Txikiteo - Boise

Downtown Boise has surprises around every corner and Txikteo is one I discovered on Yelp first, by accident in passing on foot second, and in my tummy third! The basque culture is well represent in this city. Honestly I didn't have time to learn the history as to why, but I am so happy to have had a chance to experience a little taste of it courtesy of this restaurant. If you're unfamiliar, basque refers to a mountainous region between Spain and France with a rich culture of Shepherding. The basque population here leans more toward the Spanish roots with many restaurants offering pinxos, or small bites often served on crusty bread, and Txikiteo has a great menu of these to sample. Each costs a few bucks, which may come across a bit pricey for what you get, but it's all about the experience. I sampled the Brie and blueberries, Spanish tortilla aka omelette, and the stunner, sardine on toast (get three and thank me later). These little bites go so well with wine and a bottle and a bunch of them will disappear before your eyes. I also tried the jamon sandwich, with imported Serrano ham, aged manchego cheese and arugula with some creamy mayo type sauce and fig mostarda. The sandwich was a bit on the sweet side and I wanted more of the cured meat and sharp cheese flavors. My main dislike about all of the food was the bread. Instead of a crusty slice of baguette, this has a soft exterior and overall texture that left me looking for that as I ate. I enjoyed my experience as takeout, but wished I could be on the patio. It's expansive and looked so chill. My wife enjoyed it though, so I'm happy at least one of us could. Another big win for this spot are the hours. Most of the basque places close early but they stay open.

My littlest love and I came here for a casual date dinner. I ordered 4 tapas for us to share and man, they were tasty also quite tiny but priced right for the size. Of the 4 that I ordered, the tortilla (Spanish omelet) was certainly the best. So good that I got one tiny bite and my toddler devoured the rest. I also really enjoyed the piquillo pepper pepper stuffed with crab and cream cheese. I had a nice temperanillo to wash it all down. Dining with kids can sometimes be a challenge but the relaxed vibe, counter ordering, and outdoor seating made my experience quite easy and comfortable. We both enjoyed ourselves very much and brought home 2 bags of food for Michael T!

Good small plates. Had a quick snack and was great for that. Nice outdoor vibe when weather is good.

Just arrived in town and wanted small bites to hold us over for dinner. This place popped up on a couple articles of places to check out while in town so made out way down here on a Friday afternoon. A couple groups ahead of us but nothing too crazy of a wait. As you enter you can decide where to sit and look at the menu. Once you decide you order upfront at the bar and then they'll bring everything to your table. We were a group of two so we ended up trying a couple items Piquillo Pepper/Potato Shrimp (OK but nothing special would pass next time) Shallot/Chevre (good but would like more bread with this as chevre portion was overpowering at times) Pork Belly/Parsnip (surprisingly really tender and went well with the puree) Spanish Tortilla (standard but still good) Mushroom Sandwich (favorite of the meal. Bread had a nice crunch and the cheese, mushrooms, and greens were sauteed down for a less guilty of a sandwich) Prices range $2 $3 for the tapas, $15 for the boards, and $9 for the sandwiches. The above were a good mix of items for two and left us filling satiated but not too full. I thought the flavors went well together and staff was really attentive. They have some nice space outside but also a clean indoor space. Near the end of the block with all the restaurants so not too crazy.

I was on an afternoon drive, drove through downtown Boise and spotted Txikiteo. Such a wonderful surprise of beautiful tapas and wonderful selection of wines and spirits. I am very excited to come back and try more. Please do yourself a favor and stop by for a light dish or drink.