Yes, the “Statehouse neighborhood” might also just be known as downtown, but for the first few months of the year, the Idaho Capitol building becomes a different epicenter of activity than the rest of the year. As someone who has stepped out of legislative hearings baffled and feeling like I don’t recognize my surroundings anymore, here are a few ways to ground yourself after looking in on the legislative process.
The quick and convenient Dawson Taylor. (Blake Hunter / City Cast Boise)
Find the Nearest Coffee Shop
For many reporters, legislative staffers, and lawmakers, Dawson Taylor on 8th Street becomes the go-to coffee destination in between meetings or first thing in the morning.
Boise State Public Radio reporter Jimmy Dawson said it isn’t the fanciest, but that’s kind of the point. “I like coffee at Dawson Taylor because I’m basic and it’s the closest. Not my favorite downtown, but only a five minute walk, if that.”
Probably the second most popular coffee shop for people who are working or testifying at the Capitol is Java on 6th Street, practically within view of the Cecil Andrus Park and the Capitol. Especially if you have a sweeter tooth and want a less business-formal feel, Java might hit the spot.
Breakfast & Lunch, Quickly
Did you know there’s actually a restaurant in the Capitol? Known as the dining room, it opened to the public in 2011 after previously being accessible only to legislators.
It gets a stamp of approval from Idaho Education News reporter Ryan Suppe: “For lunch specials like a pastrami sandwich and sometimes bacon and eggs in the morning. This is where many lawmakers eat when they’re not having lunch with a lobbyist on 8th Street.”
You could also try the little-known Bridge Cafe, “Located in the basement of the Len B. Jordan building (home to the Depts. of Education and Administration), it’s accessible from the Capitol via a tunnel that runs underneath State Street. Seems like almost everything on the menu is fried, and I ain’t complaining,” Suppe said.
Of course, 8th Street is also comfortably within walking distance from the Capitol. But for a super quick lunch, take a page out of Boise Mayor Lauren McLean’s book and run over to JD’s Bodega for two hot dogs and a drink for $4.
