This restaurant was an Idaho ‘gem’ for 28 years. It just closed in Caldwell

A roadside diner at a Sinclair truck stop has bid farewell to the Treasure Valley.

The Sage Cafe, 2929 Franklin Road, closed Jan. 28. Located inside the Sage Travel Plaza off Interstate 84’s exit 29, it dished up home-style meals in Caldwell for decades.

“After 28 years of business, we’ve made the difficult decision to close ... ” the restaurant posted on its Facebook page. “We will miss our terrific customers, who have become our friends over the years. We want to thank you for supporting us and our great team of employees and wish you the best in the future. Sincerely, United Oil and the Franklin family.”

The Sage Cafe was an inviting, affordable stop for Canyon County residents and travelers passing through Boise and Southern Idaho. “Caldwell’s best-kept secret” (as the menu touted) offered more than just all-day breakfast and freshly ground coffee. Cinnamon rolls, soups and pies got made in-house. Along with omelettes and pancakes, there were hearty options such as fried chicken, fish and chips, steak, chicken-fried steak — even finger steaks. Over the years, specials included all-you-can eat spaghetti on Tuesday evenings and prime rib on Friday nights.

Yelp users rated the restaurant 4 out of 5 stars.

“Great homemade soup and pork chop dinner,” a reviewer wrote Jan. 11. “Really wonderful service. A gem!”

“Warm, friendly staff. Very welcoming,” another wrote Jan. 9. “Food was delicious.”

Despite the closure, the rest of the Sage Travel Plaza remains open, selling fuel and convenience-store goods.

This story was originally published January 31, 2022 at 11:17 AM.