Foodie television shows have a knack for uncovering some of the best culinary secrets across America. Shows like “Man v. Food,” “Bar Rescue,” and especially “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” are famous for highlighting these hidden gems. Recently, Idaho’s food scene has been catching the eye of food enthusiasts nationwide, thanks to its appearances on these popular shows.
One of the most exciting events for Idaho food lovers happened in February 2023. That’s when Guy Fieri, the charismatic host of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” made a stop in Boise, Idaho. Known for his energetic personality and distinctive look, Fieri’s visit quickly became a hot topic in the local food community.
His Instagram post featuring a photo of his son Ryder signing a poster at Sunshine Spice Café sparked a wave of excitement among Boise residents. They eagerly began to share news about which other restaurants Fieri was visiting.
Boise was clearly a working stop for the Fieri family, who were on their way to Salt Lake City for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game. Although their stay in Boise was brief, they made the most of it. During their visit, Fieri and his crew filmed several episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” at various local restaurants.
The featured spots included Sunshine Spice Café, Taj Mahal Homestyle Indian and Pakistani Cuisine, Tango’s Subs and Empanadas, Alyonka Russian Cuisine, Westside Drive-In, Saint Lawrence Gridiron, and Madre.
The episodes that aired in the spring and summer of 2023 put Boise’s food scene in the national spotlight. It was a fantastic opportunity for these local eateries to showcase their unique dishes to a broader audience.
Guy Fieri’s show, which has been running for an incredible 49 seasons, has already featured at least 14 different Idaho restaurants. Despite the extensive coverage, Delish recently updated its list of “The Best ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ Restaurant in Every State,” and none of the Boise restaurants made it to the top spot.
The title of the best diner in Idaho still belongs to Jimmy’s Down the Street in Coeur d’Alene. This beloved eatery was featured on a February 2011 episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” called “Favorites With a Twist,” which also highlighted restaurants in Oakland, California, and Manchester, Connecticut.
During his visit, Guy Fieri sampled Jimmy’s Down the Street’s famous Chicken ‘N Dumplings, available only from Friday to Sunday. These dumplings are made from a cherished recipe passed down from Jimmy’s mother. Head cook Ben McFarland demonstrated the preparation process to Fieri, highlighting the care and love that go into making this comforting dish.
Fieri also received a tutorial on creating Jimmy’s Down the Street’s oversized, made-from-scratch caramel pecan roll from the bakery’s own Kim Wohlert. This roll has become a signature treat at the restaurant, drawing customers from near and far.
Jimmy’s Down the Street has undergone several name changes and ownership transitions over the years. However, it has been a staple in Coeur d’Alene for over 50 years. Jimmy and his wife, Anna, have been running the diner since 2009, continuing its tradition of serving delicious, hearty meals that have become a local favorite.
In conclusion, while Guy Fieri’s recent visits to Boise brought significant attention to the city’s food scene, Jimmy’s Down the Street in Coeur d’Alene remains a top choice for those seeking a classic, well-loved diner experience. The diner’s longstanding presence and continued popularity prove that some culinary gems, no matter how much they’re featured on TV, maintain their charm and appeal through tradition and quality.
This ongoing recognition of Idaho’s food scene underscores the power of television to highlight and celebrate local businesses. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, Idaho’s eateries offer a taste of American cuisine that is both authentic and memorable.
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