Idaho, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, is also a food lover’s paradise. With its unique blend of traditional American cuisine, farm-to-table freshness, and innovative twists, the Gem State has caught the attention of food enthusiasts and TV personalities alike. One of the most popular food shows on television, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, has indeed visited Idaho, showcasing the state’s diverse culinary scene. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Idaho eateries featured on the show, highlighting their signature dishes, and exploring the state’s food culture.
A Brief History of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, hosted by Guy Fieri, premiered in 2007 on the Food Network. The show’s concept is simple yet engaging: Guy travels across the United States in his 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, visiting local eateries, sampling their signature dishes, and sharing their stories. Over the years, the show has become a staple of food television, featuring over 1,000 episodes and showcasing a wide range of cuisines from coast to coast.
Idaho’s Culinary Scene
Idaho’s food culture is deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. The state is famous for its potatoes, but its culinary landscape extends far beyond this staple crop. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal food producers, Idaho’s food scene is characterized by its emphasis on local ingredients, traditional techniques, and innovative flavors.
Idaho’s Signature Dishes
Some of Idaho’s signature dishes include:
- Finger steaks: breaded and deep-fried steak strips, often served with a side of fries or salad
- Huckleberry pie: a sweet and tangy dessert made with fresh huckleberries, a type of small, round fruit native to the region
- Trout: Idaho is renowned for its trout fishing, and the fish is often served grilled, pan-seared, or smoked
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Idaho
Guy Fieri and his team have visited several Idaho eateries over the years, showcasing the state’s diverse culinary scene. Here are some of the Idaho restaurants featured on the show:
The Capitol Cellar
- Location: Boise
- Featured on: Season 10, Episode 13
- Signature dish: Finger steaks
- The Capitol Cellar is a Boise institution, serving up classic American comfort food with a twist. Guy raved about their finger steaks, which are breaded and deep-fried to perfection.
The Modern Hotel and Bar
- Location: Boise
- Featured on: Season 15, Episode 10
- Signature dish: Huckleberry BBQ sauce-glazed pork ribs
- The Modern Hotel and Bar is a trendy eatery in downtown Boise, serving up creative cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine. Guy loved their huckleberry BBQ sauce-glazed pork ribs, which are slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
The Snake Pit
- Location: Meridian
- Featured on: Season 20, Episode 10
- Signature dish: The “Pit” burger
- The Snake Pit is a casual, no-frills eatery in Meridian, serving up classic American fare with a twist. Guy raved about their “Pit” burger, which features a beef patty topped with cheese, bacon, and a fried egg.
Other Idaho Eateries Worth Visiting
While these restaurants have been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, there are many other Idaho eateries worth visiting. Here are a few recommendations:
The Fork & Alavita
- Location: Boise
- Cuisine: Italian
- Signature dish: Handmade pasta
- The Fork & Alavita is a cozy Italian eatery in downtown Boise, serving up handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
The Riverside Grill
- Location: Coeur d’Alene
- Cuisine: American
- Signature dish: Grilled trout
- The Riverside Grill is a waterfront eatery in Coeur d’Alene, serving up fresh seafood and steaks. Their grilled trout is a must-try, served with a side of lemon butter and herbs.
Conclusion
Idaho’s culinary scene is a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by food enthusiasts and TV personalities alike. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has showcased the state’s diverse culinary landscape, highlighting its unique blend of traditional American cuisine, farm-to-table freshness, and innovative twists. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Idaho’s eateries are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Plan Your Idaho Food Road Trip
If you’re inspired to explore Idaho’s culinary scene, here are some tips for planning your food road trip:
Start in Boise
- Boise is the state capital and a hub for foodies. Visit The Capitol Cellar, The Modern Hotel and Bar, and The Fork & Alavita for a taste of the city’s culinary scene.
Head to Coeur d’Alene
- Coeur d’Alene is a beautiful lakeside town with a thriving food scene. Visit The Riverside Grill for fresh seafood and steaks, and try some of the local wineries for a taste of Idaho’s wine country.
Explore the Countryside
- Idaho’s countryside is dotted with small towns and rural eateries, each with its own unique charm. Take a drive through the rolling hills and scenic valleys, and stop at local cafes and restaurants along the way.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Idaho is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a fan of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives or just looking for a new culinary adventure, the Gem State is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Has Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Been to Idaho?
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, a popular Food Network show, has indeed visited Idaho. The show’s host, Guy Fieri, has explored various eateries across the state, showcasing the unique flavors and culinary delights that Idaho has to offer. From classic diners to drive-ins and dives, Guy has sampled a wide range of local specialties, giving viewers a taste of the state’s rich food culture.
During his visits to Idaho, Guy has featured several restaurants, cafes, and food establishments that serve everything from traditional comfort food to innovative, farm-to-table cuisine. Some of the featured eateries have become local favorites, while others have gained national recognition thanks to the show’s exposure. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some new dining ideas, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has provided a culinary roadmap for exploring the best of Idaho’s food scene.
What Kind of Restaurants Does Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Typically Feature?
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives typically features casual, laid-back eateries that serve classic American comfort food, as well as unique, locally inspired dishes. The show often highlights restaurants that have been family-owned and operated for generations, as well as newer establishments that are pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation. From diners and drive-ins to dives and food trucks, the show celebrates the diversity and richness of American food culture.
Some common types of restaurants featured on the show include classic diners serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes; drive-ins specializing in BBQ, tacos, or other street food; and dives offering everything from seafood to soul food. The show also often features restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients, supporting the local food movement and highlighting the importance of community-driven cuisine.
What Are Some of the Best Restaurants Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Idaho?
Some of the top restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Idaho include Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro in Boise, known for its creative breakfast dishes and farm-to-table ingredients; The Modern Hotel and Bar in Boise, which serves up gourmet burgers and craft cocktails; and The Snake Pit in Meridian, a classic drive-in serving up burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes.
Other notable mentions include The STIL in Idaho Falls, which offers a unique blend of Asian-fusion cuisine and craft beer; and Ernie’s Steakhouse in Pocatello, a family-owned steakhouse serving up top-quality meats and seafood. These restaurants, among others, have been showcased on the show, giving viewers a taste of the best that Idaho’s food scene has to offer.
How Does Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Choose the Restaurants They Feature?
The team behind Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives uses a combination of research, recommendations, and old-fashioned detective work to find the best restaurants to feature on the show. They scour online reviews, food blogs, and social media to identify eateries that are generating buzz and serving up unique, delicious dishes.
Additionally, the show’s producers often rely on local food experts, chefs, and restaurateurs to recommend hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path eateries that might not be well-known to outsiders. Once a list of potential restaurants has been compiled, the team conducts thorough research, including site visits and tastings, to narrow down the selection and choose the most compelling and representative eateries to feature on the show.
Can I Visit the Restaurants Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Idaho?
Absolutely! Many of the restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Idaho are still open and welcoming visitors. In fact, being featured on the show has helped many of these eateries gain national recognition and attract new customers from all over the country.
Before visiting any of the featured restaurants, it’s a good idea to check their websites or social media accounts to confirm their hours of operation, menu offerings, and any other important details. Some restaurants may also offer special “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”-themed menus or promotions, so be sure to ask about those when you visit.
Are There Any Other Food Shows or Resources That Feature Idaho Restaurants?
Yes, there are several other food shows and resources that feature Idaho restaurants. Some popular food shows that have visited Idaho include Man v. Food, which has featured several restaurants in Boise and other parts of the state, and Food Network’s Road Tasted, which has highlighted some of Idaho’s unique food specialties.
In addition to food shows, there are also several online resources and blogs that showcase Idaho’s food scene, including the Idaho Statesman’s food section, which features restaurant reviews and recipes, and the Idaho Food Bank’s website, which highlights local food initiatives and events. These resources can provide valuable insights and recommendations for anyone looking to explore Idaho’s culinary landscape.
How Can I Plan a Culinary Road Trip Through Idaho?
Planning a culinary road trip through Idaho can be a fun and delicious adventure. Start by researching the state’s top restaurants, food festivals, and culinary events, and create an itinerary that includes a mix of urban and rural destinations.
Consider visiting during peak food seasons, such as summer for farm-to-table produce or fall for apple harvests, and be sure to check the hours of operation and reservation policies for any restaurants you want to visit. You can also use online resources like food blogs and travel websites to get recommendations and insider tips on the best places to eat and drink in Idaho.