Having embraced a vegan lifestyle for six years, I’ve witnessed the exciting growth of plant-based dining in the Treasure Valley. The local culinary scene is thriving with innovative vegan options that cater to everyone, from lifelong vegans to those just exploring plant-based eating. From cozy cafes to vibrant eateries, I’ve rounded up my top four favorite vegan spots that satisfy cravings and highlight plant-based cuisine's incredible flavors. Let’s explore these gems that make vegan dining in Boise a true delight!
Lemon Tree
(Downtown Boise, Parkcenter, Harris Ranch)
Lemon Tree is one of my favorite restaurants in the Treasure Valley, consistently delivering healthy and delicious meals. During my recent visit, we managed to try every vegan and gluten-free dish on the menu! I brought along two non-vegan friends, and they were genuinely shocked by how flavorful and satisfying everything was. From their innovative tacos bursting with fresh ingredients to the mouthwatering burgers, we left completely stuffed. However, we couldn’t resist finishing the meal with their delectable banana bread pudding, which was so good we nearly licked the plate clean!
Here’s everything we tried!
Buffalo Cauliflower
Roasted vegan cauliflower florets tossed in buffalo sauce, served with crisp celery ribbons and a house-made vegan ranch.
Mole Nachos
Blue corn chips topped with housemade mole sauce, pickled red onions, vegan Violife feta, and drizzled with housemade vegan crema.
Cauliflower Tacos
Roasted cauliflower served on homemade yellow corn tortillas, topped with jalapeño slaw, pickled onions, vegan feta, chipotle crema, and garnished with watermelon radish.
BBQ Jackfruit Tacos
Sautéed jackfruit tossed in housemade habanero BBQ sauce, served on homemade yellow corn tortillas. Topped with pickled onions, mango salsa, chipotle crema, vegan feta, and garnished with watermelon radish.
Hatch Burger
An Impossible patty topped with vegan cheddar, portobello bacon, hatch chile, chipotle crema, and grilled onions.
Banana Bread Pudding
Served in a sizzling skillet and topped with coconut whipped cream.
Stardust
(Downtown Boise)
Stardust Restaurant & Lounge is a fine dining gem in Downtown Boise, showcasing a stunning mid-century modern experience! Step into the glamor of the 1950s and savor a neo-classical twist on traditional mid-century dishes. With a diverse selection of vegan offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s the perfect spot for all dietary preferences.
Here’s what we tried!
Squash Wellington
Puff pastry filled with butternut squash, mushroom duxelle, roasted cauliflower, and served with vegetable demi, tomato, and sautéed mushrooms.
Vegan Mushroom Benedict
An English muffin topped with a lion's mane mushroom cake, vegan egg, house-made vegan hollandaise, herb salad, and brunch potatoes.
Berry Crumble
Served with oat milk ice cream.
Guru Donuts
(Boise & Eagle)
At Guru Donuts, the focus is on creating a vibrant experience where everyone feels seen and valued. They believe that food and life should be fun, and delicious donuts and exceptional coffee are just the way to welcome guests.
Here’s what we tried!
Alice in Wonderland
A raised ring doughnut dipped in housemade vanilla glaze and coated with made-from-scratch birthday cake crumble.
Hipsterberry
A vegan raised ring doughnut topped with a fruity and floral glaze made from blackberries, blueberries, and lavender.
Sea Salt Chocolate Bar
A vegan raised bar coated in dark chocolate glaze, finished with a perfect dash of sea salt.
Maple Bar
A vegan raised bar coated in made-from-scratch maple glaze.
The O.G.
A raised ring coated in a house made vanilla bean Guru glaze.
Mini Sprinkle Bomb
A mini ring glazed in vanilla and covered in tiny rainbow sprinkles.
Mini Vanilla Coconut
A mini ring dipped in vanilla glaze and coated in coconut.
Ochos
(Downtown Boise)
A vibrant bar that brings a slice of Latin America to Boise, featuring colorful decor and an upbeat atmosphere. The setting is laid-back in the afternoons, transforming into a lively hotspot as the night unfolds. With a diverse menu offering plenty of options for every guest, Ochos is the perfect place to add some excitement to your weeknight or unwind in style over the weekend.
Vegan Cheese Board
Featuring Nosh Foods plant-based cashew spreads, housemade chipotle cashew, fig butter, mustard, gluten-free crackers, fresh fruit, nuts, and greens.
Whether you’re a long-time vegan, a curious newcomer, or simply someone looking to indulge in delicious food, I encourage you to step out and try these amazing vegan treats. The culinary scene in the Treasure Valley is thriving, and the only thing missing is your taste buds experiencing all it has to offer! So go ahead, gather your friends, and embark on your own delicious journey through these plant-based gems. Happy eating!