Boise is a small but mighty mecca of Basque cuisine. With the largest per capita population of Basque people outside of Europe, we are a hub for tasty flavors and traditions. When we gear up for Jaialdi 2025—one of the biggest celebrations of Basque culture in the world—there’s no better time to explore our city’s rich culinary heritage.
A History of Basque Food in Boise
When the Basque people left the Pyrenees mountains of Northern Spain and France, they brought more than just tradition, they brought cuisine. Basque food, influenced by coastal delicacies of both Spain and France, has become a staple of Boise dining.
Basque food is about family. Pride. Heritage. Community. And of course, sharing a delicious meal.
An Intro to Traditional Basque Meals
Hearty stews and soups. Grilled fish and meat. Vibrant plates of Paella. The meals that originate from the Basque Country are grounded in fresh, local and mouthwatering ingredients. Let’s dig in.
Croquetas: Creamy and crispy deep-fried rolls stuffed with a filling—a favorite is chorizo, a signature Basque sausage made right here in Boise.
Chorizo: Speaking of! The heart of many dishes is a Spanish dry-cured chorizo, often flavored with peppers and garlic.
Paella: A vibrant rice dish loaded with seafood, sausage, spices and more.
Cured Jamon: Thinly sliced, cured ham. It’s revered in Spain for a reason.
Pintxos: A close cousin to Tapas, pintxos are bite-sized finger foods skewered onto a piece of bread. Toppings range from bacon-wrapped dates to goat cheese and caramelized onion.
Basque cheesecake: The iconic creamy, caramelized and crustless dessert.
Our Favorite Basque Restaurants in Boise
Downtown Boise is a hotspot for Basque cuisine, and there is no shortage of downtown restaurants boasting comprehensive offerings.
The Basque Market: A must-visit for paella days, pinxtos and imported Basque goods.
Bar Gernika: A local fave for croquetas, chorizo and lamb stew.
Leku Ona: Classic Basque dining with tasty and authentic dishes such as txipirones (stuffed squid) and braised lamb.
Ansots: This two-time James Beard Award nominee is a go-to spot for housemade chorizos, marinated solomo, Basque bacon and so much more.
Basque Food to Expect at Jaialdi
Get ready to feast on incredible food at Jaialdi. You’ll find all the classics, plus some creative twists on traditional cuisine. And don’t forget the drinks! Bevs you’re bound to run into include kalimotxo, which is equal parts red wine and cola (don’t knock it ‘till you try it—it’s a favorite for a reason) and frozen sangria, which needs no introduction for those with a refined palate.
A Basque meal is more than just food. It’s a celebration of traditions, family and, of course, flavor. This summer, don’t miss the amazing Basque cuisine Boise has to offer.
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