Gernika, Boise

Bar Gernika is a beloved local institution with deep roots in the city’s evolving downtown. Housed in a preserved early 20th-century building that once served as a Chinese laundry, a series of restaurants, and the iconic Cub Tavern, Bar Gernika carries forward a rich tradition of community gathering. In 1990, the building was thoughtfully restored by the Basque Museum & Cultural Center and Oppenheimer Development Corporation, earning an Orchid Award from Preservation Idaho.

Since then, Bar Gernika has become a cornerstone of Boise’s Basque heritage, offering traditional fare in a relaxed pub setting. Signature dishes like the Spicy Lamb Grinder, chorizo and croquettes, and lamb stew are served alongside Basque cider, flan, and seasonal specialties like fried or shishito peppers.