November 16 is National Fast Food Day — the perfect excuse to let someone else handle dinner. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, spicy tacos, crispy chicken, or a fresh salad, fast food has evolved to satisfy almost any whim. And if you live in Boise, Meridian, or the greater Treasure Valley, there’s even more to love — new spots have been popping up, bringing both fan favorites and fresh flavors to town.
🍔 National Fast Food Day Is Your Dinner Win
Fast food isn’t just about convenience — it’s also about variety. Order in from your go-to chain! Hit the drive-thru for a quick pick-up or grab and take out for everyone’s favorites. Whether your family leans toward burgers, salads, tacos, or fried chicken, national fast food chains offer something for everyone — all without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
📍 What’s New in the Treasure Valley
Here’s a roundup of fast food buzz in Boise, Meridian, and the surrounding area — especially exciting for National Fast Food Day.
1. Guthrie’s Chicken – Meridian
Alabama-based Guthrie’s has landed in Meridian, bringing its legendary chicken fingers and signature sauce to the Treasure Valley. The menu is simple but irresistible: golden fried tenders, Texas toast, fries, and coleslaw. Their “Gut Box” combo is already a local hit. Expect fresh, made-to-order chicken every time.
2. Chick-fil-A – Meridian (Ten Mile & Vanguard)
Meridian welcomed a new Chick-fil-A location featuring a three-lane drive-thru for ultimate convenience. Known for its iconic chicken sandwiches and waffle fries, this spot is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Bonus: Chick-fil-A continues its tradition of community giving with donations to local hunger relief programs.
3. Aubergine Kitchen – Meridian
For those seeking a healthier fast-casual option, Aubergine Kitchen opened its first Idaho location at The Village. This Utah-based chain offers bowls, protein plates, smoothies, and “niceshakes,” all made with whole, clean ingredients. It’s a fresh twist on fast food for health-conscious diners.
4. Raising Cane’s – Coming Soon to Meridian
Chicken lovers, rejoice! Raising Cane’s is set to open near The Village by late 2025. Known for its crispy chicken fingers and signature Cane’s Sauce, this addition will make Meridian a chicken hotspot.
5. In-N-Out Burger – Boise (Towne Square)
Burger fans rejoiced when In-N-Out Burger opened its second Idaho location in Boise (at Boise Towne Square). Their simple-but-iconic menu of juicy burgers, fries, and shakes remains a favorite — and since this opening, the Treasure Valley has more access than ever to that classic West-Coast flavor.
6. El Pollo Loco — Coming to Meridian (and Nampa)
Idaho’s fire-grilled chicken game is leveling up: El Pollo Loco is expanding into the Treasure Valley, with planned locations in Meridian (Chinden Blvd) and Nampa. This isn’t your average fried chicken — El Pollo Loco serves citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken, along with tacos, bowls, burritos, and family-style meals.
7. Rosa — A Local Taco Shop
On the more “fast-casual” side, Rosa is located in Garden City. They serve street-style tacos with freshly made tortillas, braised meats, salsa, and other goodies — plus chips and salsa. It’s a perfect pick if you want something a little more crafted than the typical fast food fare.
🎉 Fan Favorites That Don’t Disappoint
While new spots are exciting, some classics remain unbeatable in the Treasure Valley:
Tin Roof Tacos, Fanci Freez and Big Bun for a taste of Boise’s homegrown fast food culture.
Final Thought
Fast food isn’t just about convenience–it’s a cultural staple that brings people together. Our options in the Treasure Valley are constantly evolving, from crispy chicken to creamy shakes. So whether you’re grabbing a quick drive-thru burger or craving a juicy chicken sandwich, there are a variety of fast food gems when you need to hit the “easy” button!
