Discover Idaho’s Best Fish And Chips At This Unlikely Drive-In
I stumbled into Westside Drive In on a Tuesday afternoon, skeptical that a Boise drive-in could serve fish and chips worth bragging about.
But one bite of that golden, crispy batter changed everything. The fish was flaky and perfectly fried, and I couldn’t believe I was getting such a standout meal in the heart of Idaho.
Sometimes, the best meals hide in the most unexpected places, and this retro spot proves that comfort food magic can happen anywhere—even in a landlocked state like Idaho. It’s the kind of place where you don’t expect much, but end up pleasantly surprised.
A Real Place With Real Fish
Westside Drive In sits at 1929 W State St in Boise, and it’s not some urban legend your foodie friend made up. Their website lists Fish n’ Chips right on the menu, and TripAdvisor reviews from 2025 confirm people are still lining up for it.
This isn’t a pop-up or a seasonal gimmick. The place has been flipping fish for years, building a reputation one crispy fillet at a time.
Knowing a spot is active and thriving gives you confidence before you even pull into the lot. You won’t be chasing ghosts—just great grub.
Nostalgia You Can Taste
Walking through the door feels like stepping into a time capsule where jukeboxes hum and vinyl booths invite you to stay awhile. The mid-century Americana vibe isn’t just decoration—it sets the mood for honest, satisfying food.
One customer raved online: “My oh my it was amazing. The fish was cooked perfectly, lots of fries, loved the tartar sauce and even got a nice piece of bread.”
That kind of praise doesn’t come from fancy plating. It comes from nailing the basics with heart and consistency every single time.
Fish That Doesn’t Swim in Grease
Westside’s Fish n’ Chips aren’t drowning in oil or limping on soggy fries. The batter clings tight to the fish, delivering that satisfying crunch with every bite, while the fries stay crisp even as you work through the basket.
Reviewers consistently call out the tartar sauce for being tangy and balanced—not a mayo blob, but a real condiment with personality. Plus, you get a slice of bread or roll tucked in, which feels generous and old-school.
Portions are big enough to fuel a hungry afternoon or share if you’re feeling charitable.
The Element of Surprise
Most drive-ins stick to burgers, shakes, and maybe a hot dog if you’re lucky. Fish and chips? That’s not the usual playbook, especially in a landlocked state like Idaho.
But that’s exactly what makes Westside special. When a casual joint nails something unexpected, it earns respect from locals who know where the real flavor lives.
Years of consistent reviews prove this isn’t a fluke. It’s a staple that keeps people coming back, quietly building a reputation without the coastal hype or pretentious seafood house vibes.
Insider Tips to Maximize Your Visit
Timing matters. Swing by during off-peak hours for faster service and fries straight out of the fryer. Ask your server what kind of fish they’re using that day—cod, halibut, or whatever’s freshest—because details like that matter.
Pair your basket with a classic malt or soda float to honor the full drive-in experience. Don’t skip the tartar sauce; it’s not an afterthought here, it’s part of the show.
Wear something comfortable and bring an appetite. This place rewards hunger and laid-back vibes over dress codes and formality.
Why This Stop Belongs on Your List
Boise might not scream seafood destination, but that’s the whole point. Westside Drive In offers something different: consistency, flavor, character, and a setting that turns a simple meal into a memory.
Coastal spots get all the glory, but this drive-in proves you don’t need an ocean view to serve killer fish and chips. It’s comfort food done right, with enough personality to make the trip feel like an adventure.
For anyone chasing great eats outside the obvious choices, this fits perfectly. It’s food with soul in a place that feels real.
A Local Secret Worth Sharing
Think of Westside Drive In as a modest legend—the kind of place where you lean against your car hood with a paper basket in hand and everything just feels right. Idaho might not be the first state you think of for fish and chips, but this spot rewrites expectations.
It’s not about hype or Instagram-worthy plating. It’s about showing up, salting your fries, dipping into that tangy tartar sauce, and savoring a bite of the unexpected.
If your tastebuds are ready for something genuine, head here and let the fish do the talking.