9 Boise Basque Pintxo Bars Locals Pack On Weeknights
You want to eat like a local? Really eat like a local? Then skip the chain restaurants and follow the delicious scent of sizzling chorizo and crusty bread to Boise’s thriving Basque Block and beyond.
On any given weeknight, a magnetic pull draws city residents to an array of lively pintxo bars – havens where friends gather, stories are shared, and the concept of “small plates” takes on a whole new, irresistible meaning.
Pull up a stool, order a zurito, and get ready to experience the true culinary heartbeat of the city with these must-visit pintxo bars.
1. The Basque Market
Walking into The Basque Market feels like stepping straight into San Sebastián. Every Wednesday and Friday at noon, they serve massive paella on the patio that draws crowds from all over downtown.
Their pintxo bar features classics like gilda skewers-anchovy, olive, and pepper combinations that pack a flavorful punch. Locals know to arrive early to grab the fresh-made croquetas before they sell out.
2. Bar Gernika
Hidden on a corner of the Basque Block, Bar Gernika has been serving authentic pintxos since 1991. The cramped, wooden interior only adds to its charm-creating that perfect neighborhood pub atmosphere where everybody seems to know each other.
Their famous beef tongue and solomo sandwiches bring in regulars weekly. Saturday nights feature live music, but weeknights are when locals come for quiet conversations and affordable Kalimotxo (red wine and cola).
3. Epi’s A Basque Restaurant
Grandmother’s recipes shine at Epi’s, where home-style Basque cooking creates a loyal following. Unlike flashier spots, this Meridian gem focuses on traditional flavors rather than modern presentations.
Weeknights fill up with locals ordering chorizo plates and bean dishes that taste exactly like what Basque shepherds ate generations ago. The pintxo sampler offers perfect bite-sized portions of their most beloved dishes.
4. Leku Ona
Leku Ona’s second-floor terrace becomes magical on summer evenings. Strings of lights hang overhead while locals sip txakoli wine and nibble on seafood pintxos.
The name means “good place” in Basque, and locals certainly agree. Wednesday’s special features five pintxos for $15, an incredible deal that packs the bar with young professionals. Their garlic shrimp skewers paired with house-made bread will transport you straight to Bilbao.
5. Ansots Basque Chorizos
What began as a chorizo-making family business has evolved into a beloved pintxo spot. Ansots specializes in meat-centric small plates that showcase their famous sausages in creative ways.
The tiny counter service area gets packed by 6 PM with locals grabbing quick bites before heading home. Their chorizo-stuffed mushrooms and pintxos featuring thinly-sliced cured meats have developed a cult following among Boise foodies.
6. Basque Museum Courtyard
Few tourists know that the Basque Museum hosts pop-up pintxo nights in their courtyard during summer months. Local chefs take turns creating authentic Basque bites in this hidden gem location.
The atmosphere feels like a private party, with Basque music playing softly and string lights illuminating the space. Museum staff often share cultural stories between serving rounds of txikitos (small glasses of wine) and traditional bean dishes.
7. Ansots Basque Chorizos & Catering
A must-visit for anyone eager to experience traditional Basque flavors. The restaurant specializes in house-made chorizos, marinated solomo, and Basque bacon, offering rich, hearty flavors.
The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, making it a favorite for locals who enjoy both a quick bite and a leisurely meal. Ansots also provides catering services, bringing its authentic Basque taste to private gatherings, community events, and festivals.
8. The Front Door
Surprising even longtime Boiseans, this pizza place transforms into a pintxo paradise every Tuesday night. The chef’s Basque heritage shines through special menu items unavailable any other time.
Regulars know to request the “Basque Board”-an off-menu selection of pintxos paired with Spanish wines. Their potato tortilla bites topped with aioli have gained such popularity that locals have been known to beg for the recipe.
9. Basquenese
Down an unmarked staircase lies Basquenese, where Vietnamese-Basque fusion creates some of Boise’s most interesting pintxos. The owner’s mixed heritage inspired this unique concept that locals treasure as their best-kept secret.
Weeknights find the tiny space filled with food enthusiasts sharing plates of chorizo banh mi bites and bacalao spring rolls. No reservations means regulars know exactly when to arrive to snag the coveted corner booth.
