bar bar volume 3

Volume 3

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Editorialeditor: Rachael Daigle

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CirCulationShea Sutton

[email protected] About Town: Stan Jackson

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inDepenDenTly OwneD AnD OperATeD newspAper.

Volume 3

cover: Main Street Bistro this page: Tom Grainey’s

happy hour page

Your Bar to Bar GuideThis slick little third edition of Bar Bar, Boise Weekly’s annual

tribute to the art of getting your party on, is meant to help you find your party and dominate it. For BW, owning the party means having our own drink. As in having a drink named after us or created for us. For this issue, we’ve asked the city’s best bartenders to create something in our honor. The six bartenders who’ve created the cocktails published here are the top six final-ists for Boise’s Best Bartender in last year’s Best of Boise contest. They’ve each created a cocktail, and being the boozers we are, we’ve tried every one of them. So can you. Belly up at Pengilly’s,

Happy Fish, The Modern, Front Door, Red Feather or Parrilla. We also spent some quality time learning how to make the drinks. Scan the QR code on this page to watch a video of all six bartenders hard at work. Thanks to each of the bartenders who took the time to craft a drink. And also thanks to 44 North

Vodka for volunteering to be the liquid guinea pig. The results, if we do say so ourselves, are intoxicating.

—Rachael Daigle

Look for these icons as your guide to the guide.

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8 | Bar Guide 2011 | boiseweekly www.BOiseweekly.cOM

Years bartending: 18inspiration for drink: Midnight wanted to stay true to the atmo-sphere at Parrilla, so he created a tropical concoction he imag-ines people enjoying on a summer day.hates to make: Mojitos

Mon Cheri1.5 oz. 44° North Rainier

cherry Vodka1.5 oz. coco lopez cut

with half-and-half1 oz. fresh sweetened lime juice.5 oz. fresh strawberry pureeFloat of goslings dark rum

Shake together and serve over ice. garnish with lime, rum-infused Rainier cherries and maraschino cherries.

GuY MidniGht/PARRillA gRill See PAge

37FoR MoRe

10th Street Station104 N. 10th St., 208-344-2677

A subterranean space with plush rolling chairs, sports memorabilia and enough smoke in the air to set off the fire alarms.

anGell’S999 Main St., 208-342-4900angellsbarandgrill.com Angell’s is known for its steaks and seafood, but its bar deserves attention of its own. classy, yet casual. in warmer weather, the patio is a lush respite downtown.

BalConY CluB150 N. Eighth St., Ste. 226, 208-336-1313thebalconyclub.com

it may be the fiercest gay bar in town, but the straight crowd can’t stay away. Ditch the Top 40 beats for the real dance deal and groove all night with Boise’s glam queens.

Bar Gernika202 S. Capitol Blvd., 208-344-2175bargernika.com

Basque favorites in a cozy bar. Belly up for one of the many imported brews or do it Basque style with red wine and tapas.

BardenaY610 Grove St., 208-426-0538bardenay.com it’s the country’s first restaurant distillery and a destination for those who want a good glass of wine or martini with house-made gin.

BaSque Center601 W. Grove St., 208-331-5097 or 208-342-9983basquecenter.com The unofficial watering hole for Boise’s Basque population with a reputation for stiff drinks and fun crowds.

downtown BoiSeBalcony Club


text TORCH to 65579for more recipes

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AND COLA

ENJOY OUR PRODUCTS RESPONSIBLY. ©2010 BACARDI AND THE BAT DEVICE ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS AND THE TORCHED CHERRY DEVICE IS A TRADEMARK OF BACARDI & COMPANY LIMITED. BACARDI U.S.A., INC., CORAL GABLES, FL. RUM SPECIALTY – 35% ALC. BY VOL. MUST BE 21+ TO PARTICIPATE. STANDARD TEXT MESSAGING RATES APPLY.

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BLEED: 4.75” x 6.25”SAFETY: 4” x 5.5”

PUB: Boise Weekly Bar Guide Mag

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BerrYhill/plan B/BaCon121 N. Ninth St., 208-387-3553berryhillandco.com

Pick your poison: Fine wine and fine dining, liquor and leather, or muffins and mimosas.

BitterCreek ale houSe246 N. Eighth St., 208-345-1813justeatlocal.com/bittercreek

With a big beer selection listed by geographi-cal proximity and a menu with a local focus, this Northwest pub is always busy.

Bouquet1010 W. Main St., 208-345-6605thebouquet.net

Perfect for pints, pool, hangin’ with your peeps and catching a show.

CaCtuS Bar517 W. Main St.

Watering hole for the serious drinker by day, 20-something magnet by night. Dance on the bar or lounge on the alley patio.

Cafe ole404 S. Eighth St., 208-344-3222cafeole.com

in the basement of the eighth Street Market-place with a two-for-one happy hour.

CaSa del Sol409 S. Eighth St., 208-287-3660 casadelsol.biz

American/Mexican menu in the heart of BoDo featuring authentic street-style tacos.

CazBa/opa211 N. Eighth St., 208-381-0222

enjoy cazba’s worldly food mixed with opa’s hip, casual, welcoming vibe, all in one great Mediterranean-inspired space.

downtown BoiSe


ChandlerS SteakhouSe981 W. Grove St., 208-383-4300 chandlersboise.com

chandlers is as popular a stop for cocktails as it is for steaks. live music is always on, and you can bask at the bar with a cocktail.

China Blue100 S. Sixth St., 208-345-9515 chinabluenightclub.com

With a bar in the women’s bathroom, one made of ice, two in ViP areas and one for ev-eryone, china Blue is committed to partying.

Cottonwood Grille913 W. River St., 208-333-9800cottonwoodgrille.com

cottonwood grille is an unpretentious restau-rant with a bar that beckons visitors in for a martini, good Scotch or glass of fine wine. Relax in the elegant surroundings or kick back on the riverside patio.

dirtY little roddY’S100 S. Sixth St., 208-345-9515 dirtylittleroddys.com

At DlR, you can ride a mechanical bull. in your bikini. giddy up.

falCon tavern705 W. Bannock St., 208-947-3111falcontavern.com

This downtown tavern has become “Boise’s neighborhood pub.” Why? Hand-pressed kobe burgers and an ample beer selection. lounge indoors or on the wide-open patio.

fattY’S800 W. Idaho St., Ste. 200, 208-514-2531, drinkfattys.com

Where the drinks are “fat,” the beer pong is serious and the party is ragin’.

downtown BoiSe


flatBread CoMMunitY oven615 W. Main St., 208-287-4757flatbreadpizza.com

The popular family pizza joint has expanded and now has a full bar and two happy hours.

fork199 N. Eighth St., 208-287-1700 boisefork.com

The newest inhabitant of one of the busiest corners downtown, the rich wood-paneled interior lends itself to a casual atmosphere, with a focus on locally grown seasonal food and unique cocktails.

front door105 S. Sixth St., 208-287-9201 thefrontdoorboise.com

Front Door consistently bottoms out Boise’s coldest Beer contest because good beer don’t need no cold. Serious beer drinkers and serious pizza people find safe haven here.

GaMekeeper lounGe1109 W. Main St., 208-343-4611owyheeplaza.com

Sink into one of the lavish rolling lounge chairs. order a martini. close your eyes and listen to live jazz. Sigh.

Grape eSCape800 W. Idaho St., 208-368-0200

The most sought-after real estate in down-town. Fine wine and food make this a great place to meet friends.

ha’ pennY 855 Broad St., Ste. 250, 208-343-5568hapennybridgepub.com

it’s a little emerald isle in the city of Trees, with an old World pub feel, taps lining the bar and a menu of irish and American favorites.

Gamekeeper Lounge

downtown BoiSe


happY fiSh855 Broad St., Ste. 250, 208-343-4810happyfishsushi.com

The martini menu may be longer than the sushi menu. Try sweeties like the Jackie o or a classic like the James Bond.

the huddle205 N. 10th St., Ste. 110, 208-338-5454

Downtown’s newest sports bar is family friendly with 10 TVs and 16 taps.

huMpin’ hannah’S621 Main St., 208-345-7557 it’s the place to get your dance on. Favorite covers come courtesy of the Rocci Johnson Band, and nobody parties like Rocci.

leku ona117 S. Sixth St., 208-345-6665lekuonaid.com leku ona is a must on any Basque bar crawl. Ask for a kalimoxto to wash down the tapas.

downtown BoiSe

Test your aim with an array of beer pong contests. Hit Shorty’s Saloon (page 46) at 9 p.m. on Mondays or Fatty’s (page 16) at 10 p.m. on Tuesdays. if you’re into team competition, head to the Main Street Bistro (this page) on Tuesday nights.

drinkinG GaMeS

liquid405 S. Eighth St., Ste. 110, 208-287-5379liquidboise.com The motto is, “life’s good. Flow with it.” live music and miles of patio.

the loBBY760 W. Main St., 208-991-2183thelobbyboise.com

Airy, open, original artwork on the walls, a swell drink menu, pub grub to soak it all up and weekly tricycle races.

loCk, StoCk & Barrel1100 W. Jefferson St., 208-336-4266, lsbboise.com An attractive and well-stocked bar has all the bases covered for a quiet drink or a midday meeting.

MaCk and Charlie’S/GuSto 507 W. Main St., 208-830-9977mackandcharlies.com Sit among the city’s entire population of 21- to 25-year-old pretty people and enjoy extensive happy-hour specials. gusto is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Mai thai750 W. Idaho St., 208-344-8424maithaigroup.com

Soak up the sophisticated atmosphere while waiting for a table or make it the starting point for an evening out.

Main Street BiStro609 Main St., 208-345-9515msbidaho.com

known as the place to go looking good and looking for a good time. in the summer, the patio is standing room only, so get a drink and prepare to get cozy.


MulliGanS’1009 W. Main St., 208-336-6998 Strong cheap drinks, plenty of bar games and cheap pub grub. A myriad of folks hang out at M1, so wander in, find your kind and settle in for the night.

neurolux111 N. 11th St., 208-343-0886neurolux.com A mysterious, diverse bar with a sexy red pool table and stiff drinks that will make you wonder why you ordered another. Smoke. Drink. Talk. listen to music. Repeat.

penGillY’S513 W. Main St., 208-345-6344

With an antique wooden bar, this friendly pub is a favorite. esquire called it one of the greatest in America, and cosmo rated it the best bar in the country to steal a kiss.

downtown BoiSe

Need something to soak up all that booze? look for an assortment of food carts congregated in the parking lot at Sixth and grove streets, along Main Street between Fifth and eighth streets, near Neurolux on 10th Street and by the Bouquet on Main Street.

Street GruB

piazza di vino212 N. Ninth St., 208-336-9577

As a gallery and wine bar, Piazza di Vino offers an extensive collection of wines from around the world and art from around town.

piper puB & Grill150 N. Eighth St., Ste. 200, 208-343-2444, thepiperpub.com Perched above eighth Street with a wrap-around patio, Piper serves creative pub fare and has the largest Scotch selection around.

red feather lounGe246 N. Eighth St., 208-429-6340justeatlocal.com/redfeather Red Feather is all about local. candle-lit booths and swanky cocktails make it an excellent place to nibble on apps and relax.

the red rooM tavern1519 W. Main St., 208-331-0956 The deep red walls, velour kitsch decor and an elevated stage are sure to appeal to both bands and live-music fans.

reef105 S. Sixth St., 208-287-9200reefboise.com

Tiki torches, grass umbrellas—you can almost feel the ocean breeze. let the live music and island-themed drinks transport you.

Sapphire Bar & Grill622 W. Idaho St., 208-363-7277 When live music and jager bomb specials are regular features at a bar, you can smell the party. This recent addition does lunch grub, happy hour and the late-night party scene equally well. overachiever.


Solid405 S. Eighth St., 208-345-6620 solidboise.com Two happy hours, upscale pub grub, prime patio space and weekend breakfast late, late.

taBleroCk705 Fulton St., 208-342-0944tablerockbrewpub.com Downtown’s only microbrewery. give the eye to the Hopzilla or the WhiteBird Wheat and soak it up with something from the full menu.

toM GraineY’S/BaSeMent109 S. Sixth St., 208-345-2505 Two-for-one bar with live music both upstairs and down. you get two different experiences, and you don’t even have to leave the building.

the voodoo lounGe200 N. Capitol Blvd., 208-941-2144voodooloungeboise.com

The vibe at this dance club fluctuates depending on whether the club is hosting a New Wave dance-a-thon or a Burning Man after-party. A good time either way.

willi B’S SandwiCh Saloon225 N. Fifth St., 208-331-5666willibs.com Rustic home of the $4 martini and $3 well drinks, Willi B’s is a spot to hit for the pre-party hours.

Yen ChinG305 N. Ninth St., 208-384-0384yenchingboise.com Have a martini with your potstickers and chow mein. There’s nothing fancy about yen ching, but it has an air of class nonetheless.

downtown BoiSe

www.BOiseweekly.cOM boiseweekly | Bar Guide 2011 | 23

Years bartending: Sixinspiration for drink: Stanciu’s use of a homemade rhubarb syrup goes with the idea of keeping things idaho-based, while challenging his creativity.hates to make: Bloody Marys

aldouS huxleY1.75 oz. 44° North

Magic Valley Wheat Vodka1 oz. homemade rhubarb syrup

(made with rhubarb, water, tarragon and sugar)

Splash fresh-squeezed lemon juiceorange bittersHint of the bubbly

Shake and serve in a martini glass. garnish with blood orange and tarragon.

david StanCiu/PeNgilly’S SAlooN See PAge

22FoR MoRe

Gil’S k-9 Bar2506 Main St., 208-345-4420 This place is a classic. it may look like a dive outside but don’t be scared. Pub grub and a healthy selection of libations lurk inside.

luCkY doG2223 Fairview Ave., 208-333-0074luckydogtavern.com

great prices and strong pours could make lucky Dog your neighborhood gay bar—even if it’s nowhere near your ’hood.

Modern hotel and Bar1314 W. Grove St., 208-424-8244themodernhotel.com

one of the chicest lounges in Boise. With 45-rpm record players in each bathroom and stellar food, the Modern Hotel Bar is definitely not your average joint.

pitCherS and pintS1108 W. Front St., 208-906-1355 mypitchersandpints.com

Don’t let the scruffy exterior scare you off. The inside has been remodeled, the patio in back is good for beer pong and summer nights, plus the place offers $1 drafts everyday.

SYMpoSion2801 Fletcher St., 208-342-9420 This is a bar for dogs but humans will be tolerated. Without a canine companion, you don’t belong at the Sympo. if you can find it, you may be enthralled.

the torCh1826 Main St., 208-344-0218 thetorchlounge.com This is the kind of bar your mom warned you about. it’s not much to look at, but the bikini-clad dancers are definitely the draw.

downtown weSt


BroadwaY Bar1712 Broadway Ave., 208-342-9951 Find another place in town where drinks are as cheap and as stiff as they are at this dark and divey bar and you might win a medal.

BuSterS1326 Broadway Ave., 208-345-5688busterssportsbar.com

With TVs blaring and waitresses in skimpy outfits, it stays true to the sports bar label.

end zone1010 Broadway Ave., 208-384-0613

Peanuts, a patio and pinball adorn the space of this small college bar. it’s a must-stop on football game days.

iChiBan1233 Broadway Ave., 208-426-9188

Sushi and Japanese steakhouse with nigiri and roll happy hour specials and cocktails made with fresh fruits and juices.

JiM’S aliBi2710 Broadway Ave., 208-342-9220 Drinks are cheap, the folks are friendly, the darts are always ready and in the summertime, the hidden back patio is a great little spot to chillax away from busy Broadway Ave.

krueGer’S550 Broadway Ave., 208-761-3076

This strip-mall spot is all about the drink spe-cials, beer pong, Rock Band on the projector screen and Boise State football.

BroadwaY


karaoke page

r Bar1041 S. Broadway Ave., 208-629-0029

Neighborhood bar near Boise State. opens daily with an extended happy hour that fits perfectly into a college budget—just in time to take a break from the books.

SudS tavern1024 Broadway Ave., 208-345-9656 The epitome of a college dive bar. The drinks are priced for a financially-challenged crowd, shots and beer specials abound, and it’s a party any night of the week.

Charlie Brown’S5783 Overland Road, 208-375-6541 it’s like the old guy who’s lived in the same place his whole life; he doesn’t plan on going anywhere, and as long as you’re nice to him, he’ll be nice right back.

CreSCent Bar/Grill5500 W. Franklin Road, 208-322-9856, no-lawyers.com To eat and drink here, one must follow a small, but important set of rules: love cold beer, sports, good service, kick-ass happy hours, and you must not be a lawyer.

CriCket’S1228 Oakland Ave., 208-344-6235 This corner bar is a favorite hangout for the Boise State set. you’re likely to see students tossing back cheap beer, playing pool and taking a break from the books.

Jo’S SunShine lounGe 1115 N. Curtis Road, 208-376-2700 jossunshinelounge.com Drinking at Jo’s is like drinking in the belly of a ship. Porthole-esque lights are juxtaposed with a Western feel, and the music is rockin’.

BroadwaY/BoiSe BenChCharlie Brown’s


it’s both a danger and a test for patrons at The lobby (page 20) on Thursday nights starting at 10 p.m. Tiny trikes race in circles for glory and a bar tab.

triCYClinG under the influenCe

JuMpin’ Janet’S572 Vista Ave., 208-342-7620

A cozy bar with games and specials aplenty. The menu of pub food will help soak up the two-for-one happy hour cocktails.

little dutCh Garden1910 S. Owyhee St. grab a beer and try your luck at horseshoes in the huge back yard at this little neighbor-hood bar.

MCClearY’S puB604 N. Orchard Ave., 208-342-3007mcclearys.net This place is dark, cool and decorated in varying shades of green. There’s plenty of beer on tap, and if you need a little nosh try the nachos, popcorn or pickled eggs.

navaJo rooM4900 Emerald St., 208-343-5817 The Navajo has served up suds and stiff drinks for more than 40 years and remains a low-key place to meet loyal regulars.

overland Bar3907 W. Overland Road, 208-336-4707 in this divey place, employees are friendly, a Jagermeister dispenser keeps it cold and the beer is cheap.

the plank650 S. Vista Ave., 208-336-1790theplankboise.com

Not just Boise’s only pirate bar, but it may be the only pirate bar that doesn’t serve rum. Beer and wine only, though it’s also got bar grub, darts, live music and a regular crowd of scalawags.

quinn’S1005 S. Vista Ave., 208-345-0135 The wall between the bar and dining area means it’s super family friendly on the restau-rant side, and drinkers can puff with impunity.

the torCh 2610 S. Vista Ave., 208-336-4747 thetorchlounge.com Drink in the company of Boise’s faux busted, faux tanned, finest ladies. All male patrons, all female staff (except the DJ in his little ol’ cabin), go figure.

viSta Bar813 S. Vista Ave., 208-342-9911 The little A-frame has been a watering hole for years. According to the sign out front: “it’s where the fun begins.” We tend to agree.

BarBaCoa276 Bob White Court, 208-338-5000barbacoa-boise.com

A scene like no other in town, with two happy hours, lake-side dining, a DJ in the lounge and just the right amount of excess.

BoiSe BenCh/eaSt BoiSe


Ben’S Crow inn6781 Warm Springs Ave., 208-342-9669 “The inn” hasn’t changed in years and still offers relief to anyone who thought about going rock climbing or biking but decided to tie one on instead.

eaStSide tavern610 E. Boise Ave., 208-345-3878 All walks of life converge for a little late night drink slinging in the dark shopping-mall-esque surroundings of the eastside.

luCkY 13 pizza/the GaraGe3662 S. Eckert Road, 208-344-6967lucky13pizza.com

Be sure to bring your bike, dog and a gaggle of kids. Faced with pizza, beer, salads and sandwiches about halfway between Boise and lucky Peak, few can resist the urge to pull over and refuel.

the refuGe404 E. Parkcenter Blvd., Ste. 300, 208-424-8211, therefugeboise.com

With a neighborhood-pub feel, it boasts a large beer and wine selection, and home-cookin’ style pub food, pool tables and TVs.

StuBS SportS puB3662 Findley Ave., 208-336-7882stubspub.com

A sports-lover’s haven. every seat allows viewing of the giant TVs. Watch sports while digging into apps, a pizza or a sandwich named after a sports MVP.

tavern at Bown CroSSinG3111 S. Bown Way, 208-345-2277tavernatbown.com

choose the patio and enjoy a bottle of wine and a steak, or lounge on the second- floor balcony with sushi and a martini.

eaSt BoiSeThe Refuge


13th Street puB and Grill1520 N. 13th St., 208-639-8888

Prime Hyde Park space where families brunch, sports fans gather, and cyclists claim table space after a long ride.

hiGhlandS hollow2455 Harrison Hollow Lane, 208-343-6820, highlandshollow.com

This raucous brewery at the foot of Bogus Basin Road caters to the outdoorsy person summer and winter. Highlands serves up a list of its own beers and is a North end favorite.

hYde park puB1501 N. 13th St., 208-336-9260harryshydepark.com

A pub in every sense of the word, HPP has a menu of food you eat with your hands, a pool table, TVs in every corner, a selection of tap brews and that neighborhood restaurant feel.

o’MiChael’S puB & Grill2433 N. Bogus Basin Road, 208-342-8948, omichaelspub.com

Apres ski destination in the winter and patio lounging in the summer. Sit fireside in the bar with a signature irish coffee or take the whole family for Monday’s $5 burger special.

parrilla Grill1512 N. 13th St., 208-323-4688

This concrete-and-metal Hyde Park eatery is a popular place to chill during the halcyon days of summer, but Parrilla’s hot wraps and microbrews are a fine way to stay warm in the cold winter months as well.

north BoiSe


Years bartending: Three and a halfinspiration for drink: Bowers looked toward the tastes of spring, playing strong flavors against the vodka.hates to make: Declined to answer.

Coquette1.5 oz. 44° North Magic Valley Wheat Vodka.75 oz. cocchi Americano.5 oz. honey syrup (Stir together equal parts

honey and hot water. Cool before using.)1 tsp. Sherry vinegar (8 percent acidity)Two 3/4-inch cubes of roasted beet1 sprig rosemary, plus more for garnish

Put beet and rosemary into a mixing glass and muddle without liquid until beets are completely broken.

Add remaining ingredients.

Fill shaker three-fourths full with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.

Strain through a fine mesh strainer and garnish with an additional sprig of rosemary.

MiChael BowerS/MoDeRN HoTel AND BAR See PAge

26FoR MoRe

Sun raY Cafe1602 N. 13th St., 208-343-2887sunray-cafe.com The bike crowd gathers here for pizza and beer after a ride, creating a serious see-and-be-seen scene.

20th CenturY laneS4712 W. State St., 208-342-8695 20thcenturylanes.net Homey, with bowling pin and ball bar stools. you can get a chocolate martini or cheap beer to spice up your night at the lanes.

44 CluB4340 W. State St., 208-344-0693 The 44 club has two things going for it: kara-oke and no taps. So if you’re in the mood for an old bar with some local color, belly up.

BrewS BrotherS6928 W. State St., 208-853-0526 it’s like a beer drinker’s rumpus room equipped with a jukebox and mellow locals. This smoky joint is the kind of place where everyone has their own mug up on the wall.

BurGer ‘n Brew4295 W. State St., 208-345-7700

There’s a line of taps at this family restaurant with sports memorabilia and separate bar for the serious-about-the-game crowd.

dutCh GooSe3515 W. State St., 208-342-8887dutchgoose.com A no-smoking policy offers a respite from many bars’ smoky ozone layer. Foosball, darts, pool, horseshoe pits and TVs galore keep those who go to drink happy for hours, as does the food.

north BoiSe/State StreetBurger ‘n Brew


fireSide inn1610 N. 31st St., 208-342-9075 When compiling a dive-bar hop, Fireside is a must. No windows. Dark and smoky. it’s the kind of place where you can hide out all day.

the lift Bar and Grill4091 W. State St., 208-342-3250theliftboise.com This sweet spot tempts with its drink specials. Tuesday is Holy oly night, with 50-cent olympia cans, and you can throw back $2 domestics nightly.

MonteGo BaY3000 N. Lakeharbor Lane, 208-853-5070 montegobayidaho.com A little bit of the tropics in a land-locked state. Montego has layers of patios and bars cascading lakeside and pool inside.

terrY’S3301 N. Collister St., 208-331-8225 it may look like it’s about to fall, but the ever-present party keeps the roof raised. This is where students, the blue-collar crowd and North enders come together.

turner’S SportS Bar4022 W. State St., 208-342-9090 This rickety neighborhood box is crawling with weary regulars, but keep in mind that you’re all there for the same thing: cocktails.

BuddieS puB8654 W. Overland Road, 208-658-0906 Without another bar in sight, Buddies is a strip mall answer to drinking prayers.

State Street/South BoiSe


leGendS 7609 W. Overland Road, Ste. 100, 208-377-1819legendspubandgrill.com Wrap your hands around mugs of regional beers. A full bar is available as well for sports lovers who go for the big game and the food.

the Beer houSe9751 Cory Lane, 208-322-9958

The Beer House is an old house that serves beer, smack in the middle of a neighborhood.

the Buffalo CluB10206 W. Fairview Ave., 208-321-1811 Anyone with a hankerin’ for Hank will feel right at home with line dancing lessons, live music, poker and pool.

South BoiSe/weSt BoiSe

We might not have horse rac-ing, but every Thursday start-ing at 10 p.m. at Mack and charlie’s (page 20) you can try your luck at goldfish racing. Blow in a straw to encourage your fish in a rain gutter track and win a bar tab—and your fish.

takinG the Gold(fiSh)

Cafe ole210 N. Milwaukee Road, 208-322-0222cafeole.com escape the mall and hit happy hour, when drink and appetizer specials are cheap.

hooliGan’S puB10704 Overland Road, 208-376-9800 The place where an average Joe can grab a beer and play some pool. Wood decor, plenty of windows and lots of fans keep the place comfortable and welcoming.

lindY’S SteakhouSe12249 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-375-1310 lindy’s is like your Aunt lola. She’s a lot older than she looks and parties a lot harder than you’d suspect. check the full menu, TVs and assorted entertainment options.

MCClearY’S puB9155 W. State St., 208-853-9910mcclearys.net The pub boasts a back yard bigger than yours, and it beckons those who like to imbibe while recreating.

nut houSe12505 W. Chinden Blvd., 208-287-2191nuthouseboise.com With TVs showing all NFl, NBA, MlB and NHl games, Nut House is none other than a sports bar with a long line of taps.

the offiCe6125 W. Fairview Ave., 208-672-0087

Thirty-plus beers on tap, pub food, two 100-inch projection TVs. check out what the DJ is spinning or join in the karaoke.


the poCket1487 N. Curtis Road, 208-375-2474 Venture inside this pool hall for a cold brew or a stiff cocktail. if knocking around balls isn’t your thing, the bar has plenty of distrac-tions: TVs, video games and jukeboxes.

q’S6570 Fairview Ave., 208-322-9122 Q’s defines “pool hall.” you’ll probably hear Ted Nugent blasting as you drink brews and line up your next shot.

SoCkeYe Grill and BrewerY3019 N. Cole Road, 208-658-1533 sockeyebrew.com The serious beer connoisseur’s brew pub. The double iPA is a hophead’s liquid dream. live music Tuesday and Friday.

villaGe puB9936 Fairview Ave., 208-375-3085 Walk inside and you will be immediately drawn to the central fire, the classic booths or a stool at the bar. it’s a long-standing institu-tion that has a new feel.

BardenaY155 E. Riverside Drive, 208-938-5093, bardenay.com on the Boise River, the little brother of the Boise bar still features the distillery’s own hooch. A table on the riverside patio is worth the fight.

weSt BoiSe/eaGle


Bella aquila775 S. Rivershore Lane, 208-938-1900bellaaquilarestaurant.com The riverside restaurant boasts one of the best patios around. We suggest a Bella Bellini with strawberry vodka.

BuSterS Bar and Grill1396 E. State St., 208-938-1800busterssportsbar.com The waitstaff’s motto is skin to win, TVs abound and pub food is the standard.

davinCi’S190 E. State St., 208-939-2500

A waiting area for the casually elegant italian restaurant, the great bar has a full list of offer-ings to enjoy with or without food.

river roCk alehouSe 228 E. Plaza St., 208-938-4788

Here, the patio hosts live music in warm months, and the bar ain’t a bad spot to enjoy a seriously diverse selection of beer.

eaGle

First, use your real iD, but make sure it hasn’t expired. in idaho, it’s a no-go if your photo iD isn’t valid.

Gettin’ in


willowCreek1065 E. Winding Creek Dr., 208-938-3010 willowcreekgrill.com

A spot for the eagle party crowd to get its groove on. The lounge offers live music, danc-ing and late-night entertainment.

Boulevard Bar4079 Chinden Blvd., 208-383-9035 The Boulevard is a tough joint, but once you’ve seen how much fun the regulars are having, you’re going to want to become one.

CluB SavvY’S3933 Chinden Blvd., 208-429-9339 From poker tournaments to pool to karaoke seven days a week, club Savvy’s courts the crowd that wants to have fun. Most often, that crowd is a fresh-faced bunch that also wants to take advantage of the dance floor.

quarter Barrel4902 Chinden Blvd., 208-322-3430 live music, karaoke and no smoking at this classed-up garden city bar.

the ranCh CluB3544 Chinden Blvd., 208-343-7447 This ain’t no country club—it’s way too much fun. Poker nights, karaoke, chili bomb spe-cials and if all else fails: order an astro-pop. Never heard of it? Better start drinkin’.

ShortY’S Saloon5467 Glenwood St., 208-322-6699shortyssaloon.com it’s been around for a million years and isn’t going anywhere. Waylon and Willie are on the jukebox, Budweiser and coors are on tap, and live bands are on stage.

eaGle/Garden CitYShorty’s Saloon


StaGeCoaCh inn3132 Chinden Blvd., 208-342-4161stagecoachboise.com Strong drinks and big steaks in the old-school bar and restaurant.

4-e’S Bar379 W. Main St., 208-922-1853 With racks on the wall and a pair of match-ing flower curtains, the bar feels like home. check out the quarter pool on antique tables.

CowGirlS353 Ave. E, 208-922-9522cowgirlsaloon.com cowgirls has a reputation for putting on a serious party. The bar is designed for you to dance on, with an extra-wide counter and handles on the ceiling to help you stay up.

CreekSide lounGe751 W. Fourth St., 208-922-4421 creeksidekuna.com Full bar, large wine selection, cigars, a handy steak joint next door and the name-implied creekside setting offer up kuna’s best place to get a martini, a nice glass of wine or a cocktail.

lonGhorn lounGe458 W. Main St., 208-922-4163 you never know who will end up here, but chances are they’re hungry. it’s the only place in kuna for late-night grub. Prices are so cheap, they don’t need a happy hour.

Garden CitY/kuna


Years bartending: Seveninspiration for drink: Allen wanted to keep things sea-sonal by exploring the flavors of the coming spring. hates to make: long island iced Teas

Snake river Sour2 oz. 44° North Magic Valley

Wheat Vodka1.25 oz. fresh-pressed lemon juice.75 oz. cinnamon-vanilla cordial *1 egg white

Shake the drink over a block of ice and serve over cubes in a glass with a salted rim. Zest fresh lemon peel over the top and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon. Finish off with a fresh twist of lemon.

Mark allen/ReD FeATHeR louNge

* Make the cinnamon-vanilla cordial by steeping cinnamon sticks and vanilla beans in water (heavier on the vanilla beans). Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn the heat down a little and let it simmer for a half hour or so. Strain everything out of the water using a chinois and a coffee filter. Add sugar as if making simple syrup, basically a two-to-one, sugar-to-wa-ter ratio. Last, add a little high-proof vodka to the mix to prevent any fermentation and help preserve the cordial.

See PAge

22FoR MoRe

red eYe Saloon414 W. Main St., 208-922-9797 it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time while watching a band or NAScAR. The Red eye has been a part of kuna forever and continues to instill a desire to have a good time and still behave yourself.

Bill-n-lYnn’S plaCe229 W. Franklin Road, 208-888-4075 Don’t mistake this bar for anything other than what it is: a shack in the middle of a mud parking lot. Bill-N-lynn’s is Meridian’s smokier, darker and grittier version of cheers.

Buffalo wild winGS3223 E. Louise Drive, 208-288-5485buffalowildwings.com

The popular sports bar has plenty of TVs, even more choices of wings and a full bar to wash it all down with.

Bull’S head puB1441 N. Eagle Road, 208-855-5858 bullsheadpub.net

The english pub upstairs is for the grown-ups, while downstairs is family friendly.

BuSted Shovel704 N. Main St., 208-288-2217 bustedshovel.com it’s a biker bar that’s not just for bikers. check out the choppers and hogs lined up out front throughout the summer.

kuna/Meridian


Years bartending: Fourinspiration for drink: grindstaff is from a family of cooks so she grabbed the Food Bible, gathered her family and explored flavors that complement the taste of cherry.hates to make: Mojitos

the venetian2 oz. 44° North Rainier

cherry Vodka.5 oz. balsamic vinegar

with red wine and thyme reduction

Splash of coke on topgarnish with a pear wedge

and slice of goat cheese.

Cera GrindStaff/ FRoNT DooR NoRTHWeST PiZZA AND TAP HouSe See PAge

18FoR MoRe

CheerleaderS 3541 N. Eagle Road, 208-939-9209cheerleaderssbg.com At this family friendly sports pub, everyone is a sports fan. The bar is a cool place to drink but the real looker is the 1968 Shelby.

CorkSCrewS 729 N. Main St., 208-888-4049corkscrews1.com

This little low-ceiling joint is a low-key hang-out for the crowd who likes its wine fine and the music smooth.

Gelato Cafe2053 E. Fairview Ave., Ste. 101, 208-846-8410 gelatocafeofidaho.net Sip on unusual martinis, all of which include a scoop of gelato.

Meridian

Don’t try to hail a cab in down-town Boise—there are specific pickup zones every Fri-day and Saturday night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Head to the east side of Main Street between capitol Boulevard and Ninth Street or to Sixth Street between Main and idaho streets, or to the south side of Broad Street, between eighth and Ninth streets.

GettinG hoMe


Gino’S italian reStaurant3015 W. McMillan Road, Ste. 108, 208-887-7710 gino’s might be known for its rich italian food, but without another bar in sight, it has also become quite the cocktail hangout.

harrY’S Bar and Grill2032 E. Overland Road, 208-888-9868

Serving beer so cold that it’s a beer slushie. The walls are full of “Harry” paraphernalia from Dirty Harry to When Harry Met Sally.

JakerS3268 E. Pine Ave., 208-288-0898jakers.com

With its elegant, sweeping bar, it’s a casual place that manages to feel upscale. eat at the bar or in one of the bar-side booths, or wait for a table where you can enjoy nightly dinner specials.

kaY and traCi’S 127 CluB127 E. Idaho St., 208-884-0122 country music, darts, beer and pool. locals are well acquainted with the bar, frequently taking in live music on the weekend.

MuGGSY’S501 S. Main St., 208-898-9470 Muggsy’s is like Disney World for the over-21, sports-bar-loving crowd. The place is packed with giant wood furniture, flatscreens and sports clutter from NAScAR to cricket.

the new frontier CluB116 E. Broadway Ave., 208-888-9034

The New Frontier is a smoke-filled gathering place where regulars have their favorite stools and distractions abound from copious pool tables to a dance floor to assorted games.

MeridianStrikers


rudY’S puB and Grill2310 E. Overland Road, 208-884-4453rudyspubngrill.com it’s a family friendly sort of sports bar, where big-screen TVs vie for your attention with pool, assorted games and a full menu.

SChoonerS puB and Grill499 S. Main St., 208-884-3737

Partake of the full bar or quench your thirst with a beer from one of the 25 taps at this friendly neighborhood bar.

StrikerS324 S. Meridian Road, 208-888-2048 lots of locals, with clientele sauntering in from the bowling alley next door. if you’re into darts, they have five boards.

white water Saloon1646 N. Meridian Road, 208-888-3063

Don’t be fooled by its Meridian address. This bar is the real deal. No food, no kids, light up as you please.

SaM’S Saloon10937 W. State St., 208-286-7794 Any given time, locals can be seen surround-ing the bar, throwing horseshoes or playing pool after a long work day. Regulars rule the stools, but visitors are welcome to pop in.

SullY’S11123 W. State St., 208-286-7743sullysidaho.com The newest addition to the Star bar scene is a good ol’ irish pub with a full menu. check out the patio and horseshoe pits.

Meridian/Star


Years bartending: 13inspiration for drink: Detweiler used BW as his inspira-tion, includ-ing the use of “liberal amounts of alcohol.” hates to make: Bananas Foster

peppered periodiCal2 oz. 44° North Magic Valley

Wheat Vodka .5 oz. Svedka vanilla vodka1/3 oz. organic raw blue agave nectarSplash of soda water2 slices organic ginger 1/2 an organic cherry bomb pepper1/4 an organic jalapeno pepper1/4 an orange wheel1/2 a lemon wheelPinch of cardamomcandied ginger

combine the cherry bomb pepper, jalapeno, ginger, orange and lemon wheels, and muddle all ingredients in a shaker glass.Pour both vodkas over ingredients.let set for two minutes.Add blue agave nectar, cardamom, a splash of soda water, and shake over ice vigorously.Strain and serve in a chilled martini glass. garnish with candied ginger.

JaCoB detweiler/ HAPPy FiSH SuSHi AND MARTiNi BAR See PAge

20FoR MoRe

bar bar volume 3

Documents

edition of bar bar

design of boise weekly

boise contest

current issue of boise

boise weeklys office

com8 bar guide

weekly prints

boise weeklys annual