Cottonwood Grille
A rustic, romantic fine dining restaurant on the Boise River, offering seasonal Northwestern cuisine and an extensive wine list.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Cottonwood Grille
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic, romantic fine dining restaurant on the Boise River, offering seasonal Northwestern cuisine and an extensive wine list.
"The ambiance, food and service was exceptional. I had the Salmon, our Son had the Seafood Linguini and we all had appetizers, soup and salad."
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for discounted appetizers and drinks in a peaceful setting.
Outdoor Seating
Opt for the picturesque patio seating during warmer months to enjoy riverside views.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Northwestern, American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverside Patio Dining
Enjoy a serene dining experience on one of Boise's largest patios overlooking the Boise River and Greenbelt.
Seasonal Northwestern Cuisine
Indulge in fresh seafood, Double R Ranch beef, and farm-fresh wild game crafted with seasonal ingredients.
Elegant Atmosphere
Experience a rustic, romantic setting perfect for date nights, special occasions, or leisurely brunches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for discounted appetizers and drinks in a peaceful setting.
Outdoor Seating
Opt for the picturesque patio seating during warmer months to enjoy riverside views.
Reservations Recommended
Book in advance for special occasions or large groups, especially during peak times.
Try Signature Dishes
Consider recommended dishes like croquettes or tenderloin medallions for consistent quality.
Tips
from all over the internet
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for discounted appetizers and drinks in a peaceful setting.
Outdoor Seating
Opt for the picturesque patio seating during warmer months to enjoy riverside views.
Reservations Recommended
Book in advance for special occasions or large groups, especially during peak times.
Try Signature Dishes
Consider recommended dishes like croquettes or tenderloin medallions for consistent quality.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cottonwood Grille is lauded for its exceptional service, elegant atmosphere, and beautiful riverside patio. Diners rave about the quality of food, particularly fresh seafood and well-prepared meats, and the extensive, fairly priced wine list. However, some guests have experienced significant service delays, which can overshadow the otherwise enjoyable dining experience.
"Had dinner there this evening with a party of 10 and they did a really great job! We had a nice quiet and very private space. Food was good. I had the beef stroganoff and a wedge Cesar salad. It’s a nice quiet place to go for dinner and good conversation. I’ll be back again I’m sure."
Mark Lenox
"We went here for Valentines Day and were not disappointed. This is a very upscale restaurant with great service and a quiet and mature atmosphere. I would highly recommend experiencing this restaurant if you get the opportunity. The Idaho Huckleberry drink is off the charts!"
Brent Daley
"We went for Sunday brunch with a reservation. We were shown directly to our table. The outside seating is beautiful and the inside is nice. There was salt and dust on the booth lighting. The wait service was fine.
The food was overall good, but at a fine dining restaurant, I was expecting better than just good. The turkey melt was tasty, the omlette eggs cooked to perfection. However, there was NO seasoning on the veggies in the vegetarian omlette, not even salt. The French silk pie could have been good, but was drown in what tasted like canned Hershey syrup, with fancy cool whip on the side. A few tweaks, and the experience would have lived up to expectations."
Aislynne Fend
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Cottonwood Grille has a large patio overlooking the Boise River and Greenbelt, perfect for enjoying meals outdoors.
Absolutely. Its elegant atmosphere, excellent service, and beautiful setting make it ideal for date nights, anniversaries, and private events.
Cottonwood Grille is considered an upscale dining establishment, with prices reflecting its fine dining experience and quality.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners, special occasions, or if you plan to visit with a larger group.
Reviewers often recommend the croquettes, tenderloin medallions, salmon, and seafood linguini. The clam chowder is also a must-try.
Yes, the restaurant boasts an extensive wine list with over two hundred wines, noted by reviewers as being excellent and fairly priced.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
The Best Brunch Spots In Boise, Idaho
Opened in 1999, the Cottonwood Grille is a fine dining establishment serving up northwestern cuisine. Using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, Chef Jesus Alcelay creates mouth-watering dishes for the lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch menus. Savory items to note from the brunch menu include the Basque omelet filled with chorizo, sautéed garlic, onions, bell peppers and manchego cheese and the signature Cottonwood Benedict with poached eggs and grilled smoked pork loin on English muffins with béarnaise sauce.
Restaurant In Boise Makes National Most Romantic List
Cottonwood Grille is another upscale spot that never disappoints, just thinking of the shrimp louis makes my mouth water and the setting is definitely date worthy. Fork is a good time and has good food amidst all the shenanigans that Downtown Boise has to offer. As much as I like these places, none of the above mentioned restaurants made it on Tripadvisor's top 10 most romantic restaurants national list but one Boise restaurant did and it's none other than Chandlers Steakhouse.
10 Best Restaurants in Boise for Every Taste and Occasion
Cottonwood Grille is Boise’s best riverside location, serving fine Idaho meats, fresh seafood, crisp salads, and a selection of specialty desserts and cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a classy indoor dining experience or casual appetizers along the banks of the Boise River, Cottonwood Grille has atmosphere. Daily happy hour can’t be beat, and it is the perfect location for locals, friends, and visitors to gather any day, seven days a week.
Boise Area Fine Dining Restaurants to Impress
Cottonwood Grille offers a unique dining experience in Boise, with a focus on elevated favorites in a casual-yet-refined atmosphere. The restaurant has been a favorite in the Treasure Valley for more than 20 years, known for its beautiful location and elegant dining. The menu offers a variety of options for every visit, whether you’re popping in for a drink, settling down for a multi-course dinner, or enjoying brunch on their riverside patio.
31 Best Restaurants in Boise, Idaho for Foodies in 2025
Cottonwood Grille is one of the best restaurants in downtown Boise to visit all year round. During sunny Boise springs and summers, the umbrella-shaded patio tables are a picture-perfect place to enjoy a meal with your family. One of the most romantic Restaurants in Boise, Idaho, there is something to say about enjoying a hearty entree in the magnificent dining room alongside the roaring fireplace during the winter months as well.
9 Best Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving Dinner boise – 2024 – The Spirit of Thanksgiving: Celebrating Gratitude with Food, Family, and Friends
At Cottonwood Grille, experience the epitome of fine dining as you dine in the embrace of warmth and elegance, perfect for a Thanksgiving gathering. As you step in, you’re greeted by the cozy glow of a crackling fireplace, casting a gentle dance of light across the room. With Boise’s scenic trails passing by, the view outside adds a touch of nature’s beauty to your dining experience.
Top 10 Outdoor Patios in Boise According to Josh Cormier
Nestled by the Boise River, the Cottonwood Grille offers seasonal Northwest fare, farm-fresh wild game, northwest beef, and fresh seafood. Cottonwood Grille is ideal for any occasion—a romantic evening by the lit patio or a weekend brunch in the sun. Either way, you're sure to be surrounded by the calming power of Boise's beautiful trees.
Restaurants in Boise
One of Boise's favorites and right on the Greenway, Cottonwood Grille, 913 W. River St. (tel. 208/333-9800), offers French via Northwest cuisine in a lodgelike dining room dominated by a massive stone fireplace. Barbacoa, 276 Bobwhite Court (tel. 208/338-5000), offers upscale Latin cuisine in a wildly decorated dining room.
15 Restaurants in Boise, Idaho with Patios
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, check out Cottonwood Grille!. It’s nestled along the Boise River in downtown Boise and has a lovely outdoor patio below the towering cottonwood trees. Taste a selection of cuisine made from local products (including beef, berries, beer, and wine).
Top 5 Most Popular American Restaurants in Boise, Idaho
Cottonwood Grille is a popular spot that serves seasonal Northwest fare fresh from the farm. Their menu features a variety of New American cuisine that is served in elegant and comfortable surroundings. The restaurant is loved and attracts locals and visitors to dine in its beautiful courtyard.
15 Must-Try Restaurants in Boise, ID to Try in 2024
Cuisine Type: BBQ Joint, New American RestaurantLocation: 913 W River St, Boise, ID 83702Website: Cottonwood Grille. Cottonwood Grille is a popular BBQ joint and New American restaurant. They offer a variety of mouth-watering BBQ dishes and a diverse menu of American cuisine.
The Top 5 Most Popular American Restaurants in Boise, Idaho
Cottonwood Grille is a popular spot serving seasonal Northwest fare fresh from the farm. Their menu features a variety of new American dishes served in elegant and relaxed surroundings. The restaurant is loved and attracts locals and visitors to dine on its beautiful patio.
Highest-rated Restaurants in Boise, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (453 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$$$- Address: 913 W River St, Boise, ID 83702-7082- Read more on Tripadvisor
Best restaurants for outdoor dining and patios in Boise, ID
Cottonwood Grille sits right by the Boise River, giving you one of the best patio dining spots in Boise. It’s ideal for a romantic evening or a quiet meal alone. You can enjoy the natural beauty all around you.
Best Brunch in Boise, ID (2025) — 20 Top Places!
Cottonwood Grille is a warm and relaxed restaurant serving seasonal Northwestern-style fare, farm-fresh wild game, plus an award-winning wine list, with a full bar.
Party Venues in Boise, ID - 82 Venues | Pricing
The River Room is a dedicated banquet and event space at the Cottonwood Grille, perfect for meetings, events, private parties and special occasi
Treasure Valley Brunch Guide
Cottonwood Grille offers a Sunday brunch with breakfast bowls, omelets, chicken fried steak, and and even a brunch filet mignon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit