Boise, Idaho, is no longer a best-kept secret—it’s become a hub for foodies, adventurers, and dreamers alike. Leading the charge in the city's internal culinary revolution is Kin, a restaurant that doesn’t just serve meals but creates artful experiences unlike any other of its kind. Founded by the visionary duo of Chef Kris Komori and restaurateur Remi McManus, Kin is the ultimate playground where food, art, and storytelling collide.
From Vision to Reality: A Dream Built on Connection
Chef Kris Komori and Remi McManus aren’t strangers to shaking up Boise’s food scene. Fresh off their success with State & Lemp, they dreamed up something even bigger with Kin—a space where food and culture intertwine, with an additional 2,000 square feet compared to their first space. Nestled in the historic building at 999 West Main Street, Kin is so much more than a restaurant.
The name Kin says it all: it’s about family, community, and the magic that happens when we come together to share something truly extraordinary, whether it's a Michelin-level coursed meal, or Kin's signature noods.
A Menu That’s Never the Same Twice
Kin’s ever-evolving menu isn’t just farm-to-table—it’s a creative symphony, carefully orchestrated to showcase Idaho’s seasons and local producers. The restaurant’s signature five-course prix fixe menu rotates every 4-5 weeks, ensuring that every visit offers something fresh, exciting, and completely unique. Think of it as the culinary equivalent of a treasure hunt, with ingredients sourced from local gems like Purple Sage Farms (my personal favorite) and Peaceful Belly, each one a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
But the artistry doesn’t stop with the food. Each menu rotation is inspired by a local artist, with Chef Komori drawing from their work to create dishes that feel both familiar and brand new. It’s not just dining—it’s a multi-sensory experience where food, art, and storytelling converge. Every bite is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate Idaho’s bounty while transporting your taste buds on a global adventure. Familiar flavors are reimagined with creative twists, turning every dish into an invitation to see—and taste—the world in a whole new way.
The Art Haus Cocktail Bar: Sip, Snack, Repeat
If you're seeking a more relaxed yet equally inventive dining experience, Kin's Art Haus Cocktail Bar offers the perfect setting. Here, casual ambiance meets culinary artistry, providing a space where you can unwind with friends or enjoy a solo evening of exploration.
The bar's seasonal cocktail menu is a testament to creativity and craftsmanship. Each drink is thoughtfully composed, balancing flavors that surprise and delight. For instance, the "Moron" combines gin, aquavit, carrot, ginger, and lime, delivering a refreshing and complex profile. Another standout, the "Ol' Orville", features popcorn-infused Maker's Mark, Zaya rum, and caramelized honey, offering a unique twist on classic flavors.
Complementing their exquisite and often unusual cocktail list is a lineup of small plates that perfectly reflect Kin’s dedication to local ingredients and bold, creative flavors. The “HAUS Burger” is a fan favorite, featuring a juicy patty crafted from Angus beef and pork, nestled in a house-made bun, and served with crispy salt and vinegar fries and a tangy buttermilk fry sauce. For something lighter yet equally satisfying, the “Mushroom Gyro” delivers a vegan masterpiece with maitake and oyster mushrooms, creamy cashew tzatziki, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
And then there’s my personal, casual pièce de résistance: their signature “Noods”—easily the best ramen in town, no contest. My last bowl came straight from the hands of Austin Killian, a culinary talent who previously served as Sous Chef at one of my all-time favorite spots, Sangria Grille in Moscow, Idaho—masterfully curated by George Skandalos and Carly Lilly. It’s safe to say that every bite at Kin carries a touch of magic, history, and heart, and Chef Austin joining the Kin team made my heart melt.
At the end of the day, whether you're in the mood for a quick drink, a light snack, or a full meal, the Art Haus Cocktail Bar provides a versatile and inviting atmosphere. It's an ideal spot to experience Kin's innovative approach to food and drink without the formality of a multi-course dinner. And, the perfect spot to toast to the week (or Tuesday—no judgment here) with friends, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a transitory experience through the food-iverse.
James Beard Official: Chef Kris Komori Brings the Heat
In 2023, Kin solidified its place in culinary history when Chef Kris Komori snagged the James Beard Award for Outstanding Chef in the Mountain Region. Round of applause, please. This was a huge moment—not just for Kin but for Boise as a whole. Komori is the first Idaho chef to receive this accolade, proving that Boise’s food scene can hang with the best of them, and showing us that Kin is only the beginning of what Chef Komori will bring to the world.
This was a win for anyone who loves good food, good people, and the kind of creativity that makes you say, “Why didn’t anyone think of this before?” Whatever Chef Komori and Remi dream up next, you can bet we’ll be here, waiting eagerly to experience what is sure to be the next biggest thing.
Beyond the Food: Community at the Core
Kin is more than just a restaurant—it’s a movement. Through initiatives like Kin Kind, they’re giving back to the Boise community in ways that feel as authentic as their food. Imagine sipping on a cocktail while supporting local nonprofits tackling issues like food insecurity and sustainability. It’s guilt-free indulgence at its finest. This dedication to community shines in everything Kin does—from partnering with local farmers to designing menus that minimize waste. It’s proof that great food can (and should) leave the world a little better than it found it.
An Experience You Won’t Forget
Let’s be real: dining at Kin isn’t just dinner—it’s a full-on experience that will touch on every taste bud and emotion at some point of the meal. From the moment you walk in and soak up the thoughtfully designed space to the first sip of a perfectly paired wine, every detail feels intentional and inspired. Whether you’re a Boise local or just passing through, one thing is for sure: your trip isn’t complete without a visit to Kin.
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