In comes the 2021-2022 school year, and the hustle and bustle of new classes, new students, and new campus additions all add excitement to another school year. To add even more to your to-do list these upcoming months, the city of Pocatello has welcomed a variety of new shops and restaurants in the local area for new and returning students to explore. 

1: Saffron Indian Restaurant

Located in the old building of the past local favorite, Bamboo Garden, the family-owned and operated Saffron Indian Restaurant aims to provide authentic Chinese and Indian dishes in a buffet-style format. Located at 1200 Yellowstone Ave, Saffron is a great spot for those looking to venture out into some new cuisine and support a small business in the process. 

2: Brick 243

Set to open in October, Brick 243 plans to bring an all-new dining experience to Pocatello. Named after its location, (243 W. Center St.) the restaurant aims to bring a gastropub vibe to the downtown area, offering unique, shareable foods as well as a variety of drinks. The menu plans to include multi-cultural specialties such as “bangers and mash” an Irish classic consisting of sausages and mashed potatoes, and tasteful appetizers like crostini with various luxury toppings including toasted walnut, roasted grape, truffle honey and herbed ricotta. 

3: Goodbye Hello Crafts and Boutique

Located in the heart of downtown at 144 N. Main St, Goodbye Hello Crafts and Boutique offers a variety of merchandise, from clothes, candles, gifts, decor, accessories and more. Carrying a variety of options from local small businesses, Goodbye Hello is a great stop to check out if you’re in need of a last-minute gift, or just want to drop by while browsing the other shops nearby. 

4: The Smile Bar

Woman-owned and operated, The Smile Bar aims to provide an all-new dental experience for its patients. In an attempt to reduce dental anxiety amongst guests, The Smile Bar strives to create a spa-like experience, providing luxuries for their guests upon request, such as warm towels and massage chairs. Located at 1023 Yellowstone Ave Suite M, The Smile Bar currently only offers teeth whitening services but is aiming to add extra cosmetic services in the future, from botox, lash lifts, and spray tans. While no student discount is currently available, subscription newsletters for discounts can be received by visiting their website, thesmilebarwhitening.com.

5: Garcia’s

A long-term popular stop for Mexican cuisine in Idaho Falls, Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant opened a highly-requested Pocatello location in June at 1599 Yellowstone Ave. Offering staples like house-made salsa and signature margaritas, the eatery has been quick to gain local attention and serves several classic dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, fajitas and more. 

6: ImPressed Coffee Co. 

Another locally owned business, ImPressed Coffee Co stands right off of Yellowstone Ave, near many popular amenities such as the local Walmart and the freeway. Whether you’re taking a quick trip to Twin Falls, doing some weekly shopping, or going to work, ImPressed offers a new vibe to its patrons that strays from the typical Starbucks drive-thru run. Perfect for quick-study sessions with friends while out and about, ImPressed offers a 36 foot covered patio for lounging, as well as being heavily stocked on all the favorites you know and love.The coffee store offers all the traditional grab-and-go delicacies, from smoothies, coffees, and muffins, to less-seen items like waffles and lava cakes. A full menu can be viewed at the shop’s website, impressedcoffeeco.com.