Tarbush Kitchen, Restaurant & Market — Restaurant in Boise

I ate for the first time at Tarbush Kitchen on Saturday, May 10, 2025. I was there with a group of about 14 people.

We had a reservation so I was surprised that they did not already have our tables set up for us all to be together as a group.

However, the owner moved tables and chairs so that we could all sit comfortably together as a group. She was very nice and friendly.

They did not have enough menus for everybody to look at. There were about four menus to go around for 14 people. I am guessing that most people order at the counter so this is why they don't have an adequate number of menus for a large group. I used my phone to look at the menu. The hard copy menus didn't explain what anything was so using my phone made it easier to look up what the various dishes were.

The restaurant seemed to be understaffed when it comes to serving a large group. There only 2 or 3 other tables if customers. I think a lot of people may go to Tarbush to get takeout. And I'm not sure but I think it may be that most people go to the counter to place their orders. Since we were a group of 14, the owner came to us to take our orders. She was very nice.

It took a long time for our food to come even though the place was not busy. And the food came in batches so the people who got their food first were almost done eating by the time the rest of the people got their food. Maybe they are understaffed in the kitchen. Maybe they had a lot of takeout orders.

The food was delicious. I did not hear any complaints. The portions were generous and were fairly priced. Several of us took food home.

Several of us had number 28 on the menu: Mshakal Iraqi. It came with one lamb kabob and one chicken kabob, 3 falafel, a green salad, rice, hummus and pita bread. I believe the price was a little over $20 which I felt was fair given the amount of food on my plate.

They give you plastic flatware which I thought was odd and not eco-friendly. It saves them washing flatware but for dining in I think they should use metal utensils. As I mentioned, I think a lot of people must get takeout so using all plasticware is easier for the restaurant.

Be aware that they charge you for using a credit card. If you pay cash, you will save a little. Passing the credit card fees on to the customer helps keep their food prices down.

I got two pieces of baklava to go. I haven't tried it yet but I'm sure it will be delicious.

So I recommend this restaurant because the food is good and the prices seem fair.

This place is not too far from where I live so next time I think I will just do take out.

I noticed on their website they also...

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I recently had the incredible opportunity to dine at Tarbush Kitchen, Restaurant and Market, and let me just say, it's not just a meal, it's an experience! Nestled in the heart of Boise on Broadway by the Freeway, this gem stands out as the pinnacle of Iraqi/Middle Eastern cuisine in the city. With an extensive selection that goes beyond your average menu, Tarbush offers a vibrant full store that's a paradise for anyone looking to enrich their kitchen with diverse and tantalizing ingredients. The ambiance? Spotlessly clean and remarkably modern, yet cozy enough to feel like home.

Now, I'll be honest - I was a bit skeptical at first, seeing all those 5-star reviews. Could it really be that good? Spoiler alert: It's better. The portions are generous, the flavors are rich and authentic, and the quality of ingredients? Top-notch. But what really sets Tarbush apart is the personal touch. Chef Salam, a culinary wizard, took the time to chat with me. His passion for food and eagerness to accommodate requests was heartwarming. I mentioned my love for spicy food, and he whipped up a special hot sauce that was a symphony of flavors - spicy but not overpowering, perfectly complementing my meal.

The unexpected kindness didn't stop there. Casually expressing my curiosity about the Iraqi Pickles, Chef Salam, with a generous spirit, presented me with a complimentary side to try. It’s these small, thoughtful gestures that exemplify the essence of superb customer service.

As for recommendations, do your taste buds a favor and try the Eggplant Salad, Iraqi Pickles, Baba Ghanoush, Lamb Byrani, and the Kabobs. Each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Iraq.

In conclusion, Tarbush Kitchen isn't just about food; it's about an experience that captivates your senses and leaves you longing for more. My verdict? A resounding 5 stars. If you're in Boise and haven't been to Tarbush yet, you're missing out on a culinary treasure. Can't wait for my next visit to explore more of their extensive and...

One of the best Mediterranean restaurants just about anywhere I have been. I am vacationing from Dallas where we have many Iraqi restaurants and they are not as friendly and service is an afterthought. Tarbush Kitchen was a welcomed change on that front.

Was greeted warmly and given a menu to review while I made my decisions. Not my first rodeo at a Mediterranean restaurant and I knew the highlights. 95% of the menu was very familiar to me. I saw a few dishes that caught my eye, looking at you Arias with Lamb, which were excellent, more on that later

I was ordering to go as our travel day had been long enough and the temperature was over 100 in Boise. I had a few questions about the Arias, Jajik and more importantly the country the owners were from, Iraq. All were answered with ease and made my selections very easy.

I ordered the following (sorry for pictures of dishes that were already started).

Arias with Lamb - Comes with lamb kabob meat between two very thin Shrak/Markook or paratha (tortilla like bread) with hummus, salad and fries and one pita. This was my favorite of the meal. Nice crisp bread with a small amount of lamb kabob. Just the right amount.

Shish Taouk - Grilled Chicken Thighs over rice, hummus, salad, one pita and garlic sauce.

Baba Ganouj

Taboula (out today) but subbed Muhammara

Mixed Salad Plate with Falafel - Hummus, Baba Ganouj, Jajik, Eggplant Salad, Dolmas and Falafel

My daughter came with me to pick up the food. It was hot and while ordering we were offered ice water while we waited for the food.

We also received two complimentary falafel to try while waiting. I bit into the falafel and it was the best falafel I have had. My daughter who never likes falafel even liked the falafel.

We also were not asked to leave a review.

Everything was fantastic. Great healthy meal with a good deal of vegetables.

Really loved the Arias, Falafel and Muhammara.

I cannot recommend Tarbush Kitchen enough. Boise has a...