Ah, the classic “hole in the wall” restaurant. Small, hidden, unique, and packed full of flavor with love stirred into every bite. While a large, modern restaurant may offer perfected decor and tasty eats, they never quite seem to have the same character or passion as one of Idaho’s secret, local favorites. Here are just a few eateries that – although not as large or trendy as their resort and high end counterparts – offer a taste of the real Idaho in more underrated settings.
- Bojack’s Broiler Pit, Lewiston
Tobe H./Yelp Tucked away in a basement alcove, the Broiler Pit is a Lewiston staple known for its “bite-sized” steak and generous drink options.
- Guppies Hot Rod Grille, Twin Falls
Guppies Hot Rod Grille/Facebook
Guppies Hot Rod Grille/Facebook Often overlooked but never forgotten, this retro diner serves up food that is a cut above your average diner. Delicious burgers and more are right here in the heart of Southern Idaho.
- Morenita’s Mexican Restaurant and Bakery, Idaho Falls
J.C./Yelp
Earnie G./Yelp Despite its size and location, it doesn’t get much better than this local, Mexican food favorite. Morenita’s is consistently given a number one rating by travelers and residents alike.
- Falls Inn, Priest River
Falls Inn/Facebook Small, remote, rustic, and built over a waterfall in Northern Idaho, diners rave that this hidden gem pub serves up some of the best sandwiches in the state.
- Rick’s Press Room, Meridian
Rick’s Press Room/Facebook
Joe R./Yelp Editor’s Note: As of November 2016, Rick’s Press Room has permanently closed.You’ll miss this place if you don’t know where to look. Upscale, unique, and always fresh, Rick’s Press Room has a casual vibe, but cuisine that is to die for – there’s a reason why Guy Fieri was here!
- Garnet Cafe, Coeur d’Alene
Cheryl N./Yelp
Garnet Cafe/Facebook Looks can be deceiving at this beloved Idaho gem (pun intended). Here, farm-to-table ingredients, freshly prepared to gourmet perfection will greet you in the most unexpected of settings.
- Juniper, Boise
Juniper/Facebook
Juniper/Facebook Editor’s Note: As of August 2020, Juniper has temporarily closed.Located smack in the middle of downtown Boise, you would think that the entire state of Idaho would know about this quaint restaurant. Classy, modern, but tucked away amongst a bevy of shops and restaurants, the menu here features creative dishes you won’t find anywhere else and an expansive appetizer list for those wanting something a little smaller.
Every town has a restaurant that is underrated or overlooked, but with mind-blowing menu options. What’s your favorite? Share with us!
Tobe H./Yelp
Tucked away in a basement alcove, the Broiler Pit is a Lewiston staple known for its “bite-sized” steak and generous drink options.
Guppies Hot Rod Grille/Facebook
Often overlooked but never forgotten, this retro diner serves up food that is a cut above your average diner. Delicious burgers and more are right here in the heart of Southern Idaho.
J.C./Yelp
Earnie G./Yelp
Despite its size and location, it doesn’t get much better than this local, Mexican food favorite. Morenita’s is consistently given a number one rating by travelers and residents alike.
Falls Inn/Facebook
Small, remote, rustic, and built over a waterfall in Northern Idaho, diners rave that this hidden gem pub serves up some of the best sandwiches in the state.
Rick’s Press Room/Facebook
Joe R./Yelp
Editor’s Note: As of November 2016, Rick’s Press Room has permanently closed.You’ll miss this place if you don’t know where to look. Upscale, unique, and always fresh, Rick’s Press Room has a casual vibe, but cuisine that is to die for – there’s a reason why Guy Fieri was here!
Cheryl N./Yelp
Garnet Cafe/Facebook
Looks can be deceiving at this beloved Idaho gem (pun intended). Here, farm-to-table ingredients, freshly prepared to gourmet perfection will greet you in the most unexpected of settings.
Juniper/Facebook
Editor’s Note: As of August 2020, Juniper has temporarily closed.Located smack in the middle of downtown Boise, you would think that the entire state of Idaho would know about this quaint restaurant. Classy, modern, but tucked away amongst a bevy of shops and restaurants, the menu here features creative dishes you won’t find anywhere else and an expansive appetizer list for those wanting something a little smaller.
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