Tupelo Honey Opens in Downtown Boise
Story by Erika Heeren
There’s a new addition to the downtown Boise foodie club. Tupelo Honey has opened a location on 8th and Main downtown. While the chain has locations across the United States – they bring farm-fresh cuisine and a community-minded focus that will fit in well with locals.
“We love Boise,” says owner Stephen Frabitore. “We love the sense of community. When we were looking at potential locations – Boise kept coming up. And 8th Street – it’s a gathering place for the city.”
Tupelo Honey officially opened its doors on November 12th in the old Piper Pub location, and Boise residents will not be disappointed with the fare. The brand is steeped in Southern hospitality, and it translates well in everything from their menu, open-concept seating, and friendly service.
“We try to appease the traditional southern grandmother, while also exciting the foodie at the same time,” said Executive Chef Eric Gabrynowicz.
The menu is diverse, with items ranging from comfort food to more health-conscious fare. You can expect delicate fried green tomatoes, juicy fried chicken with Tupelo’s signature “Bee Dust” seasoning, and flavorful collard greens. Do not miss the opportunity to try the restaurant’s elevated shrimp and grits – boasting sustainable wild-caught gulf shrimp, scallions, stone-ground goat cheese grits, and grilled lemon.
For those looking for a filling, but lighter fare – Tupelo Honey offers a variety of fresh green dishes. Try the Mountain Harvest Bowl featuring sweet potatoes, roasted veggies, quinoa, cauliflower rice with light, nutty, citrus notes. The flavorful meal stands on its own or pairs very well with Tupelo Honey’s sustainably sourced Patagonia salmon.
Are you looking for something sweet? Tupelo Honey has something for you too! Their banana cream pudding is light and delicate – or you could dig into their decadent pecan pie French Toast for brunch.
The libations certainly meet discerning Idaho standards – and you will find a few local partnerships on the menu. Try the Payette Brewing’ Tupelo Honey’ ESB Pale Ale. The lemonade-inspired Bees Knees cocktail will rival your favorite mimosa selection for brunch. The bar staff is knowledgable and will help you make a great selection to pair with your meal.
For Tupelo Honey, community is vital – and they are eager to become a part of the Boise lifestyle.
“The most important thing for us is to join the community and be respectful of the community that’s there already. Boise’s restaurant scene is very close-knit; everyone takes care of one another. We were so impressed, and so encouraged by it – and we want to be a part of that,” explained Executive Chef Eric Gabrynowicz. “We know we’re new, and we’ve got to win over people and earn that respect from the community, but I think we’re willing to and ready to.”
“We will be choosing a local non-profit in the first ninety days to support, and we like to focus our efforts toward hunger causes, or organizations that help women and children in need,” added Frabitore.
Tupelo Honey is now open at 150 N 8th Street, Suite 200 in Boise. For more information about the restaurant and to view the complete menu, visit www.tupelohoneycafe.com.
