Is there anything better than finding a new favorite place to eat? Delightfully welcoming, blessedly uncrowded, with a menu full of hearty cuisine that hits the spot no matter the season – these are the gems that make for rave reviews and family memories! Today, we’ve compiled some absolutely delicious eateries that may be overlooked by most, but definitely shouldn’t be, in no particular order, of course. Dig in!
1. Moose Creek Grill, Kellogg
Homestyle and fine dining aren't often synonymous, but at this cozy, welcoming gem in the Silver Valley, the two blend together to perfection! Set in a warm home-turned-restaurant, this lovely eatery serves up delicious Idaho staples with finesse: fresh seafood for every taste, Chicken Gorgonzola, and even decadent desserts - you'll definitely want to save room for the Seven Layer Huckleberry Cake!
Address : #12 Emerson Ln. Kellogg, ID 83837
2. Squeeze Inn, Clark Fork
Your mom always taught you to never judge a book by this cover, and we concur - you never know when you'll find a Le Cordon Bleu -trained chef serving epic meals out of a humble barn in North Idaho! Featuring family dining with a gourmet touch, this rustic gem serves up Italian-inspired fare - everything from braised lamb shanks and handmade ravioli Italian tacos!
Address : 220 W 4th St. Clark Fork, ID 83811
3. The Tower Grill, Nampa
This recently-opened restaurant overlooking the municipal airport on the outskirts of Nampa may be located in one of the biggest cities in the state, but that doesn't mean it's well-known outside of local residents! In fact, it's so tucked away most folks don't even know it exists. Head on up to the top floor of this old airport tower for scrumptious breakfasts, deliciously creative sandwiches, and handmade soups - all while overlooking a running airfield and a countryscape that still stretches on into the sunset, even in urban Idaho.
Address : 105 Municipal Way. Nampa, ID 83687
4. The Pines, Malad City
This slice of pure Americana is nestled against a surprisingly beautiful backdrop in rural Southern Idaho.
Delectable homestyle fare is served here with the type of friendly, comfortable service you expect in small town Idaho, with an extra dash of delish! Picky eater? We especially recommend the Fripps - a french fry-potato chip hybrid that needs to be tasted to be believed.
Address : 148 E 50th S. Malad City, ID 83252
5. Blu, Twin Falls
This local secret originated in Filer, but has finally made its way to Twin Falls to stay! Here, you'll find top-notch creative and beautifully-plated dishes that put a twist on traditional pub favorites: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, Oyster Po'boys, Chicken and Waffle Sammies...all served in an awesome, lounge-like atmosphere.
Address : 1986 Addison Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID
6. Sherwood's Post, Victor
If you've read any of our previous restaurant articles, you might already know that the Teton Valley is a haven of delicious dining options. This new restaurant in Victor is no exception! A bright and modern setting with a stunning deck is only the start. Next comes melt in your mouth biscuits and gravy, hearty burgers on fresh buns, housemade corned beef reubens, and so much more.
Address : 20 N Main St. Victor, ID 83455
7. Restaurant 103, Hailey
This overlooked restaurant in Hailey may be not be well-known outside of town, but their pizzas should be! Flavorful, rustic-chic, and perfectly baked, you can't go wrong with a hot slice of their Carnivore Piggy - especially given the homemade sausage! But for lighter eaters, you'll find phenomenal salads and burgers here, as well as healthy, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Address : 103 S Main St. Hailey, ID 83333
8. Oscar's Restaurant and Lounge, Grangeville
Casual, local, and perfect for small town Idaho, this throwback diner has all the comfort food you could hope for - with a few creative twists thrown in. Pictured: the Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich.
Address : 101 E Main St. Grangeville, ID 83530
9. Capone's Bar and Grill, 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.
Address : 315 N Ross Point Rd. Post Falls, ID 83854
10. Intersection BBQ and Grill, New Meadows
Tucked away in this small town is a homestyle eatery that has gained a great deal of local love for its house-smoked BBQ, but is phenomenal in every corner of its menu. Freshmade soups - just the way Grandma made them, epic burgers (pictured: Intersection's deep fried, panko-crusted mac and cheese burger, drizzled in Chipotle), and even ritzy pastas, like the Smoked Salmon overLemon Buerre Blanc Pasta. It's something out of your dining dreams come true!
Address : 206 Virginia Ave. New Meadows, ID 83654
Idaho’s best restaurants are often hidden away in our smallest town and most obscure locales – but they’re worth the hunt! Do you have a small town favorite?
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