Restaurant News

‘Not Boise/L.A. Idaho but local down-home Kuna,’ this restaurant abruptly closed

A breakfast diner that added piggish flair to Kuna’s dining scene is no more.

The Pork Belly, 271 N. Ave. B, closed Sunday.

Offering “neat eats” and “hip drips,” the restaurant was known for its namesake — slow-smoked pork belly. (Mmm, pork belly hash.) In addition to morning staples such as French toast and biscuits and gravy, The Pork Belly also offered a selection of burgers and sandwiches for lunch.

Owners Mike and Marisol Larson shared the decision on Facebook. In a goodbye note posted the same day the restaurant closed, they thanked customers “for being a part of our journey,” adding that “while we are saddened by this decision, we will forever cherish the memories we’ve made and the relationships we’ve built during our time here.”

The couple wrote that “we have decided that we want to make the steps toward retirement.” Recent owner responses to Google reviews also indicated that staffing was a challenge.

The Pork Belly was rated 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google and 4 out of 5 on Yelp.

The Pork Belly “wanted to create a spot in Kuna, Idaho, where people could enjoy fresh, flavorful meals in a cozy place that feels like home,” according to its website.
The Pork Belly “wanted to create a spot in Kuna, Idaho, where people could enjoy fresh, flavorful meals in a cozy place that feels like home,” according to its website. Anne R. Yelp

“This place is amazing and amazingly Idaho ... not Boise/L.A. Idaho, but local down-home Kuna,” wrote one appreciative Google reviewer.

“The Pork Belly was absolutely and astoundingly delicious!” another added.

On Facebook, former customers lamented the sudden closure. “Kuna has to start supporting local businesses, or it will all (be) fast food and commercial chains,” wrote one.

“Nooooo!!” wrote another.

“This was a very difficult decision; however, it was time,” Marisol Larson replied.

The Larsons, who also own Big Mic’s BBQ in Kuna, encouraged anyone interested in leasing the former Pork Belly to contact Marisol at Big Mic’s.

Related Stories from Idaho Statesman
Michael Deeds
Idaho Statesman
Michael Deeds is a long-serving entertainment reporter and opinion columnist at the Idaho Statesman, where he chronicles the Boise good life: restaurants, concerts, culture, cool stuff. He started as a summer intern after graduating from the University of Nebraska with a news-editorial journalism degree. Deeds’ prior Statesman roles have included sportswriter, music critic and features editor. His other writing has ranged from freelancing album reviews for The Washington Post to bragging about Boise in that inflight magazine you left on the plane. 
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER