Chandlers Steakhouse

Even with a beginner's knowledge of wine, anyone with the right information and palate can select, order, and taste wine like a connoisseur. Here are some tips and things to look out for when visiting fine dining downtown Boise restaurants to help you order wine like a pro.  Don’t Feel Intimidated At many restaurants, the wine menu can read more like a book than a list. However, you should not let this lead you to analysis paralysis. Many restaurants just want to give their guests as many options as possible, so the more options, the better, as your new favorite wine is bound to be somewhere on the list—you just need to find it. Start with a Basic Understanding As you stare at the extensive wine list, you’ll probably see many different French words that quite possibly mean nothing to you, or might appear a bit familiar. There’s no reason you should be expected to understand the difference between a Riesling and a Bordeaux off the top of your head, but if y

The weather is starting to take a turn for the frigid, and while memories of paddle boarding on Quinn's Pond and the seemingly endless sunsets of the summer and fall are in the rear view mirror, as any local will tell you, the fun is just beginning here in Boise. Here are a few fun things to do in and around Boise this winter.  Hit the Slopes at Bogus Basin Boise is a hot destination in the winter due in part to its proximity to Bogus Basin Ski Resort. Additionally, the Treasure Valley area is perfect for a variety of winter sports and activities. This means whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for a challenging rush or would rather go tubing down a hill or even snowshoe through the frosted forest, you can find the winter activity that suits you. If you’re headed to Bogus Basin, your winter adventure is only about a 40-minute drive up the mountain from Boise. Warm Up with Dinner in a Cozy Atmosphere After spending the day outside in the frigid te

Emerging trends in fine dining can be very tricky in a number of ways. For one, simply identifying what those trends are taking place is difficult. In some cases, they can emerge, be the rage for a few months, and then disappear completely. Even more difficult, and more important by far, is accurately identifying which trends deserve to taken seriously and incorporated into a menu and which are flash-in-the-pan fads customers will lose interest in after a month. That can be particularly true for restaurateurs and their customers outside of the major metropolises. After all, the fine dining dynamic of New York City and the culture of fine dining Boise supports can be quite different. That’s not to say that Boise is underrepresented by excellent restaurants or even by culinary innovation. Just the opposite, in fact, but smaller markets aren’t as equipped to support a wide collection of high-end, niche restaurants capitalizing on a recent trend. That can make incorporating trends in

Bars are such a ubiquitous feature of fine dining restaurants, asking why they became and remain such an important feature of fine dining may seem moot. Additionally, the purpose of the bar may seem sufficiently obvious to make a discussion of it seem unnecessary. It’s there because people like to have alcoholic drinks during dinner, or a nightcap afterwards. While people enjoying a drink with dinner is obviously not an insignificant part of a bar’s appeal, from the downtown Boise restaurants to the most exclusive New York eateries, there’s actually a far more complex and interesting series of reasons that bars and their product enhance the dining experience. And that enhancement of the experience goes beyond serving drinks that make people feel good after drinking them, although that doesn’t hurt. The Basics Obviously, there are some basic, pragmatic reasons it’s good to have a bar in a fine restaurant. It’s good for the restaurant because bars tend to have a pretty decent marg

There are a lot of good reasons to love the Treasure Valley in particular and Idaho more generally, too many to list here. This specific reason is one you may not have known even existed: American Wagyu beef. If a kind of beef available from the fine dining Boise has to offer doesn’t seem like it should qualify as a good reason to be here, read on. What is Wagyu Beef? Wagyu beef is widely regarded as the finest beef in the world. Wagyu refers to a specific group of Japanese cattle breeds. The most commonly raised of them is the Japanese Black. These particular cattle are special because they are born with a unique genetic predisposition that results in the beef produced by them having a higher percentage of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than the beef produced by typical cattle. Those higher omega counts result in an increased ratio of monounsaturated fats to saturated fats. And those technical specifics matter because the result is beef that is the most finely

For seafood lovers, living in landlocked Idaho can be frustrating. Out on the coast there are paradises, utopias in which that holy grail of aquatic cuisine can be found— fresh seafood. Fish, shellfish, and cephalopods right out of the ocean and onto your plate. And for all of Idaho’s charms, these seafood lovers despairingly acknowledge that’s simply not an experience we’re going to have here. Not so fast. Admittedly, Boise is never going to be a coastal city, but that doesn’t mean that landlubbers in the Treasure Valley need abandon all hope of enjoying a steaming lobster or perfectly-seared tuna fillet. They just have to be a little more creative. And it helps to not only know where to look for fresh fare within the fine dining Boise has to offer, but also to recognize the reality of seafood freshness. The Myths and Realities of “Fresh” It’s not just the taste that suffers when seafood isn’t fresh—it can be downright dangerous. So it’s no wonder such a premiu

Check out these timeless Boise experiences that embrace the beautiful season of fall in Idaho’s capital.  The Old Idaho Penitentiary Transport yourself back to the desperate days of the Old West at the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Opened in 1872 to hold some of the West’s most notorious criminals, you can now experience over 100 years of unique prison history. Sit in Solitary Confinement, view story-filled cell blocks, and the “recently built” Gallows.  This site features thirty historic buildings, special exhibitions, and events and programs throughout the year. From Paranormal Investigations to Movie Showings, check out their schedule to see the Old Idaho Penitentiary at night for a different kind of experience.  Boise Greenbelt Boise is well-known the “city of trees,” making autumn a beautiful time of year in the Treasure Valley. The Boise Greenbelt is no exception. Lined with centuries-old trees, the Greenbelt follows the Boise River for over 20 miles up to Lu

No matter where you are in the world, lobster is fine dining seafood that is simultaneously a specialty and a delicacy. Maine lobsters are famous for their taste and their unique appearance. With sweet and succulent meat that stands above cold-water lobsters around the world, Maine lobster is the world’s most prized seafood.  Lobsters were harvested commercially starting in the nineteenth century. Northern New England was a hot spot for fishing and catching lobster. New York and Boston put Maine lobster on the seafood industry map because of their relenting demand for this sweet, firm seafood delicacy. Now you can find fresh seafood in Boise restaurants and other landlocked areas around the United States because of air transportation. But at the time, lobster was a regional delicacy that could only be served within a few hundred miles of the coasts of Maine.  There are two types of lobster - cold water and warm water. The latter are caught off the coast of Asia, t

Boise is quickly becoming a hot spot for fine diners and foodies across the Northwest. Idaho’s culinary scene has been one of its best-kept secrets for the past ten years, but is starting to get national recognition from publications like Thrillist, People Magazine, and more. The fine dining Boise scene is exceptionally high ranking, from steakhouses to breweries and more. But what if you’re looking for a step up from traditional fine dining? Sommeliers are a key element that can take a dining experience from high-quality to memorable. What’s a sommelier? They are a wine professional with formal training in all aspects of wine and food pairings, service, and wine storage. It’s a very difficult ranking to achieve in the restaurant industry because of the requirement for extensive knowledge and management background. A modern sommelier may also manage the restaurant staff, enhancing your dining experience from beginning to end. But what’s most important is their in-

Boise is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing areas in the nation. From great quality of life to an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, it’s no question that Boise is thriving. Looking for something to do this August as summer comes to a close? Check out these local favorites. Alive After Five Who doesn’t love free live music? Alive After Five is located in the Grove Plaza every Wednesday, June through August. August’s musicians feature The Talbott Brothers, Rippin’ Brass, The Brevet, and more. Celebrating 32 years of Boise’s Summer Concert Series, every concert is free to attend and is supported by several local businesses and companies.  If you’re looking for live music Boise entertainers, Chandlers is the best spot.  Chandlers One of the best downtown Boise restaurants , Chandlers is a famous local steakhouse with fresh seafood and an extensive wine selection. They also host jazz music performed by talented local musicians every night of

Out of all of the words used to describe Idaho, “local” is one of the more common ones. Idahoans are proud of their local heritage, from agricultural giants to quaint Basque businesses. Hotel 43 is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Boise, and one of the more memorable locations in Idaho’s capital.  How did the Hotel get its name? The appealing yet mysterious title originates from a few Idahoan facts. The Boise Metropolitan area lies on the 43rd parallel, marking the fabulous location of the Hotel and its local roots. Idaho was the 43rd state to enter the Union in 1890, making the number doubly important to the state’s history.  Hotel 43 is centered in downtown Boise, an upcoming area with countless activities, nightly live music Boise entertainers, and popular businesses started and ran by locals. Walk down by the Boise River to experience a natural oasis in an urban center, or book Hotel 43’s Shakespeare Package for a cultured night at the Idaho S

Boise is a beautiful city in southwest Idaho, home to countless outdoor activities, a growing culinary scene, and talented local entertainment and fun events. From downtown Boise restaurants to excellent entertainment, the Treasure Valley has a plethora of romantic options. Planning a date night can be daunting with so many choices! Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just want a night out with your favorite person, here’s a selection of fun Downtown Boise summer date night ideas. Alive After Five Stop by the Grove Plaza after 5PM on Wednesdays during the summer for free concerts and local entertainment. Many restaurants and businesses downtown also offer happy hour specials, local entertainment, and other fun activities during Alive After Five. Find a band that you and your partner will enjoy, then walk around the city for happy hour or dinner. Julia Davis Park The Julia Davis Park is Boise’s oldest park, and one of Idaho’s prettiest spots along the

June is officially Idaho’s Wine Month, a summertime event showcasing the growing wine industry in Idaho. The Idaho Wine Commission is dedicated to being the voice of the wine industry and helping grow awareness around excellent wineries and vineyards in the area. Idaho is quickly becoming one of the best-emerging wine regions in the United States.  People Magazine featured Boise for its culinary scene and lauded wine region in May 2018. “Tour one of the area’s more than 30 wineries […] in the Snake River Valley.” The region is an American Viticultural Area is well-known for producing vines that have sweeter yet still acidically balanced wines, such as rieslings and rosés. Telaya Winery is a Boise local business that focuses on old-world inspired and handcrafted wines. From their 2015 Boushey Petit Verdot to the 2016 Anam, their wines are made with Idaho grapes right in the heart of Boise. 3 Horse Ranch was founded in Eagle, Idaho and has been a staple of fine dining

Named one of the best places to live by the U.S. News & World Report in 2016, Boise is a “recreationalist’s paradise.” From the abundance of local restaurants downtown to the natural beauty of the outdoors mere minutes from the city center, Idaho’s capital is quickly becoming the place to be for families and millennials alike.  Looking for something fun to do in Boise? Here are a few local favorites for the summer season. Boise River Greenbelt The beautiful Boise River Greenbelt stretches 25 miles along the Boise River from the city of Eagle to Lucky Peak State Park. Built in the late 1960s, the Greenbelt has become a scenic landmark pathway for commuters, local Treasure Valley citizens, and visitors from around the world. Bike along the tree-lined path or take a leisurely walk and use bridges to cross the fast-flowing river. The City of Boise has maintained the Greenbelt for almost 50 years and are proud to offer unlimited access to the Boise River. Enjoy a t

Food brings everyone together, whether at home or a local restaurant. Community revolves around activities that anyone can do or likes, so food is usually the event that makes everyone excited and come together. Restaurants that invest in the local community understand the valuable nature of natives. Providing services that are not available anywhere else, being a location for artistry and entertainment, and supplying events and education about food and drinks can all be indicators of a restaurant that loves locals. Though geographically large, Idaho has one of the smallest state populations in the United States. Downtown Boise restaurants that focus on Gem State Pride through local ingredients and Idaho entertainers stand apart from fast food hubs and chains that are quickly arriving.    Many fine dining restaurants in land-locked states are starved for fresh seafood. Despite it not being a local ingredient, finding the best place for delicious seafaring delicacies and pair

Successful restaurants understand that surviving food trends and establishing an experienced chef are imperative to stay competitive. But when it comes to fine dining Boise  restaurants, the atmosphere is equally as relevant as the menu. Being able to incorporate the menu with the decor, service, and entertainment is the sign of a restaurant that wants patrons to have an experience rather than simply a meal. Here are a few ways to tell if a local restaurant has true fine-dining experience apart from their menu. Ambiance Attention to the details factors into the quality of a dining experience. Use of space, comfort, and lighting are all features that can change a restaurant from a local restaurant to a world-class service fine dining establishment. Making sure that the dishes on the menu match the ambiance, such as jazz music to match a steakhouse and seafood restaurant, truly transforms the dining experience from excellent to second-to-none. Whether looking for a high ene

Loved by seafood connoisseurs around the world, fresh halibut is one of the best seafood options available when in season. A member of the flatfish family, the average halibut weighs anywhere from 30-50 pounds each, full of sweeter flavors and firm texture. In landlocked states like Idaho, it can be difficult to find seafood Boise restaurants that have halibut on the menu. Never tried halibut before? Here are a few characteristics of this delicious seafood dish, best eaten when excellently prepared by experienced chefs. Season Halibut can be found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans but is most commonly caught along the Pacific Coast. Compared to other seafood like salmon and cod, it has the longest season, making it a desirable species to target. As early as April, the Pacific Halibut is in season in areas like Hawaii and California. By May, fishing for halibut in Alaska is in full swing, considered one of the most unspoiled ecosystems Alaska has to offer fisherman.

Home to more than 50 wineries across the state, Idaho has one of the steadiest growing wine industries in the United States. The last 30 years have proven Idaho to have ideal weather and soil for some of the best wines cultivated in the Pacific Northwest. Award-winning, locally run, and premium results are all common factors of many Idaho wineries established in recent years. Here are a couple of Idaho wineries that stand out for their handcrafted wines, which are often featured in downtown Boise restaurants . 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards has been producing wine in the foothills above Eagle, Idaho for over 15 years. Founders Gary and Martha Cunningham left California for the beautiful landscape and welcoming community of Idaho. Together, they founded 3 Horse Ranch and built it into the largest family-owned winery in Idaho, focusing on distinctive fruits and Italian and Austrian winemaking techniques. Proudest of their Cabernet and Syrah, 3 Horse Ranch Vine