Broadway’s new Naked Fins delivers a fresh take on fast food
By Urie L. Layser
Photography by Kimberlee Miller
The moment you open the doors to the new Naked Fins on Broadway, it’s apparent this place will become a staple in Boise’s ever-expanding culinary lifestyle. From the revolving playlist flowing through the house speakers to the graffiti-laden walls with a touch of Freak Alley flowing across them, it’s hard to say what will grab your attention first. With Naked Fins, an evolution of new restaurants has begun; one geared towards value, accessibility, and healthy food options all with an emphasis on fast delivery.
To fully understand the new restaurant idea from Fins Concepts, let’s go back to the beginning. Many in the Treasure Valley might already be familiar with Lucky Fins, the parent restaurant that first opened its doors in Meridian back in 2011. After its original launch, Lucky Fins quickly began to gain popularity in Southern Idaho, and the interest spread to surrounding states as well, opening another location in Greely, Colorado. As locations expanded, the team at Fins saw the demand to evolve with the changing times. Taking feedback to heart as they have done, there was one thing that was frequently heard: guests loved the restaurant, but had friends or family that refused to eat sushi or seafood. With some consideration and creativity, Chef Wiley started experimenting in the kitchen and dropping off random non-seafood dishes to guests for feedback. The people had spoken, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Taking the foundation of their traditional menu and a new smoked protein approach, Smokin’ Fins was born. This newest restaurant was a fresh fusion of items ranging from Southern-style fried chicken and smoked ribs to sushi rolls and poke bowls. The momentum didn’t stop, and soon more locations in Arizona and downtown Boise were opened.
With Naked Fins, the first of its kind in the Fins Brand of restaurants, the design was fueled by the need for value and accessibility in a fast-paced world. “The traditional lunch meetings that lasted two hours are dying out. People are on the go – they need to be in-and-out,” explains Nate Ingersoll, ID/AZ Regional Manager for Fins Concepts. The idea for fast, affordable food was not the only driving force behind Naked Fins. They also wanted the menu to be a healthy alternative as well. The result is a chef-driven menu with a “tide-to-table” mentality, offering individually priced items with a little something for everyone. Don’t eat fish or seafood? Don’t worry. They have you covered with a superabundance of tacos, baos, and bowls to choose from. Have a craving for sushi? Currently, there are eight traditional and experimental sushi rolls to help get your fix. Have children with you? They’ve got you covered with a junior menu featuring a few kid essentials.
Since the day they opened their doors, their commitment to sustainability, community, and culinary creativity has put them on the map both locally and regionally. Whether you’re dashing in-and-out or staying for some quality patio time, Naked Fins is the fast-casual place you’ve been looking for. Make sure to check out their Summer Kickoff Party on June 7th and 8th, there’ll be outdoor grilling, music, and a bit of libation. Stop in and get Naked (within good taste).
Naked Fins is located at 1120 S. Broadway Ave. in Boise. For more information visit www.nakedfinspoke.com or call (208) 900-3467. They cater too!
