After local Boise restaurant exits citing lease hike, this chain will move in next
When one of the city’s last old-school sandwich shop brands closed its familiar store in 2025 and moved, the story was predictable.
At least if you’re familiar with growing Boise.
Locally owned Deli George left its familiar space at 220 S. Broadway Ave. because the lease price had jumped significantly, the general manager said at the time. Deli George — which originated in 1997 on Fairview Avenue — has since reopened at 1114 W. Front St. in what used to be the Woodland Empire Ale Craft building.
But Deli George’s former Broadway home has a new tenant-to-be.
Utah-based Zao Asian Grill, which is expanding rapidly into the Treasure Valley, has leased the 3,276-square-foot spot, according to real estate firm TOK Commercial. The fast-casual chain serves customizable Asian bowls, salads, tacos and wraps.
Both the interior and exterior of the former Deli George space will be modified to fit Zao branding. However, construction is not expected to begin anytime soon, so there is no timeline for opening, according to a Zao Asian Grill spokesperson.
Zao already has plenty on its Treasure Valley plate. The chain hopes to open another restaurant this summer at 650 S. Edgewood Lane, suite 120. That’s in southeastern Eagle at the East End Marketplace development near the corner of Idaho 44 and Edgewood Lane.
A Zao location also is planned at The District at Ten Mile mixed-use development with an estimated mid-2027 completion. That address? 1085 S. Ten Mile Road.
Known as Zao Asian Cafe back home in Utah, Zao goes by “Grill” in new markets like Idaho. It made its Gem State debut last year with a restaurant at The Village at Meridian. And, so far, Idaho approves. The restaurant is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars on Google and 4.1 out of 5 on Yelp.
“Meridian, we’re so excited to be your new spot for fresh, flavorful Asian-inspired meals!” Zao exclaims on its Yelp page for the Village restaurant. “At Zao Asian Grill, you create your own bowl, wrap, taco, or salad with fresh veggies, quality proteins like chicken, steak, or tofu, and sauces that bring bold flavor to every bite. Korean red sauce and chili-lime aioli can help take Zao’s Asian tacos to another flavor level.
“We keep it simple: real food made fast, with options that fit any lifestyle — whether you’re looking for something hearty, light, or completely plant-based. Stop by for a quick lunch, family dinner, or a healthy option on the go.”
Founded in 2015 in Salt Lake City, Zao operates 21 of its 23 locations in Utah. But the chain, which does not franchise in the traditional sense, is inching into Idaho and Colorado, where it operates one store apiece — and counting.