About
Fork is your go-to for made-from-scratch cuisine showcasing ingredients from Idaho farmers and ranchers.
Founded by Cameron and Amanda Lumsden, Fork opened its doors in Boise's vibrant downtown and quickly became a go-to spot for creative, farm-to-table American cooking. The restaurant runs on a Loyal to Local philosophy, which shapes nearly every menu decision. Instead of shipping in ingredients from far away, the team partners with farmers, ranchers, bakers, distillers, brewers, and cheesemakers in Boise and the Northwest. On Saturday mornings, some of those ingredients come straight from the Capital City Public Market just steps away.
This commitment means the menu shifts with the seasons. Northwest trout, Idaho potatoes, regional beef, and local produce all take center stage, giving diners a genuine taste of Idaho.
Fork serves lunch and dinner daily, plus brunch on Saturday and Sunday. The kitchen also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, so most guests find something to enjoy. A Corkage For Community campaign and regular wine tastings show how the restaurant ties good food to a strong sense of place and neighborly spirit.
Be sure to check out its sister restaurants, ÀLAVITA, which serves upscale Italian cuisine, and 8 Horses Lounge, offering wine and cocktails that pair with small plates from ÀLAVITA.
For anyone planning a trip to Boise, Fork is a reliable introduction to how Idaho eats. The food feels honest, the sourcing feels thoughtful, and the experience reflects the community that makes it possible.
Vibe
Fork is easy to spot as it sits under the well-known 805 Idaho sign in the heart of downtown's 8th Street corridor. The storefront blends into Boise's lively urban scene, with large windows, an inviting entrance, and an outdoor seating area framed by potted plants.
The interior is warm, with exposed brick and wood accents creating a rustic yet polished look that strikes a balance between casual and refined.
Seating options include the well-stocked bar, giving solo diners and couples a front-row seat to craft cocktails and a laid-back dining experience. The main dining room handles larger groups with ease, while the al fresco patio is a favorite on warm Idaho evenings.
The atmosphere lands somewhere between energetic and classy, making Fork a natural fit for your Idaho vacation.
Fork: Menu & Drinks
The kitchen at Fork turns local ingredients into dishes that keep diners talking long after the plates are cleared.
The breaded Asparagus Fries are a house favorite and come with a creamy dipping sauce, making it easy to share. Be advised that this signature dish is tasty and will be devoured quickly, so pace yourselves!
An entrée that truly reflects Fork’s Loyal to Local philosophy is the Idaho Rainbow Trout. You’ll receive two pan-seared Hagerman fillets with red pepper quinoa, arugula, citrus salad, shrub gastrique, and chili threads. You may find it’s the best trout you’ll savor in Idaho!
The Red Wine Braised Short Ribs earn similar praise. This dish features fork-tender Northwest beef paired with brown butter mashed Idaho potatoes, carrot purée, and horseradish cream, then finished with a touch of crispy potato. It’s a hearty meal that’s destined to be a comfort food classic!
The drink menu holds its own. The filthy martini, served with blue cheese stuffed olives, is a repeat favorite among guests who like a savory cocktail with their meal. The lemon drop martini offers a brighter, sweeter option and pairs nicely with dessert. Those who prefer a local pour reach for the Sawtooth Idaho Home IPA, one of several regional craft beers on offer alongside a solid list of Idaho and Northwest wines by the glass.
All of this makes Fork a smart stop on any Boise getaway, offering a real sense of Idaho's flavors, its producers, and the downtown energy that makes Boise worth exploring.
Local Tips
- Book a reservation in advance, since Fork fills up fast, especially at dinner.
- Order off the to-go menu for meals to enjoy in your Casago rental.
- Brunch is Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- The kids’ menu makes the Fork family-friendly.
