With summer upon us, Boise folks know to expect live entertainment across the Treasure Valley. If you want a live soundtrack to your summer, but are unsure where to look, read on for nine of the best dining and music combos around!
Alive After 5
A 35-year tradition, Downtown Boise’s Alive After 5 concert series operates on select Wednesdays from June through August. Occurring outdoors at The Grove Plaza, it is always free and fun. This year includes The Suffers, Deep Sea Diver, and Wavves.
Riverside Hotel
The Riverside isn’t just a hotel. It's a multi-faceted event space containing three different concert rooms: The Sapphire Room, Bar365, and Sandbar. You’ll find a wide array of music here, from eclectic jazz to bluegrass to singer-songwriters.
Chandler’s Steakhouse
Chandler’s downtown is widely known for amazing food and live jazz. “We are the only venue in the valley, that I know of, that is seven-nights-a-week live jazz,” says music coordinator Mike Rosenthol. “The music is meant to enhance the experience. People come to Chandler’s because they know they’re going to get fantastic service and some of the best food in the state.”
Deluca’s
Italian fine dining restaurant Deluca’s is located inside BODO. Inhabiting the spot that Ha'Penny previously called home, Deluca’s hosts live music every weekend. This summer, you'll have the chance to see Frank Marra, Michele Eastland, and Lisa Bittick.
KIN
This newer downtown restaurant is known for their PiKINic music event series. In the past, KIN has hosted performances by internationally renowned artists like Doug Martsch and the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, as well as up-and-coming locals like Sam Tru and Eilen Jewell.
Craft Lounge
It’s a bit of a drive, but Craft Lounge is worth the traveling time. Located in the bottom level of the old Masonic Temple in Nampa, Craft boasts a speakeasy aesthetic without the exclusivity. “We love drinks. We love spirits and we love people,” says owner Nathan Boban. At Craft, you’ll find jazz bands and solo artists pounding away on the venue’s baby grand piano.
The Reef
Known for its seafood menu and fun drink options, The Reef off 6th and Main also hosts live music. From DJs on the roof to live bands rocking out on the stage indoors, you might hear ska, EDM, or just plain rock ‘n roll at this popular spot.
JaK*s Place
Another Nampa restaurant where every weekend is “Weekend Music @ JaK*s.” They regularly hosts artists like Ashley Roze, Blaze & Kelly, and Darian Renee. “JaK*s Place is a feel-good kind of place,” says Renee. “Everything is delicious. You’re going to have a great meal and hear some great music.”
Idaho Botanical Gardens
What do Alice in Chains and the Avett Brothers have in common? For starters, they’ve both performed at Outlaw Field, the concert space belonging to the Idaho Botanical Gardens. Big-name artists give outdoor performances for the lucky Boise residents who get their tickets in time. When shows sell out, some folks allegedly watch from the foothills nearby.