Boise's Top 5 Clam Chowder Spots Ranked

We scoured local foodie groups to find the Treasure Valley's most beloved chowder destinations.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Clam chowder is a beloved dish in Boise, with many restaurants offering their own take on the classic soup. We surveyed local food groups to determine the five best clam chowder spots in the area, with three of the top five only serving their chowder on Fridays during the Lenten season.

Why it matters

Clam chowder is a popular menu item in Boise, especially during the Lenten season when many restaurants feature it as a meatless Friday special. This ranking highlights the top destinations for this beloved soup in the Treasure Valley.

The details

The top five clam chowder spots in Boise according to local foodies are: 5) Kahootz Steak & Alehouse, 4) Highlands Hollow Brewhouse, 3) Anthony's, 2) Epi's A Basque Restaurant, and 1) Fresh Off the Hook Boise. Three of the top five only serve their chowder on Fridays, coinciding with the Lenten tradition of abstaining from meat. The chowder at these spots is praised for its thick, flavorful broth and generous portions of clams.

  • Clam chowder tends to be a popular menu item in Boise from February through April, coinciding with the Lenten season.
  • Many Treasure Valley restaurants feature their clam chowder as a special on Fridays during Lent.

The players

The Refuge

A Boise restaurant that serves excellent clam chowder seven days a week, with the chowder available as a side at no additional cost.

Kahootz Steak & Alehouse

A Meridian restaurant that only serves its prize-winning clam chowder on Fridays.

Highlands Hollow Brewhouse

A Boise restaurant that is praised for its delicious clam chowder, which is also only available on Fridays.

Anthony's

A Boise restaurant that has been serving the same clam chowder recipe for over 50 years, available all week but containing bacon.

Epi's A Basque Restaurant

A Meridian restaurant that serves what one reviewer called the "best clam chowder I've ever had", but only on Fridays.

Fresh Off the Hook Boise

Boise's best seafood restaurant for 11 years running, offering a top-notch clam chowder that can be served in a sourdough bowl.

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The takeaway

Boise's clam chowder scene is thriving, with several standout spots offering delicious, hearty versions of the classic soup - especially during the Lenten season when many restaurants feature it as a Friday special.