Avery - Full Menu

I visited The Avery for brunch with friends, and while Boise offers many fantastic dining options, this restaurant won't be making my list. I must commend the s... read more I visited The Avery for brunch with friends, and while Boise offers many fantastic dining options, this restaurant won't be making my list. I must commend the service, which was excellent. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and attentive; I sincerely hope they are treated well in return. That's the only aspect I can wholeheartedly praise. Unfortunately, the brunch menu was quite uninspiring. It featured standard brunch dishes that lacked creativity, and none of the items really caught my eye. I decided to try the meatloaf sandwich, as it seemed like a unique choice—I rarely see meatloaf sandwiches on menus. It was decent, though a bit tall, so I opted to eat it with a knife and fork to avoid any awkwardness. The sandwich's description sounded impressive, but without a side, it felt rather bland, overwhelmed by a heavy layer of French fried onions. I doubt it would evoke any nostalgic feelings, and I suspect many would find it pales in comparison to their mother's or grandmother's meatloaf. I was in the mood for a very dirty martini, so I ordered a Ketel One martini to match my craving. However, when it arrived, it hardly resembled a dirty martini. It seemed like the bartender merely waved a jar of olives near it without actually incorporating any olive brine. At least it was cold, so I finished it. The Avery is clearly trying to maximize seating in its limited space, but this often overshadows its comfort. While a little crowding is manageable, the chairs must be some of the most uncomfortable in Boise. It feels like The Avery prioritized aesthetics over guest comfort. Just because the building dates back to 1910 doesn't justify chairs that are a chore to sit in. Additionally, the valet parking situation is a hassle, as Ubers struggle to drop off guests in the designated area, making it inconvenient for those arriving or leaving on busy Main Street. Overall, The Avery doesn’t live up to its reputation. As my grandfather used to say, “an ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure.” Boise has plenty of other gems for enjoying good food and company. Service: Dine-in Meal type: Brunch Price per person: $50–100 Food: 3 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 2