When your stomach starts to growl, there’s no need to settle for some mediocre restaurant. In the Gem State, there are bucket-list-worthy restaurants all over the state that will make you want to go back for more. From hole-in-the-wall sandwich shops to classy steakhouses, you’ll find some restaurants in Idaho that are not only delicious but unforgettable as well. Check out this list of 12 bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Idaho that you need to try, one for every month of the year.
1. January: The Roundhouse, Sun Valley
The Roundhouse is the perfect place to eat during the winter months. This restaurant sits atop Bald Mountain in Sun Valley and requires a ride on the Roundhouse Express Gondola to reach it. Once at this restaurant, you’ll have gorgeous views of Sun Valley, and there are a variety of tasty entrees to enjoy from burgers and sandwiches to duck and salmon.
2. February: Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese, Coeur d’Alene
On a cold winter day, there is nothing better than warm comfort food and that’s exactly what you will find at Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese. However, at this Idaho restaurant, the grilled cheese sandwiches are extreme and are filled with the most delicious ingredients. While you can always customize your grilled cheese sandwich, we recommend trying one of the specialty options. Make sure you try this restaurant’s macaroni and cheese as well!
3. March: Rupe’s Burgers, Blackfoot
Rupe’s Burgers is a staple in Blackfoot. It is a no-frills restaurant and you will receive a burger and fries that are cooked to perfection. The menu features a long list of tasty burgers and sandwiches, so give yourself plenty of time to choose. We highly recommend you order a shake to create the perfect meal.
4. April: Boise Fry Company, Boise
At Boise Fry Company, the French fries are the main meal. This unique Idaho restaurant offers a variety of potato types, seasonings, cuts, and dipping sauces so you can customize your French fries. In fact, there are more than 1,000 different combinations you can create at this restaurant in Idaho. And don’t worry — you can also order a burger on the side!
5. May: Snake Pit, Enaville
The Snake Pit is one of the oldest restaurants in Idaho and has been a local landmark for more than 135 years. This building has a fascinating history and has served many purposes and had many names. However, today, when you walk inside this Idaho restaurant, you’ll be greeted with a cozy, western atmosphere and friendly service. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at this restaurant and you’ll find everything from breakfast favorites to burgers, steak, and shrimp.
6. June: BACON, Boise
If you love bacon, this will become your favorite place to eat in Idaho. This restaurant has one specialty: bacon. All of the items on the menu feature crispy, perfect slices of bacon. At this bacon-themed restaurant, there are more than five different types of house-cured bacon to choose from and each will bring a smile to your face.
7. July: The Sandwich Tree, Idaho Falls
Whether you want to go on a picnic or you just want a sandwich that is packed with meat and veggies, the Sandwich Tree in Idaho Falls is the place to go. This hole-in-the-wall restaurant may not look like much on the outside, but once you take a bite of the sandwiches, you’ll understand. There are dozens of sandwiches on the menu but we suggest the Angel Special — you won’t regret it.
8. August: Taphouse Unchained, Coeur d’Alene
Taphouse Unchained is a cycling-themed bar and restaurant located in downtown Coeur d’Alene and near the Centennial Bike Trail. While the menu is tasty and the selection of brews and ciders is excellent, what really sets this themed pub apart is the remarkable decorations. You will see bike wheels hanging from the ceiling, little gears placed throughout the decor, and even pedals attached to the barstools. Taphouse Unchained in Coeur d'Alene is certainly one restaurant that deserves a spot on every bucket list.
9. September: Elevation 486, Twin Falls
You can dine while experiencing the most incredible scenic views at Elevation 486 in Twin Falls. This unique restaurant is located on the south rim of the Snake River Canyon and sits 486 feet above the Snake River. While you’ll come for the views, the food will keep you coming back. This restaurant serves classic pub cuisine with a modern flair and an assortment of beverages including delicious cocktails. You can learn more about this one-of-a-kind place to eat in Idaho on the Elevation 486 website.
10. October: Beverly’s, Coeur d’Alene
Beverly’s is another restaurant in Idaho with the most stunning views. This fine-dining restaurant is located on the seventh floor of Coeur d’Alene Resort so you will enjoy views of the lake and surrounding area while you eat delectable cuisine. This restaurant serves various entrees from the land and the sea and offers a large selection of fine wines.
11. November: Fork, Boise
Located in downtown Boise is Fork, a popular restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. This restaurant prides itself on being "loyal to local," meaning all of its key ingredients come from local farmers, brewers, and producers in the Northwest. Fork has a large menu with many options, but we recommend you save room for its signature warm butter cake. For more information on this restaurant, check out Fork's website.
12. December: Pioneer Saloon, Ketchum
The Pioneer Saloon is a landmark and iconic restaurant in Idaho. Not only does this western-themed restaurant in Idaho boast the most friendly and cozy atmosphere but its food is delicious. The prime rib and steaks are massive and the seafood is fresh and prepared to perfection. During your visit, make sure you check out the décor on the wall as this was a favorite place to eat for novelist Ernest Hemingway and some of his personal belongings are on display.
Are there any bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Idaho that you'd add to this list? What are some of your favorite places to eat in the Gem State? Let us and your fellow Idahoans know in the comments!
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