Business Details
Historic Victorian Caf & Gift Shop in Boise
The Sturiale Place is a historic Victorian home transformed into a unique caf, gift shop, and museum in Boise, Idaho. Originally built between 1893 and 1899 as the Woods House, this architectural gem was saved from demolition in 2015 and relocated to 1501 W. Jefferson Street. Our team meticulously restored the Queen Anne-style home, preserving its original character while creating a space that celebrates local art, history, and Italian-inspired cuisine. The caf offers homemade Italian meals in an intimate setting, featuring a communal table and outdoor garden seating. Our gift shop curates a mix of antiques, local products, and imported goods, reflecting the eclectic spirit of the property. The Sturiale Museum showcases Rita Sturiale's personal collection and family heritage, alongside artifacts discovered during the home's restoration.We host seasonal events like our annual Mother's Day Tea, blending cultural experiences with community engagement. Our commitment to historic preservation has earned recognition from Preservation Idaho and local partners. Rita Sturiale, owner and visionary, draws on decades of experience in curation and hospitality to create a welcoming environment rooted in Boise's history. Every detail, from the Boise Sandstone foundation to the bay windows, tells a story of resilience and reinvention. We invite visitors to explore this living museum while enjoying fresh, homemade cuisine and unique retail offerings. Our seasonal hours and event calendar ensure there's always something new to discover at The Sturiale Place.
Services
Caf Service
Gift Shop Retail
Historic Museum Tours
Event Hosting
Seasonal Pop-up Shops
Highlights and features
- Dine in a meticulously restored 1893 Victorian landmark
- Explore curated antiques and local artisan products
- Enjoy homemade Italian meals in a European-inspired setting
- Experience Boise's history through guided tours and exhibits
- Attend exclusive cultural events like our annual Mother's Day Tea
Associations and certifications
- Preservation Idaho
What people say
Beautiful historic setting
Delicious Italian meals
Unique gift shop
Well-curated museum
Charming garden
Services
Caf Service
Our caf serves homemade Italian cuisine in a historic setting. The menu features dishes like Italian Pork Meatball Soup, Fennel & Orange Salad, and Cold Gemelli Tuna Pasta Salad. Guests dine in a restored Victorian home with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Gift Shop Retail
The gift shop offers a curated selection of antiques, one-of-a-kind curiosities, and products from local and international artisans. Seasonal hours include special openings in April, May, June, November, and December for holiday shopping.
Historic Museum Tours
The Sturiale Museum displays Rita Sturiale's personal collection and family heritage alongside original artifacts found during restoration. The space highlights Boise's Central Addition history and the home's architectural significance as a Queen Anne-style Victorian.
Event Hosting
We host seasonal events including our annual Mother's Day Tea series. The venue accommodates special gatherings with its historic ambiance and garden setting, offering a unique backdrop for celebrations and cultural experiences.
Historic Preservation
As part of Preservation Idaho's Central Addition initiative, we maintain the 1893 Woods House's architectural integrity. The restoration preserved original elements like the Boise Sandstone foundation, wood clapboard siding, and distinctive bay windows.
People
Rita Sturiale
Owner & Curator
Rita Sturiale is the visionary behind The Sturiale Place's transformation from historic landmark to cultural destination. With decades of experience in historic preservation and hospitality, she curates the museum collection and oversees daily operations.
Questions
What are The Sturiale Place's regular operating hours?
The café operates seasonally with specific dates in April, May, June, November, and December. Check our website for exact dates and holiday hours.
Is The Sturiale Place wheelchair accessible?
The historic building has limited accessibility; please contact us in advance for specific accommodation needs.
Can I host private events at The Sturiale Place?
Yes, we offer venue space for special events. Contact us for availability and capacity details.
What type of food does the café serve?
Our menu features homemade Italian cuisine including soups, salads, pastas, and baked goods like Rita's famous almond macaroons.
Is parking available at The Sturiale Place?
Street parking is available near our location at 1501 W. Jefferson St., with additional options at nearby Rite Aid lot.
Reviews (3)
C. C.
Feb 02, 2020
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What a sweet little place with good food and an historical flare. A real find especially since the weather was nice so we were able to sit out on the lovely patio. Owner gave us a tour of the historic house and was delightful. Kudos to Gina who put the delicious meal together. I will be back for sure.
Wheelys Boise
Jan 29, 2019
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Lovely ambiance, nourishing food and kind people. Much care has been taken to renew and revive This Old House. The grounds are well kept, the service is spot on, coffee, soup and salad was wonderful. I liked the outside seating and the weather was perfect. I will be back to try something different next time. Thanks for the tour and history lesson for this Boise local.
12/3/18 I have not been back. I have tried to figure out what is going on as they have been closed for quite some time. As best I can figure out is they are only doing private events currently. Check their website. I guess I was
12/3/18 I have not been back. I have tried to figure out what is going on as they have been closed for quite some time. As best I can figure out is they are only doing private events currently. Check their website. I guess I was
Lisa Morales
Oct 04, 2017
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A beautifully restored Boise relic. We were immediately greated by lovely Nikki. Warm and inviting, we could have stayed all day. The Sturiale Place makes you feel like you've come home to a long lost friend.
