This guide covers 12 bar options in Boise. Guests rate them 4.4 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Downtown, Southeast Boise, Boise Bench, so those are the areas to start with.

All Bar in Boise

Yen Ching – Chinese Restaurant

4.2 884 reviews

Yen Ching is a family-run Chinese restaurant located in downtown Boise, Idaho. It specializes in authentic Mandarin, Hunan, and Sichuan cuisine, offering a diverse menu crafted with high-quality ingredients. The restaurant has been a local favorite since 1985, earning recognition for its generous portions and affordable prices. Yen Ching's menu features classic Chinese dishes such as dim sum, chow mein, egg foo young, and sweet and sour chicken, as well as more unique options like Mapo Tofu and The General's Chicken. The restaurant also offers a full bar and has both indoor and outdoor seating options. Its staff is known for being friendly and attentive, although some reviewers have noted that service can be slow at times. The restaurant's menu is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes, with spicy dishes clearly marked for those who prefer a little heat. Yen Ching's food is made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order, with a focus on traditional Chinese flavors and techniques. The restaurant is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, and its reputation for excellent food and service has made it a staple of the Boise dining scene.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM
  • Friday11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM
  • Saturday12–9 PM
  • Sunday12–9 PM

The Wylder

4.7 1,833 reviews

The Wylder is a popular restaurant in Boise, Idaho, known for its artisanal pizzas crafted from a years-old sourdough starter. The menu features a variety of flavor-packed options, including red and white pizzas, salads, and nightly suppers. Each dish is made with quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence. The Wylder offers a welcoming atmosphere, with comfortable seating arrangements both indoors and outdoors, perfect for enjoying Boise's vibrant ambiance. The restaurant is also praised for its excellent service, with attentive staff members who work collaboratively to enhance each guest's visit. Reviews from customers highlight the restaurant's exceptional food, friendly service, and cozy setting, making it one of the best places in Idaho for those seeking outstanding pizza experiences. The Wylder is a great spot for a variety of customers, including families, couples, and individuals looking for a unique dining experience. The restaurant's menu caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free requirements. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pizza or something new and exciting, The Wylder has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Boise.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–8 PM

The Front Door Taphouse

4.7 413 reviews

The Front Door Taphouse is a local brewpub and pizza restaurant in Boise, Idaho, that has been serving the community for over 16 years. The establishment offers a wide selection of specialty pizzas, pub grub, and rotating microbrews in a spacious venue. Their menu features a variety of options, including gluten-free choices, and they cater to families and individuals alike. The Front Door Taphouse is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service. Their staff is attentive and ready to help with any needs, making it a great spot for both casual meals and special events. The restaurant is family-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their whole squad, and they offer daily and weekly specials to keep things interesting. The Front Door Taphouse is a popular destination for pizza lovers, with a 4.7-star rating from 379 customer reviews. They offer a wide range of menu options, including pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and desserts, as well as a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The restaurant is located in the heart of Boise, making it an easy stop for locals and visitors alike.

Opening hours
  • MondayClosed
  • Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday3–11 PM
  • SundayClosed

Saltbrush – Food Place | Restaurant in Boise

4.6 270 reviews

Saltbrush is a restaurant located in Boise, Idaho, offering elevated dining with seasonal cuisine and a warm, magnetic space. It is owned by Neil Grant, who brings decades of experience in the restaurant industry, having owned and managed three successful restaurants in his native South Africa. Saltbrush's menu is ingredient-driven and seasonally inspired, with a focus on local products and produce. The restaurant's wine list is a living document that changes frequently, featuring small producers with great farming practices that make vibrant and food-friendly wines. Saltbrush's menu includes dishes such as hamachi crudo, pork chops, and roasted carrots, with prices ranging from $20 to over $50 per entree. The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on Yelp and 3.6 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Saltbrush is open for dinner six nights a week, with a Violet Hour Menu available from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The restaurant accepts reservations for parties of up to 10 guests and offers a walk-in policy for larger groups. Saltbrush offers a unique dining experience, with a focus on seasonal cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–9 PM
  • Tuesday4–9 PM
  • Wednesday4–9 PM
  • Thursday4–9 PM
  • Friday4–10 PM
  • Saturday4–10 PM
  • SundayClosed

Papa Joe’s Restaurant

4.2 1,108 reviews

Papa Joe's is a restaurant that specializes in authentic Italian cuisine. Established in 1985, the restaurant is located in the historic West Rest Furniture Building, also known as "The Totem," in Boise, Idaho. Papa Joe's is committed to serving traditional Italian dishes made with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers. Papa Joe's menu features a variety of Italian classics, including homemade pasta, pizzas, and other traditional dishes. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and passion for Italian cuisine is evident in every dish served. From the building's original use as a furniture manufacturing facility to its current role as a community gathering place, Papa Joe's proudly continues the tradition of serving authentic Italian cuisine. Papa Joe's has a rich history in Boise, and its commitment to serving authentic Italian cuisine has earned it a loyal following. The restaurant's dedication to using fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that every visit to Papa Joe's is both memorable and rooted in Boise's past.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–9 PM

Matador Boise

4.4 2,101 reviews

Matador is a Mexican restaurant and tequila bar with 12 locations across the US, including Seattle, Portland, Boise, and the Carolinas. The restaurant offers a wide variety of scratch-made Mexican dishes, with a focus on using fresh ingredients and creative preparations inspired by the flavors of Mexico. Matador's menu features a range of options, including tacos, burritos, and salads, as well as a selection of tequilas and craft cocktails. Matador's restaurants are known for their vibrant atmosphere and lively happy hour scene, with daily happy hour specials and a wide selection of tequilas and mezcals. The restaurant's interior is designed to reflect the culture and spirit of Mexico, with unique features such as hand-carved tables and custom ironwork. Matador offers a range of private event spaces, including the Añejo Room, the Blanco Room, and the Mezcaleria, which can accommodate groups of up to 60 guests. Matador's menu is designed to complement the depth and complexity of its tequila and mezcal selections, with dishes such as carne asada tacos and guacamole prepared with fresh ingredients and creative preparations. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions. With its unique atmosphere, extensive tequila selection, and creative menu options, Matador is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and authentic Mexican dining experience.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–11 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–11 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–11 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–11 PM
  • Friday11 AM–12 AM
  • Saturday11 AM–12 AM
  • Sunday11 AM–11 PM

Coa de Jima

4.6 731 reviews

Coa De Jima is a fine dining restaurant that offers a unique and refined dining experience inspired by the coastal regions of Mexico. Their menu features traditional Mexican favorites with a modern twist, including fajitas, quesadillas, carne asada, carnitas, and tacos. The restaurant's atmosphere is vibrant and art-filled, with an emphasis on Latin culture and heritage. The restaurant's chef, Enrique Martinez, has been with the Castoro family for 25 years and has designed the flavors and dishes of Coa De Jima. The menu features a variety of options, including seafood and meat dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques sets it apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area. Coa De Jima is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and upscale dining experience in downtown Boise. The restaurant's menu is designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes, and the atmosphere is perfect for special occasions or weekend dinners. With its blend of traditional flavors, modern presentations, and handcrafted cocktails, Coa De Jima is a standout choice for anyone looking for a refined dining experience in downtown Boise.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–10 PM
  • Tuesday4–10 PM
  • Wednesday4–10 PM
  • Thursday4–10 PM
  • Friday4 PM–1 AM
  • Saturday10 AM–1 AM
  • Sunday10 AM–10 PM

Café Olé Restaurant & Cantina | Boise Towne Square

4.1 1,925 reviews

Café Olé is a Mexican cuisine restaurant with two locations in Boise and Meridian. It offers a variety of menu items, including antojitos, sopas, ensaladas, chimichangas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and especiales de la casa. The restaurant also provides catering services and has a happy hour menu. Café Olé's menu features authentic Mexican cuisine, with a focus on traditional dishes and flavors. The restaurant's locations in Boise and Meridian offer a range of hours of operation, with the Meridian location open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm. The Boise location is open Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm and Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm. Café Olé's two locations in Boise and Meridian offer a convenient and delicious dining experience for customers. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Café Olé's menu has something for everyone. With its focus on authentic Mexican cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, Café Olé is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying dining experience.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11 AM–9 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–9 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–8 PM

Barrio – Tequila & Taquería

4.0 190 reviews

Barrio is an upscale tequila bar serving killer Mexican street food. It is located in Boise, Idaho, and offers a variety of elevated tequilas and mezcals, custom-crafted agave-based spirits, and a selection of eight drafts. The bar's menu features a range of delicious options, including street tacos, avenue tacos, and quesadillas. Barrio's atmosphere is described as fun and adult-only, making it a popular destination for those looking for a lively and sophisticated dining experience. The bar's service team is known for being attentive and knowledgeable, with many reviewers praising the team's recommendations and charisma. However, some reviewers have noted that the service can be slow during busy hours, resulting in long wait times for water and acknowledgment. The bar's offerings cater to a wide range of tastes, with something for everyone. From classic margaritas to more adventurous cocktails featuring tequilas and mezcals, Barrio's menu has something for both seasoned and novice drinkers. The bar's food options are equally impressive, with a range of delicious and creative Mexican dishes to choose from. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a more upscale dining experience, Barrio has something to offer.

Opening hours
  • Monday2–9 PM
  • Tuesday2–9 PM
  • Wednesday2–9 PM
  • Thursday2–9 PM
  • Friday12–10 PM
  • Saturday12–10 PM
  • Sunday12–8 PM

Barbacoa Grill

4.6 5,778 reviews

Barbacoa is a fine dining restaurant that offers a multi-dimensional concept, blending fine art, music, and design into every dining experience. It's a place where guests can enjoy a gourmet take on traditional cuisine in an environment that caters to all five senses. Barbacoa's menu features a fusion of Latin, Spanish, and Caribbean flavors, offering a memorable dinner experience that appeals to every palate. The restaurant's atmosphere is designed to stimulate the senses, with a lively atmosphere, rooftop views, and Latin-inspired dishes. Guests can enjoy a vast menu of delectable options, including steaks, seafood, pasta, and vegetarian dishes. Barbacoa's chefs strive to provide a fine dining experience that's both affordable and memorable. The restaurant's unique atmosphere and creative menu make it a favorite among locals and visitors, and it's considered one of the top steakhouses in Boise, Idaho. Barbacoa's menu is designed to offer something for everyone, with a variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant's focus is on providing a unique dining experience that's both memorable and enjoyable. With its creative menu, fine dining atmosphere, and award-winning design, Barbacoa is a standout choice for those seeking a fine dining experience in Boise, Idaho.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–10 PM
  • Tuesday4–10 PM
  • Wednesday4–10 PM
  • Thursday4–10 PM
  • Friday4–11 PM
  • Saturday4–11 PM
  • Sunday4–10 PM