Greg and Kari Strimple have always been inspired by their travels, collecting unforgettable dining experiences from around the globe. When it came time to create their own restaurant, they set out to capture the magic of their favorite places and bring it to Boise. The result? The Lively—a restaurant where global inspiration meets Idaho charm.
There is no doubt that Boise is changing.
Whether the world is ready to admit it or not, Boise is quietly emerging as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic cultural hotspots. At the heart of this culinary renaissance is The Lively, located at 505 W. Bannock Street. But this isn’t just your average dining destination—it’s a stunning three-story space that also houses Bar Gibbon. And it’s impressive enough to have enticed the renowned Chef Higgins (we will get to him in a bit) to trade the Big Island for Boise’s four distinct seasons.
The Lively is not just a restaurant—it's an entire vibe.
From the hand-painted silk wallpaper imported from London to the cheeky “Press for Champagne” button at the entrance, every detail at The Lively is a feast for the senses. Kari, an accomplished interior designer with an impeccable eye for detail, has transformed The Lively into a space that feels both timeless and uniquely captivating. Her talent for blending elegance with a sense of warmth has created an atmosphere that invites guests to linger, savor, and celebrate. Every corner of the three-story building reflects her artistry, from the hand-painted silk wallpaper imported from London to the playful yet refined touches like the “Press for Champagne” button.
It’s no surprise that The Lively has become a sought-after destination—not only for its extraordinary dining but also for unforgettable weddings and private celebrations. Kari’s design doesn’t just set the stage; it elevates every moment, ensuring each visit feels like an occasion worth remembering. The space effortlessly combines polished sophistication with a relaxed, inviting charm. It’s the perfect spot to toast life’s milestones or simply unwind on a casual Tuesday with a craft cocktail in hand. Whether you’re savoring the ambiance in the vibrant dining room or keeping things laid-back at Bar Gibbon, every visit feels uniquely special. Personally, I’ve spent countless hours tucked away at my favorite corner table on the first floor—writing recipes, editing photos, and letting my imagination wander to wherever inspiration struck that day.
But what truly sets it apart? The people. From the mixologists shaking up the perfect cocktail to the knowledgeable servers who make every guest feel like family, the team at The Lively adds warmth and heart to every experience. It’s rare to find a restaurant where the atmosphere and people feel this genuine—I can count on one hand the places that come close, and even they don’t compare to The Lively. Now, the food? It’s the ultimate cherry on top of an already flawless experience, leaving you savoring every bite, and often, shedding a tear when the last bite is gone.
Take note of the mastermind behind the menu, my dear friend Chef Edward Higgins
Michelin-starred chef? Check.
A résumé that includes culinary hotspots like Tokyo, San Francisco, Boston, and Hawaii? Check.
A passion for Idaho’s freshest ingredients? That's Chef Higgins... in a nutshell.
Chef Higgins is the creative force behind The Lively’s innovative menu, combining his world-class culinary expertise with a deep respect for local producers, and the ingredients that make our region special. His dishes celebrate the best of the Treasure Valley's bounty—like the Snake River Wagyu Culotte and the Idaho Ruby Trout “Rockefeller”, each plate bursting with bold flavors and stunning presentation.
My personal favorite? His wild mushroom risotto, which I was lucky enough to try on a day when he had extra time to play and some fresh inspiration courtesy of the one and only Ferg's Fabulous Fungi. Pair that with a pour of the bartender’s favorite Pinot Noir, and you’re in for a real treat.
Halfway through that meal, Chef received a delivery of the most exquisite lemon verbena from Purple Sage Farms—my all-time favorite local producer. Just two days later, I came back to experience the most indulgent lemon verbena sorbet I’ve ever tasted—and quite possibly the best I ever will. When Chef Higgins is in his zone—which, in my experience, is always—he delivers nothing short of pure culinary magic.
Anyway, back to our regularly scheduled programming.
Whether it’s the creamy indulgence of Chef Higgins’ newest creation or the unmatched quality of Snake River Farms Wagyu, Chef Higgins has an unparalleled talent for elevating local ingredients into global masterpieces—all with a finesse so effortless, it’s the kind of artistry most can only aspire to.
Beyond the food and the stunning interior is the Lively's High Tea and Chef’s Table Experiences.
If you’re looking for something truly memorable, The Lively offers two signature experiences that elevate your casual dining experience to an entirely new level. And while these regular offerings are unforgettable on their own, don’t miss out on special events like the Lively’s Derby Day and Valentine’s Day celebrations—each one a unique occasion worth marking on your calendar.
High Tea: Indulge in a selection of organic teas, thoughtfully paired with an array of handcrafted sweet and savory bites. It’s as refined and elegant as it sounds, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of unwinding and treating yourself. But don’t worry—this isn’t your typical stuffy tea party. The vibe strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and approachability, making it an experience that feels both indulgent and refreshingly down-to-earth. So, go ahead—sip, savor, and enjoy without a hint of pretense.
The Chef’s Table: If you're looking for culinary magic, this is it. This six-course tasting experience is designed for groups of 4-8 and offers an exclusive front-row seat to Chef Higgins’ artistry. Not just the day to day stuff, but the type of cooking that sets his heart on fire. Each course is personally presented by the chef himself, complete with captivating stories detailing the why behind his ingredient choices, and insights into his creative process. This is so much more than a meal—it’s a journey through the flavors, techniques, and inspiration he himself has experienced from Boston to the Big Island that will leave you marveling at every bite.
Local Roots, Global Flair
The Lively’s menu is a celebration of Idaho’s rich agricultural bounty, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the best of each season. Driven by strong partnerships with local producers like Purple Sage Farms, Idaho Springs Foods, and Snake River Farms, every dish embodies a true farm-to-table philosophy. But this isn’t your average farm-to-table experience—it’s elevated by a spark of global inspiration that makes each bite both intentional and unforgettable.
Complementing the culinary excellence is their meticulously curated wine selection, designed to pair seamlessly with the flavors on every plate. Whether you’re indulging in their vibrant lunch offerings or savoring an elegant dinner, every detail—the ingredients in the meal itself to the thoughtfully chosen wine selections and the elegant glassware it’s poured in—every detail at The Lively is meticulously considered.
Why The Lively Will Steal Your Heart
At The Lively, it’s never just about the food—though, let’s be clear, the food is undeniably extraordinary. It’s about the connections that blossom over shared plates, the stories woven into every ingredient, and the way each dish invites you to rediscover familiar flavors with a creative twist. It’s about those moments when conversation flows as effortlessly as the wine, and every bite feels like a celebration of something so much greater than the moment in front of you. These are the experiences that transform an ordinary meal into something unforgettable, leaving you with memories as rich and vibrant as the dishes themselves.
Whether you’re sharing a wine-filled evening with friends, savoring Chef Higgins’ inspired creations, or raising a toast with bubbles from the whimsical “Press for Champagne” button, every moment at The Lively feels like a celebration. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
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