About
One notable cultural feature of Boise is that it is home to one of the largest concentrations of Basque people outside of Europe. The majority live in the Basque Block, where you can sample Basque cuisine at Bar Gernika!
Located beside the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, this eatery comes with a rich history. In 1901, the area was called Chinatown, and the Quong Chong Laundry occupied what is now Bar Gernika. During the 1950s, the spot was home to the Cub Tavern that eventually closed in January of 1990.
Developers wanted to level the 80-year-old structure for a parking lot until Basque Museum & Cultural Center board members stepped in and made a case to preserve it.
Enter Dan Ansotegui, who approached the museum's board about opening a Basque pub and eatery inspired by those he experienced living in the Basque Country. After a major renovation, Father Pat Russell blessed the building on June 16, 1991, and the doors opened to the public on June 19.
Dan's mother helped in the kitchen and was inspirational in preparing the Saturday tongue, which became a hit with diners. After years of success, Dan sold the business to long-time employee Jeff May in 2008.
When Guy Fieri visited in 2009 for an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, the tiny Basque restaurant became nationally recognized. Guy praised the Solomo sandwich, lamb grinder, and tongue specialty, which attracted foodies far and wide.
But don’t take Guy’s word for it. Add Bar Gernika to your itinerary and discover Basque history and cuisine!
Vibe
Spotting this one-story Basque eatery is easy, as the brick facade’s sage green and green-and-white striped awning make it stand out in the historic area.
While the interior is narrow, the wood accents, exposed brick walls, and cozy tables make it feel homey. The bar is the centerpiece along one wall, while the room's "L"-shaped layout utilizes every corner for seating. During warmer months, the streetside patio is a favorite for sipping cold beer and dining on Basque comfort food.
The atmosphere is casual, and while “bar” is in its name, the setting is family-friendly. Here, solo diners, romantic meals, and family gatherings flourish.
All these attributes combine to make Bar Gernika a natural fit for an Idaho vacation.
Bar Gernika: Menu & Drinks
Let’s begin our discussion of the menu with the Solomo sandwich Guy raved about. This Basque classic features pork loin marinated overnight in a sweet pepper sauce. The meat is grilled with garlic-infused pimiento sauce, set on a fresh French baguette with more pimentos piled on top. The result is a tender, flavorful sandwich with the peppers and pimentos adding the right punch.
Guy’s other top pick was the Lamb Grinder. Tender slices of roasted lamb leg are piled onto a French baguette with grilled onions, green peppers, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, and au jus. It's hearty, savory, and satisfying, showcasing the kind of lamb dishes that reflect Basque tradition.
A surprise pick was the tongue entree, which Guy compared to roast beef. Sliced, battered, and fried, the tongue is then covered in a tomato-based sauce rich with garlic, onion, pepper sauce, red pepper, and paprika. The meat is tender, and the sauce takes the meal to a whole new level.
Pair any of these sandwiches with fresh Idaho fries, croquetas, a side salad, or a cup of house-made soup, and you’ll have a meal you’ll not soon forget!
If Basque cuisine doesn’t sound appealing, there are American staples like juicy burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and kebabs.
Aside from classic Basque and American comfort food, Bar Gernika is renowned for its rotating draft beer selections that pair perfectly with hearty Basque fare. Wine lovers will find good options too, including vintages from the Basque region.
Visiting Bar Gernika offers an authentic slice of Boise history, introduces you to Basque culture, and delivers food that has earned national attention.
Local Tips
- They don’t accept orders from GrubHub, Postmates, or DoorDash.
- Happy Hour is Tuesday through Saturday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- This is a first-come, first-served eatery; plan accordingly.
- Parking can be a challenge, so consider one of the nearby parking garages.
