Is there anything more simple and delicious than a good sandwich? Cold or toasted, piled high with toppings, and deliciously served on the freshest bread you've ever tasted, this is one lunchbox favorite that is taken to new levels of creative perfection in the adult world. But sometimes, there are certain restaurants and delis that are famous for one particular sammy. These specialty handheld treats come in all shapes and sizes in the Gem State, but we've rounded up just a few must-try Idaho sandwiches that are particularly tasty and unique, and perfect for devouring alongside a piping-hot bowl of soup this season.
1. Chicken Sandwich, Juniper (Boise)
This breakfast-brunch-anytime sandwich is definitely one of more unique choices! Juicy, flavorful, crispy fried chicken is served with a biting chipotle remoulade sauce and bun with the added contrast of grilled kale. It ain't your momma's fried chicken--but it'll make your tastebuds swoon just a little. For another option on the brunch side of the menu, go for the chicken in a biscuit, which is served with eggs and bacon in a heavenly sausage gravy, all wrapped into one warm and gooey dish of sheer perfection.
Address: 211 N 8th St. Boise, ID 83702
2. Philly Cheesesteak, Stax (McCall)
Who doesn't love a good Philly? But rather than one of those generic cheesesteaks on a store-bought roll, how about a massive Philly Cheesesteak, smothered in cheesey fried goodness and nestled atop a hot, freshly-made bun of epic proportions? We thought so.
3. American Kobe-Style Beef Sandwich, Bardenay (Coeur d'Alene)
There's a lot to love about this restaurant-distillery, and Bardenay's creative sandwiches never fail to impress. Grilled Snake River Farms flank steak comes dripping with melty provolone cheese and a creamy horseradish, all served on multi-grain caraway focaccia bread that is thick enough to withstand the juiciness, but soft enough to melt in your mouth. But perhaps the best part is the burgundy and rosemary au jus, perfect for dipping and adding just enough extra moisture to take this sandwich up a notch. The best part... Bardenay has multiple locations, so even if you're not in CdA, you can give this bad boy a try... you just won't get the magical waterfront view to go with it.
Address: 1710 W Riverstone Dr, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
4. Huckleberry Heaven, Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese (Coeur d'Alene)
If there's one thing every Idahoan loves, it's a bucket full of huckleberries. While this sammy is seasonal, it's a must-try for anyone who craves the juicy tartness of a perfectly ripe huckleberry, but still wants to get their carnivorous fix. This braised beef shortrib sandwich is topped with gooey melted white cheddar, caramelized onions, a horseradish aioli for a little kick, and the perfect amount of sweet huckleberry barbecue sauce to balance it out. Sound phenomenal? Check out what else Meltz has in the works.
Address: 1735 W Kathleen Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
5. Henry's Fork, Snakebite (Idaho Falls)
For mind-blowing chicken sandwiches, locals know that the Snakebite is where the real food is at, all named in true Western style or after Idaho landmarks. One must-try is the Henry's Fork Sandwich, which comes layered with spicy Caribbean jerk chicken and topped with sauteed onions, roasted red peppers, grilled pineapple, and melted swiss cheese. YUM!
Address: 401 Park Ave. Idaho Falls, ID 83402
6. Pork & Chutney, Junkyard Bistro (Salmon)
If tender pork, slow cooked and sauteed with a sweet housemade chutney, smooth cream cheese, and bright spinach leaves on a toasted baguette sounds remarkable, you'll love this hidden gem's tasty creation. But keep an eye out--Junkyard likes to shake things up a bit and transform their pork sandwiches into tasty new creations, like the Vietnames Banh Mi, or the Sweet and Spicy Pork sandwich, garnished with cilantro and lime.
Address: 405 Main St, Salmon, ID 83462
7. Meatloaf Sandwich, Baxters on Cedar (Sandpoint)
Tender, robust meatloaf served with Walla Walla sweet onion and a house-made BBQ sauce rests atop a fluffy bun in this huge sandwich that has become a diner favorite. Fresh, bold, and with just the right amount of gourmet kick, you can get Baxters' world-famous meatloaf on mini sliders instead, or feel free to add on a lamb slider to really blow your tastebuds out of the water! These babies are made with tender Moroccan-spiced lamb, roasted poblano peppers, and topped with a cool cucumber mint sauce.
Address: 109 Cedar St, Sandpoint, ID 83864
8. Grilled Salmon Burger, Sawtooth Club (Ketchum)
Idaho --fishing haven that it is--is no stranger to showcasing fresh, delicious fish dishes on the menu. At Ketchum's Sawtooth Club--historically tucked in the heart of Sun Valley--the catch of the day is served up in a delicious sammy that is just as beautiful as it is delicious. The Grilled Salmon Burger, topped with homemade lemon-dill aioli, is a refreshing and tart meal dish that is creative Idaho the way it should be.
Address: 231 N Main St. Ketchum, ID 83340
9. Pastrami, Grit (Eagle)
Pastrami is without a doubt the tangy mother of all meats, and the true test of any sandwich shop. Grit does it right with curing their pastrami in-house. Instead of the traditional sauerkraut, they add a slaw of fresh grated vegetables that have been brined to keep them crunchy. They also make their Thousand Island dressing in house as well and pile on the meat.
Address: 360 S Eagle Rd, Eagle, ID 83616
10. Turkey Brie, Bleubird (Boise)
You might not know it from the outside, but you might be clued in by the line weaving out of the door and down the sidewalk--husband and wife-owned Bleubird whips up some of the best sandwiches in Boise. Ridiculously fresh, handcrafted to order, quality truly makes a difference at this downtown gem, which features creative and gourmet sandwiches, handmade sodas, and fresh soups. While Boiseans adore everything found at this sandwich shop, one sammy rises to the top as a well-deserved favorite: the Turkey Brie. Set on a bed of delicious, airy bread and topped with creamy fromage d’affinois with herbs, shaved apple, greens, fig preserves, and dijon. Your eyes might just roll back in your head from the deliciousness! Other sure-fire diner favorites: the classic Grilled Cheese or the Italian.
Address: 224 N 10th St. Boise, ID 83702
From the simple to the incredible, these are some of our favorites - what are yours? Tell us all about them in the comments!
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