Restaurant Spotlight: Coa De Jima

Coa De Jima (ko-uh-de-hee-ma) is a breakthrough restaurant elevating the luxury dining scene in Boise. Owned and managed by the Castoro family of the famed Barbacoa restaurant, Coa De Jima is an innovative culinary experience of Latin culture, food, and art. Reviews across the internet confirm that this is must-try for anyone looking for something different to try.

The Ambience:

Located in the historic block of downtown, the exterior design is similar to the other buildings around the block. As you get closer to entering, you’ll notice the finely curated details that give Coa De Jima its distinctive look. Inside, you’re transported to a place full of exotic wonder, artistry, and sultry decadence. Dark wood and exposed brick are paired with remarkable details; including 18th Century antiques, oil paintings, and custom fabricated furniture all hand-selected and some even painted by Martine Castoro. The signature design piece of the entry dining room and bar is “Árbol De La Vida” , a striking tree sculpture by Delia Dante that evokes a macabre, yet whimsical allure. 

The overall ambience is upscale with a rustic patina, but the eclectic design doesn't put their ideal customer in a box. The music is well-suited to the atmosphere, with a mixture of lounge and Latin songs. Staff are professional and knowledgeable, checking in routinely but not too often.

The Food and Drinks:

Chef Enrique Martinez is an accomplished chef that has been with the Castoro family and their restaurants for 25 years. His innovative dishes at Coa De Jima bend the lines of traditional Latin cuisine, filled with flavor pairings that touch each area of the palate in perfect harmony. Dishes are presented beautifully on thick slabs of wood with interesting horseshoe handles. The cocktails are handcrafted at the bar with fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. Coa De Jima is the tool used to extract agave, the key ingredient in Tequila, which you will find a wide selection of recurring throughout their signature cocktail menu.

Our Picks:

• The guacamole with tostaditas
• Handcrafted paloma cocktail
• Shrimp fajitas

Check out their menu here.

Reservations are accepted, but not required.