
Westside Drive In
An iconic 50s-themed diner serving classic American comfort food with a fun, retro vibe and unique Idaho specialties.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Westside Drive In
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 50s-themed diner serving classic American comfort food with a fun, retro vibe and unique Idaho specialties.
"Step back in time and indulge in delicious comfort food at this beloved Boise drive-in!"
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid long waits by visiting during non-busy times.
Dine on the patio
Enjoy your meal in a pleasant outdoor setting, weather permitting.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Ice Cream Potato
A vanilla ice cream sundae shaped and coated in cocoa powder to resemble a baked potato, a unique and fun Idaho delicacy.

Retro 50s Diner Ambiance
Step back in time at this charming 50s-themed diner with bubblegum pink walls and a nostalgic atmosphere.

Generous Portions of Classic American Comfort Food
Indulge in hearty, home-style American classics like juicy burgers and unique finger steaks, served in generous portions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid long waits by visiting during non-busy times.
Dine on the patio
Enjoy your meal in a pleasant outdoor setting, weather permitting.
Don't miss signature items
Be sure to try unique specialties like finger steaks or the ice cream potato.
Consider drive-thru for convenience
Opt for drive-thru service if it's raining or for a quick meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid long waits by visiting during non-busy times.
Dine on the patio
Enjoy your meal in a pleasant outdoor setting, weather permitting.
Don't miss signature items
Be sure to try unique specialties like finger steaks or the ice cream potato.
Consider drive-thru for convenience
Opt for drive-thru service if it's raining or for a quick meal.
Try the "Cheap Eats" menu
Explore budget-friendly options from their dedicated cheap eats menu.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about Westside Drive In's nostalgic 50s atmosphere and generous portions of classic American comfort food. The unique ice cream potato is a must-try, alongside their juicy burgers and friendly service. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some note that popular items like baked potatoes can sell out, especially later in the day.
"They have a fabulous variety of classic American diner dishes! The service here was amazing and we got our food within only around 5 minutes. We ate on the outdoor patio, but they also have the option to go through either one of their drive-thrus. I appreciate the kindness of the person taking the orders- very friendly. Ordered the Basic Idahoan, 'The Works' Spud, as well as the Shaved Rye Dip Sandwich- all which were very delicious and tasted as if they were made at home!"
Seann Maron
"Large menu, fast service. I got the bologna sandwich and the coco shrimp basket. The bologna sandwich was amazing! What a surprise. It was about 3 dollars! The portions are big and there's plenty of seating outside. I wish I went when I was hungry. I shared the items and I didn't have a craving for burgers or a heavy meal."
Juana Figueroa
"Menu has something for everyone’s craving. Do not skip eating here. Juicy burgers! Walk up window, drive-thru & patio. Pet treats, endless milkshake options, burger choices. Ordered 1/2lb pastrami burger—charred perfectly with outstanding seasoning."
Jenn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a vanilla ice cream sundae shaped to look like a baked potato, coated in cocoa powder with toppings like butter and sour cream.
No, Westside Drive In primarily offers outdoor seating, with walk-up windows and drive-thru options.
Yes, they offer an endless variety of milkshakes, a classic diner treat.
Yes, they offer pet-friendly treats like hotdogs or hamburgers specially made for your furry friends.
Yes, Westside Drive In has been featured on the Food Network show "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives".
Besides the ice cream potato, try their signature finger steaks or the "Basic Idahoan".
While not explicitly listed, their large menu may have options. It's best to inquire directly.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Go Back in Time with These Classic Boise Diners
This one is an icon in the Boise scene also with two locations. One at 1929 W State St in Boise and 1113 Park Center Blvd in Boise. Details from the website "The Westside Drive In has been in operation since 1957, and was purchased by Chef Lou in 1993. His goal was to bring his experience as a classically trained chef to the setting of a '50s-era drive-in restaurant. The resulting restaurant was a hit, and is known all across the Boise, ID area. We have even been featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" on the Food Network! Join us at one of our two locations to try a selection from our expansive menu and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of a bygone era.
Where to Find The Treasure Valley’s Best Chicken Sandwich
Their high quality of ingredients and uber-friendly staff make this carnival and 50s-themed restaurant a must-try. Before I was handed their Chicken Sandwich by the head chef and son of the owner, Chef Josh, he warned me, “people can’t go back to Chick-fil-A after they eat this.” Enthusiastically, I hurried to reveal the sandwich swaddled in the white paper wrapping. With both hands, I found between a classic white bun with sesame seeds, a thick helping of chopped lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, plenty of mayo, and a substantially sized fried chicken breast.
Boise Like a Local: Boise’s Hidden (and Not So Hidden) Gems
Everything about Westside appeals to classic ‘50s drive-up nostalgia, and the fast food overall is terrific, thanks to Chef Lou Aaron (especially the prime rib dinners, which are an unusual but very popular weekly special). But nothing embodies Idaho pride – or originality – quite like the russet sculpt of that ice cream, its cocoa-powder “skin,” and “butter” and “sour cream” toppings. This ingenious dessert looks good enough for the silver screen and tastes like a dream.
23 Incredible Things To Do In Boise, Idaho (For Outdoor Lovers)
Hungry after rafting, Berty and I googled “Best Burgers in Boise” and Westside Drive-In came up as a top contender. Driving up in the parking lot, bubblegum pink walls surround the outside eating area and you are immediately sent back in time to lazy summer days and greasy comfort food. They had incredible milkshakes (could you expect anything less?) and it’s location on State St. made it perfect for stopping by on your way out to visit Boise and beyond.
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I’d heard rumors of an ice cream potato long before I ever set foot in Idaho so I made it my mission to seek out this strange creation. Set in a nostalgic 50’s pink drive-in, the ice cream potato is more ice cream and less potato, though it is shaped to look like the state’s signature dish — vanilla ice cream coated in cocoa powder. While potatoes are a mainstay of Idaho agriculture, I can appreciate anywhere that knows how to poke fun at themselves.
Iconic Idaho food everyone should try at least once in Boise
The Ice Cream Potato, a menu staple at Westside Drive In, has an extensive history, dating back to the 1960's and spanning state borders. The dessert originated at the defunct Boise Gamekeeper restaurant, according to Westside Drive In chef Lou Aaron. The chef at Gamekeeper created it for a governor's banquet and called it the "Gamekeeper Surprise." The Gamekeeper Surprise was made with maple ice cream and topped with toasted almonds.
what are some must try places to eat in boise? : Boise
West Side Drive-In on State Street is fantastic if you're looking for an old fashioned burger and fries kind of place. Also, there used to be a place on Apple street near Park Center called Eddie's Wood Fired Dogs, and they served the best hotdogs I've ever had, bar none. They've been closed since October, but their sign is still up, the interior of the store is still intact, and it doesn't look like the space is up for lease.
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Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, despite being purchased by a gourmet chef, the Westside Drive-In still maintains its original nostalgic 50’s charm in a bubblegum pink building. Going well beyond the basic burger and shake joint, the humongous menu of sandwiches and ice cream creations takes up two entire boards, but we recommend skipping straight to dessert. The ice cream potato is iconic and always a crowd pleaser.
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Look no further than Westside Drive In, a beloved spot known for its finger steaks and ice cream potatoes. If you're in the mood for something sweet, don't miss out on the delectable treats at Goodys Soda Fountain or Guru Donuts, where you'll find an array of mouthwatering donuts and homemade ice cream. And for a late-night snack, swing by Pie Hole for a slice of their famous potato bacon pizza.
26 Fun Things to Do in Boise, Idaho
Operating since 1957, this vintage American restaurant hearkens back to simpler times, delivering a classic 1950s-era drive-in experience. Whether it brings back old memories or creates new ones, this eatery is one of the city’s must-see places!. The Westside Drive In dives in with a classic American menu featuring everything from burgers and fries to prime rib.
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State Street Location: 1929 W State St, Boise, ID Parkcenter Location: 1113 E Parkcenter Blvd, Boise, ID. Westside Drive-In is a Boise staple. The bright pink and baby blue ‘50s-era drive-in has been in business since 1957 and is known for classic burgers, milkshakes and finger steaks and was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
Idaho Diner Dubbed America's Top Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
During that visit, Food Network shot DDD episodes at Sunshine Spice Cafe, Taj Mahal Homestyle Indian and Pakistani Cuisine, Tango’s Subs and Empanadas, Alyonka Russian Cuisine, Westside Drive-In, Saint Lawrence Gridiron and Madre. All of those episodes put Boise in the national spotlight last spring and summer.
10 Cheap Places to Eat in Boise
This is a great drive-in with affordable cuisine made by a famous chef, Chef Lou Aaron. It’s a diner with a drive-through window and has a wide range of cuisine ranging from burgers to ribs to fresh salads. it was also once featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and has been a Boise staple since the 1950’s.
Most Delicious Sandwiches in Boise, Idaho
A 50s-style diner that was featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives”. The diner offers a large selection of scrumptious sandwiches to try including a Meatloaf Sandwich, a Monte Cristo, and a Ribeye Steak Sandwich. Visit either of its 2 locations on State St or Park Center Blvd in Boise.
Cheap eats: Where to grab a meal for less than $10
Westside Drive-In has a special “cheap eats” menu that includes a cold deli sandwich, a hamburger, and a chicken-wich for $4 each. If you have a hearty appetite, you can also get a Super Spud, a full-pound baked potato with toppings, for $5.49 to $7.29. Westside Drive-In has two Boise locations.
Top 5 Diners | We Love Our Boise
The Westside Drive In has been in operation since 1957, and was purchased by Chef Lou in 1993. His goal was to bring his experience as a classically trained chef to the setting of a '50s-era drive-in restaurant. The resulting restaurant was a hit, and is known all across the Boise, ID area.
5 1/2 Drive-thrus Worth a Stop
Featured on the TV show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives”, Westside Drive-in is a 50’s themed diner serving up classic American favorites. Burgers, fries, shakes, steaks galore… and more!. And don’t leave without trying their famous Idaho ice cream potato — yes, you read that right!
Locally Loved Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes in Boise
For a unique twist on dining out, check out Westside Drive-In. As one of the classic spots in Boise, it brings nostalgia to your dining experience. Chef Lou, a local legend, has crafted a menu with drive-in favorites and innovative dishes like the prime rib dinner.
32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Boise (Idaho)
When you’re looking for a great burger in Boise but with an old-fashioned feel, come to Westside Drive-In. This is a wonderful retro eatery that provides fun and flavor together. Pull up your car to this shop and get ready to have a delightful meal.
Best Finger Steaks in Idaho Winners (2018) | USA TODAY
Westside Drive In makes their signature finger steaks with hand-cut steak strips, dredged first in a seasoned flour then dipped in a light seasoned tempura. The quick fried finger steaks are then served with homemade cocktail sauce.
Highest-rated Cheap Eats in Boise, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (168 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Quick Bites, Fast Food- Address: 1939 W State St, Boise, ID 83702-3958- Read more on Tripadvisor
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When a restaurant is featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” you know it’s going to be good. And one cold winter evening we decided to find out how good. We rolled into the Westside Drive In about 7pm.
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Thank you for having a gluten free bun that doesn’t taste like sawdust!. I was thrilled to see you offer it on your menu and ordered dinner. Of course it tasted fantastic like all your food does!
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You MUST get an Idaho Ice Cream Potato at Westside Drive In (two locations, including one near downtown). It’s ice cream in the shape of a potato!. Trust me, it’s delicious.
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Westside Drive-In’s finger steaks come with a slice of garlic bread, tots, fry sauce, which is a total Idaho thing, and marinara. Shaun Goodwin sgoodwin@idahostatesman.com
The Best Pizza in the Treasure Valley, ID (2024)
About: “We, the pizza-loving people of Westside Pizza, do solemnly swear to faithfully execute what it means to be “All About The Pizza” with every breath we take.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit