One Of Idaho's Most Expensive Restaurants Is A Boise Steakhouse

Most associate Idaho more with potatoes than fine dining, but the Gem State's capitol of Boise hosts a diverse array of acclaimed restaurants within its city limits. From French cuisine to Latin-inspired menus, this is a veritable foodie paradise. One renowned establishment that has been serving guests since 1994 is a steakhouse called Chandlers, and it is one of the most expensive places to have a quality meal in the state.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Boise, Chandlers boasts an extensive menu that puts meat front and center. Steak is the star attraction, of course, and it comes at a hefty cost. A 10-ounce Bull's Eye Ribeye will currently set you back $110, and a tender filet mignon is a whopping $95 — unless you want the prized A5-rated Japanese wagyu filet mignon, which is only listed on the menu as "MP" (market price). Wagyu beef is expensive in part because of its scarcity, and the top-rated A5 variety can sell for $250 per pound or more.

Beef isn't the only culinary attraction at Chandlers. Being landlocked, Idaho is not well-known as a fresh seafood destination, but Chandlers isn't the kind of establishment that would put frozen fish on the menu. Instead, it takes delivery of fresh seafood from Alaska and Hawaii several times a week, including prime shellfish and varieties of oysters – perhaps justifying its elevated $45 price for scallops. However, there's more to this fine dining enterprise than what ends up on your plate. 

Chandlers' top-notch cuisine has earned it prestigious recognition over the years, such as the DiRona Award, which acknowledges some of North America's most outstanding dining establishments. It is also the only place in Boise to earn a spot in Forbes Travel Guide as a recommended restaurant. However, Chandlers is more than just a steakhouse looking to secure the glory of awards. The business aims to immerse patrons in an exceptional experience that goes beyond accolades and expensive steak.

A must-have in any fine dining restaurant is a quality wine list. On this front, Chandlers doesn't disappoint. Wine Spectator has recognized Chandlers' selection of over 700 bottles of wine every year since the restaurant's lounge opened in 1999, including the Best Award of Excellence in 2014. It also serves up superior cocktails, like the Ten-Minute Martini, for customers who want to get a little extra buzz as they enjoy the ambiance of live jazz seven days a week.

While the required attire for attending a meal at Chandlers isn't as strict as some other establishments, it would be wise to brush up on your fine dining restaurant etiquette before planning a visit. Business attire and upscale casual are encouraged, while tank tops and athletic wear are more suitable for the plethora of other eateries in downtown Boise. If you have the cash to spare, Chandlers is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat — it's a bucket-list destination for any foodie who loves a good steakhouse.