In the post-holiday hangover, emotions can be all over the place and winter might have lost some of its charm. But January can still be a special month to recharge and set aspirations for the year ahead. City Cast Boise host Lindsay Van Allen had comedian and actor Matthew Melton and myself on the podcast to get into what we’re excited about this month.
The Eats of the Month
I’m pretty sure it’s good luck to start the year with new food, which is what I’ll be doing after Matthew brought to our attention that Ling and Louie’s actually has a great brunch menu — including breakfast bao.
My comfort food pick of the month is bringing takeout to your friends. Maybe try a new place each week and bring it to a different friend.
Lindsay rounded us out with options that at least feel healthier like Boise Juice Co., where she likes The Holy Kale, City of Greens, and other green smoothies for a light placebo effect. January isn’t exactly known for fresh produce this far north, so putting veggies and fruits in a blender is a good way to go.
Must-Do January Activities
In January, it can be important to keep the brain fresh and stimulated amid all the post-holiday lounging. So join some sort of class — Lindsay recommends Season and Taste Cooking School. Ranging from $80 to $100 a person, it might be more of a once-a-month expense, but it’ll get you a nice dinner, some new skills, and maybe even new friends!
If you’ve been considering a staycation, Matthew says this is the time. His favorite is the Riverside Hotel in Garden City largely thanks to their food and pools, but now’s a good time to check that local hotel you’ve been wanting to stay at — their prices might be a little lower this month than you expect.
For years, my roommate and I have held the tradition of following a hot springs day with an upscale dinner. It makes for a perfect day at lots of different pricepoints, and is always something to look forward to, and to look back on.
Participate in the Great Puzzle Swap this month. (Cesar Manso / Getty)
Free Things to Do
January is the perfect time to familiarize yourself with your public library! Boise often lacks events in January, but never at libraries. Specifically, Lindsay is amped about the Great Puzzle Swap at Meridian’s Orchard Park location, where you can donate your puzzles from Jan. 6 - 17, and then return on Jan. 18 to pick up a new puzzle for yourself!
Matthew is feeling saturated with Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé, so a go-to January activity for him is hitting karaoke bars for some seasonally agnostic music.
For a free January activity, my recommendation is getting involved in a book club. Rediscovered Books and the Lit Room both host a few, but you can also start your own if you want! Who doesn’t want to read more this year?
