Have you ever found yourself in Boise, Idaho looking for a nice dining experience? Living in a smaller city than many others in the US, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on fine dining Boise Idaho options. In fact, Boise has a variety of amazing restaurants that cater to those looking for an upscale meal.
If you have read my post sharing some of the best restaurants in Boise Idaho, you know that Boise has a thriving food scene. But when it comes to Boise fine dining, there are a few standout options that truly make the city shine.
The Lively
The Lively is a must-try for any fine dining enthusiast. It’s one of the fancy restaurants in Boise that you shouldn’t miss! This French-inspired restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere, exceptional service, and delicious food.
Chef Edward Higgins, a Michelin-starred chef of The Lively, creates a menu using ingredients from local farmers such as McIntyre Pastures, Acme Bakery, Purple Sage Farms, Boise Vertical Farm, and Double R Ranch.
If you ever visit here, make sure to try their butter poached Maine lobster tail, which is one of my favorites! It was cooked to perfection and the flavors were out of this world. Don’t forget to ask for a wine pairing as well, their sommelier will not disappoint.
Chandlers
Chandlers Steakhouse & Seafood is another highly recommended option for fine dining in Boise Idaho. This upscale steakhouse offers an intimate and sophisticated setting that is perfect for a special occasion or romantic date night in Boise.
Their menu features dozens of selections of their hand-cut and trimmed steaks ranging from corn-fed Midwest prime to Northwest American; Japanese A5 wagyu to organic grass-fed beef. The place is conveniently located in downtown Boise at 981 West Grove Street.
If you are a seafood lover, Chandlers will also impress you with their fresh and locally sourced seafood options. Don’t miss out on their signature dish – the Snake River Farms American Kobe Wagyu Ribeye. Trust me, it’s worth every penny!
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Boise is always a top choice for fine dining in the Treasure Valley. Their classic and elegant ambiance creates the perfect setting for a business dinner or special occasion.
What I love about this place is that it’s located in off 8th street in downtown Boise, near the heart of it all.
Their menu is a mix of classic and signature steaks, as well as a variety of other dishes such as seafood, chicken, and vegetarian options. One of the highlights on their menu is the Cowboy Ribeye – an extra-thick cut bone-in steak that is cooked to perfection. And don’t forget to save some room for their famous sweet potato casserole!
Ruth’s Chris has a family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great option for any occasion. Plus, they offer large party and private dining options, making it a perfect choice for events and celebrations.
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Trillium
Trillium Boise is not your average restaurant. Located in the Grove Hotel in Boise, this restaurant offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience with an emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients.
The restaurant serves up locally-sourced classic American cuisine with a modern twist. Trillium is one of the high end restaurants Boise has to offer. The chefs are dedicated to crafting dishes that highlight the best of what Idaho has to offer, including their famous fllet mignon and their szechuan cauliflower.
The Trillium’s elegant and chic interior creates the perfect atmosphere for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a business meeting.
Fork
If you’re looking for a relaxing and luxuriant dining experience, Fork is the place to go. What makes Boise Fork unique is that they are located in an old bank and use reclaimed or recycled materials to craft elements like their tables and glasses.
Fork features hand-crafted & locally-inspired cocktails and recently received an award for winning selection of wine (awarded from the Wine Spectator) in 2020. Not to mention, their food is equally impressive with a focus on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
Planning on visiting on the weekenk? They offer brunch during the weekends from 9:30am-2pm featuring classic brunch dishes with a Fork twist.
Read related blog: 10 Boise Wineries With The Top Wine Tasting Boise Has To Offer
Barbacoa
Barbacoa is one of the best places to eat in Boise, with its breathtaking view of a pond and Table Rock, a popular hiking spot with stunning views. The restaurant is known for its menu with Mexican/Argentinian/Brazilian mix of options, including steak and other meats, and their multi-dimensional concept.
One thing that really stood out to me is their table-side guacamole which is a local favorite. Not to mention their extensive wine and tequila selection, making it a perfect place for happy hours or celebrations.
Alavita
Alavita is one of the best Italian restaurants Boise has to offer. With an open kitchen concept, you can sit at your table and watch in the distance as the chef makes homemade pasta to serve each day. The menu features classic Italian dishes sourcing many of their key ingredients from local Boise & Northwest farmers, ranchers, and more.
If you’re planning to visit, make sure to order their fresh pasta-from Agnolotti to Tortellini to Garganelli, Linguini to Pappardelle that are made fresh daily.
The word Alavita, meaning “to life” in Italian, perfectly represents the vibrant atmosphere and flavors of this restaurant. They also have a great selection of cocktails and desserts to complement your meal.
Little Pearl Oyster Bar
Wondering about seafood restaurants in Boise? Then Little Pearl Oyster Bar is the place for you! Located on 8th Street in Boise, this restaurant serves some of the freshest oysters, clams, shrimp, crab and more.
From oysters, Maine lobster roll, grilled fish, and other seafood dishes, Little Pearl Oyster Bar has a wide variety of options to choose from. The place is owned by Cal Elliot and his wife Ashley Elliott, the place is known as Idaho’s first oyster bar.
The vibe of the place makes you feel like you’re dining at a New England seafood shack, with its eclectic antique decor and friendly staff. They also have a great selection of wine, beer, and cocktails to pair with your delicious seafood meal.
Related post: Best Boise Breweries
Kin
Kin Boise is one of the nice restaurants in Boise that you may want to make reservations at. They source their ingredients from local farmers and ranchers to create fresh, seasonal dishes that are packed with flavor.
Kin has a fixed-price menu during weeknights, providing a more intimit experience where the chef creates unique meals for everyone. What makes the experience here even more special is their communal dining style, where you can share your table with other guests and make new friends. Their innovative menu designed with premium ingredients on some of the dishes and a very relaxing vibe, Kin is an ideal spot for a brunch with friends or a perfect date night.
Kin Boise also has an impressive selection of cocktails, craft beers and wines to complement your meal. Their knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend the best drink pairings for your chosen dishes.
Brickyard
The Brickyard Boise is also a popular steakhouse spot in Boise, known for their perfectly cooked steaks and extensive wine list. Their menu features a variety of cuts such as ribeye, filet mignon, New York strip, and more. They also have seafood options on the menu for non-meat eaters.
The interior of Brickyard is classy yet cozy, with dark wood accents and warm lighting. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner in Boise or a special occasion. You have to try their Japanese Wagyu, which is a crowd favorite because of its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
Along with the delicious food, Brickyard has a great selection of cocktails and wines. Best part is that their price points are very reasonable for the quality of food and service they provide.
If you’re visiting Boise or just looking for a special dining experience, this list of restaurants should definitely be on your list. Whether you’re craving for something unique and upscale restaurants Boise or looking for the best Pizza Boise Idaho has to offer, we’ve got lots of foodie list to choose from! Even Boise donut shops!