When it comes to curing a craving of Italian food, sometimes Olive Garden just won’t do. Luckily, Idaho is home to an abundance of amazing Italian joints that are worth checking out. Awhile ago we even compiled a list of 9 Italian Restaurants In Idaho That Serve Pasta To Die For. However, missing from that list is one of the most beloved Italian eateries in the Gem State. Not only is the food amazing, but it’s considered the oldest Italian restaurant in the state as well. This place is an institution and it should be on every Idahoan’s bucket list. Take a look:
Hiding out in Pocatello is a classic Italian eatery that pasta enthusiasts are bound to love. This place has been around forever and it's practically famous among locals. As soon as you dine here, you'll understand why.
Buddy's Italian Restaurant has been serving the community authentic Italian food for generations. Not only is it the oldest Italian eatery in the state, but it's one of Pocatello's oldest eateries in general.
It all started in 1961 when Bill Guido and Buddy Face opened up the restaurant together. Years later, a woman named Julie Piper, a dedicated restaurant employee, would acquire the restaurant. Buddy's has been passed down through the Piper family ever since, making this a treasured family-owned gem in the Pocatello community.
The family atmosphere is what sets Buddy's apart from other Italian eateries, but what about the food? Let's just say you won't be disappointed. Buddy's boasts a simple but diverse menu of classic Italian cuisine, made-to-order and prepared with perfection.
You can never go wrong with the spaghetti and meatballs. Served with either spaghetti or rigatoni pasta (or both), you'll fall in love with the Old World-style marinara sauce.
Be sure to order one of Buddy's famous salads as an appetizer. Yes, it comes to your table looking like this—a gigantic mound of lettuce tossed in a "secret" vinaigrette dressing and topped with bleu cheese.
Any Italian joint worth their salt will also serve up some of the most amazing pizza and Buddy's is no exception. Build your own pizza from Buddy's own delicately spiced sauce, savory herbs, and delicious meats.
The food is absolutely perfetto but the best thing about Buddy's is its authentic Italian atmosphere. It's all about family here and it shows. The owner, Steve Piper, notes "It's nice to see families come in and see their kids grow up, and see those kids bring their children in." That pretty much says it all!
Have you dined at this classic Italian restaurant? It’s no wonder this place has stuck around for so many years! Check out our article on the Oldest Restaurant In Idaho for another beloved culinary staple.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
