It can be all too easy to settle for fast food when hunger strikes, but I promise you there are hundreds of better options out there! There’s something especially delightful about a low-key, unassuming local eatery that speaks to both stomach and soul with its lively atmosphere, local cuisine, and unpretentious vibe. And while there is seemingly no end to the delicious restaurants in Idaho, these welcoming neighborhood eateries are top-rated local favorites that are beloved for good reason and will keep you coming back for more.
1. Capone's, Post Falls
As far as outstanding Idaho pubs go, Capone's is a force to be reckoned with. A deliciously diverse menu caters to the carnivore with a hankering for saucy, fresh meats, lick-the-plate worthy sandwiches, Idaho Nachos, and creative, outrageous garlic fries, and even homemade Mac and Cheese. Score! But for diners with a sweet tooth, this is an unexpected gem as well: Lemon-Blueberry Crumble Pizzas, massive sundaes, and more will fill you up right.
Tucked away in Boise's picture-perfect sub neighborhood of Bown Crossing, this little tavern is high on style. Classic burgers and a bevy of sushi options cater to traditional diners, while a well-stocked bar and creative entrees spice up the menu. Try the Pot Roast Nachos or Breaded Pork Burger on for size!
An adorable, idyllic farm setting in Hayden combines with mouth-watering sweet and savory creations to create the perfect start to your day. Organic, straight from the farm options, unique dishes like Crab Benny, fresh freezer jams and marmalades, plus heart-stopping cinnamon rolls are just a few of the incredible dishes you'll find at this quaint hidden gem.
Repeatedly renowned for creating "food with character," this family-owned restaurant makes some of the best chicken sandwiches, salads, and lunches in eastern Idaho, all served in a warm and art-vibey space.
In a world of traditional watering holes, pubs, and classic burger joints, Grumpy's finds a charming local mix of all three in the heart of Sun Valley. Lively, welcoming, and full of fantastic decor (namely, the massive beer can wall and complementing metal street signage), many folks come here for the huge goblets of beer. Others, for a classic burger and fries or pulled pork sammy that you can't go wrong with.
By bike lovers for bike lovers, this hidden gem in Hailey can be compared to an epic backyard barbecue, but with some surprisingly good food coming out of the kitchen that Uncle Willis didn't drop on the floor twice beforehand. (Seriously, though, the food here is fantastic!) The wooden deck out back is shaded and low-key, making it the perfect place to grab some grub or a drink with friends, while the cuisine is filling, colorful, and the perfect way to brighten your day.
It takes some seriously fantastic food to bring the community together the way Joel's does, and even better food to maintain a near-perfect review score across the internet. Joel's is a relative newcomer to the Idaho dining scene, but this Mexican restaurant has already become a neighborhood favorite and gained a statewide following. Meaning if you haven't tried some carne asada here, yet, your life is incomplete.
Famously casual, yet delightfully high-end, this is one dining gem not to miss! For many the traditional Idahoa, Red Feather serves up some of the best burgers in the valley, but the hand-cut fries and out of this world twists on classics makes for a hearty, creative, and utterly satisfying meal every time. Pictured: the Chicken Verde Sandwich.
Each of these warm, comfortable restaurants is popular for good reason: a combination of incredible food and friendly Idaho-style atmosphere! Check these out ASAP and you definitely won’t regret it.
We’d love to hear about your favorite neighborhood-style restaurants that didn’t make the list. Where’s your favorite go-to for a delicious meal? Give your fav some love and share in the comments!
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