From fine wines to frothy suds and festive cocktails, Idaho Falls has no shortage of off-the-clock beverages. Check out this sampler from establishments around town.
Hail Bloody Mary!
A mainstay cocktail for upscale eateries and saloons alike, you’ll find some of the most interesting renditions of this spicy drink at Jakers, Diablas Kitchen and Smokin Fins. The latter forgoes the traditional celery stick for cocktail shrimp and crab legs! It’s not only delicious, but also a sight to behold if you want to shoot a quick selfie before partaking.
IBC Scotch Ale
You’ll find the “Highland” variety of this legendary local beer on tap year round at Idaho Brewing Co. and restaurants around town. In the colder months, IBC also offers its “Oak Aged” version, which the brewery describes as being “aged 7 weeks with medium toasted American Oak. You will find subtle bourbon aromas and flavors which peak as the beer warms. Incredibly smooth and great for a cold winter day!”
Into the Fish Bowl
If you’re going to invest in an unforgettable evening dining on the banks of the Snake at one of the region’s top seafood establishments, be sure to liven it up with an undeniably festive refresher like the Fish Bowl, found only at Sandpiper. This aqua-blue sweet cocktail smacks of a beach party in Cancún, right down to the candy fishies. It’s a perfect pairing for Sandpiper’s Ahi Tuna or Hawaiian Crunch Halibut.
Welcome to Margaritaville
Idaho Falls—already well-known for its variety of Mexican cuisine—is a natural fit for margaritas. The drink has been a Western mainstay since its invention in 1938 out of Puebla, Mexico. Some of the most impressive takes on this classic cocktail in Idaho Falls can be found at Jalisco’s, Pachangas and Garcia’s. A few domestic fine-dining establishments have some excellent variations as well, including Jakers Bar and Grill, Sandpiper and Stockman’s.
Taking the Glove Off in Ammon
The new Cast Iron on 17th has already wowed locals and visitors alike with its festive atmosphere and top-tier cuisine, but its greatest asset may well be its lineup of wines. That includes some truly high end varieties that will impress the most sophisticated sommeliers (a highbrow inebriant term for wine expert). One of the better known brands on display is the venerable Mollydooker Shiraz Velvet Glove, an Australian wine described by Wine Spectator as “Dark, rich and bold, with a velvety richness to the dense tannins, providing the backbone for thick flavors of black walnut liqueur, blueberry syrup, sandalwood and espresso.” In case you’re wondering from the description, it ain’t cheap.
Moscow Mule
You can find this celebrated signature cocktail in various forms at just about any bar and grill, but some of the best renditions can be had at The Celt, Sandpiper, Stockman’s and Smokin Fins. For at least two unique variations, check out Jakers Bar and Grill for their Huckleberry vodka version and the “Idaho Mule,” made with the Gem State’s own Blue Ice potato vodka.
Microbrew Bonanza
Idaho Falls has a rich variety of local and regional beer products, including local brew pubs such as Idaho Brewing Company and Snow Eagle Brewing. (The latter is a full-blown restaurant that also includes Wasabi—an authentic Japanese sushi bar.) For an even wider selection, you can find a great selection of microbrews by the bottle, in the can and/or on tap at MarCellars and Block Rock, both located on Park Avenue in the heart of Historic Downtown. Finally, with just a quick bike ride downriver to Snake River Landing, you’ll find Tap-N-Fill, a festive indoor/outdoor beer bar with a huge 40-plus tap selection of local and regional favorites.
Sans Alky Suggestions
3 options to get your drink on without the buzz
Jamba Juice: Electric Berry Lemonade
A refreshing berry blend of strawberries, grapes, pears and and fat-free vanilla frozen yogurt.
Java Espress: Sassyfrass Berry Infused Tea
A savory concoction of sencha green tea, strawberries, sarsaparilla and red beets.
SnakeBite: Italian Sodas
This downtown establishment’s reputation for great local brews is only matched by its delicious lineup of flavorful icy drinks—a perfect followup to an afternoon on the Riverwalk or checking out the city’s cultural district.