I’ve Never Been To Idaho’s Most Beloved Coffee Spot

The list of quintessential local fast food joints that Ranker released back in January of 2020 is making the rounds again on Facebook. Out of curiosity I decided to see what this list had to say about Idaho. It feels like every few months there’s a new list making a claim about what Idaho considers best or worst, and I’m honestly never sure if these surveys are being completed by actual Idahoans.

In this particular instance, Moxie Java is cited as THE local chain for Idaho residents. Whether it’s true or not, I’m embarrassed to say I have never been to this alleged Treasure Valley staple. Even worse, I’ve never even heard of it! Have I been living under a potato, which is arguably cooler than a rock because rocks can’t be made into fries or tater tots?

Moxie Java has locations in Boise, Nampa, Kuna, Garden City, and Meridian. The Meridian location is only 3 miles from me. Seriously, how have I not been here?  According to Yelp, the average rating for the coffee shop is 3.5. Pretty middle of the road. The worst review I saw cited the restaurant not having items listed on the menu, which isn’t the worst thing in the world to me. Stuff like that happens. While working at KFC as a teen, we ran out of chicken one day. Circumstances beyond the staff’s control. So I won’t ding them on that.

But what I’m interested in is their “unusual” menu. Yes, they have all the classics you’d want from a coffee house. Espressos and mochas, iced coffees and teas. But I was not expecting Red Bull infused beverages and Italian sodas, and now that it’s summer I absolutely want those options. I found myself stalking their Instagram page and I guess I need to take my butt over there ASAP.