Off the Beaten Path

Northern Idaho is saturated in PNW charm. For outdoor enthusiasts and happy wanderers alike, there’s great grub waiting around every corner. At the farthest reaches of the Idaho border sits SoulShine Bistro. Located in Bonners Ferry (only 30 miles from the Canadian border), this hidden gem serves as a breakfast and lunch joint, with organic coffee and eclectic gifts to boot. Formerly an old hardware store, this restaurant serves homemade pastries that will make you swoon. And before you leave, shop quirky, and locally made wares and souvenirs. 

From there, head south to The Falls Inn, located nine miles north of Priest River. Formerly a United State Forest Service ranger station, this quaint Northern Idaho restaurant serves scrumptious sandwiches and pizzas loaded with toppings. And the best part? You get to enjoy the sounds and views of the Torrelle Waterfall as it runs beneath the building.

For an adventurous meal, try The Cedars Floating Restaurant — the region’s only floating restaurant. Ever wondered what it’s like to dine atop a 1.2-million-pound man-made island? Have no fear, now you can find out. Located at the headwaters of the Spokane River just outside Coeur d’Alene, this local mainstay serves only the finest meats and freshest catches. Indulge in an order of their prime rib or clam chowder — it won’t disappoint.

Southwest Idaho is a mecca of cultural and culinary diversity. Here, visitors will find a long, proud, and storied tradition of delicious dining experiences. We recommend Ruby’s Kitchen as your first stop in this region. Located in the town of McCall, this restaurant is a full-service breakfast, lunch, and coffee joint. Order the famous bubble waffles, breakfast bowl, or Reuben sandwich for a meal that will leave you craving more. And afterward, peruse goodies in their locally-sourced gift and convenience market.

Following Ruby’s, head south toward the town of Cascade. Here, you’ll find The Restaurant at North Shore Lodge and Resort. Guests here can enjoy unfettered access to rural backcountry recreation. Head out on a mountain excursion for the day, or spend some time playing on Warm Lake. Regardless of the adventure you choose, The Restaurant will be waiting for you when you return. Enjoy a selection of homemade pies, locally sourced steaks, and fresh veggies. And if you’re feeling bold, try your hand at the Captain Kirk Burger challenge for a chance to be immortalized in the “Captain Kirk Book.”

From the quiet seclusion of lakeside shores, head even further south to the capital. In Boise, you’ll find a robust and vibrant restaurant scene. Try something unlike anything else you’ve ever had before and head over to Bar Gernika. This historic bar is a Boise Block landmark situated in the heart of the area’s Basque neighborhood. Unwind from the day with a glass of wine and an order of croquettes, lamb stew, or Basque peppers.

As you enter Idaho High Country, you’ll find reservoirs and water recreation rules in this region. From Devils Creek to Deep Creek, Daniels, and Crowther Reservoirs, there’s no limit to the amount of fishing, swimming, boating, and birding you can do. From Southern Idaho head southeast toward The Pines Restaurant in Malad City for some incredible home cooking. Here, the portions are large and the staff is friendly. 

Further north is the Portneuf Grille located at the Riverside Hot Springs Inn and Spa in Lava Hot Springs. Guests can spend the day luxuriating at the spa and round off the experience at Portneuf, where Executive Chef Alonzo Thomas is dedicated to curating a relaxing atmosphere and serving only the highest quality dishes. We think after a day spent at the spa, there’s no reason your dinner shouldn’t be as divine as the thermal hot springs on site. You can’t go wrong with the ahi tuna or cioppino.

And in Pocatello, treat your body to a healthy and refreshing meal. At The Healthier Place, guests can fuel up for a day of adventure with gourmet sandwiches, farm-fresh salads, and a drink from the organic juice bar. With gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and organic options, there’s something here for everyone. You can’t go wrong with a grass-fed bacon burger, a cashew sandwich, or a serving of the world’s best sweet potato fries.

As you make your way toward Central Idaho, experience some of the nation’s most dramatic and spectacular scenery. With a little bit of everything from every region, Central Idaho sits at the epicenter of the state and represents all things-Idaho. The food here perfectly captures the essence and dedication of locals to delivering farm-fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

At Zou 75 in Hailey, dine on world-class Japanese fare in the mountains. With fresh fish caught and served daily, guests can enjoy some of the best sushi Idaho has to offer. Sample the smoked hamachi and trout, Zou style poke bowl, or the tiger roll — you’ll be glad you did.

Head north to Salmon, and you’ll find two town favorites: Junkyard Bistro and Shady Nook Supper Club and Lounge. At Junkyard, dine on some of the world’s best chicken salad and mushroom soup. At Shady Nook, we highly recommend trying the local rainbow trout dinner or the bacon-wrapped filet mignon. Spend the day exploring the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and wind down with great grub in this scenic mountain town.