Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill

Anyone living in Idaho with any experience discussing our state with anyone outside of our state has likely found that the conversation and associations are often pretty predictable. When people who aren’t Idahoans think of Idaho—if they do think of Idaho, and aren’t confusing us with Ohio or Iowa—they generally conjure up thoughts about potatoes or the state’s stunning natural beauty and wilderness. Those things are all excellent associations that we should be proud of. However, despite a growing recognition, those outsiders’ thumbnail sketches of the Gem State still rarely include a mention of the reputation that the Treasure Valley is earning as something of a cultural diamond in the rough. Despite that, it’s doubtful that any of us, while out of state, encounter non-Idahoans showering praise on the distribution of superior breweries in Garden City, Idaho. Although they’d have good reason to, as one of the most impressive ways that we’re distinguishing ourselve...

Even before Idaho was designated a state, visitors have been drawn by our natural resources. Initially, that meant hard-scrabble trappers and miners seeking wealth in our vast stretches of pristine wilderness. These days the visitors tend to be a touch less gritty, but they’re still being lured to this uniquely beautiful place to take advantage of the natural wealth we host. Less well-known is that the Treasure Valley offers not only a perfect home base from which to experience our matchless brand of winter fun but it is also an increasingly popular destination in its own right. The greater Boise metropolitan area’s burgeoning art, music, film, and food scene has attracted sufficient attention both nationally and worldwide. So much so that visitors are increasingly as likely to visit for the places to eat in Meridian as they are for the powder at Bogus Basin or Brundage Mountain. Whichever of those options are more to your taste, you’ll find an unforgettable experi...

There is a rich and diverse culinary culture and tradition in the Treasure Valley. Whether it’s sushi in Eagle Idaho or pho in Garden City, the following is just a fraction of the ethnic and cultural cuisine you should try in the Treasure Valley. Basque As Boise hosts the largest concentration of Basque people outside of the Basque Country, it has some stellar Basque food. The Basques are a distinct cultural, ethnic, and linguistic community that hails from the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Basque food is like Basque people—complex, welcoming, hearty, unique but with a dash of Spanish and French influence, and incredibly impressive. Anyone who spends any time in the Treasure Valley and doesn’t try Basque out at least once will regret it. Try a chorizo dish, definitely get croquetas, and an order of fries. The potato has played a historical role in Basque cuisine, and it means that they cook a mean basket of fries. Ethiopian and Eritrean Arguably t...

Boise has been attracting an international population since its inception. In fact, local mining operations drew in so many Chinese laborers that Idaho Territory’s population was nearly 30% Chinese back in 1870. Subsequent immigration, including Idaho’s internationally recognized refugee resettlement program, has brought future Idahoans from Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Bhutan, Thailand, and a number of other countries. That’s good news for residents of the Treasure Valley who have access to a number of exciting cultural experiences from dance groups to places to eat in Meridian . Enjoy this list of fun Asian cultural experiences in the Treasure Valley. Trade Viet Market Have you heard of star apples? If not, you’re not alone. The orange-sized fruit (not an apple) is available in Boise at the Trade Viet Market. This Asian grocery store has a selection of goods and produce from all over Asia. If you decide to pick up a star apple, the key is to massage them, break them ope...

Sushi is a Japanese dish that is prepared with vinegared rice (often containing some sugar or salt), and a variety of other ingredients such as seafood and vegetables. Sushi styles and presentations vary depending on the ingredients used and the establishment you’re dining in. Sushi is typically served with pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce to further enhance its taste and deliciousness, as well as help cleanse the palate.  Types of Sushi to Look for at a Sushi Restaurant Sushi styles and tastes are determined by the ingredients and presentations the sushi chefs incorporate into the roll or dish. Sushi restaurants are specialized and experienced in preparing the best types of sushi that are suitable for everyone’s taste. If you’re looking to enjoy sushi in Meridian Idaho , below are some types of sushi you’ll want to consider trying. Specialty Rolls Specialty rolls are often more elaborate sushi dishes that may come topped with or contain extr...

Located in the Western United States, primarily in southwestern Idaho, the Treasure Valley is a hub for fun activities indoors and out and a great place to unwind. Both locals and visitors alike can benefit from this guide to relaxing activities in the Treasure Valley. Below are some of the best, most calming ways to spend your time in the Treasure Valley. Whether you want to enjoy a happy hour in Meridian or float the Boise River, this list of fun activities will help you unwind. Walk or Ride on the Boise River Greenbelt Take a walk or ride your bike on the 25-mile long Boise River Greenbelt. This two-lane, paved pedestrian and cycling path provides stunning views of the Boise River as well as several parks. Among the parks you will come across as you ride or walk along the Boise River are Julia Davis Park, Boise River Park, and Ann Morrison Memorial Park. As you travel along the tree-lined path, consider stopping at some point to have a picnic at a lo...

There’s no better way to cheers the end of summer than with a boozy beverage in hand. Fortunately, there’s a great happy hour Meridian to be found that is sure to quench your thirst. When you’re looking for places to eat in Meridian , keep an eye out for restaurants with happy hour specials and creative beverages. There’s no better way to celebrate the end of a busy day or week than surrounded by friends with a tasty drink and delectable appetizer in hand. Here are some drinks you’ll want to enjoy as summer winds down to an end: Creative Cocktails You can’t go wrong ordering a Cosmo or a martini on a night out, especially if the restaurant you’re at has generous happy hour specials. But the best way to celebrate a summer happy hour is by ordering drinks that incorporate the bright, fresh flavors of the season. Blood orange is one such flavor and can be found squeezed into beverages or infused in a spirit such as vodka. Look for a spin on a classic lime margarita,...