50 Best American Restaurants in Boise

“Boise Brewing is a popular local restaurant known for its amazing beer, delicious food, and friendly atmosphere. The menu features excellent lunch and dinner options, including a savory smash burger, crispy fish and chips, and a variety of other dishes. Customers praise the great value, plentiful portions, and personable service. The restaurant also hosts fun events like trivia and live music, making it a hub for the local community. Whether you're in the mood for a burger and fries or a refreshing salad, Boise Brewing is the perfect place to hang out and enjoy a meal with friends and family.“

“Wyld Child is a burger joint with a simple menu but great value. The Angus beef burgers are juicy and priced at $6.99. Customers can enjoy a unique assortment of in-house sauces and sweet potato fries. The establishment lacks atmosphere indoors, but during warmer weather, they open up to a courtyard with a bonfire vibe. The staff is in good spirits, contributing to the upbeat hipster atmosphere. While some find the food a bit salty and extras pricey, overall, Wyld Child is a recommended spot to grab a bite and relax, especially compared to other nearby options like Boise Fry Company.“

“Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery is a popular dining destination in Boise, known for its delicious food, great service, and impressive drink selection. The restaurant does not take reservations, but guests typically don't have to wait long to be seated. The parking can be a bit challenging, but the nearby garage is a convenient option. The menu offers a variety of tempting options, including the Cheeseboard, Chips and Pico, Cod and Chips, Bardenay Beef Dip, Pear Spinach Salad with Shrimp, and Tenderloin Mushroom Pasta, all of which are praised for their excellent taste and quality. While the prices may seem a bit high, the overall experience is considered well worth the cost. The restaurant's catering services have also received mixed reviews, with some guests finding the food to be cold or overcooked, while the desserts were better received.“

“Westside Drive In serves an all-American menu that has been a staple for over 30 years. The massive burgers come loaded with toppings and are served with a generous side of fries. The quick and delicious food never disappoints, and the menu offerings, such as the bacon cheeseburger and broccoli and cheddar potato, are fantastic. With its rich history and friendly atmosphere, Westside Drive In is a must-try for anyone in the area.“

“Capri is a solid diner that has been a part of Boise's history for a long time. It serves great food, including waffles, Belgian waffles, and pumpkin chocolate chip pancakes. A highlight is the homemade cheese sauce, perfect for dipping with sourdough or wheat bread. The restaurant has a run-down but clean atmosphere, with a bar top and separate seating areas for groups. Service is fast, even on busy mornings. While not all dishes may exceed expectations, Capri remains a reliable spot for a good breakfast.“

“Merritt's Family Restaurant offers a classic breakfast experience in a cozy, old-time diner atmosphere. The menu features a variety of delicious options, including the popular scones and dishes like the biscuit deluxe and taco omelet. Fresh, high-quality ingredients and attentive service ensure a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.“

“BACON Boise offers a great customer service experience, with understanding and empathetic staff who prioritize ensuring a positive dining experience. The shrimp etouffe and bacon chili pepper fries with aioli are flavorful dishes on the menu. The Mac and cheese is above average, with perfectly cooked pasta and flavorful cheese. The atmosphere is welcoming and accommodating, with easy ordering and helpful staff members available. The sandwiches are tasty, though one reviewer felt it was missing something. The open feel of the restaurant adds to the overall experience, making it a fantastic place to dine. Overall, BACON Boise is a hidden gem with delicious food options and excellent customer service, making it a great choice for a meal out.“

“The Red Feather Lounge offers a comfortable and cozy atmosphere, perfect for weekend brunch or a date night. The outside seating provides a great spot to observe the lively scene on upper 8th Street. The menu features a wide variety of options, including delicious cocktails, a Burrata appetizer, and steak frites. While the service is exceptional, the execution of some dishes may not be flawless, but the overall experience is still enjoyable.“

“SpringHouse At The Merc offers delicious food and friendly service, making it a great dining destination. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, with a spacious interior and a selection of craft beers and local wines. The menu includes dishes such as pulled pork sandwiches, BLTAs, and fish and chips. While the fish was praised, the coleslaw received mixed reviews, with some guests finding it flavorless. Despite this, the portions are generous and the service is efficient and friendly. Overall, SpringHouse At The Merc is a recommended dining option in the NW Boise area.“

“Twisted Timber Foods & Brews is a popular spot with a nice atmosphere. The friendly service ensures your food, like the carnitas tacos, sweet chili wings, and pretzel, arrives quickly and tasty. Don't miss out on the fiesta chicken salad! With a decent beer selection, this place is kid-friendly too. Despite being packed on a Friday night, the staff and customers were accommodating. Known for their specialty beers and IPA's, it's a favorite dinner spot for many. The cool atmosphere, sports bar feel, and awesome outdoor seating make it a go-to place for regulars.“

“The Reef is a restaurant known for its friendly staff, fun atmosphere, and great rooftop patio with a nice view. It offers delicious food at fair prices, with popular menu items including calamari and firecracker salmon. The service is efficient, and the restaurant is suitable for both families and special occasions. Located in downtown Boise, typical parking options apply, with parking validation available in garages.“

“Zee's Rooftop in Boise offers incredible quality food at low prices, perfect for breakfast or lunch. The cinnamon roll is a standout item, warm and twice the size of Cinnabon. The service is akin to higher-end fast food, and the atmosphere is lacking, but the outdoor deck boasts stunning views. The restaurant, also used as an event space, provides excellent value for money. The Taco Bar on Tuesdays offers a variety of fillings and toppings. Despite the lackluster decor, the delicious food and breathtaking views make Zee's Rooftop a must-visit spot in Boise.“

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offers a charming gift shop and great food, served by friendly staff. The restaurant provides wheelchair-accessible parking and is known for its southern-style cooking. Meals such as chicken fried steak and pot roast are highly recommended, and sides like chicken and dumplings, mac and cheese, and fried apples are also delicious.Prices are reasonable, and while service can be hit or miss, the restaurant generally provides a pleasant dining experience.“

“Bittercreek Alehouse offers a fantastic menu featuring locally sourced meats and produce, including the popular Huntsman burger. The restaurant caters to various preferences, with vegetarian options and an excellent beer selection, especially for IPA fans. Bittercreek provides a great atmosphere for date nights, casual meetups, and is an excellent spot to visit in downtown Boise.“

“Eddie's Restaurant is known for its delicious homemade biscuits and gravy, as well as their Country Skillet with home style potatoes. The chicken fried steak and eggs are also praised for their excellence. The service is attentive, and the diner has a friendly, old-fashioned atmosphere that may be nostalgic for some and not as enjoyable for others. The staff is known for their witty banter and for making customers feel welcome and valued.“

“Westside Drive In is a popular spot, featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. The restaurant serves delicious diner burgers, fingersteaks, and beef stroganoff, as well as unique items like ice cream potatoes. Their atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great place to add some excitement to a meal. The staff is friendly and professional, as seen in their handling of a difficult customer. With a punch card for discounts and a variety of tasty options, Westside Drive In is a great choice for a casual dining experience.“

“Fork is a restaurant that offers a nice vibe and interior, with the option of outdoor seating. They have a variety of gluten-free options on the menu, and the service is a highlight. The Carne Asada Red Enchiladas are a standout dish. However, there were some issues with overdressed salads and loud noise levels. Additionally, there was no recognition or special dessert provided for a 39th wedding anniversary. The artichoke appetizer and tomato soup "fondue" are recommended shared items.“

“Solid Grill & Bar offers good food, convenient parking, and a pleasant atmosphere. While the service can be slow, the staff is generally friendly and attentive. The menu is diverse and offers good value. Some highlights include the risotto bites and cauliflower bombers, with the salmon blackened being a super impressive option. Reservations are available, and outdoor music adds a nice touch.“

“The Lively offers impeccable food and ambiance, with a mix of experiences based on service quality. The service can range from mediocre and slow to fabulous and savvy, depending on the staff. The restaurant features a unique layout, with a happening bar downstairs and a delightful dining room. Guests have enjoyed the coffee and donuts dessert immensely. While some waiters may rush orders and try to upsell, others are friendly and polite. Overall, The Lively is recommended for its good food and welcoming atmosphere, with potential for hosting corporate events.“

“Queens Trailer is a perfect match for Payette Brewery, offering a delightful outdoor seating experience. The menu features succulent pork belly, premium ground brisket, and the acclaimed Queens burger. The Queso Tots, craft wings, and Parmesan potato wedges are also standout dishes. The kid-friendly atmosphere with corn hole and other games adds to the appeal.“

“Sid's Garage, located along the green belt, offers a unique dining experience with a menu that goes beyond typical burger fare. Try the Boss Hog served in an old-school metal lunch box or the Steakhouse burger made with Wagyu/black Angus blend beef. The fries are a must-have, with the option of Cajun seasoning. Enjoy the beautiful views at the outdoor seating next to Marianne Williams Park. The service is attentive, and the shakes like Death by Chocolate are a meal in itself. A great spot for quality beers on tap and promising cocktails.“

“Hands down the best DFAC I've ever been to. The food is cooked with care and always good, the staff is friendly and professional, and the hours are good. Despite being in a temporary location, the building is clean and we'll maintained. I highly recommend this DFAC to any soldiers training here. 10/10“

“Black Bear Diner on Boise's State St. is a great spot for all-American food lovers, known for their steak and hamburgers, and noteworthy desserts. The diner offers a pleasant experience with fantastic brews and incredible waitstaff, ensuring a memorable visit. The restaurant is kid-friendly, and wheelchair accessible with nearby parking. On a busy Wednesday night, their customer service shines. Vegetarian options are available with approximately eight fruit and vegetable choices from the salad menu. During an early Sunday dinner visit, the country fried steak, turkey club sandwich, and side dishes received praise for taste and portion size. Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served. Overall, Black Bear Diner on State St. in Boise is a recommendable dining choice.“

“BoEx Boise Sandwiches is a restaurant offering delicious and generously portioned food, as mentioned in reviews. The gyro and veggie sandwiches are highlighted as standouts. Their Reuben, though not traditional, is noted for its tasty thin-sliced meat. The restaurant is known for its affordability, quick service, and unique atmosphere. Unique drinks and candy are available for purchase. BoEx Boise Sandwiches is praised for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and welcoming environment, making it a local cultural and social center. The owner's attention to detail and courtesy are also commended.“

“The Bistro - Eat. Drink. Connect.® is a hotel restaurant located in Boise, offering a convenient and safe location near the river and downtown area. The hotel itself is older but recently renovated, with spacious and comfortable rooms available. The courtyard provides a beautiful outdoor seating option for guests. The Bistro, however, received mixed reviews with limited breakfast options and slightly high prices. Despite this, the staff at the hotel were accommodating and friendly, providing excellent service to guests. The hotel is recommended for group stays and family events, with the front desk staff and bistro workers being particularly praised for their helpfulness. While there are ongoing renovations in the lobby, they did not disrupt the overall experience. Room service is not currently available, but the accommodating staff and clean facilities make up for this small inconvenience. The Bistro - Eat. Drink. Connect.® is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable stay in Boise with excellent service and a convenient location.“

“The Chef's Hut is a hidden gem that serves "darn good real people food" in a welcoming atmosphere. Despite being unassuming, this breakfast and lunch spot offers amazing dishes like cinnamon rolls, biscuit and gravy, and perfect waffles at an affordable price. The staff is super friendly, making it a great spot for families. The coffee is also a highlight, and the old-school decor adds to the charm. With tremendous people and a great experience, it's no wonder newcomers and regulars alike keep coming back.“

“Eureka! offers a vibrant atmosphere in a beautiful building, making it a great spot for a dining experience. The menu features delicious options such as the grilled chicken sandwich, blackened salmon kale Caesar salad, and highly-recommended Mac and cheese balls and cinnamon sweet potato fries. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a perfect meal. While service can be slow, the restaurant is worth a visit for its outstanding food and lively ambiance.“

“Big Bun Drive In is a must-visit place in Boise, offering delicious bacon burgers and flavorful cheese sticks. Although some suggest better seasoning for the burger patties, the menu rocks with no bad dishes. The Huckleberry milkshakes are a Boise tradition not to be missed. One satisfied regular customer highly recommends the finger steaks, claiming they are the best in town. It's a favorite spot for locals, promising a tasty meal and a nostalgic drive-in experience.“

“Edge Brewing Pub on 10th offers a diverse menu with great choices and variety, differing from their main location. While some customers have had high expectations, the burgers, fries, and beer are generally well-received. However, the food quality can be inconsistent, with some dishes, like the Korean Chicken bowl, being poorly executed. The service can also be hit or miss, with servers sometimes getting overwhelmed during busy periods. Overall, Edge Brewing Pub on 10th is a decent option for a casual meal and drinks, though it may not always live up to the standards set by the original location.“

“Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese offers delicious food, particularly the Mac n' Cheese and the Evolooshun sandwich with jalapeños. The service is acceptable and the atmosphere is spacious with potential for a lively environment when busy. The staff, such as Jen, provide excellent and attentive service. Despite being slightly more expensive, the delicious food offerings make it worth the visit. More locations are hoped for in the future.“

“The Modern Bar and Restaurant in Boise, Idaho, is a true gem. Offering amazing, delicious drinks and food, the evening at this establishment is enchanting, with flower blossoms swirling around the diners. The great staff provides excellent service, adding to the cheerful and high-end atmosphere. With an indoor dining area, an outdoor dining area with firepits, and occasional musical and performance events, the Modern Bar and Restaurant is a unique and innovative spot, tucked away in downtown Boise, that is worth a visit. Guests can enjoy great design, presentation, and friendly staff, as well as delightful drinks and a superb complimentary breakfast, including options like a bacon frittata.“

“Elmer's Kitchen in Boise, ID, under new ownership, maintains its original staff and charm. Known for its great breakfast and lunch meals with big portions, it's a family-friendly spot popular with seniors. The dutch baby is a favorite, light and crispy with a rich buttery flavor. The chorizo benedict was good but the chorizo slightly dry. The banana blueberry crepes were delicious, especially when paired with eggs and chicken apple sausage. The General Manager and team are praised for their exceptional service, making every visit a delightful experience.“

“Applebee's grill + bar is a popular restaurant known for its 2 for $26 menu, offering a variety of dishes. The service received mixed reviews, with some customers encountering rude waitstaff who were unhelpful when discrepancies arose with the bill. Others found the service to be slow, especially when it came to placing orders and receiving the check. Despite this, the food quality was generally praised, with highlights including the steak and drinks. However, some customers noted that certain items, like the ice cream served with the pecan Blondie, were not up to par. Overall, Applebee's grill + bar seems to offer a decent dining experience, with the potential for improvement in terms of customer service and attention to detail.“

“Goodwood Barbecue Company is a top-notch BBQ spot that surpasses other famous joints in Kansas City. The beef ribs and homemade onion rings are must-tries. The 3 meat plate with burnt ends, chicken, and turkey is absolutely phenomenal. The service is friendly, and the place is clean. They offer a great family meal option, with generous portions that leave you satisfied. The sides like beans and Mac n cheese are delicious, with no leftovers. Whether for holidays or casual dining, Goodwood Barbecue Company will impress with its amazing food and service, making customers eager to return.“

“Gil's K-Nine Bar is a restaurant that offers a variety of meals, from Reuben sandwiches with large portions of fries to prawns, Philly cheese soups, and burgers. The sausage gravy is particularly noteworthy. Despite its unassuming exterior, the food is delicious and the portions are large. The service is excellent, and the owner is friendly and personable. The restaurant is a great spot for lunch or dinner, with ample parking available during lunch hours.“

“Diablo & Sons Saloon is a great spot for a gathering with friends or a meal before a concert. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, with a loud and chatty ambiance, especially on weekdays. The outdoor seating offers a nice view of the passing crowd. The drink list is impressive, and the food is generally good, with standout dishes being the Pork Chile Verde and the house greens salad, accompanied by delicious fries. The staff is friendly and attentive. While some may have mixed opinions on the drinks and meals, the overall consensus is that Diablo & Sons Saloon offers a satisfying dining experience.“

“Black Bear Diner Boise - Entertainment Ave is a restaurant that has received mostly positive reviews from its customers. The employees are described as "really sweet" and providing fast, attentive service, even when a large group came in before the reviewers. The food is praised as "great" with generous portions, and specific dishes like the Tri Tip dip and Blackened Salmon with basil pesto sauce are highlighted as being "fabulous." The atmosphere is described as "quiet" and "comfortable," with "fun decor." Overall, the reviewers seem to have had a very enjoyable experience at this restaurant and recommend giving it a try.“

“Located in the north end, 13th Street Pub and Grill offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a few TVs for games. Known for their nice burgers, salads, sandwiches, and fall-off-the-bone wings, the menu is compact but satisfying. While the service is friendly and responsive, the drink selection might be limited. The ambiance is great, especially the covered patio with a fireplace. A go-to spot for those in Hyde park, especially for their old fashions.“

“Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is a popular spot that offers an enjoyable dining experience. The all-you-can-eat fries are a standout, but be aware that some options may be overcooked. The menu features a range of options, including crispy chicken salad, mozzarella sticks, and fried pickles. Service is friendly, and the restaurant is accommodating to service dogs. Try the bottomless Barb's root beer float and fish and chips for a delicious treat. With a focus on good food and good times, Red Robin is a great spot to visit.“

“Goldy's Breakfast Bistro in Boise is a popular spot known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. While the service can be hit-or-miss, especially on weekends when the wait times can be lengthy, the overall experience is positive. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, and the staff is generally attentive and accommodating.“

“The James Kitchen & Bar offers a great Happy Hour experience with a view of the stadium. The bartenders are fun and the drinks like the Cobblers Mule and The James cocktail are delicious. Customers praise the well-seasoned food and wide menu selection, including the popular tuna tartare. Lindsey, the star bartender, is friendly and efficient in managing drink orders. Despite parking challenges on game days, the inviting atmosphere and attentive servers like Gen and Bre make The James a delightful dining spot worth returning to.“

“Cottonwood Grille offers a mix of experiences. While some have found issues with reservations and service, others enjoy the outdoor seating and good food. The indoor area might feel a bit outdated for some, but the fillet mignon receives special praise for both quality and pricing. A suggestion for improvement is to modernize the indoor space to match the quality of the food and service. Overall, it seems like a place worth trying for a satisfying meal.“

“Phở Nouveau serves amazing Vietnamese food, including traditional pho and spicy noodle soup, with tons of flavor and fresh herbs. The crispy spring rolls are a must-try. The service is fast and pleasant, with reasonable prices for the quality and amount of food. The atmosphere is pleasant and accommodating, with wheelchair accessibility.“

“Trillium Restaurant offers delicious food in a chill atmosphere. The menu features local ingredients and impressive dishes like Beef Portobello Stroganoff, Bison Grill Cheese, and eggs Benedict. The steak is cooked to perfection, and the charcuterie board is a highlight. The friendly and attentive staff make visitors feel at home. With excellent service and a varied menu, Trillium Restaurant is highly recommended for any occasion, including special events like Mother's Day celebrations.“

“Saint Lawrence Gridiron is a restaurant with a darkly genius name. The place is quaint and clean, with great service. The food had some missteps in flavor, like the over-salted reduction on the poutine fries. The PBR platter had meats and veggies with similar flavors, but the cornbread was fantastic. The old fashion cocktail was worth the price, as was the refreshing pilsner on draft. While on the pricier side, the Bee's Knees cocktail and the Gridiron burger with addictive fries were incredibly tasty. The pickles on the burger stood out, and the patties were perfectly cooked. Overall, the experience was great, despite the lack of vegetarian options on the menu and parking struggles downtown.“

“LongHorn Steakhouse offers great service with delicious options like chicken wings and shrimp, lobster soup, and lunch strawberry chicken salad. The waitstaff is attentive and friendly, making guests feel welcome. While some find the food a bit salty, the exceptional service makes up for it. Despite minor delays in being greeted, the food is served promptly and prepared accurately. Overall, LongHorn Steakhouse is a recommended spot for a satisfying meal and welcoming atmosphere.“

“Country Pride is a consistently high-quality restaurant that has maintained its standards despite the challenges of the pandemic. The food is always good, with standout dishes like their burgers and traditional breakfast featuring exceptional bacon. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive servers like Kerri who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Whether you're a local or just stopping by, Country Pride is a great choice for a delicious meal in a welcoming atmosphere.“

“Quinn's Restaurant & Lounge offers a pub-like atmosphere with a smoky smell. The food is average but portions are generous. Service can be lacking, as the server may be occupied with other activities like karaoke. The fries are amazing, and the drinks and staff are well-liked, though the food preparation could use some improvement.“

“Base Camp Pong + Axe in Boise is the perfect spot for wings, happy hour, and fun activities like ping pong and axe throwing. They offer free parking and have a great party room for events. The staff is friendly and helpful, making sure everyone has a blast. While the food is standard bar fare, the real draw is the exciting experience of throwing axes with friends or on a date. Whether you're a regular or a newbie, the staff strikes the right balance of assistance and giving space to enjoy the unique activities.“