Experience

The Reef is one of the ever-growing number of hoity-toity, upscale joints in Boise that tries to bridge the chasm between providing youthful appeal and giving the not-quite-elderly a place to hang. Most places that walk that edge just come across as trite. Amazingly enough, I actually like the Reef because it pulls it off.

For me, this is one of those rare places that you can go for dinner, then hang around enjoying drinks and music. If you're into it, you can even cut the rug with a pretty lady, assuming you either brought one or have the courage to risk derision and ridicule by asking one to dance.

My hands-down favorite feature is the rooftop patio. If the crowd and thundering music overwhelm you, you can head outdoors for a breath of nicotine-enriched air thanks to all the smokers who decide they all needed a smoke at the same exact time. It's great to head out there on a really cold winter night and cozy up to one of the giant propane torches, enjoying the brisk air and relative peace and quiet that comes with a thirty-degree night here in high desert country.

If I was prone to giving lame-ass scores like other reviewers I know, I'd give the Reef nothing. If I scored it, I'd be a sell-out shilling for that corporate buck. Go to the Reef. You'll like it.

Hugh's allergic to dog dander, hibiscus, politicians, and Carly Simon songs.