This post is for all the foodies and hungry travelers out there! If you’re planning any kind of trip, you should consider the best places to eat at the travel destination. Visiting Boise, Idaho soon?
Well, you’re in luck as this cultured city has a vibrant culinary scene that offers something for all palates.
From trendy bistros to classic diners, this city is packed with delicious eateries waiting to be explored. Luckily for you, we’ve done some exploring of our own and found the 7 best places to eat in Boise to check out on your next visit there (see also “Best Hotels In Boise Idaho“).
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and indulge in the best cuisine the city has to offer? We’re guessing that’s a resounding YES, so let’s get down to business and get those rumbling bellies to some delicious, top notch Boise food.
Named after the owner, Noel Argote-Herrera’s mother, Adelfa’s Comida Cubana is a fantastic Cuban food cart dishing up incredibly sumptuous Cuban classics.
You can enjoy dishes such as carne con papas, paella, and ropa vieja here, as well as Cuban classic additions like rice, plantains, and black beans.
If you visit here, which we HIGHLY recommend, you have to try the citrusy lechon which is wonderfully juicy.
You can regularly find Noel Argote-Herrera in the Boise Farmers Market, food truck parks, and local breweries, so you have no excuse not to try his delectable food.
A new venture from the owners of another beloved Noise eatery, Fork, Alavita has a menu that varies with the seasons and locally sourced ingredients.
What the recipes never change is its stance on using fresh ingredients from local suppliers, hence their motto “loyal to local.”
At Alavita, you can choose from a selection of cheeses and meats and pair them with warm, fresh bread. We recommend starting with a battilardo (charcuterie), which you can build from scratch yourself with your chosen ingredients.
Then, onto your main. We suggest trying the restaurant’s pasta as their noodles are made fresh every day and taste extraordinary!
During the summer period, the pappardelle is a must-try alongside a fresh, light cherry tomato sauce, a spicy (but not too spicy) sausage, broccolini, and a topping of grated Italian cheese.
You can go for more decadent dishes too, like the squid ink ravioli, covered in a creamy rich lemon sauce, and packed shrimp. Alavita is the place where you treat yourself, so, go and treat yourself!
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine at Art Robinson’s wonderful restaurant, where he started small with a food cart and now offers a multistory dining experience complete with a rooftop patio in Garden City.
Wepa Café’s menu boasts traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as plantains, carne frita pastelillos, and arroz con pollo with rice and beans, and yucca, as well as exciting new additions like pernil and shrimp in garlic sauce.
Anyone else’s mouths watering? Ours sure are!
As a passionate supporter of Puerto Rican communities, Robinson is committed to donating five percent of his annual profits to a nonprofit organization helping rebuild the island after the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria.
Come and savor the taste of the Caribbean while supporting a great cause at Robinson’s restaurant.
Whether you’re feeling hungry for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you will find something delicious at Wild Root Cafe.
Situated on Boise’s famous restaurant row, this restaurant is renowned for its vibrant salads, healthy bowls, nutritious keto dishes, and a wide range of plant-based foods. And, best of all, you can enjoy all of this in the café’s cozy patio.
Wild Root Café is a unique and inviting restaurant whose menu features seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, creating delicious and healthy dishes for all times of the day.
We love the welcoming and modern atmosphere, along with friendly and attentive staff. Combined, this all makes the café the perfect spot for a casual meal or special occasion.
Get your tasty lunch fix in a flash at Wyld Child, the trendy and affordable fast-casual spot located in the heart of Boise bench.
Their mouth-watering menu includes delicious chicken sandwiches, burgers, and nutritious salads that won’t break the bank.
We highly recommend the Wyld Style burger, stacked with sweet and savory bacon jam, melted gruyere cheese, and black garlic dijonnaise, all nestled between a soft and buttery bun. Yum!
Oh, and there is the extremely crispy chicken sandwich, featuring housemade pickles, Swiss cheese, sweet onions, and a tangy malt vinegar aioli; an absolute must-try!
If you head here, don’t forget to order a side of their irresistible sweet potato waffle fries, too.
That’s not all, though. The fries are accompanied by their unbelievably good homemade ranch dip (extra ranch for the win!). And if you’re feeling peckish while you wait, be sure to try their creamy pimento cheese dip and chips.
Quality food delivered fast, Wyld Child is certainly worth a visit so you can satisfy your cravings today!
Just a minute or so away from the state Capitol and around the corner of Restaurant Row is Saint Lawrence Gridiron. If you can’t find it, don’t worry! You can take a sniff and smell the divine Southern foods in the air. Follow the nose!
What was once a food truck is now a thriving restaurant delivering incredible Southern-inspired dishes, most of which are made in the colossal smoker located on the front patio. Just watching the smoking of the meat take place here is a sight to behold.
When visiting Saint Lawrence Gridiron, make sure you order the pulled-pork sandwich, the brisket platter, the shrimp and grits, and a side of succotash. You will not be disappointed!
Often regarded as the very best restaurant in Boise, The Lively is everything that’s great about Boise’s amazing food scene.
At The Lovely, you will always get the best service and be surrounded by arty architecture and a stunning interior. But, it’s the food that really steals the show in this big old building.
The Lively’s menu is as impressive as you would imagine from a Michelin Starred chef. The food is inspired by his Italian heritage, Idaho, and his time spent living in Japan.
Yep, it’s one multicultural menu! Varying through the seasons, there are some permanent dishes available, such as the Japanese Sashimi. Amazingly, the chef gets his favorite fish flown in every morning from a Tokyo fish market!
Fancy something Italian? You have to try the lasagna, featuring bechamel sauce instead of ricotta. This results in one refined, creamy, world class dish! If you want something closer to home, try the chicken and mashed potatoes.
The chicken is moist and comes with shitake mushrooms that are truly sumptuous. Finish this all off with the iconic blueberries Basque cheesecake with a topping of caramelized rice krispies. Bellissima!
In Summary
You are never short of fantastic eateries when in Boise. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a gourmet five-course dinner, you will find something to delight your taste buds there.
There are so many more amazing places to eat in Boise but above are just some of our favorites (see also “Amazing Places To Eat In Pocatello“). We recommend taking a stroll through the streets of Boise and asking some locals for their recommendations, too.
Have a great time in Boise!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Food Scene Like In Boise?
Boise’s food scene is wonderfully diverse and constantly evolving, pleasing everyone who visits with a hungry belly. The city boasts a range of restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international fare.
There is also a very strong focus on using locally-sourced ingredients, and many restaurants offer fascinating, unique twists on classic dishes.
Are There Any Vegan Or Vegetarian Restaurants In Boise?
Yes, there are several vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Boise, including the Boise Co-op and Wild Root Cafe. Many other restaurants in the area also offer vegan and vegetarian options on their menus.
If you have specific dietary restrictions or requirements, be sure to tell the staff before ordering anything off the menu.
Is There A Strong Craft Beer Scene In Boise?
When walking around the streets of Boise, you’ll not only work up an appetite, but also a thirst. Fortunately, the city has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries and taprooms offering a range of unique and flavorful brews.
Some popular breweries in the area include Boise Brewing, Payette Brewing Company, and Woodland Empire Ale Craft. You may be able to get a tour of some, so ring in advance and it’s possible you can have a day out in the brewery with your friends!
Hello, it’s great to have you here. My name is Julia and I am a travel blogger! I have been writing all of my life, and previously worked for a travel agency where I would recommend the best places to visit in the states.
If you are ready to take on the world, explore the sights, and see some of the most incredible places on offer, then take a look at some of my articles!
