Brussels Sprouts and Beyond: A Brick 29 Bistro Adventure

Lila and I embarked on a culinary journey to Brick 29 Bistro, a Downtown Nampa treasure where comfort food is elevated to an art form. Perched on the top floor of a historic building, the restaurant offers diners an almost 180-degree view of the city below and the breathtaking mountains on the horizon. It's a venue that seamlessly blends sophistication with the warmth of a home-cooked meal—an experience as welcoming as the scenic surroundings.

The charm of Brick 29 extends far beyond its stunning location. This bistro is rooted in a commitment to locally-sourced ingredients, transforming familiar flavors into something extraordinary.

Photo from the experience; Brick 29 Bistro's Dijon Bacon Sprouts

Our meal began with the Dijon Bacon Sprouts, a dish that made Brussels sprouts the star of the evening.

Roasted to perfection and tossed in a tangy whole grain mustard sauce, each bite was a delightful balance of smokiness from house thick-cut bacon and a hint of freshness from tarragon.

I might argue that these are one of my favorite styles of sprouts in the treasure valley.

Photo from the experience; Brick 29 Bistro's Spicy Garlic Calamari

Next, we tried the Spicy Garlic Calamari, a bold yet harmonious medley of flavors.

Crispy calamari steak paired with serrano chiles, red onion, and red wine gastrique brought a touch of heat and zest, while garlic aioli and fresh cilantro mellowed the spice for a perfectly balanced bite.

I find myself worrying about calamari becoming "too chewy" but this was not the case, they were exceptionally tender.

Photo from the experience; Brick 29 Bistro's Pumpkin Soup

The Seasonal Pumpkin Soup arrived at the table like a warm embrace on a crisp autumn evening, its velvety texture and delicate aroma inviting me to savor the fleeting flavors of the season. Swirls of spice—cinnamon and nutmeg—danced on the palate, conjuring visions of cozy sweaters and falling leaves.

I felt fortunate when the waitress confided that this beloved dish was nearing the end of its seasonal run, making my choice feel serendipitous. Knowing it wouldn’t grace the menu again for some time made each spoonful feel all the more precious.

What truly set this soup apart, though, was its balance. While pumpkin often leans toward sweet, this rendition offered a subtle savoriness, with a whisper of salt that kept the richness in check. It was this harmony of flavors that had me savoring every last drop, wishing autumn could linger just a little longer.

Photo from the experience; Brick 29 Bistro's Dinner Special

The highlight of the evening was undeniably the dinner special, a culinary marvel that stole the show: grilled rockfish nestled atop a pillowy polenta cake, all blanketed in a luscious béchamel cream sauce. The rockfish was grilled to perfection, its flaky texture and delicate, almost buttery flavor embodying the freshness of the sea.

Each component on the plate felt carefully crafted and thoughtfully paired, showcasing the chef’s ability to elevate humble comfort food into an unforgettable dining experience. If ever there was a dish that made you pause to truly savor the artistry behind each ingredient, this was it.

Photo from the experience; Brick 29 Bistro's Bread Pudding

For the grand finale, we indulged in the Bread Pudding, crafted from Gaston’s brioche bread and served warm with a luscious white chocolate ganache. It was a dessert worthy of applause, ending our meal on a heavenly note.

Brick 29 Bistro doesn’t just serve food; it serves an experience—a blend of elevated comfort, locally-sourced goodness, and unbeatable views.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a meal that satisfies the soul or simply bask in the beauty of Nampa’s skyline, this spot delivers in every way.