With small humans in tow, take out has held a prominent place in my heart for several years. The joy of not cooking a meal is exponentially elevated by the joy of not bringing children inside a restaurant. While there are many things to lament during this COVID-19 “Stay at Home” world, a silver lining (for me at least) is the increase of take out options. Many joints have also included delivery options and online ordering is easier than ever. There are many great local options out there! However, not all take out is created equal. Some foods just travel better than others. Here are a few of my favorites that are most friendly to a little travel time:
Bodacious Pig in Eagle– Not much has changed for Bodacious Pig. They’ve been doing take-out orders from the beginning and specialize in large family meals. I’m a sucker for sides and can’t say enough good things about the baked beans and the garlic bread. I mean, the meat is amazing too. But I dream about that addictive garlic crunch layered on Gaston’s bread.
Amano’s in Caldwell – Mexican food travels well, but Amano’s cuisine might not make it back to your house. You won’t be able to resist the smells wafting through your car and might just eat it en route. Besides the elevated staples like tacos and chips and guacamole, consider ordering warm Mole Coloradito or Pozole. You won’t regret a thing. And extra bonus… Amano’s is also serving their stunning cocktails to go
Lemon Tree Co in Boise– The real pleasure of supporting this business is in the ownership. Jasson Parra is the frontman of Lemon Tree and his generous heart and welcoming spirit will make you feel right at home. And the sandwiches are pretty freaking amazing. Coupled with crisp, fresh salads or homemade soup and you have the perfect fixins for your backyard picnic. My favorite is the Peruvian sandwich – a meat utopia, finished off with crunchy Fritos. Not only does Lemon Tree have curbside pick up, they also offer ALLLL the delivery options.
Red Pavilion in Meridian – Sometimes Americanized Chinese food is just the food satisfaction that you need. Red Pavilion has always dominated the take out game (in fact…I’ve never actually dined in here) so there is nothing you can order that won’t travel well. My favorites are the Chicken Fu Yung or the Honey Almond Chicken. Don’t forget to order extra creamy Crab Stars!
Casablanca Cuban Grill in Boise– Cuban food was the missing ingredient in my life. When I discovered Casablanca about ten years ago, it filled a hole I didn’t know I had. When they had to temporarily close their doors a few weeks ago, I wandered aimlessly around the Valley, wondering where my next Cubano sandwich would come from? But good news! As of Monday, April 27th, Casablanca is back in business for to-go orders! Besides the aforementioned stunning sandwich, you’ll also want to try the Puerco Asado and the Arroz Amarillo con Pollo. I would suggest eating the Maduros on the car ride home as they aren’t as delicious when they’ve had a little time to sweat.
Spice Indian Cuisine in Meridian – I love the sweet, smokey and flavorful spices of Indian food and Spice Indian Cuisine is a master. Located in a little strip mall next to St. Luke’s Meridian, this tiny restaurant packs a punch. The star of the show is the naan bread, which comes in a dizzying variety (coconut, garlic, stuffed, etc). I’m a big fan of their Butter Chicken and Samosas. Available for pick up or GrubHub delivery.
Fiesta Chicken in Boise – Though you’ll find traditional Mexican food on the menu, such as burritos and tacos, you’ll also see broiled chicken pieces, mac and cheese and broccoli salad. I don’t know how Fiesa Chicken classifies itself, but all you need to know is that it is delicious. With a drive through window, they get extra points in my book for convenience. I love the Green Smothered Burrito and you will kick yourself if you don’t try all the amazing sides. Extra bonus points for two locations… one on Ustick Rd. and the other on Orchard St.
Cucina di Paolo – This is another spot that mastered take out long before COVID-19. In fact, their seating area is so tiny, most people take their food to go anyway. Half the reason to visit this lovely Italian eatery is the sweet couple who owns it. They know their craft well and will make you feel like their first and best customer every time you walk through the doors. The pastas, soups and salads are all stunners, but the real MVP is the lasagna. Get a family order to go (you’ll want leftovers) and enjoy the bubbly, cheesy masterpiece when it comes piping hot out of your oven.
What about booze?
Crazy times calls for a few libations, so here is a bonus list of my favorite breweries and wineries offering to-go services. The offers are constantly changing, so be sure to check their websites for up to date information.
- Payette Brewing – pick up from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, daily
- Mad Swede – pick up or free delivery for orders over $20, Tuesday – Sunday
- Western Collective – pick up or free delivery for orders over $60, daily
- Loose Screw Beer Co– pick up or free delivery within 15 mile radius, Tuesday – Sunday
- Cinder Wines – drive through pick up or free local delivery, daily
- Coiled Wines – pick up, Tuesday – Sunday
