Form and Function: This small-batch, specialty coffee shop in downtown Boise was one of our favorites while we were there - we went three times! It’s modern and spacious, with ample seating, and they serve a mean avocado toast! (@formandfunctioncoffee)
Neckar Coffee: Cool, trendy atmosphere, and even better coffee. We suggest grabbing a seat at their marble bar, and enjoying your oatmilk latte in one of their fun ceramic cups. You’ll feel incredibly hipster - in the best way possible. (@neckarcoffee)
Push and Pour: This fun, relaxed coffee shop is a favorite among locals, and if the weather is nice, you can’t beat their outdoor patio! (They serve alcoholic beverages too, so it’s a fun spot to chill in the afternoon/early evening too!) (@pushandpour)
Slow By Slow Coffee Bar: If you take coffee seriously (like, you nerd out on coffee), go here. Chat with their baristas. Sip and enjoy the complex notes and flavors of whatever brew you decide to try. It’s an espresso lovers paradise. (@slowcoffeebar)
Breakfast
Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro: If you only have one morning in Boise, make Goldy’s your go-to spot. The wait can be long, but don’t let that deter you. It’s worth it. We’ll be dreaming of their breakfast potatoes for a long time… (@goldysbreakfastbistro)
Bobby’s pick: Trav’s Famous Breakfast Burrito
Alli’s pick: Andalusian Eggs
The Griddle: Made from scratch, homestyle cooking at its finest! From steak and eggs, to benedicts, to six different kinds of french toast… The Griddle has it all. And it’s all finger-lickin’ good. (The Griddle on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Rosie’s French Toast
Alli’s pick: California Omelette
Capitol Cellars: This underground restaurant is well-known in Boise for their extensive wine list and innovative menu… but not many know that it is now open for breakfast, too! The menu is small, but everything is delicious, and we love how peaceful the restaurant is. Perfect for a cozy breakfast date! (@capitolcellars)
Bobby’s pick: Idaho Quiche
Alli’s pick: Three Eggs
Lunch/Dinner
The Wylder: We’re BIG pizza people (if you haven’t already noticed), and the pizza at The Wylder is reason enough for us to come back to Boise. More specifically, the Honey Badger pizza (Italian sausage, ricotta, caramelized onion & spicy honey). Go. Get it. Right now. (Oh, they also have some amazing salads and cocktails, too!) (@the_wylder)
Diablo & Sons Saloon: A lager and taco saloon? Count us in!! Diablo & Sons is new on the Boise restaurant scene, and it’s definitely one to check out - even if it’s just for a cocktail or two. Their burger is great, too! (@diabloandsonssaloon)
Bittercreek Ale House: The brewery scene is strong in Boise, and while many come here for the ales - we come for the burgers and grilled cheese! Oh, and their french fries are marvelous too. There’s just something about those Idaho potatoes! (@bittercreekalehouse)
Bobby’s pick: Alehouse Grilled Cheese
Alli’s pick: Black Bean & Sweet Potato Burger
Fork: This fun downtown spot serves farm-to-table cuisine that’s creative as well as comforting - one bite of their Brown Butter Idaho Mashed Potatoes and you’ll see what we mean! Make a reservation in advance, as it can get busy - especially on the weekends. (@fork_boise)
Bobby’s pick: Grilled Tri-Tip Steak Sammy
Alli’s pick: The BCS
The Basque Market: Did you know that Boise has one of the largest Basque communities in the US? It’s true! This quaint little market sells a plethora of Basque and Spanish food and wine… but they also have a Spanish style tapas restaurant! You’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to Spain! (@thebasquemarket)
Woodland Empire Ale Craft: We love the fun, casual, and playful vibes in this neighborhood brewery. From pinball machines to board games, they have entertainment galore - and their beers are some of the best in town! (And if you’re a wine drinker like Alli, you’ll be happy to know they serve wine too!) (@woodlandempirealecraft)
Juniper: Cocktail lovers, make Juniper your first stop - and chances are you won’t want to leave. From their imaginative seasonal drinks, to the classic fan-favorites, they have something for everyone on their extensive cocktail list. We love the vibe in there, too! (@juniperon8th)
Bobby’s pick: The Gambler
Alli’s pick: Idaho Sour
Meriwether Cider Company: We’ve just recently started getting more into ciders, and this family-owned cider house is a blast! They have a wide selection of flagship and seasonal ciders, and a super knowledgeable and friendly staff. (@meriwethercider)
Inn At 500 Capitol: This boutique hotel goes above and beyond for their guests - from the welcome drinks, to the luxurious suites, to the complimentary snacks in the lobby (our favorite part) - it’s really something special! We absolutely loved our stay - and would go back in a heartbeat! (@innat500)
The Grove Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown Boise, you can’t beat the location of this luxe and modern hotel - and the pool and spa on the fifth floor are definitely an added treat! It’s the only AAA four diamond full-service hotel in Boise, and while it can be a splurge, it’s worth it for the amenities! (@grovehotelboise)
The Modern Hotel and Bar: If you’re looking for something a little more low-key and affordable, this is your spot. It’s a reimagined Travelodge with sleek, comfortable rooms - and they’re very dog friendly! (@modernhotel)
Hike Camel’s Back Park: This 11-acre park has plenty of open space to hike and explore, and the top of Camel’s Back boasts stunning views of downtown Boise. It’s the perfect place to get some cardio in!
Boise Depot: If you happen to be in Boise on a Sunday or Monday, carve some time into your schedule to visit the historic Boise Train Depot! Not only is it a fun way to learn more about the history of train travel, but the inside of the Depot is beautiful, and the view from the belltower is not to be missed!
Rent Bikes: When the weather is warm, there’s nothing better than riding bikes around downtown Boise. Boise Green Bikes are stationed all throughout the city, and renting/returning them is a piece of cake! Go here for more information.
Old Idaho Penitentiary: Experience over 100 years of prison history at the Old Idaho Penitentiary, where you can explore cell blocks, solitary confinement, and the gallows. It’s absolutely fascinating!
We weren’t able to bring Sally (our Bernedoodle) with us on this trip, but from what we’ve researched, Boise is extremely dog friendly. It actually ranks as one of the most pet-friendly cities in the US! The majority of the Foothills trails are off-leash, and most restaurants have patios that welcome pups!
