Best Restaurants in Boise (2025)

Boise’s destination tasting menu, led by Kris Komori, Idaho’s first James Beard Award–winning chef. The communal, story-driven five-course format evolves monthly. Frequently recommended by Eater and widely covered after the 2023 James Beard win.

A lively French-leaning brasserie from chef Cal Elliott, whose prior Brooklyn restaurant earned a Michelin star. Recognized by Visit Boise among 2025 James Beard semifinalists and highlighted by Eater for cassoulet, brasserie classics, and sister pub Tiner’s Alley.

Started as a butcher shop and food truck, now a refined bistro from Rémi Courcenet and Nate Whitley. Frequently cited by Eater; the duo were named 2025 James Beard semifinalists, confirming its rising profile in Boise’s downtown dining row.

A design-forward hotel bar-restaurant that helped shape the Linen District’s scene. Praised by The New York Times and Vogue, and featured by Eater for its creative seasonal menu and serious cocktails under a veteran culinary team.

Smoky aromas spill from the front-yard pit at this downtown original. Idaho Statesman critics and Eater both praise its Southern-inflected plates, from brisket platters to shrimp and grits, all rooted in careful sourcing and technique.

A 1996 pioneer of Boise’s farm-and-beer culture, still family-owned and proudly independent. Eater highlights the farmer photo wall and beer-friendly menu; the official story emphasizes local producers and sustainability.

Sourdough pies made with a decades-old starter, plus nightly suppers like fried chicken and lasagna. Lauded by the Idaho Statesman and included on Eater’s Boise essentials for its crust, toppings, and spirited service.

On the Basque Block since the 1990s, this pub serves lamb grinders, croquetas, and chorizo sandwiches. Recently spotlighted by Food & Wine and long cherished by locals for expressing Boise’s Basque roots.

Part market, part tapas counter, wholly Boise. Known for paella on the patio twice weekly and First Thursday dinners. Featured by Food & Wine and frequently referenced by local outlets for its role in Basque Block life.

Afghan sisters baking with soul: saffron puddings, pistachio pastries, and savory mantu. A 2022 James Beard semifinalist and covered by the Idaho Statesman for opening a downtown outpost, expanding their devoted following.

Hearty stews, injera, and vegetarian favorites from owners Kibrom Milash and Tirhas Hailu. A James Beard semifinalist in 2023 and an Eater essential, it’s a warm, community-minded spot celebrating East African flavors.

Elena DeYoung’s intimate restaurant serves borscht, blini, and reimagined classics like salmon shuba. Included on Eater’s Boise essentials and praised by local diners for heartfelt cooking and warm service.