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    Elmer's Kitchen

    4.1 (322 reviews)
    Open 6:30 am - 2:30 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Elmer's Kitchen Photos

    Business Info

    ELMER'S KITCHEN ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Elmer's Kitchen

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    Timothy C.

    Always wanted to go to this place. Have lived in Boise for many years. Finally went. Major letdown. The waffle was almost $12!!! THAT MUCH FOR A WAFFLE!!! with JUST BUTTER!!!! absolute...INSANITY!!!! I will never go here again. These diners are supposed to be affordable. How does a family eat here? Ok so yes, it's located on Capitol, super close to BSU and basically is downtown....so they will always get the business. But DAMN!! $12 for a waffle!! ONE. WAFFLE!!! just...one! This place is obviously NOT for the locals. It's for the parents of BSU students. They basically know that they can hella over charge and somehow get away with it. Just crazy. Again...it's like a diner. So there is absolutely NO need to be charging what they do. Waitress was very nice tho. Ill give her/this place that much, but yeah...for a restaurant I was excited to try after so many years bc I love old school places like this...I can 100% say...I will never go here again. Thanks for reading, YelpElmers!!! GO. SOMEWHERE. ELSE!!! You will get more food and won't get robbed. Cheers!

    An absolute SPREAD
    McDaniel P.

    For a busy Saturday morning these guys handled service amazing. Walking in I was hit with the nostalgia of breakfast joints back east from when I was a kid. I ordered the "Hungry Rancher Breakfast" and man were they not lying. Maybe I've been watching too much Yellowstone. I couldn't finish it. Rainey was our server and she did wonderful. Highlights were the sausage gravy and the coffee.

    Good food.
    Greg S.

    Very good service. Clean. Food was not greasy. Veg omelette had fresh veggies. Photo sums it up. Not much else to say other than it is a good idea to come here.

    German pancake ham steak eggs over medium
    Becca C.

    Had the German pancake with the ham steak both were amazing. Service was great, coffees stayed full.

    Fresh cut flowers in the ladies restroom!

    My friend and I ate brunch at Elmer's this week. The owner greeted and welcomed us as we walked in and we were seated promptly. Our server was very sweet and efficient as well. I had an omelette with hash browns and a biscuit. The menu said that the biscuits were from Pillsbury and I assume they were frozen, but mine was really good as were the omelette and hash browns and coffee. The coolest thing was that they had a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers on the counter in the ladies restroom; they were just gorgeous! We told the owner how pretty they were as we were leaving (while he was sweeping the rug) and he said he cut them himself that morning! That was such an unexpected and pleasant surprise! I'd definitely recommend Elmer's!!

    Chris Y.

    What are the great things about getting to see family is they always do the best breakfast spots luckily one of my uncles took me to Elmers and we got lucky and got really good parking but that wasn't enough. I had to have what I thought would be the French toast sandwich but instead I got an omelette with pancakes. The service was incredible. I had to Say Jeff was a lot of fun had a really good outlet in all his is a lHe's a careful and throw eat or do you want to give yourself time and the family restaurant this isn't the quick in and out. You need to have time to enjoy the conversation appreciate the atmosphere and make sure that the food gets there. And give it every chance to be appreciated before you turn it into an empty plate. .

    Farmer's breakfast
    Jason S.

    Today while moving in our youngest to her new place to attend Boise state we walked over here for a late breakfast/lunch...I hadn't eaten at an Elmers for over 20+ yrs since we left the state of Washington. But when we used to live in Washington we had one blocks from our place and have fond memories as a young family eating here. Walking into this location it brought us back in time. A little outdated but super clean inside and the host at the front was super welcoming and friendly. Upon being seated our host brought over some waters and took our drink order. Heads up they do have adult beverages for brunch as well like champagne, wine and beer selection. After a very short wait our waiter Jeffery came to assist us. This to me was the game changer he was super friendly, attentive, informative and made this whole experience one that I would come back for. For food I had the crabacado omelette which consisted of lots of fresh Dungeness crab, bacon, sliced avocado and metered cheese. This omelette was very delicious and filling. I haven't had this good of a crab omelette since being in the Northwest. The crab was so fresh tasting and if you haven't ever had bacon and avocado with this flavor profile you have missed out. My daughter had the chocolate chip pancakes with eggs and bacon on the side. These pancakes could've fed a family of 5 they were so big, but so delicious with great fluffy taste. My daughters BF had the farmers breakfast which was 3 eggs with sliced ham, bacon, sausage links, hash browns and homemade biscuit. We loved everything and glad we stumbled across this place. I hope that more locals and visitors give this Boise staple a try. It's hard to find great food like this and the portion size vs the price. I really enjoyed our visit and food. We will for sure be back!

    This was horrible. Cold food, small portions that you can tell come pre-packaged. Four dollars for a child size soda. Four dollars for one cup of coffee. Ten dollars for a tiny piece of shoe leather (ham) and a side of cold hashbrowns. We ordered "STRAWBERRY" pancakes and were charged for them but also charged an extra fee for the strawberries. Forty-three dollars for two people. It was disgusting and expensive for the quality and portions.

    Bacon avocado omelette with fruit and a biscuit

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    8 years ago

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    8 years ago

    Hard to find good food as tourist. Absolutely great service and the food was great as well. German pancakes were worth it!

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    10 years ago

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    9 years ago

    We LOVED Elmers. Great service, really good food and just a super homey atmosphere. Next time we're in Boise, we'll come back for sure.

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    7 years ago

    BEST PANCAKES I HAVE EVER HAD! I haven't really had anything else... but I'll vouch for the buttermilk pancakes!

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    8 years ago

    Food was wonderful!! Had some lovely French toast. The portions were plenty and the staff was delightful.

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    11 years ago

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    8 years ago

    Food and service have been great every time I've been here. Wish they had more in town

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    8 years ago

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    8 years ago

    Enjoyed good food awesome server named Jerek. Was a belated anniversary dinner. I would come back again.

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    9 years ago

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    6 years ago

    Their potato cakes are to die for. So amazing and a cute little restaurant to go to. Great location too!

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    9 years ago

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    9 years ago

    So bad pancakes and bad service it was absolutely terrible took 30 minutes just to cash me out

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    9 years ago

    Very pleased with our breakfast and service. Would highly recommend Elmers. We will certainly come again.

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    8 years ago

    Great food and Jerek provides superb service! He is attentive and just spot on with everything! One of our favorite places.

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    10 years ago

    Great food and service. HUGE portions. The German Pancake is so tasty. Plan to share, even if it's the only thing you order.

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    Page 6 of 9

    Ask the Community - Elmer's Kitchen

    Goldy's Breakfast Bistro

    Goldy's Breakfast Bistro

    4.2
    (1.3k reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    My husband and I have two food categories we always research before visiting a new city: pizza and…read morebreakfast. We take both very seriously, so Goldy's was high on our list during our trip to Boise--and it did not disappoint. We ended up sitting upstairs, which turned out to be a great choice. It gave us a fun view of the dining room below and, more importantly, let us see all the amazing-looking plates coming out of the kitchen. If you're anything like me, half the fun of breakfast is seeing what everyone else ordered. The standout for both of us was easily the Goldy's Special Potatoes. The red potatoes are tossed with the restaurant's house seasoning blend, and whatever is in that seasoning mix works. They were flavorful, crispy, and completely addictive. We both cleaned our plates. I ordered the two-egg breakfast with scrambled eggs and cheese, along with one of their specialty sausages. Everything was cooked perfectly, and the biscuit was excellent. Since I was in Idaho, I also wanted to try something made with marionberries because they're so well known in the Pacific Northwest. I ordered the marionberry jam, and while I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, both my husband and I really enjoyed it. My husband went with an omelet and turkey apple sausage and was equally happy with his choice. The coffee was probably the only thing that didn't stand out to me. I drink my coffee black, and this was more of a classic diner-style cup of coffee--perfectly fine, but not the star of the meal for sure. Overall, Goldy's is exactly the kind of breakfast spot we love finding when we travel: great food, generous portions, and a place that feels like a local favorite for a reason. If we ever find ourselves back in Boise, we'll absolutely be back for those potatoes.

    Visited our son and daughter in law for a long weekend and they took us to Goldy's for a hearty…read morebreakfast. It's a small unassuming place in DT Boise. Great selection of breakfast staples. They're very attentive on their coffee refills. Steak and crab benny did not skimp on the steak or crab. Every bite was delicious. Only downside is there's no area to wait for your table. You'll have to step outside in the cold since there's really no space inside.

    Photos
    This is chandelerious
    This is chandelerious
    Fresh fruit
    Fresh fruit
    Sunrise Mimosa

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    Sunrise Mimosa
    Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

    Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

    4.3
    (894 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$
    Full bar
    Takes reservations

    Tupelo Honey has become one of our family's go-to spots, especially for Mother's Day. We've eaten…read morehere at least a dozen times over the years for different occasions, and it never disappoints.. Had the Brussels sprouts, strawberry French toast, and the famous fried green tomatoes, which were all so yummy! The service was quick, the staff was friendly, and the overall experience was just as great as we remembered. The Brussels sprouts are a huge fav for us. The sauce is so flavorful and we order them every time! My only tiny note is that the portion size seems to have gotten a little smaller over the years, but they're still worth getting every single visit.

    Great atmosphere and excellent service recovery!…read more I stopped by Tupelo Honey in downtown Boise for lunch and loved the vibe. The decor features beautiful artificial greenery that gives the space a light, vibrant, and welcoming feel. My server, Brayden, was fantastic--friendly, prompt, and attentive. I started with the Southern Hospitality mimosa (peach & pineapple with "Blue Ridge Bubbly"), which was incredible. For my meal, I chose the $10.99 Lunch Break Special, upgrading my side to the chicken poblano soup alongside the half honey pecan chicken salad sandwich. While I was looking at the bar, a gentleman named Scott asked how I was enjoying my food. I told him I hadn't tried it yet, but that the mimosa was rocking! The soup was delicious with great flavoring, and the biscuits paired perfectly with their tasty jam. The chicken salad also tasted great, but unfortunately, I bit into a sharp chicken bone that hurt my mouth. Because of this, I stopped eating the sandwich. When Brayden checked back in, I let him know I couldn't finish it due to the bone. He handled it perfectly, promptly took the sandwich away, and removed the charge from my bill. He also brought out some bread for my soup as requested. I finished my meal with a salted caramel craft iced latte, which was absolutely delicious. Minor food mishap aside, the outstanding customer service from both Brayden and Scott will definitely bring me back!

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    Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
    Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
    Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

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    Moe Joe's Breakfast Eatery

    Moe Joe's Breakfast Eatery

    4.5
    (1.1k reviews)
    7.3 mi
    $$

    Hubby and I were starting off my birthday week with breakfast. He asked me where I wanted to eat…read more Of course it had to be Moe Joe's. We were in the area so it was meant to be. We did have to have a small wait. I love the fact that they were busy! Nothing makes me happier than seeing a local business thrive! It was a little over 10 minutes of wait time. No problem, we chilled in the car till we got our text to come in. We were sat, got coffee and juice ordered and checked out the menu. We were both hungry so everything looked good. My husband decided on a stack of pancakes with chocolate chips and a side of biscuits and gravy. I got the Big boy omelet with Moe Joe's potatoes. Our server, I believe her name is Kendra, was super sweet! I have served her before when she came in and ate my at family's restaurant. She was fabulous as a guest and fabulous at taking care of us today. I had requested a fresh cup of half and half that wasn't used my multiple guests. I'm still bring careful with my new kidney. With no hesitation, she gladly gave me a fresh cup of half and for my coffee. I appreciate her kindness so much. Food came out and booooyyyyy did everything look amazing! My husband's pancakes were fluffy and had plenty of chocolate chips. The biscuits were covered with gravy. My omelet was massive and was also covered in gravy. I was ready to tear into them potatoes! They were nice and charry. I know this meal is about to hit! I don't think I said a word to my husband for 15 minutes. The food was so good! Nothing important needed to be talked about when the food was doing the talking for us. My omelet was stuffed with green peppers, onions and all the 3 meats that came with it. I love love love the gravy on top! The potatoes were crispy on the outside and so soft in the middle. The potatoes with gravy is top tier! Of course I tried my husband's pancakes.... so fluffy and sweet. The biscuits weren't crazy dense. I love that they were airy. I really had to hold back on the pancakes, I still had a whole omelet to work on. But them pancakes were the business! It's sad that this joint is clear across town. I would eat here every week if I could. Everything we had today was so good! Everything I had last time was good! The service is fantastic. I adore Memory and Peyton. Now I get to add Kendra to my list! One of the best breakfast joints in town, hands down! I'm so happy I got to start my birthday week at Moe Joe's! I look forward to coming back very soon.

    Everything is still the same service-wise, space, cleanliness. They still text if there's a long…read morewait, which is convenient, so you can wait in your car. We had a different server than our usual this time and she was fantastic. I wish I remembered her name to give her a shout out. I took away a star because the food wasn't as great as the last few times I visited. The eggs were overcooked (kind of dry and almost rubbery) and the hash browns were under cooked in the center. Now, if you've read my previous review, youd know how much i absolutely LOVE their pancakes - and I've made it my go-to spot for breakfast because of it. Well, either they changed the recipe or someone messed up this batch. It was nice and fluffy, but bland. That signature deliciously buttery flavor was nowhere to be found. I kept taking bites hoping my tongue was deceiving me... but there were no lies. Just disappointment. This is definitely a deal breaker. Maybe I'll try one more time. If it was just a one-time fluke, I'll update this review and stars. :::sigh:::

    Photos
    Moe Joe's Breakfast Eatery
    Let's eat!
    Let's eat!
    "The California Burrito Hash Bowl" - housemade fries (opted instead of Moe Joe taters)

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    "The California Burrito Hash Bowl" - housemade fries (opted instead of Moe Joe taters)
    Wild Root

    Wild Root

    4.2
    (363 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    TEMPORARILY CLOSED AS OF 12/1/25 per letter posted on eatery door. See excerpts below…read more I was a big fan of this eatery under original owners but not so much since the current owners took over. So, I don't weep for their need to re-evaluate but realize fans will be disappointed. If you have gift cards you can use them at St. Lawrence Gridiron or Rustica, two other Boise downtown restaurants with the same owners. From the letter on door: "As many know, there has been a significant slowdown in consumer spending, especially in restaurants starting late 2024. We've done our very best to keep prices in line with what makes sense to cover costs and provide full benefits for our amazing staff," the letter said. "However, with sales down across all entities this year, we must re-evaluate our operations and make the necessary difficult decisions to be a sustainable business. Also, for the first time in many years, we recently lost two key people in our organization, and they both were a large part of what made Wild Root special. Last, we are heading into the slower, winter months. Instead of scrambling to keep the doors open, we are going to shut it down to evaluate everything."

    It's street parking. There is outside seating but we sat inside…read more Decor inside is pretty with wooden tables and chairs. It's clean inside and outside. Service is very friendly. Food was good too. I thought I ordered Eggs Benedict but I was given two eggs without hollandaise sauce instead. I didn't complain. I still ate it and everything was delicious. Service was quick so I'll definitely give this place another try.

    Photos
    Enjoying an awesome breakfast!
    Enjoying an awesome breakfast!
    Belly Up LT & Fruit Salad
    Belly Up LT & Fruit Salad
    Belly Up LT

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    Belly Up LT
    High Note

    High Note

    4.3
    (224 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $

    High Note features all-vegan, all housemade food, which is just my thing, so I'm really glad I…read morediscovered it during my short stay in Boise. I came here for a late lunch around 2 pm after arriving in Boise. They weren't crowded at this point but business wasn't dead either. My waitress was very friendly. Inside has a lived-in, intimate feel, but it was pretty dark, so much that I wasn't sure they were actually open as I was opening the door. I had the French dip sandwich with a side of tomato basil soup. The sandwich was delicious and tasted homemade in the best way. The "meat" of the sandwich was seitan. I don't THINK it was a perfect meat replica (but I've never had a real French dip), but it was very flavourful. I loved the flavour and the thick cut of their bread, but it didn't have much structure and fell apart easily as I was eating which made the sandwich very messy. The tomato basil soup was a little different. It was slightly creamy but brothy and a little chunky - not a smooth puree. Again, it tasted great and was nice and light, which was a good contrast to the very rich sandwich. It was a little slow, especially considering they weren't that busy. I didn't really mind since I wasn't on a schedule, but this is something to be aware of - don't come here for a quick meal. Not cheap, but worth it for the quality.

    I like to visit an all vegan restaurant whenever I am traveling. I saw that the High Note was only…read more.8 mile from where I was staying. My vegetarian friend offered to accompany me. The restaurant was cute, and I was excited to try it. I ordered the grilled cheese and mushroom sandwich with tomato basil soup. I liked the bread of the sandwich, it was pretty hearty. The cheese wasn't very melty. My friend got a French dip sandwich, she only ate half and brought the rest back to our Airbnb. The next day when we were departing, she offered it to me for my drive home. The service was ok, it wasn't the friendliest. Prices were a little steep. If I lived nearby, I would come back and give another try.

    Photos
    Interior
    Interior
    The masher, add pickled jalapenos
    The masher, add pickled jalapenos
    Front door.  It's right next to a pizza place with red/white umbrellas, so don't miss it.

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    Front door. It's right next to a pizza place with red/white umbrellas, so don't miss it.

    Elmer's Kitchen - diners - Updated June 2026

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