a molecule in years, and it still offers the same relief to anyone who thought about going rock climbing, biking, running or floating the river, but decided to tie one on instead. A big fenced-in patio with a wiffleball pitch and jukebox. Always a cool Hog out front, too. Ben’s is a little long in the tooth from just about every angle. But we’d be lying to say this isn’t one of the hoppingest places to stop in warm weather. Boaters, campers and out-for-a-drivers all stop by Ben’s on their way back to Boise for a bucket of clams, a game of horseshoes and a couple of cold ones. If you’re looking for a little Idaho flavor out of the big, bad city, Ben’s should fix you right up with that new Wild West feel. 6781 Warm Springs Ave., 208-342-9669.
Popcorn at O’Michael’s Pretzels at Bar Gernika Patios along Eighth Street
Bier:thirty Bottle and BiStro—This beer-centric bistro features more than 400 craft and imported bottles, 10 constantly rotating taps, growlers-to-go, tasty cuisine and wines by the glass. Also hosts a variety of beer tastings and beer dinners. 3073 S. Bown Way, 208-342-1916. brewforia.com. Blue Cow frozen yogurt—Make a delicious and nutritious treat by choosing from nonfat, premium or no-sugar-added varieties. Twelve different frozen yogurt flavors, with everything from fruit to New York cheesecake, plus low-fat options are offered in ever-changing rotation. Customers decorate their yogurt desserts by helping themselves to more than 30 hard, fruit and syrup toppings. Place the creation on the scale and pay by the ounce. 2333 Apple St., 208-338-1000. bluecowfrozenyogurt.com.
Quinn’s Free Champagne Brunch
BoiSe fry Company—The sister store to the favorite local haven for deep-fried goodness, featuring a variety of fries and flavored ketchups with “burgers on the side.” 3083 S. Bown Way, 208-965-1551. boisefrycompany.com. eaStSide tavern—It’s easy to spend an entire day at the Eastside—with shuffleboard, tons of video games, karaoke, poker leagues, a jukebox and tons of pool tables, you may want to bring a cot so you never have to leave. 610 E. Boise Ave., 208-345-3878. fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Feel like something different? The full menu also includes some not-so common dishes. 3552 S. Findley Ave., 208-424-8580. fiestasguadalajara. com.
R Bar’s Video Games and Retox—Sunday $2 beer cans, 50 cent bloody marys and mimosas and all-day happy hour
flatBread Community oven—Stonefired pizza, pasta and sandwiches served up from the community oven. Flatbread is a win-win for the entire family. The wine and beer selections are excellent, kids make their own pizzas and the patio is a definite summertime draw. Stopping in for just a drink with 10 of your closest friends? Chances are you won’t even have to pull tables together. The long tables encourage major socialization, be it within your group or with the strangers next to you. 3139 S. Bown Way, 208-343-4177. flatbreadpizza. com. la tapatia—Mexican grill that does enchiladas right. 401 E. Parkcenter Blvd., 208-343-6403. lorenzo’S pizza—Family-owned pizza by the slice or by the pie. 201 W. Boise Ave., 208-342-2944. lorenzospizzeriaofboise. com.
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loCavore— This local-centric eatery boasts a variety of espresso drinks, glutenfree breads and super-fresh salads. Kick back in Bown Crossing with something specially crafted and delicious. 3110 S. Bown Way, 208-338-8887. 60
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restaurant + bar listings /east luCky 13 pizza/the garage—In order to feel like you fit in here, be sure to bring your bike, your dog and a gaggle of helmetclad kids. Once the gatekeeper of cool in Hyde Park, this dynamic duo headed East to take in the mountain view and sidle up to the Greenbelt. Offering pizza, beer, salads and sandwiches at just about halfway between Boise and Lucky Peak, few can resist the urge to pull over and refuel. Sun yourself on the patio if you can find a seat, or treat yourself to a little shade in the air conditioned indoors. 3662 S. Eckert Road, 208-344-6967. lucky13pizza.com. mazzah—Boasting a Mediterranean menu complete with gyros (with sliced lamb or chicken), hummus, falafel and baklava for stay or takeout. There’s also vegetarianfriendly options, and an atmosphere fit for the Acropolis. 404 E. Parkcenter Blvd., 208333-2223. mazzahboise.com. miCkeyray’S roadhouSe BarBeCue— A meat-lovers paradise where you can get an assortment of sandwiches piled high with your favorite barbecue, or plate it up with traditional fixins like black-eyed peas and fried orka. 2325 Apple St., 208-3447427, mickeyraysbbq.com. pat’S thai kitChen—Pat’s promise to deliver “delicious authentic Thai food” certainly holds true each and every visit. Tom Ka Gai like you find in Chiang Mai, noodles and rice of all varieties and curry done Thai spicy or mild for the farang in you. 577 E. Park Blvd., Ste. C110, 208-345-0026. thaikitchenboise.com. the refuge—The Refuge, has a neighborhood pub feel and now boasts an expanded beer and wine selection, as well as a beefed-up and refined menu. Serving a menu of burgers, fingersteaks, homemade chips from flour tortillas and other bar favorites. With pool, beer and TVs, it a great Parkcenter fun spot. 404 E. Parkcenter Blvd., Ste. 300, 208-424-8211. therefugeboise.com. royal delight ChineSe reStaurant— Neighborhood Cantonese joint for the whole fam. 408 W. Arizona Lane, 208-342-3562. Siam thai—Siam is known for its consistent, fresh, delicious Thai food in family style portions, cozy setting and impeccable service. Dishes are spiced to your liking. 590 E. Boise Ave., 208-383-9032. mysiamthai.com. Smoky mountain pizza and paSta— When you’re in the mood for a good, traditional pizza, this is the place. The pastas, starters, sandwiches and salads are equally delicious, and the menu is as long as your arm. 415 E. Parkcenter Blvd., 208-4290011. smokymountainpizza.com. StuBS SportS puB—Named after the half of the ticket you get to keep, Stubs is a sports-lovers haven. Every seat in the house allows easy viewing of one of the many TVs broadcasting every sport that requires a ball, a club or a really good pair of shoes. The walls are covered in all sorts of sports memorabilia, so even if there isn’t anything you want to watch on TV, there’s plenty to look at. Dig into munchies like jalapeno poppers or a full-on meal. And if you’re as tough as a fullback, try a pickled egg. 3662 S. Findley Ave., 208-336-7882. stubspub.com. tavern at Bown CroSSing—Choose between the streetside balcony where all the passersby can watch you enjoy a bottle of wine and a steak, or lounge on the second floor patio with a roll of sushi and a martini. Nary a happy hour in town makes us happier than the Tavern at Bown. Halfpriced spicy tuna rolls, California rolls and a few wines by the glass add up to more class than can be surpassed. 3111 S. Bown Way, 208-345-2277. tavernatbown.com.
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+ south
the trolley houSe—The only remnant of Boise’s streetcar system and a favorite neighborhood diner. No-frills atmosphere, efficient service and a giant menu with everything from eggs Benedict to burgers to a lo-cal section. BYOB. 1821 Warm Springs Ave., 208-345-9255. weStSide drive-in—Having a Westside on the east side of Boise may seem contradictory, but you won’t care once you dive into one of the tasty concoctions from Chef Lou that residents of the City of Trees have enjoyed for the past 55 years, like the oh-sodelicious ice cream potato. 1113 Parkcenter Blvd., 208-424-0000, cheflou.com. zeppole Baking Co.—Nothing beats the low prices and fresh-baked goodness of Zeppole on a lunch break, unless it’s taking home a loaf of the near-legendary bread to enjoy later. Stop in for lunch, featuring a different soup every day and a slew of homemade sandwiches and salads. 983 E. Parkcenter Blvd., 208-338–1499. zeppolebakery.com.
South Boise the Chef’S hut—A breakfast lover’s paradise, The Chef’s Hut offers generous portions for modest prices. Mountains of pancakes, tons of egg options and omelets—and to think they crammed lunch in there, too. Get up early and get started on a hearty, filling breakfast in a family café setting. 164 S. Cole Road, 208-376-3125. chefshut.com. Ck hawaiian BBq—You may think Hawaiian food is all about the mahi mahi and macaroni salad, but CK Hawaiian BBQ includes teriyaki and other Asian fusion foods on the menu, and it’s all guaranteed to leave you stuffed and satisfied. 7709 Overland Road, Ste. 110, 208-376-4380. ckhawaiianbbq.com. the Creperie—With Pronto Pups kaput, don’t mourn the loss of a corn dog before your movie. The Creperie has you covered whether you want a hand-dipped corn dog or something a little closer to this little shop’s namesake. Whether you prefer your crepes stuffed with fruit or fromage, sugar or salmon, you’ll find it here. It’s less expensive than movie popcorn and more fun. 7709 W. Overland Road, Ste. 130, 208-949-3536. thecreperieboise.com. digg’S pizza—The cheerful staff is quick to tell you this is some of the best pizza around, and with an awesome create-yourown option, plus a truly enormous selection, it’s easy to believe them. unique offerings like sweet-and-sour chicken pizza and a German sausage pizza (complete with sauerkraut) make Digg’s worth a return visit and another taste test. 4646 S. Cole Road, 208-362-3177. diggspizza.com. goodwood BarBeCue Company—If it can be barbecued, chances are, Goodwood has it. If barbecue sauce isn’t your thing, there’s steak, fish and chicken, too, as well as a healthy wine and cocktail selection. 7849 W. Spectrum St., 208-658-7173. goodwoodbbq.com. hooligan’S puB—Truly a neighborhood bar, Hooligan’s has its share of loyal regulars along with ample pool tables—and skilled players to man them. The beer here won’t break the bank, so it’s great for students and folks looking for some well-deserved downtime. Grab a cue or, if you’re not quite ready to get the night rolling, there’s plentiful pub food to tide you over. 10704 Overland Road, 208-376-9800. great wall ChineSe reStaurant— Great Wall is a large buffet that offers Chinese standards and delivery from a large menu, including family meals to feed an invading Mongol horde. 10398 W. Overland Road, 208-376-3260. greatwallidaho.com.
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LAu R IE P EAR M AN
restaurant + bar listings
Big City Coffee
guang zhou ChineSe reStaurant—Your favorite Chinese dishes come out steaming hot and plenty spicy, and service is fast and friendly. Best of all, it’s easy on the wallet. 7609 W. Overland Road, Ste. 120, 208-378-5888. guangzhouid.com. idaho pizza Company—Pizza and sandwiches at prices that won’t break the bank. True to its name, Idaho Pizza Company features old standards as well as specialty pies with uniquely Gem State names. The fresh ingredients and large selection keep locals coming back for more. The all-you-can-eat salad bar helps, of course. 3053 S. Cole Road, 208-362-7702. idahopizzacompany.com. le Coq rouge—This quaint French restaurant is family owned and run. We highly suggest reservations. 1320 S. Maple Grove Road, 208-376-9463. legendS SportS puB and grill—The Spectrum shopping center isn’t just for movies. Legends is a great spot to settle in with a beer—pick from a variety of microbrews or take advantage of the full bar—and take in the game on one of the TVs. Getting into the spirit of things is easy at this welcoming pub that serves burgers and fries, pizza and pasta. Check out the multitude of pool tables and games. 7609 W. Overland, Ste. 100, 208-377-1819. legendspubandgrill.com.
Best BAng for Your Buck Where to get the most for what you got
Addie’s Daily breakfast special. Baguette Deli Vietnamese sandwiches for less than $4. Bardenay Daily soup and half a sandwich lunch special. Berryhill and Co. $3 happy hour food specials at the bar including fries, salads, soup and a little buffalo burger. $3 and $5 drink specials. 4-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 4 p.m.-close Monday-Tuesday. Big City Coffee Day-old baked goods. Brick 29 Wine and Dine menu on Mondays: two entrees and two glasses of wine for $30. Brickyard $7 lunch special.
The Creperie Dinner and a movie deal: two movie passes to Edwards 21, two crepes, two fountain drinks for $30.
Neurolux $2 drink specials on Tuesdays.
Flatbread Community Oven Pick Two lunch special for less than $10, happy hour drink and food specials.
Pengilly’s Saloon $2 drink specials on Tuesdays.
Gamekeeper Lounge Happy hour food specials. Guido’s Slice for less than $2. The Lift Holy Oly night—50 cent Olympia beers—on Tuesdays. Mai Thai Lunch buffet for less than $10, Izakaya two-for-one happy hour drink specials and $3-$7 food specials.
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Overland Bar $1 beer specials.
Pho Nouveau Happy hour two-for-one drink specials and food specials. Piper Pub and Grill Two-for-one happy hour drink specials. Pollo Rey The El Cheapo earns its name. Tango’s $2.50 empanadas. Solid Two-for-one happy hour drink specials.
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* All prices subject to change.
luCky palaCe ChineSe reStaurant—Big flavor, little package. This tiny restaurant serves huge portions of Chinese favorites from twice-cooked pork to orange beef, and when the staff tells you take-out and delivery are fast, they mean lightning. If you dine in, expect to leave with leftovers. 8630 W. Overland Road, 208-376-2828. luckypalaceboise.com. pad thai houSe—Pad Thai House is so confident that its Pad Thai is the best in Boise, the restaurant is named after it. If you’re looking beyond this Thai food staple, Pad Thai House won’t disappoint with its red curry and bigger-than-average spring rolls. A tip to spice lovers: ask for it “Thai hot” and you’re more likely to not just be thirsty, but soaking your searing, yet cheering, tastebuds in water and enjoying it the whole time. 1473 S. Five Mile Road, 208375-6014. padthaihouse.net. pollo rey—A food hotspot offering tacos and juicy, perfectly spiced, grilled and rotisseriecooked chicken. Forget the greasy bucket of fast-food chicken—bringing home a roasted chicken dinner from Pollo Rey is a great solution to an empty fridge and an empty stomach. The menu may not be huge, but Pollo Rey’s quick and delish burritos and quesadillas are proof that sometimes it’s better to keep it simple, silly. 7709 W. Overland Road, 208-375-4642. polloreyboise.com. red letter BookS and Cafe— This Christian bookstore/coffee shop combo combines coffee with intellectual and spiritual fulfillment. Beyond your caffeine high, you’ll get a boost knowing this nonprofit shop donates its profits to local and international missions. 1 Auto Drive, 208-639-7118. redletterbooks.com.
SuShi ya—Huge selection of all-you-can-eat sushi, made fresh to order. 8915 W. Overland Road, 208-377-2000. sushiya-allyoucaneat.com. time out SportS puB and reStaurant—Time Out is packed full of sports memorabilia and TVs (29 big screens), and the bar and beer lists are packed, too. And don’t worry if you start to slump after the game, Time Out offers a late-night menu with nachos, wings and other battered or barbecued selections. 7751 W. Spectrum Ave., 208-322-1745. timeout4boise.com. twiSted timBer puB and grill—This hangout boasts a great beer selection that includes plenty of Rogue and New Belgium favorites, which share space on the menu with pizza and sandwiches. Come for the beer, stay for a game of pool or shuffleboard. Twisted Timber also offers sweet nothings like fresh cupcakes on weekends— a temptation you’ll find tough to resist. 4563 S. Cloverdale Road, 208-362-7157. ilovethetimber.com.
Garden City Boulevard Bar—If you’ve never been to Boulevard Bar, you may want to buddy up to a regular before popping your head in wearing your Neurolux garb. Neon-colored shades aren’t this crowd’s cup of tea or since it’s a bar, its mug of Budweiser. 4079 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-383-9035. Chapala—Carne Asada burritos, chile relleno, tostada fajitas, tamale and vegetarian taco salads dot a menu with a big selection of Mexican eats. This locally owned chain is all fresh-mex. 3447 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-342-5648. chapalarestaurants.com. 5697 Glenwood St., 208-321-8262. chapalarestaurants.com. CoBBy’S—Since 1978, Cobby’s has been serving up sandwiches alongside salad, soups and the requisite fruit and chip bar to round out any meal. With exotic lunch meat options like capicolla, genoa and mortadella. 4348 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-322-7401. cobbys.com. Crooked fenCe Brewing— This relatively new brewery only has limited hours on ThursdaysSaturdays, but with creations like the Three Picket Porter and the I’ll Be Your Huckleberry IPA, it’s worth checking out. 5242 Chinden Blvd. cfbrewing.blogspot.com. el gallo giro—The authentic Mexican restaurant has appetizers, salads and big ol‘ burritos, plus famous tacos and tortas. Seafood orders come with oysters, shrimp and octopus. The fish tacos are fantastic but the real draw are the sizzling fajitas and any other house specialty. 5285 Glenwood St., 208321-0355. elgallogiroidaho.com. idaho pizza Company—With a killer drink, pizza, and/or salad bar lunch buffet on the cheap, a to-go pie on the way home or just a hot sandwich, Idaho Pizza Company has you covered. 6840 N. Glenwood, 208-853-1224.
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moe’S plaCe—This Garden City hub features all kinds of fun, with billiards, dart boards, video games, dance music three days a week and happy hour every day. 3933 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-343-1243. new york riChie’S SandwiCheS & pizza—Hot sandwiches, pizza by the slice and pasta make up this New York Italianstyle eatery’s cornerstone recipes. 5865 N. Glenwood St., 208-323-0003. newyorkrichies.com.
Ten Minute Martini at Chandlers Two-Dollar Tuesdays at Neurolux Two-Dollar Wednesdays at Mulligan’s
payette Brewing Company— Whether it’s the Mutton Buster or the IPA, an ever-expanding tap list features craft and seasonal varieties, Payette is now a Garden City mainstay. Check out the game room with cornhole, ping pong and pinball. 111 W. 33rd St., 208-344-0011. payettebrewing.com. playerS puB & grill—It’s not often you find a bowling alley with food worth eating and drinks worth guzzling. Enjoy a break from the average, sticky-chair, screaming kids bowling alley to bask in bar bliss inside Westy’s. 5504 W. Alworth St., 208-376-6563. quarter Barrel—Dozens of bottled brews and lots of primo draft beers sit pretty behind this long wooden bar. With daily specials, karaoke, trivia and a new heated smoking area, the Quarter Barrel is worth the jaunt to Garden City. 4902 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-322-3430. the ranCh CluB—From the outside it looks like the place your parents met, complete with a rearing horse statue on the roof. But on the inside, this eatery serves hot lunch specials at reasonable prices during the day. By night drink specials and ice-cold beers are the norm. Located just outside the smoking-ban border that is Boise, the Ranch Club proudly boasts a smoky interior. 3544 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-343-7447.
umbrella Drinks at Reef
Shorty’S Saloon—This country bar on Glenwood is your destination if you’re keen for bottled Budweiser, cowboy boots and old-world wooden accoutrements. 5467 Glenwood St., 208-322-6699. Sofia’S greek BiStro—This authentic Greek eatery specializes in gyros, souvlaki, rice bowls, and even mammoth burgers piled with feta and lamb to make the American classic Acropolis-style. Add some Greek coffee to your meal for an afternoon pick-me-up. 6748 N. Glenwood St., 208853-0844.
Vodka! 44 North, Koenig and Revolution call Idaho home
StageCoaCh inn—Banana cream pie, jumbo shrimp, prime rib—served in an atmosphere reminiscent of the 1950s. The Stagecoach Inn gets props for its knowledgeable waitstaff, strong drinks, big steaks and a classic wood-lined bar. 3132 Chinden Blvd., 208-342-4161. stagecoachboise.com. unCle giuSeppe’S—Seventeen sandwich offerings, party platters and the option to build-your-own from a cornucopia of specialty meats and cheeses make this Garden City gem worth the traffic. Take your sliced meat or cheese by the pound if you like. 6826 Glenwood St., 208-473-2578. unclegiuseppesdeli.com.
Meridian
Wineries! Southwest Idaho has 26 wineries. There are 43 in the state.
Bill-n-lynn’S plaCe—Bill & Lynn’s is like Meridian’s version of Cheers, only a little smokier, darker and grittier. It’s a very cool hangout, where there’s always someone recovering from the previous night’s indiscretions and tomfoolery. The place has TVs, a pool table, video games, shuffleboard, two horseshoe pits, jukebox and pinball. 229 W. Franklin Road, 208888-4075.
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restaurant listings /meridian Blue Sky BagelS—Hot Asiago bagels, plus a variety of other flavors ranging from plain to garlic to sunflower seed, plus soups, morning egg combos and lunchtime sandwiches—the real steal is the veggie sandwich stacked high with all the roughage you want (including avocado). 3161 E. Fairview Ave., Ste. 130, 208-855-9113. blueskybagels.com. Bogie’S Bar and grill—This eatery is part of Lakeview Golf Course and sports and array of appetizers and sandwiches to get you to the next green. 4200 W. Talamore Blvd., 208-288-3286. lakeviewgc.com. Brew 30—This speedway-adjacent pub features a menu that includes intriguing specialties like the Get ‘Shroomed burger and Taco Wagon, in addition to sandwiches, wraps and the fried-cheese-and-nacho-type pub fare. 501 S. Main St., 208-898-9470. BuSted Shovel—It’s a biker bar that’s not just for bikers. This downtown Meridian staple offers a full bar and serves an array of pub-style food. Check out the slew of choppers and hogs lined up out front any evening throughout the summer. The bacon cheddar ranch burger is purportedly the best burger in town, but if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, the menu is four pages of tempting pub food from fingersteaks and chicken strips to fish and chips and deli sandwiches. 704 Main St., 208-288-2217. bustedshovel.com. CheerleaderS SportS Bar and grill—The family friendly sports pub is locally owned and although patrons aren’t required to wear sports-related jerseys, it helps them blend in better with the regulars and the servers who all seem to resemble members of a team loaded with spirit. The slick wraparound marble bar is a cool place to drink, but the real draw is taking a look under the hood of a 1968 Shelby. Sit at a four top or in one of the straightbacked wooden booths that help with proper posture while watching the game on your own personal TV. If stumped as to whether to down one of more than 24 beers on tap or sip on the hard stuff, go for a pint of the High Life for $1. The chicken club wrap is popular, so is the handmade fish and chips. If the mood strikes for pasta, try the chicken shrimp alfredo. Burgers, tantalizing finger foods and the baby back ribs, available with house raspberry or plain barbecue sauce are all highlights of the menu. The fingersteaks go well with the crispy fries. 3541 N. Eagle Road, 208-939-9209. cheerleaderssbg.com. China wok—This Chinese restaurant boasts an array of favorite foods and a drive-thru, so you can pick up your fried rice without anyone knowing you’re in sweatpants. 993 S. Progress Ave., 208-8551555. chinawokid.com. CorkSCrewS wine Shop and puB— Nothing like a subterranean wine bar in the heart of downtown Meridian to warm up your cold winter nights. This little low-ceiling joint is a low-key hangout for the crowd who likes it wine fine and its music smooth. Plan ahead to be a regular with a punch card: buy 10 bottles or glasses, get one free. 729 N. Main St., 208-888-4049. corkscrews1.com. CurB Bar and grill—This spacious bar features Southwest-style pub food, live music and a big ol’ garage door that opens up to patio seating. 1760 S. Meridian Road, 208-855-0202. curbbarandgrill.com. don diego’S—Festively decorated space serving Jaliscan style enchiladas and sauces from traditional family recipes. 2951 E. Overland Road, 208-855-0645. dondiegosrestaurant.com. el tenampa—Offering authentic and fresh Mexican food. 729 E. First St., 208-8884089.
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epi’S BaSque reStaurant—For topnotch Basque cuisine served in a cozy, homey atmosphere, this is the place. Meals are served family style, so sides can be a surprise, but always a pleasant one. Dessert is just decadent. 1115 N. Main St., 208-884-0142. expreSS Cafe—This is best known for being a breakfast diner. The cafe is also open for lunch. 400 E. Fairview Ave., 208888-3745. fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos and enchiladas. A full menu tempts you to choose a not-so-common dish. 704 E. Fairview Ave., 208-884-0161. fiestasguadalajara.com. firehouSe puB and grill—Beer. Meat. ESPN. 20 beers on tap and cocktails. What else can you ask for? 1767 W. Franklin Road, 208-846-9535. firehousepubmeridian.com. flatBread Community oven—Flatbread Meridian opened with a slightly different feel than its Bown Crossing cousin. This location has ringside seats in downtown Meridian with garage doors that roll open in the summer, countertops made from recycled glass and live music every Wednesday all year. Wine and flatbread are definitely the menu items of choice here, with 22 boutique wines by the glass and a 25-cent donation from the sale of every flatbread going to the Idaho Foodbank. Stone-fired pizza, pasta and sandwiches served up from the community oven. The Neapolitan pizzeria prepares the food with fresh ingredients daily. 830 N. Main St., Ste. A (Generations Plaza), 208-288-0969. flatbreadpizza.com. fuSion aSian grill—Serving Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean in Meridian. 3161 E. Fairview Ave., 208-855-5930. gelato Cafe—Gelato, coffee, sushi, pizza, sandwiches, gyros, martinis ... pick your poison. The hole-in-the-wall cafe—sleek and mint green on the inside, strip mall on the outside—is deceptive from the parking lot. Sip on unusual martini combinations, all of which include a scoop of gelato. We recommend the Wet Dream, a chocolate, Baileys and vodka-enriched rapture. 2053 E. Fairview Ave., 208-846-8410. gelatocafeofidaho.net. gino’S italian reStaurant—If you’re going to name a restaurant after yourself, you want the food to be good. Gino, as owner and chef, has made sure it’s superb. This little bistro offers fine Italian dining and wonderful, friendly, bend-over-backward service. 3015 W. McMillan Road, Ste. 108, 208-887-7710. goodwood BarBeCue Company—If it can be barbecued, chances are, Goodwood has it. If barbecue sauce isn’t your thing, it has steak, fish and chicken, too, as well as a healthy wine and cocktail selection. 1140 N. Eagle Road, 208-884-1021. goodwoodbbq.com. groove Coffee, eSpreSSo & wine Cafe—Enjoy coffee and espresso drinks, snacks, including confections from Zeppole bakery and a slew of sandwiches, or unwind with a glass of wine while you get in the groove. 1800 N. Locust Grove, 208-8906128. groovecoffee.com. harry’S Bar and grill—Harleys, burgers, beer and pool; send us to heaven, but don’t call us a fool. Whether you’re in for the grub or the beer, they know how to serve it up right. The original Harry’s has re-opened in new digs. The walls are full of Harry paraphenilia from Dirty Harry posters to larger-than-life size smiles on Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal (When Harry Met Sally). The menu is a collection of burgers, a huge list of apps and just enough salads to make you feel guilty. 2032 E. Overland Road, 208888-9868.
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restaurant+ bar listings/meridian hungry onion—A Meridian institution that thankfully hasn’t changed in decades. The hot, tasty food arrives on a tray at your window. 334 E. First St., 208-8880051. idaho pizza Company—Pizza, sandwiches and an all-you-can-eat salad bar with prices that won’t break the bank. 7100 W. Fairview Ave., 208-375-4100. idahopizzacompany.com. Jade horSe—Cantonese-style cooking in a family atmosphere. Menu features vegetarian and lightdish options. 48 E. Fairview Ave., 208-888-0322. jadehorse.us. Jaker’S Steak, riBS & fiSh houSe—With its elegant, sweeping bar decked out in dark wood and deep green accents, it’s a casual place that still manages to feel upscale. Eat at the bar or in one of the barside booths, or wait for a table where you can enjoy nightly dinner specials. A full menu of meat, with everything else a
patron would expect to see, including appetizers, burgers, chicken and fun foods, plus nightly dinner specials. 3268 E. Pine Ave., 208288-0898. jakers.com. kahootz Steak and alehouSe—A classy atmosphere catering to all clientele. A beer drinker really needs to know only one thing about Kahootz: 43 taps are pouring beer every day. And if all that beertasting makes you hungry, here’s some interesting info about the food: The kitchen does not have a deep fryer, the soups are homemade daily and none of the salad dressings come out of a container. 1603 N. Main St., 208-895-9861. gotokahootz.com. kay and traCi’S 127 CluB—Country music, country darts, country beer and country pool. The locals are well-acquainted with the bar, frequently shaking their tail feathers to live bands on the weekend. If you’re headed to Meridian for a night out on a different town, Kay and Traci’s can
provide all the food, drinks and dancing your little party self can handle. And even if you live in the southern reaches of Boise, a full dinner menu (including prime rib Fridays), a 4 p.m.-9 p.m. menu for late lunchers, a slew of cocktail options, live music every weekend, pool and darts should be more than enough to tempt you out to Meridian. It may be a full bar, but it’s full food, too. Prime rib every Friday is what it’s known for, but it’s the homemade soup that’s the house specialty. 127 E. Idaho St., 208-884-0122. kit kat CluB—On a list of Meridian landmarks, there’s the water tower and the Kit Kat Club. The strip club has sat on the corner of Franklin and Blackcat roads for as long as most locals can remember. While it serves beer, wine and bar food, no one really pays attention to the drinks. It’s more about the, um, atmosphere. 4842 W. Franklin Road, 208-888-7731.
korner BiStro—This bistro is, of course, situated on a corner. With a slew of catering tray options, espresso drinks, sandwiches and boxed lunches, as well as call-ahead and take-out services, it’s the perfect place to pop in and grab a quick lunch. 979 S. Progress Ave., 208-258-2085. louie’S pizza and italian reStaurant—Take a seat in the open, airy walnut bar for full service or wait to be seated for traditional American Italian food, including hand-tossed, thin crust pizza, tortelini and cannelloni. Stained glass windows imported from their first location in Ketchum are a nice addition to the atmosphere, and the lattice-covered patio is the place to sit outdoors on a warm day. Louie’s is a locally owned restaurant that puts as much care into the service as the infamous pizza. Boasting traditional cannellonis, tortellinis and eggplant parmigana, Louie’s also has a selection of salads and pizzas for all your dining and catering needs. 2500 E. Fairview Ave., 208-8845200. louiespizza.com. luCky finS Seafood grill— Enjoy a plethora of flavors influenced by Asian, Mexican and Northwest cuisine, along with some tasty sushi. There’s also an array of pasta, burgers and appetizers for the fish-phobic. 1441 N. Eagle Road, 208-888-3467. luckyfinsgrill.com.
favorite foods/stuffed
miSS tami’S Cottage expreSSionS and tea room—Miss Tami’s follows the British tradition of tea as a meal in between meals, when everyone settles in around an aromatic brew and nibbles on savories, scones with Devonshire cream, finger sandwiches and miniature desserts. Tami’s offers a variety of packages for afternoon teas, some of which involve costumes. Serving breakfast and lunch. Reservations suggested. 1030 N. Main St., 208-888-1770. misstamis.com. muSe BiStro and wine Bar— This eatery and vino spot features a menu that changes weekly and features and an array of tasty appetizers, soups, salads and entrees. Check the website for the latest in its culinary offerings. 1435 N. Eagle Road. musebistroandwinebar.com/.
Stuffed French Toast
Pierogi
Empanadas
Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro Goldy’s has won Best Breakfast in Best of Boise for more than a decade.
Salt Tears Coffeehouse and Noshery Everything is made from scratch.
Tango’s At only $2 a pop, it’s easy on your budget.
Veggie Tamales Amigo’s Go hungry, they only come by the dozen.
Nutella Crepe The Creperie Check out the long list of both savory and sweet crepes.
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Escargots Le Coq Rouge They’re slippery little suckers.
the new frontier CluB—If you don’t know much about a town, one way to familiarize yourself is to spend time in one of its bars. You’ll experience a crosssection of the kind of people who live and work there and may find the burg you’re visiting is quite to your liking. Stop in to the historic New Frontier for a drink and a chat. You’ll see why more and more people are moving to Meridian. 116 E. Broadway Ave., 208-888-9034. ‘ohana hawai’ian BBq—‘Ohana Hawai’ian BBQ dishes it up Island style with SPAM musubi, mix plate, manapua, saimin, kalbi ribs ... it’s like a potluck at aunti’s house. For the gluten-free diner, there’s ahi poke and for the meat-free crowd a smattering of vegetarian options. 1735 W. Franklin Road, Ste. 120, 208-888-2661. ohanahawaiianbbq. com.
pie hole—Pizza plain and simple. Nineteen-inch pies by the slice or by the pie and calzones every day. Try the infamous potato and bacon, or go cheap with the special of the day for two bucks. 726 N. Main St., 208-888-0482. pieholeusa.com. pinnaCle SportS grill—A comfy, casual spot to bring the whole family—after the game or to watch one. 2902 N. Eagle Road, 208-884-4400. pinnaclesportsgrill. com. r & r puBliC houSe—Classic modern decor and vibrant colors set the stage for a relaxed dining experience. Indulge in the Hanger Steak topped with a cilantro chimichurri sauce, paired with a glass of wine or one of a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. 1626 S. Wells Ave., Ste. 115, 208-2582080. rrpublichouse.com. riCk’S preSS room—Themed around newspapers, Rick’s Press Room is far more than your average bar. Its unassuming location hosts a menu of surprising depth and flavor, winning over visitors who become regulars. Forget the wings, try the salmon. Chef owner Rick Valenzuela has created a menu of simple, gourmet food for his news-themed neighborhood pub. Lunch and dinner are both casual, with sandwiches, salads and steak options. And after dinner, cigar fans can retire to the plush smoke room, conjoining the restaurant with the Treasure Valley Smoke Shop. 130 E. Idaho Ave., 208-288-0558. rickspressroom. net. rudy’S puB and grill—A sports bar with a toned-down atmosphere. Sure, there are giant flat screens in every direction, showing whatever the game of the day is, and there’s the pool table and assorted entertainment, but the waitresses wear real clothes, there’s a full menu of diverse offerings, and the family friendly restaurant is suitable for those who don’t care what team is playing. Rudy’s is a pub that cares about its customers’ health. With locally grown beef and no trans fat in the fries, the menu runs the gamut of pub fare, including starters, platters and sandos that come with a half-pickle. Soups are homemade daily and entrees served after 5 p.m. include pastas, salmon and N.Y. steak. 2310 E. Overland Road, Ste. 150, 208-884-4453. rudyspubngrill.com. Sa-wad-dee thai reStaurant—This Meridian Thai restaurant offers an extensive menu of traditional Thai cuisine. From the expected (Orange Beef) to the unexpected (Frog Leg Basil), there’s something tasty for everyone. We happen to like the sound of the Chicken Volcano. 1890 E. Fairview Ave., Ste. B, 208-884-0701. sawaddeethai.com. Sakana JapaneSe SuShi and Steak—This is the place for those who like their steak with a side of sushi. 1718 S. Eagle Road, 208888-6278. sakanaboise.com. SChooner’S—This neighborhood bar offers a full menu, Golden Tee, darts and pretty much everything you could need to have a great time. 499 S. Main St., 208884-3737.
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bar tour/drink
Little Dutch Garden
dive in
The great dive bar expedition RACHAEL DAIGLE | PHOTOGRAPH BY LAuRIE PEARMAN
In a city’s nightlife scene, the dive bar is the often underrated critical foundation upon which all the other posh and pretentious joints rest. The dive bar is the place where the bartender remembers your name. It’s the last stop on the way home. The dive bar passes no judgment—roll in first thing in the morning or in paint-spattered clothes. The dive bar doesn’t care. Dive bars tend not to be the best-looking watering holes in town, though sometimes they enjoy brief moments as the most popular. Scruffy though they may be on the exterior, dark though they may be on the interior, the dive bar should be proud to earn the label “dive bar.” It takes years of tap pulling, bottle opening and liquor pouring to earn the title. Theses are the places that endure, despite fads and in spite of recessions. They’re also the places where history has happened (10th street station, which has been a bar since 1982). Where ordinary life has ticked slowly by (o’michael’s, where one waitress has been scuttling drinks for 45 years). Where the mayor has been spotted over the years before and during his reign over the city (The basque center). In Boise you won’t come across a bar you shouldn’t go into. The last rough and tumble bar that we would have suggested you steer clear of closed up shop recently, leaving a bar scene that, by and large, is nice to you if you’re nice to it. If the drinks are cheap (broadway bar), expect a healthy ratio of college kids mixed in with the hardcore crowd. When dive bar hopping remember: don’t judge a book by its cover. Though you may have been driving past some bars that look the same year after year, recent remodels on the inside have cleaned things up significantly on the inside (Pitchers and Pints). And just because a bar’s neighbors may be a little less savory than you’d like (charlie brown’s) doesn’t mean the bartenders aren’t fast or the clientele won’t mind its own business and let you enjoy a game of darts. The biggest boon to Boise’s dive bar scene for those who aren’t 66 regulars in it may be the city’s recent ban on smoking in them. www. bo iseweekly.co m
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Places where smoke once out-ratioed the fresh air (Fireside inn) are now more pleasant to breathe in. That’s not to say a night of dive bar hopping must go without a smoke. Chinden Boulevard may be the best dive bar crawl in town (skip from The Ranch club to The boulevard to moe’s Place to Quarterbarrel) and lighting up is still allowed. As the city has grown and evolved over the years, so, too, have our tastes in booze. While mustachioed bartenders in throwback vests and bowties at the fancy places painstakingly measure homemade simple syrup into a complex concoction of exotic liqueurs, hand-slapped mint, freshly squeezed juices and perfectly square ice, the drink slingers at dive bars keep it simple. A liquor, a mixer, next in line. With the squirt of a mixer gun, the crack of a bottle cap and the clank of quarters, dive bartenders don’t have the luxury of time. There’s no fussing over garnishes, no single-handed egg cracking, no lengthy explanations of the nuances in flavored bitters. When the bar is packed and you’re next in line for karaoke, you want a bartender who can crank out the rum and Cokes while shaking up a batch of doc holidays (Terry’s state street saloon). When it’s your turn to buy a round of shots, you want the bartender to over pour beautifully layered duck farts (Turner’s cocktails) with enthusiasm because all he’s done is pour beers all night. And almost without exception, the one thing you can always expect at a dive bar is to make new friends. In a place where all the regulars play horseshoes together in the bar’s back yard (little Dutch Garden) or where the stools are well worn by familiar cheeks (44 club), if you’re the new face in the crowd, the person next to you will want to know your story (mcclearly’s Pub). The bartender will thank you profusely (4 e’s in Kuna) and you’ll leave wondering why you’ve spent so much time and money at all the other places. 65
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restaurant + bar listings Shanaz home kitChen CuiSine— Sometimes we want home kitchen cuisine, without messing up the kitchen. Enjoy feel-good food like chicken ’n’ waffles, jambalaya stuffed peppers or seafood gumbo (weekends only), sans the mess or effort on your part. 520 S. Main St., 208922-6433. Shige teriyaki—A fast-food style satellite version of the downtown Boise Japanese staple. Stop in for traditional entrees like Oyakodon (chicken and egg simmered in onions over rice) and short ribs, or opt for tempura shrimp neatly rolled with lettuce and cream cheese in the Sugar Daddy roll. It mimics its Boise counterpart with an “express” version right next door. 450 S. Meridian Road, Ste. 15, 208-888-0663. shigejapanesecuisine.com. Smoky mountain pizza and paSta— When you’re in the mood for a good, traditional pizza, this is the place. The pastas, starters, sandwiches and salads are equally delicious, and the menu is as long as your arm. 980 E. Fairview Ave., 208-884-1067. smokymountainpizza.com. Steve’S Cafe—This breakfast and lunch cafe opened in Montana in 2009, and now it’s making an appearance in Idaho. With huckleberry French toast, homemade sausage and corned beef and hash, there are plenty of ways to start your morning off right. 2483 E. Fairview Ave., Ste. 105, 208887-1133. stevescafemt.com. StrikerS in the meridian Bowling alley—There are a lot of locals as well as a variety in clientele sauntering in from the bowling alley next door. If you’re into darts, there are five boards and plenty of competition. Other ways to spend time include video games, faux slot machines and a jukebox. 324 S. Meridian Road, 208888-2048. SunriSe Cafe—Coffee, bakery items and a full breakfast menu abound at this Meridian eatery that’s been a city staple for seemingly ever. 805 E. First St., 208888-4517. tree City JuiCe and Smoothie Cafe— More than 30 smoothie combinations, 10 ways of serving fresh-squeezed juice, and for the calorie conscious who still want a straight shot of vitamins, Tree City offers wheatgrass, ginger and acai shots. 3355 E. Fairview Ave., Ste. 105, 208-846-8180. varSity puB—Catch the game and hang out with friends at this Meridian sports bar hideaway. 1441 N. Eagle Road, 208-9060658. varsitypubmeridian.com. vina—This Meridian eatery has a menu chock-full of Vietnamese and Chinese favorites. 1534 N. Main St., 208-888-1378. white water Saloon—Don’t be fooled by its Meridian address, this bar is the real deal, pardner. The White Water Saloon may very well be the only real bar in Meridian—no food, no kids, light up as you please. It’s not the kind of place you’d take a girl to impress her unless she likes her whiskey straight and her beer domestic, but for an elbow-bending session that helps you forget about your doldrums, White Water is just what the doctor ordered. 1646 N. Meridian Road, 208-888-3063.
Eagle ahi SuShi—Ahi seems to be vying for what is so far a non-existent award for the most beautiful sushi in the valley. The atmosphere is chill, but the sushi rollin’ team doesn’t slack. All the usual suspects are on the menu from bento boxes to California rolls, and a slew of favorites including the Winding Creek Roll, named for the restaurant’s location. 1193 E. Winding Creek, Ste. 104, 208-938-3474. ahisushibar.com.
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restaurant + bar listings/eagle Bardenay—Located in a riverrock laden development along the Boise River, the little brother of the Boise bar still features the distillery’s own hooch, as well as an impressive array of beer, wine and assorted liquors. Munch on the anything-but-standard pub food while you try to pick your favorite. If it’s summertime, put on your boxing gloves and get ready to fight for a spot on one of the best patios around. 155 E. Riverside Drive, 208-938-5093. bardenay.com. Bella aquila—The riverside restaurant boasts one of the best patios around. With an impeccable attention to every dining detail, the food, service and atmosphere make for a lovely experience. The
restaurant specializes in homemade pasta and uses local ingredients, with descriptions of lunch and dinner entrees that are sure to make you mouth water. Check out happy hour and the Sunday brunch. 775 S. Rivershore Lane, 208-9381900. bellaaquilarestaurant.com. the Blue mooSe Cafe—It’s impossible to come to the Blue Moose and not have one of the beyond-delicious chocolate concoctions called moose bars. Try one and you’ll be hooked for life. And after devouring dessert, try a Tijuana Twister or Norstrom’s Wrap, and you’ll leave this mooseclad cafe full and oh-so-happy. 79 Aikens Road, 208-939-3079. thebluemoosecafe.net.
Bowl of heaven—“Let food be thy medicine” is this eatery/antiaging center. Learn how tasty, yet healthy acai bowls can keep you healthy and young. 435 S. Eagle Road, Ste. 110, 208-939-0748. bowlofheaven.com. BuSterS Bar and grill—There are sports bars, and then there’s Busters. The neighborhood sports bar/family restaurant is a suburban sports getaway. Servers in tiny outfits deliver selections from a full menu of pub food and use the glow of big TVs to find their way. 1396 E. State St., 208-938-1800. busterssportsbar.com. CaSa mexiCo—With restaurants all over the Treasure Valley, Casa
bars/diversions
Mexico is family owned, with an extensive menu and an attentive staff. 393 W. State St., 208-9397795. casamexicoidaho.com. China palaCe—This neighborhood Chinese restaurant in a strip mall has everything you’d expect from a Chinese eatery: egg rolls, snow peas, and two American options for the picky eater—a hamburger or grilled cheese. 625 E. State St., 208-939-8938. davinCi’S—Situated at the front of a very historic building in Eagle, DaVinci’s bar is really more of a waiting area for the dining room. Casual Italian cuisine in quaint downtown Eagle, the “locals’ Italian restaurant” is housed in a historic bank building with a full-service bar area. A wide variety of Italian selections such as lasagna and chicken parmesan will make you give up your low-carb craze. 190 E. State St., 208-939-2500. davincis2.com.
LAuRIE PEARMAN
doug’S Burger den—This longtime downtown Eagle staple is the home the Den Burger specializes in traditional American fare: burgers, fries and shakes. 231 E. State St., 208-939-3300. eighteen 1 at eagle hillS golf CourSe—Put down the nine iron, head past the famed water driving range and up the ramp for a fine golf course dining experience, not to mention an awesome happy hour that will make the back nine a lot more fun than the front. 605 N. Edgewood Lane, 208-939-0402. eaglehillsgolfcourse.com/EighteenOne.htm. fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos and enchiladas. A full menu tempts you to choose a not-so-common dish. 3210 E. Chinden Blvd., Ste 100, 208-938-1116. fiestasguadalajara.com. gathering plaCe—The longtime, beloved store of randomness Orville Jackson’s may be gone, but don’t be sad. The place that now occupies the old Orville spot has tons of seating, pinball, pool tables, shuffleboard, live bands and provides a non-Boise hangout that’s totally sweet. 50 E. State St., 208-629-4369.
Drag Bingo
Poker
Outdoor Games Galore
Balcony Club Presided over by the Grand Dame of the Boise drag scene.
Eastside Tavern/ The Ranch Club Boise bars are smoke-free, but the Ranch Club loves it some smokers.
McCleary’s Pub on State Street There’s even room for barbecue grills in this bar’s back yard.
Last Call Trivia
Board Games
All Over Boise’s trivia obsession can be played nearly every day of the week in a different bar.
Solid Check out the impressive selection in the back room.
Geeks Who Drink Piper Pub and Grill The ultimate test for your useless pop culture knowledge.
Shuffleboard Sammy’s Combine shuffleboard with pool, ping pong and booze, and you’ve got a winning combo.
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idaho Burger—This Eagle burger joint specializes in fresh, never-frozen burgers, fresh-cut fries and lots o’ pies at won’t-break-thebank prices. 360 S. Eagle Road, idahoburger.com. Joe mama’S—The era of “Your mama” jokes may have finally ended, but Joe Mama’s is still going strong. Feel like chicken-fried steak? How about a crab cake bennie? This Eagle eatery has plenty of options to fill you up for breakfast or lunch. 600 S. Rivershore Lane, Ste. 170, 208-939-3917. joemommaseatery.com. lily Jane’S CupCakeS—This purveyor of pastry has a sugarysweet appearance and unique cupcake flavors like Caramel Apple Yum Yum and Plain Janes. 664 S. Rivershore Lane, Ste. 164, 208938-3408. lillyjanescupcakes.com. miCkeyray’S roadhouSe BarBeCue—A meat-lover’s paradise where you can get an assortment of sandwiches piled high with your favorite barbecue, or plate it up with traditional fixins like black-eyed peas and fried orka.
395 W. State St., 208-939-7427. mickeyraysbbq.com. the perkS of life—Coffee shop with a slew of fresh-baked goods, small breakfast and lunch menus and selection of wine available by the glass or—if you’re really thirsty and coffee isn’t cutting it—the bottle. 1540 E. Iron Eagle Drive, 208-938-7809. remBrandt’S Coffee Shop— Located in a restored church on Eagle’s main drag, Rembrandt’s has become a neighborhood gathering point for more than just coffee. If it’s sustenance you seek, Rembrandt’s has hot and cold libations aplenty, a pastry case full of homemade muffins, sweets, breads and quiches, and a short lunch menu with largely portioned sandwiches, soups and salads. The cathedral—literally—ceilings and plush furniture lend the atmosphere a definitively welcoming and serene feeling. 93 S. Eagle Road, 208-938-1564. rembrandtscoffeehouse.net. the river roCk eagle—We can’t think of a better name for an Eagle eatery—the city is, after all, covered in river rock. Enjoy the spectacular patio and swig back some cocktails at this establishment right in the middle of town. 228 E. Plaza Road, 208-938-4788. ruSSian Bear Cafe—Owner Oleg Mironov and his wife make every single thing on the menu from scratch. Borscht, Russian crepes, beef stroganoff, potato pancakes—it’s all homemade. If you are as hungry as a bear, the cafe serves up borscht in up to 18 ounce servings, or try the “Old Russia” salad, a combination potato, ham, eggs, onion, peas, carrots, pickles and mayo. The pirogi is a unique pastry selection made fresh daily. No preservatives or pre-made ingredients, ever. 600 S. Rivershore Lane, Ste. 160, 208939-1911. caferussianbear.com. Sakura SuShi—This bright and airy sushi joint will fill you up, with its sushi bar and tepanyaki grills. Feeling antisocial? Enjoy your meal in a private Japanese tatami room. 3210 E. Chinden Blvd., 208-9381599. boisesakurasushi.com. SeaSonS BiStro wine Bar and Catering—Overshadowed by the looming million-dollar Eagle nests that surround it, this neighborhood sandwich joint and wine bar features a selection of wine that ranges from impressive pinots and a mourvedre on the red side to rieslings and sav blancs on the white. With a huge patio and Sunday brunch during warmer weather, this is a charming (and affordable) place to sit and sip when your butler has the day off. They will also gladly cater your wedding, corporate event or private party. 1117 E. Winding Creek Road, 208-939-6680. seasonsdelicatering.com. Smoky mountain pizza and paSta—When you’re in the mood for a good, traditional pizza, this is the place. The pastas, starters, sandwiches and salads are equally delicious, and the list is as long as your are hungry. 34 E. State St., 208-939-0212. smokymountainpizza.com.
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restaurant + bar listings/eagle, the Stuffed olive—Eagle has decided to tattle on its “best kept secret” and share this bistro’s fresh sandwiches, pastas, roasted meats and fresh baked desserts with the rest of us. 404 S. Eagle Road, Ste. A, 208-938-5185. thestuffedolive.net. Sweet valley Cookie Company—If you haven’t had Sweet Valley’s cookie-brownie combo, the “brookie,” go right away. It’s just one of the many tasty confections
caldwell + nampa
available at this boutique cookie haven, which also features soups, so you can justify your indulgence by saying you had lunch. 360 E. State St., 208-440-7043. sweetvalleycookieco.com. wild weSt Bakery and eSpreSSo—Kick back and relax in this cute and comfy spot downtown Eagle. When we heard its claim of the best burgers in Eagle, we were skeptical. But now we know this Western-themed eatery
has the goods to back it up, with super-soft buns and homemade veggie patties. There’s an array of menu options and a superalluring pastry case, not to mention espresso. Enjoy a glass of wine while listening to live jazz in the evening, or carbo load in the morning with a tasty croissant sandwich. 83 E. State St., 208-939-5677. wildwestbakeryandespresso.com.
willowCreek grill and lounge—This Bench favorite’s Eagle location features a lovely outdoor patio. Contemporary cuisine in a casual atmosphere and a fine place to dine with friends and family for lunch or dinner. Also has a lounge side that offers a place for live music, dancing and late-night entertainment. 1065 E. Winding Creek Drive, 208-938-3010. willowcreekgrill.com. zen Bento—Zen Bento does well by its simple little menu. This mostly take-out, affordable joint serves up healthy, fresh, tasty salads and bento boxes. 342 E. State St., 208-938-4277. zenbento.com.
favorite foods/desserts
Caldwell athena’S greek grille—Greek food options in Caldwell are not many, but Athena’s gets the job done. You’ll never guess what the signature menu item is—yep, a gyro. 2609 E. Blaine St., 208-4549169. the Coffee Shop—Canyon County Courthouse parking lot Espresso, drip coffee, fresh- baked goods, hot dogs, Polish sausages, cheeseburgers and snow cones. 1115 Albany St., 208-454-7300. dutCh gooSe—Homemade finger steaks, fresh steamed clams, soup, sandwiches and great hot wings. It also serves up more than 17 beers. 2502 Cleveland Blvd., 208-459-9363. dutchgoose.com. fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos and enchiladas. A full menu tempts you to choose a not-so-common dish. 420 N. 10th Ave., 208-455-8605. fiestasguadalajara.com.
Homemade Ice Cream
Banana Cream Pie
Buttercake
Delsa’s Ice Cream Parlour There are 16 different homemade varieties of ice cream in the freezers daily.
Stagecoach Inn A true classic that has remained virtually unchanged since 1959.
Fork If you’re counting calories, stop now—it’s worth it.
Chocolate Brioche
Chocolate Bacon
Cafe de Paris Cafe de Paris is consistently awarded Best Dessert in Best of Boise.
Bacon That’s right, the two obsessions are put together at a restaurant with eight varieties of bacon.
Cupcakes Sugar Rush Cupcakery Seasonal flavors keep things interesting.
Chocolate Bananna Bread Pudding Cottonwood Grille The only thing better than this treat is eating it on the riverside patio.
Chocolate Souffle Chandlers This one takes a while to cook— you’ll want to order it with your app.
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Mango Sticky Rice Chiang Mai House Thai Black rice never tasted so good.
Boston Shake Fanci Freez Continually awarded Best Frozen Treat in Best of Boise.
hamBurger ConneCtion—Traditional Idaho drive-in specializing in burgers, fries and shakes. Shakes are the must-have at Hamburger Connection—whether you’re the mix-and-match flavor type or more of a purist, it’s all about the shake. 423 S. 10th St., 208-454-8477. imelda’S mexiCan food— Imelda’s is known for the homemade flour or corn tortillas and a make-your-own-taco option. Select from a wide variety of meats, including chile Colorado, beef guisado, and barbacoa, ground beef, cubed pork, chicken, chorizo, shredded beef, bacon and sausage; then choose from a variety of toppings that include rice, onions, lettuce, beans and even potato. 2414 Cleveland Blvd., 208-454-8757. JaCk’S drive in—Old-fashioned Idaho drive-in with the usual selection of burgers, fries and shakes. Fingersteak dinner baskets are popular, but ask the staff for a recommendation and they’ll point you to the ranch burger. 1124 Cleveland Blvd., 208-459-9771. manCino’S SuBS and pizza— Caldwell’s Mancino’s is home to hot, oven-baked sandwiches with melted cheese piled high with deli meats. Appetizers include mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers and boneless chicken wings. The menu doesn’t leave out soups, salads and of course, pizza. 2412 Cleveland Blvd., 208-459-7556.
the orChard houSe reStaurant—The Orchard House is just that. It has a country style menu and serves meals three times a day. 14949 Sunnyslope Road, 208459-8200. theorchardhouse.us. orphan annie’S Bar & grill—Serving American and Asian cuisine and live music on the weekends to keep everyone happy. 801 Everett St., 208-455-2660. orphananniesbandg.com. viCtorS, hogS and hornS— Serving bikers and cowboys for more than 25 years. Featuring Western and Cajun food. 3110 Cleveland Blvd., 208-455-1956. victorshogsandhorns.com.
Nampa 1918 lounge—Old-school at its best. 10 13th Ave., 208467-3273. BarB’S Barr—With live music on the weekends, a dance floor, 10 pool tables, video games and great prices on drinks, it’s a sure bet if you want to cut loose. 400 N. King’s Road, Ste. 34., 208442-9229. BriCk 29 BiStro—Chef Dustan Bristol is co-owner of Nampa’s casually upscale eatery which serves fancy takes on common foods. Asian pork tacos come with a side of apple-almond coleslaw and fancier still, an open-face Reuben sandwich with a cup of pumpkin bisque all topped off with flourless chocolate cake. Delicious and delectable. 320 11th Ave. S., Ste. 100, 208-468-0029. brick29.com. Chapala—Locally owned chain of restaurants offering freshly prepared Jaliscan food. 2117 12th Ave. Road, 208-461-9355. chapalarestaurants.com. ChiCago ConneCtion—Standard pizza and sandwich fare with a stellar beer menu to supplement. 523 12th Ave. Road, 208-4676444. chicagoconnection.com. Copper Canyon—If you’re looking for a delicious steak, Copper Canyon in downtown Nampa deserves your attention. It may be a little off the beaten path, but well worth the trip to enjoy its fine dining in an intimate setting. 113 13th St. S., 208-461-0887. copppercanyonnampa.com. darBy’S BiStro and lounge—Offering three settings to suit your appetite: upstairs, business and private party; mid level, offering casual family dining and lunch; downstairs, late night bar with live music. 112 13th Ave. S., 208-461-0113. the egg faCtory—Homestyle cooking focused on the details; featuring a new omelette every week and a new benedict every month. 820 Caldwell Blvd., 208-466-2728. eggfactorycafe.com. el rinConCito—Casual Mexican dining for the family. 824 1st St. S., 208-466-6963. el tenampa—Authentic and fresh Mexican food. 248 Caldwell Blvd., 208-466-4460. eltenampaidaho. com.
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restaurant + bar listings
60
fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos and enchiladas. 1202 N. Jacob Allcott Way. fiestasguadalajara.com. firehouSe SportS puB—The sports pub features seven 42-inch flat screen TVs, games, billiards and a new menu that includes breakfast items, as well as burgers, sandwiches and pizza. 1515 N. Midland Blvd., 208-463-0167. firehousepub.biz. flying m Coffeegarage—First Flying M moves out to Canyon County and makes a home out of a former garage shop. Now that space is chock full of coolness in the form of a coffeeshop, gift shop and all-age art and music venue. Food selections to go along with the in-house roasted coffee include pastries made at the in-house bakery. 1314 Second St. S., 208-467-5533. flyingmcoffee. com. getaway Bar and grill—Burgers and all manner of fried delights. All the food that’s fit to watch “the game” with. 512 12th Ave., 208-467-5739.
Dos XX and XXX Strip Clubs— One little letter, so much meaning
iSland kine grindS—Da kine Hawaiian favorites for you to grind. 512 12th Ave., 208-467-5739. islandkinegrinds.com. Jalapeno’S—Family friendly Mexican food restaurant with a huge tequila selection. 3116 Garrity Blvd., Ste. 4, 208-442-9463. jalapenosidaho.com. krung thai reStaurant and SuShi Bar—Talk about Asian fusion: including Thai, Japanese and a little sushi for good measure. 3008 Garrity Blvd., 208-442-5254. krung-thai.com. la Belle vie—A fine-dining French cafe in a historic downtown Nampa home dreamed up by ex-stay-at-home moms and Francophile travelers Julie Free and Cathy O’Connell. Slinging quiches and pastries for breakfast and paninis and soups for lunch. Also open for dinner on Friday and Saturday offering an ever-changing array of dishes like brie in puff pastry with cherries and almonds or turkey roulade with sausage, fig, pine nut, cranberry and rosemary stuffing. If lingering over the weekend is more your style, La Belle Vie is also open for brunch on Saturdays. 220 14th Ave. S., 208-466-0200. labellevienampa. com.
Yukon Jacks ... “Y” not have another? Yacking, that’s why.
le Baron’S honker Cafe—A diner reminiscent of eating at your grandma’s house, but with really big pastries. 1210 Second St. S., 208-466-1551. honkercafe.com. merr’S family reStaurant—This eatery from former Trolley House owner Bob Copeland claims great food, prices and service. The menu includes home cookin’ favorites like fingersteaks and meatloaf, as well as less run-of-the-mill items such as liver and onions and Malibu chicken. 16 12th Ave. S., 208-899-4548. meSSenger pizza—The old Stockman’s Press Building in downtown Nampa was gutted and turned it into a pizza joint, complete with a “Catholic retro atmosphere” and pizza offerings such as the Chuck Norris, Jalapeno Popper and Red Velvet Nun. Indulge in a whole pie, or grab just a slice. 1224 First St. S., 208-461-0081. monkey BizneSS—No more real monkeys at Monkey Bizness but there is still plenty of entertainment, including live music to keep the regulars busy. 724 First St. S., 208-467-1507. overflow Bar—There’s karaoke, Jello wrestling, a full bar and the staff will help you get a taxi home when all the fun gets to be too much. 114 13th Ave. S., 208-4613377.
Zhou Zhou the Treasure Valley’s own Euro-chic boutique winery
pete’S tavern—It’s an all-around neighborhood tavern where you can find your own bar stool. 11 12th Ave., 208-4669280. petestavern.net.
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boiseweekly | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | 71
restaurant + bar listings/nampa the rooSter—Karaoke six days a week. We love this bar. 1652 Garrity Blvd., 208461-9831. Simple SuShi Bar—This sushi joint isn’t bluffing about sustainability, no sir. In fact, the restaurant keeps a bio of sorts on every fish sliced and diced at its counter. Check out the line-caught Tombo tuna and steamed prawns in the Millipede Roll or the cucumber medallions topped with salmon or tuna and sprouts. 1214 First St. S., 208-464-4663. simplesushibar.com. Smoky mountain pizza and paSta— When you’re in the mood for a good, traditional pizza, this is the place. The pastas, starters, sandwiches and salads are equally delicious, and the menu is as long as your arm. 2007 N. Cassia St., 208-461-7333. smokymountainpizza.com. tiny’S lounge—Friendly, dimly lit lounge in a century-old building in the historic heart of downtown Nampa. 10 12th Ave. S., 208-467-1717. the woodShed neighBorhood Bar—Low-key and with friendly bartenders who will help you feel at home. 817 E. Karcher Road, 208-467-7952. wrap ShaCk—Limited menu, but plenty of options for wraps, salads and rice bowls. 5830 E. Franklin Road, 208-468-8833. wrapshack.us.
Kuna 4-e’S Bar:—The owner’s grandfather bought 4-E’s in 1968 and it’s been family owned ever since. With a collection of racks on the wall and a pair of matching, flower curtains, the bar almost has a living room feel to it. 4-E’s claim to fame is quarter pool on its antique tables all day every day; and it’s rumored to be the friendliest bar in Kuna. There’s Wi-Fi, too, so now you won’t be lying when you say you’re still at work. Just don’t forget your laptop. Enjoy a foosball table, video games, pinball, a dart board and a jukebox. 379 W. Main St., 208-922-1853. CowgirlS—The name says it all. Cowgirls has earned a reputation for putting on a serious party and all the party girls know it. The bar top has been designed as the best place to get your groove on with an extra-wide counter, handles on the ceiling and a set of stairs so you can get up all ladylike. The VIP room has a “dancing” pole, and if your tipsy friend spills too much Midori Sour on her shirt, she can buy a new one at the bar’s very own merch store. Best of all: You don’t have to drive from Boise or Meridian to get to Cowgirls, the party bus takes care of the driving. 353 Ave. E., 208922-9522. cowgirlsaloon.com. CreekSide lounge—Full-service bar, large wine selection, cigars, a handy steak joint next door and the name-implied creekside setting offer up Kuna’s best place to get a martini, a nice glass of wine or a cocktail—if, that is, you can decide from its selection of 180 different kinds of liquor. Kuna’s little hideaway on Indian Creek provides the makings of a perfect night out, unless of course you’re a vegetarian teetotaler. 751 W. Fourth St. (inside Peregrine Steaks and Spirits,) 208-922-4421.
+ kuna
fieSta guadalaJara—Traditional Mexican restaurant specializing in tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. A full menu tempts you to choose a not-so common dish. 780 W. Avalon St., 208-922-4311. fiestasguadalajara.com. hong kong reStaurant and lounge—Small-town Chinese restaurant known for its pork fried rice. 726 Avalon Plaza, 208-922-4950. longhorn lounge—Nobody seems to know just how long the Longhorn has been in Kuna, that’s how long it’s been there. They say you never know what kind of crowd will end up bending an elbow at the bar, but one thing’s for certain: at the end of the night, it’s a hungry crowd. The Longhorn is the only game in town for late-night bar grub. Prices are so cheap, the Longhorn don’t need no stinking happy hour. Get a draft, bottle or can of beer for $2.50 and a shot of Crown Royal for $4.25 anytime you please. The horseshoe-shaped bar is the definite centerpiece of the place, good for bands and dancing. 458 W. Third St., 208-922-4163. matteeo’S firehouSe Cafe—Homemade pastries in the morning and deli sands for lunch. The cinnamon roles should be on your Kuna-to-do list. 271 Ave. B, 208922-9221. matteeosfirehousecafe.com. peregrine SteakS and SpiritS—The steakhouse with more to offer than New York steak, petite sirloin and T-bone steaks, the menu features stuffed pork chops, chicken fried steak, salmon fillets and Italian chicken breast as well. Enjoy a fine meal and then pop in next door to the Creekside Lounge inside the restaurant where every hour is an enjoyable experience. The lounge has big screen televisions, karaoke on Wednesdays and nightly drink specials. The Creekside patio offers a nice view of Indian Creek. 751 W. Fourth St., 208-922-4421. creeksidekuna.com. red eye Saloon—Dark, no windows: perfect for losing track of time. Made for watching a band or NASCAR on satellite. Country bar vibe and friendly staff. The padded elbow pads at bar add a nice touch. The Red Eye in Kuna has been a part of the itty bitty city forever. A decade ago, the owners forbade swearing in the bar, an offense that carried with it a charge of removal from the building. New owners have changed things, but the Red Eye continues to instill a desire to get stinkin’ drunk, but still behave oneself. The Red Eye is known for its regularly scheduled theme parties so iron your Hawaiian shirt and dust off your afro wig. Jagermeister comes straight out of the super-chiller machine and you can get your Guinness surged. This country bar has a nice, dark vibe and friendly staff. Rest a bit on the padded elbow pads at the bar and order burgers and barbecue. 414 W. Main St., 208-922-9797. • For even more restaurant suggestions, reviews, highlights and news, visit boiseweekly.com and click on “Food.” Or scan the QR code below into your mobile phone for a link to Boise Weekly’s mobile restaurant listings.
el gallo giro—Main courses are huge and span Tex-Mex to authentic. The Carne Borracha is a good example of the fare delivered in a caldron made of volcanic rock with carne asada, jalapenos, onions and tomatoes. Other selections include lengua en chile verde (beef tounge in a tomatillo green sauce), zope (handmade tortillas with beans, steak, salsa de tomatillo and cojita cheese) and menudo (tripe chile). Take advantage of the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet on Thursdays and Fridays. 482 W. Main St., 208-922-5169. elgallogirokuna.com.
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food trucks/eat PATR IC K S W EENEY
Food Truck Rally A Cupcake Paradise acupcakeparadise.com Archie’s Place facebook.com/ archiesplaceboise archies-place.com @archies_place Asian Boy BBQ facebook.com/asianboybbq @asianboybbq
Calle 75 Street Tacos Search for it on Facebook calle75tacos.com Cutter’s Grand BBQ cuttersgrandbbq.com El Torito 46th Street and Chinden Boulevard
Azteca Taco Truck Search for it on Facebook
Estelien Haitian Creole Search for it on Facebook
B29 Streatery b29streatery.blogspot.com @b29streatery
Kilted Kod kiltedcod.com @kiltedkod
Bobs Texas Style Barbecue bobstexasbbq.com @bobstexasbbq
Lili’s Tacos Maple Grove Road and Fairview Avenue
Boise Fry Company boisefrycompany.com @boisefryco Brown Shuga Soul Food brownshugasoulfood.com facebook.com/ brownshugasoulfood @boisesoulfood
Lorena’s Mexican Grill Search for it on Facebook Maria’s Mexican Lunch Wagon Search for it on Facebook
WWW.BOISEWEEKLY.C O M
Mist’Delish @mistdelish
Pop’s Dog House Search for it on Facebook Rice Works facebook.com/ riceworksasianfood riceworksboise.blogspot.com @riceworksLLC Stuck in Your Grill stuckinyourgrill.com Search for it on Facebook @stucknyourgrill Tacos El Ray No. 2 42nd Street and Chinden Boulevard Tacos El Torito Search for it on Facebook Tacos Mobile Primo Search for it on Facebook The Taco Truck State Street and Jenny Lane Taco Veloz Search for it on Facebook Taqueria 39th Street and Chinden Boulevard
BOISEweekly | RESTAURANT AND BAR GUIDE 2012 | 73
A’Tavola
New aNd Notable The valley’s newest arrivals in food and booze Tara Morgan | PhoTograPh by Laurie PearMan
We spotted them in other cities, huddled in cliques in parking lots, all dolled up and sighing plumes of smoke. They were enviously cutting edge and always on the move. And when we issued a plea to Boise to get hip with the times and join the cool kids back in March 2011, we had no idea just what that would mean for the Treasure Valley food scene. Since then, it seems like a new food truck has rolled out every week. From off-shoots like b29 streatery—a mobile wagon slinging more populist versions of Dustan Bristol’s James Beard Award-winning Brick 29 fare—to the niche, like Archie’s Place sloppy joe and soup truck, 2011 was undoubtedly the year of the food truck in Boise. This past year in restaurant openings also furthered the local/sustainable foods trend. The Northwest-themed bistro Fork opened in the cursed Boise City National Bank building and has made its name slinging dishes like chicken and cheddar waffles. Further from the city center, salt Tears coffeehouse and Noshery opened in the Collister Shopping Center in January 2011. The project of former MilkyWay owner Andrea Maricich, Salt Tears offers up small plates and Doma coffee during the day and pours wine and 74 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
microbrews in the eve, dishing out not-to-miss Pizza. The restaurant dishes up wacky pies like family-style meals on Wednesday nights. the Galactic Fair with mini corn dogs, chili, red Not to be left out, Nampa’s husband-andonions and cheddar cheese. On the downtown wife restaurateurs Clif and Tracy Volpi opened front, Ketchum-Hailey pizza purveyor wiseguy simple sushi in March 2011, serving only certiPizza Pie took over the former Chronic Tacos fied sustainable fish and ample vegan fare. location in early 2012. The joint slings handIn other trendy opening news, Caterer Lisa tossed New York-style, stone-deck oven pizza. Peterson—of Boise Co-op and Idaho ShakeWhile 2011 did bring a new winebar to the speare Festival fame—opened downtown scene, The Press, A’ Tavola in the former Donnie 2012 is gearing up to be all oTher 2011 Mac’s building in the Linen about the brew house. MeNew ANd NoTAble District. In a white-washed open ridian staple brewforia and oPeNiNgs: space that feels like a scaledits Bown Crossing offshoot north Shore hot Dog down version of Mario Batali’s bier:Thirty have blazed the Company, Sofia’s greek uber popular Eataly in New York multiple micro tap trend that bistro and Shige Teriyaki in Meridian. City, Peterson offers prepared will soon explode in downtown. salads and sandwiches, along The Taphouse, which will offer with to-go lasagnas and enchi44 taps with rotating regional ladas. A’ Tavola also includes and local brews and pub grub rocking cheese and cured meat counters, along fare, is slated to open in the space that forwith a coffeeshop and bakery. merly housed The Lobby. Down the street, In the tried-and-true column, Boise also 10 barrel brewing co. out of Bend, Ore., will added a few new pizza joints to the roster. In open a satellite location in Boise at Ninth and late August 2011, Christine Reid (of Red Room Bannock streets. 10 Barrel’s menu will also and Locavore notoriety) opened an eclectic, focus on classic pub fare, with an emphasis on retro space-themed pizza joint called cosmic simple, quality ingredients.
•
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directory
13th Street Pub and Grill
75
La Belle Vie
23
44˚ North Vodka
80
Lift Bar & Grill, The
61
Liquid
66
Archie’s Place
33
Lorena’s Mexican Grill
33
B.B.U Enterprise
77
Lucky Fins Seafood Grill
13
Bacon
28
Mai Thai Restaurant & Bar
Baguette Deli
41
Mazzah
13
Balcony
51
Merr’s Family Restaurant
40
Basque Market
32
Moxie Java
53
Bella Aquila
15
Muse Bistro & Wine Bar
77
Berryhill & Co.
29
Ninkasi
Bier Thirty
43
Odell Brewing
Big Jud’s
51
Old Chicago
9
Bodacious Bean
79
Oliver Finley
5
Boise Beverage
65
Ono Hawaiian Café
45
Boise Fry Company
Addie’s Restaurant
2
59 72, 73
62
Open Table
43
Boise Hotel and Castle Ranch 12
Parrilla Grill
75
Brick Oven Bistro
35
Payette Brewing
13
Brickyard
57
Perks of Life
61
Brown Shuga Soul Food
33
Project Filter
4
Buffalo Wild Wings
25
Quarter Barrel
63
Calle 75 Street Tacos
33
Chronic Cab
63
Quinn’s Restaurant and Lounge
63
Cobby’s
20
Coy Bettie’s Espresso & Bistro
Ranch Club
32, 71
Reef
57
40
Saigon Deli
41
Crescent “No Lawyers” Bar & Grill
61
Saladman Chris’ on Broadway
62
Dry Fly Vodka
69
Salt Tears Coffeehouse
19
Dutch Bros Coffee
17
Shotsie’s Pub & Eatery
71
El Gallo Giro
33, 37
Simple Sushi
40
Fanci Freeze
79
Sofia’s Greek Bistro
21
Flatbread Community Oven
55
Solid
67
Sun Valley Harvest Festival
39
Food Services of America
7
Fresh off the Hook
11
SYSCO Food Services
Front Door
57
Tango’s Empanadas & Sub’s
41
Tapia’s Gourmet on Broadway
17
Tobacco Connection
59
Tom Grainey’s
61
Tres Bonne Cuisine
41
Varsity Pub
77
Viziato Spa
59
Westside Drive In
79
Willi B’s
60
Yen Ching
19
Zen Bento
49
Gino’s Italian Restaurant
76 | RESTAURANT ANd bAR GUIdE 2012 | boiseweekly
37, 63
6
Goldy’s
47
Great Harvest Bread Co.
45
Green Chile
27
Gyro Shack, The
79
Humpin’ Hannah’s
56
Hyde Park Pub & Grill
75
Idaho Wine Commission
61
Italian To Go
40
Jakers Restaurant
27
3
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