Boise food guide: Top restaurants, cafes, and casual local eats

Boise’s dining scene is a reflection of everything we love about the Treasure Valley: fresh ingredients, local pride, and a growing community that welcomes new flavors. From farm-grown produce to Idaho beef and year-round potatoes, the region’s bounty shapes menus across the city.

In this guide, we’re sharing some of the best food in the Boise area, from early morning meals to late-night bites, plus a few local festivals and pop-ups that capture the spirit of the city. It’s another reminder why so many are choosing to put down roots here—and why Boise, ID real estate is in such high demand.

BOISE’S BEST BREAKFAST AND BRUNCH SPOTS

Starting your day in Boise is easy with the range of breakfast and brunch spots around the city. Whether you’re heading out for a casual breakfast date or meeting friends for weekend mimosas, you’ll find some of the best food in the Boise area waiting for you.

1. Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro
   108 S Capitol Blvd

   A downtown staple since 1999, Goldy’s is renowned for its made-to-order breakfasts crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Signature dishes like the Andalusian eggs and spicy chicken benny have earned it national attention, including a feature in Bon Appétit as one of America’s top ten breakfasts. Cozy, flavorful, and worth the early arrival to beat the rush.

2. Wild Root Café
   276 N 8th St

   Located in the heart of downtown, Wild Root focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with a menu that caters to vegetarian and vegan diets. From avocado toast with tofu scramble to kombucha, their offerings are as vibrant as their atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for a health-conscious and flavorful brunch.

3. BACON
   121 N 9th St

   At BACON, the name says it all. They serve five kinds of bacon daily, plus crowd-pleasers like the bacon Flight, avocado bacon scramble, and bacon Bloody Mary. With a lively downtown vibe and plenty of comfort food, it’s a must for serious breakfast fans.

4. The Original Pancake House
   5900 W Fairview Ave

   A long-time Boise favorite, The Original Pancake House is best known for its apple pancake—an oven-baked delight with fresh Granny Smith apples and a cinnamon-sugar glaze. With a menu that includes a variety of omelets, waffles, and crepes, plus vegetarian and vegan options, it’s a breakfast haven for all.

LUNCH LIKE A LOCAL

Whether you’re visiting or considering a move, one of the best things to do in Boise, Idaho, is to explore its local lunch scene. These favorite spots give you a true taste of the city—and just might make you feel right at home.

1. Fork
   199 N 8th St

   Located in downtown Boise, Fork is a go-to for fresh, locally sourced dishes served in a vibrant, welcoming setting. Open daily for lunch and dinner—with brunch on weekends—the menu highlights Idaho-grown ingredients and offers options for vegan and gluten-free diners.

2. Luciano’s Italian Restaurant
   11 N Orchard St

   A long-time local favorite, Luciano’s brings the flavors of Italy to Boise with scratch-made fresh ingredients. From classic pasta dishes to delectable desserts, it’s the perfect place for a hearty lunch that transports you straight to Italy.

3. The Wylder
   501 W Broad St

   The Wylder is a trendy spot known for its hand-crafted, slow-batch pizzas and craft cocktails. With a full-service dining experience and a menu that includes vegan options, it’s ideal for a leisurely lunch or a casual gathering with friends. All Wylder Hospitality Group establishments, including Percy, Certified Kitchen + Bakery, Wyld Chyld, and The Roosevelt Market, will quickly become go-to neighborhood spots.

4. Tango’s Empanadas
   701 N Orchard St

   A beloved local gem, Tango’s serves up handmade Argentine-style empanadas with bold fillings like chimicarne, moleh, and even dulce de leche for dessert. Crispy, golden, and made to order, these flavorful pockets are perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch and a sweet bite to finish it off.

ALL AROUND THE WORLD IN BOISE

Thanks to Boise’s multicultural community, you don’t have to travel far to find authentic global flavors. Here’s where locals go for authentic dishes from around the world.

1. Alyonka Russian Cuisine
   2870 W State St

   Founded by Marina Shaposhnikova, Alyonka brings the rich culinary traditions of Slavic home cooking to Boise. Their handmade Pelmeni dumplings, rich beef stroganoff, and delicate Russian crepes—all crafted from scratch— have earned Alyonka a feature on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, among other accolades.

2. Kibrom’s Ethiopian & Eritrean Food
   3506 W State St

   At Kibrom’s, every dish reflects East African tradition, with bold, comforting flavors served on house-made injera—a signature, tangy flatbread. Founded by Kibrom and Tirhas after emigrating from Eritrea, the restaurant offers an inviting introduction to the rich stews and spice-forward cuisine of the region.

3. The Basque Market
   608 W Grove St

   The Basque Market celebrates Boise’s deep Basque heritage with a menu of traditional tapas, paella, and bocadillos. Guests can browse shelves stocked with over 150 Spanish wines and imported goods, or enjoy an outdoor wine tasting on the patio during one of their popular paella lunches every Wednesday and Friday at noon.

4. Yen Ching Restaurant
   305 N 9th St

   A downtown favorite since 1986, Yen Ching draws inspiration from Northern China’s Shandong Province and the bold flavors of Mandarin, Hunan, and Sichuan cuisines. Co-founder Phillip Chou’s signature dishes like Peking Duck and Mapo Tofu are still prepared today with the same traditional techniques, now carried on by co-owner Satoshi.

FOR YOUR SWEET TOOTH

No matter how big your lunch was, there’s always room for dessert. Boise’s artisan bakeries and inventive ice cream shops make it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth.

1. Janjou Patisserie
   1754 W State St

   At Janjou Patisserie, every pastry feels like a slice of Paris. Owner and Pastry Chef Moshit Mizrachi-Gabbitas crafts elegant standouts like chocolate almond croissants and tangy lemon meringue tarts. Pair your treat with a cappuccino and enjoy the elegant, minimalist setting.

2. Sunshine Spice Bakery & Café
   6911 W Fairview Ave

   Founded by the Shams sisters, Sunshine Spice is Boise’s first Afghan bakery, serving pistachio baklava, saffron cookies, and black sesame passion fruit tarts. The cozy café offers a warm welcome to families and food lovers looking for bold, authentic flavors.

3. The STIL (The Sweetest Things In Life)
   786 W Broad St

   The STIL redefines ice cream with inventive flavors like “Easy Like Sunday Morning” (espresso caramel) and the seasonal “Idaho Wilderness” (berries and lavender). With vegan options, booze-infused scoops, and even beer and ice cream flights, it’s a fun spot for both kids and adults.

4. The Chocolat Bar
   801 W Main St

   A local favorite for over 20 years, The Chocolat Bar specializes in handcrafted chocolates, truffles, caramels, and artisanal bars, all made with premium ingredients. Their house-made gelato and full espresso bar make it a sweet spot for both quick treats and leisurely indulgences.

TIME FOR A COFFEE BREAK

Whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up or a relaxed work session, Boise’s growing coffee scene delivers—one perfectly poured latte at a time.

1. Slow by Slow Coffee
   405 S 8th St Suite 155

   With a focus on intentional brewing, Slow by Slow Coffee serves carefully sourced beans prepared by hand. From bright pour-overs to silky cortados, every drink here is crafted for quality over speed. The minimalist space encourages you to slow down and savor every sip.

2. The District Coffee House
   219 N 10th St

   A local favorite for both casual meetups and remote work, The District offers expertly roasted coffee, fresh pastries, and a welcoming downtown atmosphere. Known for its rotating seasonal lattes and a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect spot to refuel without missing a beat.

3. Alchemist Coffee Overland
   10650 W Overland Rd

   Alchemist Coffee blends vintage charm with serious coffee craft. Their cozy space offers house-roasted beans, creative lattes, and community-driven events. Whether you’re after a classic cappuccino or a seasonal creation, Alchemist delivers both flavor and neighborhood spirit.

4. Push & Pour
   13 S Latah St

   Push & Pour blends its roots in skateboarding culture with a laid-back, creative vibe that’s welcoming to everyone, whether you’re a regular or new to town. Their house-roasted single-origin coffees and espresso drinks are dialed in and best paired with a toasted cinnamon raisin Blue Sky Bagel.

5. Flying M Coffeehouse
   500 W Idaho St

   Flying M is a quirky downtown favorite with house-roasted coffee, funky mugs, and homemade treats. Sip a classic latte or rich mocha with whipped cream, and grab an espresso brownie or gooey cinnamon roll. It’s cozy, artsy, and welcoming—ideal for downtown regulars, students, and anyone looking to hang out with good coffee.

ELEVATED CASUAL EATS

When it’s time to slow down and enjoy the evening, Boise’s dining scene delivers. From hearty pub classics to inviting neighborhood bistros, this is the ideal time to experience some of the best upscale casual restaurants in Boise, Idaho.

1. Baraboo Supper Club
   1126 W Grove St

   Baraboo Supper Club brings a relaxed Midwestern vibe to downtown Boise. Baraboo Supper Club opened in May 2024 inside Hotel Renegade and quickly earned a loyal following. The menu leans into hearty classics like slow-roasted prime rib and blackened trout, served in a cozy, wood-paneled space with signature cocktails and boozy ice cream drinks adding to the fun.

2. Terroir Bistro
   160 N 8th St

   An extension of a popular Boise food truck, Terroir Bistro offers authentic French comfort food to the city. The menu highlights dishes like steak tartare and wild-caught sablefish, all crafted with care and served in a cozy, welcoming setting that food lovers will appreciate.

3. ÁLAVITA
   807 W Idaho St

   ÁLAVITA is a cozy brick-walled trattoria in downtown Boise, offering Italian meals prepared with local ingredients. Their fresh pasta and craft cocktails make it a favorite spot for those seeking some of the best Italian food in the Boise area.

FINER THAN FINE DINING

Enjoy a memorable meal at one of the city’s fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable night out, you’ll surely find a spot you love in the Boise food scene.

1. Barbacoa Grill
   276 Bobwhite Ct

   Bold and energetic, Barbacoa Grill brings together Latin flavors, wood-fired steaks, and fresh seafood in a lively, art-filled space. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, curated cocktails, and vegan-friendly options, it’s a true Boise original.

2. The BrickYard
   601 W Main St

   The BrickYard is a sophisticated steakhouse in the heart of Boise, offering dishes like scallop halibut and elk filet with wild mushroom demi-glace. Guests can enjoy a post-meal cappuccino while tuning in to the dueling piano show every Friday and Saturday night.

3. Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood
   981 W Grove St

   Chandlers is a Forbes Travel Guide-recommended, upscale dining establishment known for its prime steaks, fine seafood, and award-winning wine list. With live jazz performances and impeccable service, it offers a luxurious dining experience in downtown Boise.

4. KIN
   999 W Main St

   KIN offers an intimate, innovative dining experience with a seasonal five-course prix fixe menu. Every dish is designed to tell a story, blending thoughtful flavors with artistry. It’s a favorite for those seeking one of the best restaurants in Boise, Idaho, for special occasions.

GET BOOZY IN BOISE

Cap off your evening at one of these local bars. Whether you’re after a cold beer, a handcrafted cocktail, or some classic bar bites, Boise’s drinking spots have you covered. Drop in for a drink, stay for the live music, and see where the night takes you.

Where to grab a drink

Start at 10 Barrel Brewing Co., where house-made beers and a lively patio set the tone. Just down the road, Bardenay—the nation’s first restaurant distillery—serves up small-batch beers and spirits under one roof. For a hyperlocal pour, Boise Brewing keeps it community-focused with favorites like their rich Black Cliffs American Stout. Then there’s Mad Swede Brewing, where Idaho-grown ingredients and old-world techniques take center stage in every pint.

Unwind after dark

Kick off your evening at Coa De Jima in Boise’s Historic District, where bold Mexican flavors meet hand-crafted cocktails in a vibrant, art-filled space. Then, stop into Bittercreek Alehouse, a longtime favorite pouring regional beers and easygoing drinks in a warm, rustic space.

But for something more intimate, Red Feather Lounge offers seasonal cocktails in a moody, low-lit setting—perfect for winding down. And if the night lingers on, The Melting Pot is the go-to for fondue, wine, and late-night bites that invite you to stay awhile.

FARMERS’ MARKETS AND FOOD FESTIVALS

Boise’s love for fresh, local flavors shines through its farmers markets and foodie festivals. Here’s where you can experience the best of the Treasure Valley.

• Farm-to-table starts here. At the Capital City Public Market and Boise Farmers Market, Idaho growers and makers fill the stalls with seasonal produce, meats, and artisan goods. The Field to Fork Festival takes it a step further, bringing farmers, chefs, and local businesses together for a full day of cooking classes, pop-ups, and tastings—all celebrating Boise’s vibrant food community.
• Cultural bites in Boise. Boise’s food festivals reflect the city’s rich diversity. The Boise Soul Food Festival highlights African-American cuisine, live music, and local Black-owned businesses, while the Greek Food Festival offers traditional dishes, pastries, and lively cultural performances.
• Sips worth celebrating. Drink festivals during Idaho Wine Month in June showcase the best of Idaho’s cideries and wineries. At Idaho Ciderfest, you can sample over 25 regional ciders paired with local bites, while Savor Idaho brings together more than 30 wineries and cideries for an afternoon of tastings at the Idaho Botanical Garden. And in the fall, Old Boise Oktoberfest pours authentic German biers downtown.
• For food lovers on the move. Want to sample it all? Taste of Downtown Boise offers a tasting tour through dozens of restaurants, while Indulge Boise leads guided culinary adventures through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH BOISE—AND FIND YOUR PLACE HERE

Boise’s food scene is just one reason why so many people are proud to call this city home. At 208 Market, we know Boise inside and out because we live it every day. From the best restaurants in Boise, Idaho, to the finer details of the Boise, ID real estate market, we’ve got the local expertise to make things happen—even when others say it cannot be done.

If you’re thinking about making a move, contact us at 208.274.3787 or email us to start your search. We’d love to help you find not just a house, but a community and a lifestyle you’ll love.