Hemlock Introduces A Bold New Chapter in Steakhouse Culture in Downtown Boise

​Boise, Idaho — April 21, 2025 — Boise's culinary scene is about to welcome an exciting new chapter with the arrival of Hemlock, a boutique fine-dining steakhouse set to open on May 6, 2025 at the Inn at 500 Capitol. This highly anticipated venture is led by Scott Slater and Boise native Todd Ketlinski, the creative forces behind the celebrated Spitfire Tacos + Tequila. With their proven expertise and innovative vision, Hemlock is poised to redefine the steakhouse experience with an unapologetically bold approach, offering a fresh take on this timeless fine-dining tradition.

“As a Boise native, I’ve watched this city grow into a vibrant culinary hub, and it’s an honor to contribute to that evolution with Hemlock,” said Todd Ketlinski, Co-Founder of Hemlock. “This isn’t just about opening a new restaurant—it’s about reimagining what a steakhouse can be while continuing the legacy of this iconic space.”

A Menu That Marries Tradition and Innovation

Guests can expect a refined, elevated menu anchored by premium cuts sourced from esteemed ranches, including Riverbend Ranch in Idaho Falls and Snake River Farms in Eastern Idaho. Highlights include:

• 16-ounce Prime Ribeye – Pasture-raised Black Angus with abundant marbling and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• 14-ounce American Wagyu New York Strip – Rich, buttery flavor with a deep, beefy taste.
• 8-ounce Prime Filet Mignon – Exceptional tenderness with a flavorful, rich beef profile.
• 40-ounce Prime Porterhouse for Two – A luxurious cut offering both filet and strip, balancing melt-in-your-mouth texture with a satisfying chew.
• 8-ounce Wagyu Skirt and 8-ounce Wagyu Denver – Richly marbled cuts, each delivering bold, savory flavor.

These standout selections reflect Hemlock’s commitment to precision, quality sourcing, and culinary craft. Complementing the steaks are inventive starters like the Table-Side Baked Potato for Two—Giant Spud with Irresponsible Additions and the Brontosaurus Bone—a 10-inch sous vide beef rib, dry-rubbed and hasselback’d. Seafood lovers will appreciate bold offerings like Chicken Fried Lobster Tail and a luxurious Caviar Board featuring Petrossian Royal Ossetra. Check out the full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus here. Elevated Mixology Meets Playful Innovation Hemlock’s bar program is as ambitious as its kitchen, featuring a curated selection of craft cocktails that balance sophistication with a sense of fun. Signature drinks include:

• Hemlock Old Fashioned: A robust blend of Old Forester 100 Proof Rye, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Proof, Frangelico, black walnut bitters, and a burnt end garnish.
• Sage Grouse: The Famous Grouse blended malt Scotch, elderflower, vanilla, lemon, passionfruit, cucumber, and a touch of absinthe—complex, bright, and wild at heart.
• Ponderosa Sour: Old Forester 1920, Disaronno, almond, and egg white, offering a nutty twist on a classic sour.

The beverage menu also features a thoughtfully selected wine list and elevated mocktails.

Where Idaho’s Heritage Meets Socratic Spirit

The name Hemlock is a nod to both nature and philosophy. It honors the Hemlock tree, native to Northern Idaho, long valued for its strength, resilience, and practical uses by Native American communities. It also references the story of Socrates, who drank hemlock as a final act of integrity and conviction. At Hemlock, that spirit lives on in a bold approach to hospitality—blending tradition with innovation, and sparking connection through curated Socrates-inspired cocktails. The venue’s vibrant atmosphere will feature striking interior design, a lively bar scene, and unexpected moments—like a grand piano playing ‘90s hip-hop and Top 40 hits.

 Honoring Legacy While Embracing the Future.

Beyond its dining offerings, Hemlock will serve as the exclusive caterer for all events at the Inn at 500 Capitol, providing exceptional culinary experiences for private gatherings, weddings, and corporate events. The restaurant will also offer room service to hotel guests.
For more information and reservations, visit www.hemlockboise.com. Follow @hemlockboise on Instagram.