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 Food & Dining
Wining and dining
by Clay Fong
Imagine yourself standing at the corner of Canyon and Broadway on a fine Boulder spring day. To the southwest, vendors are plying freshly baked breads, artisanal cheeses and organic produce at the Farmers' Market. Above the market crowds, you can make out the top of the Dushanbe Teahouse (1770 13th St., 303-442-4993), with its adventurous menu of Tajik lamb kebabs and Thai green curries. Turning your attention North up Broadway, there’s the convivial Scotch Corner Pub (1800 Broadway, 303-545-2000), featuring one of the greatest experiments in the history of fusion cooking: haggis nachos, blending the favored Tex-Mex appetizer with the traditional Scottish mash of various and sundry sheep’s innards.
The abovementioned sliver of downtown real estate highlights one of Boulder’s culinary strengths, namely its sheer diversity. Immune from the impacts of the financial crisis? Step into Frasca (1738 Pearl St., 303-442-6966) and savor regional Italian fare in an eatery operated by veterans of the Michelin three-starred French Laundry. But if the purse strings are tight, don’t despair; you can still enjoy L’Atelier’s (1739 Pearl St., 303-442-7233) eminently civilized four-course “Recession Dinner” for $29 including a starter of their mouthwatering lobster ravioli. The well-heeled steak and cocktail traditionalist can high-tail it up to the Flagstaff House (1138 Flagstaff Dr., 303-442-4640) and knock back a filet and scotch while enjoying world-class views.
The star-struck can hit the Corner Bar in the Hotel Boulderado (2115 13th St., 303-442-4344), the erstwhile haunt of departed Beats Allen Ginsburg and William S. Burroughs. Those preferring more contemporary celebs can venture to Jax Fish House (928 Pearl St., 303-444-1811) for a glimpse of Top Chef victor Hosea Rosenberg, or sample fare from fellow competitor Melissa Harrison at the Happy Noodle House (835 Walnut St., 303-442-3050). For luminaries of a different kind, check out the vegan fare and live performances by local musical notables like Wendy Woo at the Outlook Hotel’s Blues & Greens (800 28th St., 720-974-7775).
Speaking of vegan fare, it’s no surprise that Boulderites take a socially conscious approach to eating. The Boulder Valley School District has hired Chef Ann Cooper from Berkeley to transform its lunch program into something healthier and more environmentally sustainable. Quick-serve establishments such as the newly opened Larkburger (2525 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-1487) and old favorite 8 Island (3050 28th St., 303-440-7427) — spam sushi anyone? — offer not only satisfying fare at moderate prices, but also a zero-waste stream. Locavores desiring regionally produced fare with a low carbon footprint can pick up Western Slope peaches, Haystack Mountain goat cheese and more produced fare at the Farmers’ Market (www.boulderfarmers.org). Those disinclined to cook can sample gourmet meals drawing heavily on local ingredients at Boulder’s Black Cat (1964 13th St., 303-444-9110). Meadowlark Farm Dinners (www.farmdinners.com) takes the experience a step further as you dine al fresco at the farm that produced most of the meal’s ingredients.
For the ethnic food lover, Boulder provides its fair share of surprises at decent prices. Lengua, or tongue tacos, are available at the El Rey Taqueria (2966 Valmont Rd., 303-442-1266), and the Scotch Corner supplies haggis in both sheepish and vegetarian varieties. A brunch of Taiwanese dumplings is yours for the asking at Lee Yuan (4800 Baseline Rd., 303-494-4210), with a red bean paste dessert to finish it all off. Pupusas (4457 Broadway, 303-444-1729) dishes out comforting savory South American stuffed tortillas, in addition to a delightfully sensual flan.
In Boulder, you can choose anything from a cheap thrill such as a hearty New York-style slice of Cosmo’s Pizza (www.cosmospizza.com) slathered with anchovy to a more indulgent dinner of Colorado leg of lamb at The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973). In between, you can enjoy an old-school plate of eggs, bacon and top-shelf hash browns at the Village Coffee Shop (1605 Folsom St., 303-442-9689) or a chef’s choice vegan platter at the newly opened Arugula (2785 Iris Ave., 303-443-5100). While Boulder may fall short in a few culinary respects, most notably a lack of a 24-hour restaurant, there’s still something for just about every pocketbook and appetite.
The following is a selection of some of the best places to wine and dine in Boulder. While each category has many excellent choices in town, we’ve condensed our descriptions to those establishments that are consistent winners in our annual Best of Boulder contest.
MARKETS
Appetizers/Tapas
Mediterranean Restaurant (1002 Walnut St., 303-444-5335, www.themedboulder.com)
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
Bàcaro Venetian Taverna (921 Pearl St., 303-444-4888, www.bacaro.com)
Dagabi Cucina (3970 N. Broadway, 303-786-9004, www.dagabicucina.com)
The Med has one of the best happy hours around, and with that comes an excellent selection of Mediterranean-inspired tapas. A variety of hot and cold dishes include everything from Catalan shrimp to Moroccan eggplant. The Kitchen is the place for the appetizers with an organic twist. Healthy appetizers include soups, salads and finger-foods made with local ingredients. Bàcaro Venetian Taverna and Dagabi Cucina also are consistent reader picks for favorite Boulder appetizers.
MARKETS
Moe’s Broadway Bagel (Several locations in Boulder, www.moesbagel.com)
Einstein Bros. (Several locations in Boulder, www.einsteinbros.com)
Big Daddy Bagels (4800 Baseline Rd., 303-554-0193)
Moe’s is a Boulder morning tradition. With so many options of bagels, spreads and sandwiches, there is never a reason to order to same thing twice. Einstein Bros. may be a national chain, but always entices Boulder Weekly with their tasty round goods and schmears. And Big Daddy Bagels is one of the best reasons to get up in the morning, with a wide selection and great prices.
BAKERY
Breadworks (2644 N. Broadway, 303-444-5667, www.breadworks.net)
Great Harvest (2525 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-3062, www.ghboulder.com)
Spruce Confections (767 Pearl St., 303-449-6773)
Sweet treats abound in Boulder, and Breadworks consistently offers some of the best baked good around. Their hearty loaves and savory desserts are a complement to their café, where you can sit down to meals of soups, sandwiches, pizza and frittatas. Great Harvest is the place for great breads. For the past 25 years, they’ve wowed residents with their whole-grain concoctions. Spruce Confections is eager to please with their delicious scones, quiches and treats.
BREAKFAST
Lucile’s (2124 14th St., 303-442-4743, www.luciles.com)
Walnut Café/South Side Walnut Café (3073 Walnut St., 303-447-2315, 673 S. Broadway, 720-304-8818, www.walnutcafe.com)
Dot’s Diner (2716 28th St., 303-449-1323, 1333 Broadway, 303-447-9184)
Is it any wonder that the line for Lucile’s can sometimes stretch around the block? With a Creole flair that will spice up any egg dish, theirs is a breakfast worth waiting for. Walnut Café and its sister South Side Walnut Café offer some of the most celebrated morning plates around, with scrambles, burritos and even a little quiche. To make matters even better, the Walnut Cafés have a plethora of vegetarian and vegan selections for the morning herbivore. Dot’s Diner is the place where “the folks get their yokes.” This breakfast joint has the best biscuits in town, not to mention some of the heartiest dishes that reach far beyond the typical scrambled eggs.
BRUNCH
The Greenbriar Inn (8735 N. Foothills Hwy., 303-440-7979, www.greenbriarinn.com)
Boulder Broker Inn (555 30th St., 303-449-1752, www.boulderbrokerinn.com)
Q’s (2115 13th St., 303-442-4880, www.qsboulder.com)
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
The Greenbriar Inn’s brunch has it all: omelet bar, oysters, champagne, prime rib, bacon, salads, fruits, desserts, French toast… the list could go on for miles. It’s the perfect and filling way to start to your morning or afternoon. Boulder Broker Inn has a variety of plates from around the world and top-notch service. Their classy surroundings will have you swimming with their tasty champagne beverages. Q’s, located within the historic Hotel Boulderado, has an excellent brunch, as well. Their four-star restaurant has all the best fixins to satisfy the locals and tourists alike.
BURGER
Mountain Sun/Southern Sun (1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886, 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886, www.mountainsunpub.com)
VG Burgers (3267 28th St. and 1650 Broadway, 303-440-2400, www.vgburgers.com)
Dark Horse (2922 Baseline Rd., 303-442-8162, www.darkhorsebar.com)
Not only do the Mountain and Southern Sun pubs have some of the best microbrews in town, they are also masters on the grill. Their burgers are to-die-for, with fresh ingredients and high-quality meat (try the Junk Burger or the Black and Blue — we promise you’ll become addicted). VG Burgers is where veg-heads can sink their teeth into meat-free burgers. These burgers may be healthy, but they certainly don’t skimp on taste. The Dark Horse is a Boulder favorite, and their burgers have been the talk of the town since 1975. Their juicy meat and great toppings are the perfect companion for a pint of beer.
BUSINESS LUNCH
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
Japango (1136 Pearl St., 303-938-0330)
Q’s (2115 13th St., 303-442-4880, www.qsboulder.com)
When you want to wow your boss, The Kitchen is just the right trick. This eco-conscious eatery has an award-winning menu and ambience to match. Just down the road on Pearl Street, Japango is another hot spot for networking. Their trendy décor and succulent sushi will win points with any client. Perhaps nothing quite shows off like the four-star restaurant Q’s. Located within the Hotel Boulderado, the swanky atmosphere and fine dining does nothing but impress.
CHINESE RESTAURANT
Golden Lotus (1964 28th St., 303-442-6868, www.goldenlotuscuisine.com)
Moongate Asian Bistro (1628 Pearl St., 720-406-8888, www.moongateasianbistro.com)
For a sampling of the best Chinese food in Boulder, a quick stop at Golden Lotus is absolutely necessary. Their classic selection of Middle Kingdom dishes includes Grand Marnier shrimp and Kung Pao Chicken. Moongate Asian Bistro is another must-visit in the Boulder cuisine scene. Their pan-Asian approach includes spiced-up versions of traditional Chinese classics.
FINE DINING RESTAURANT
Frasca (1738 Pearl St., 303-442-6966, www.frascafoodandwine.com)
Flagstaff House (1138 Flagsaff Dr., 303-442-4600, www.flagstaffhouse.com)
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
For special occasions, there are a plethora of options in this city to celebrate in style. Frasca typifies old-school elegance, and combines this charm with award-winning dishes (foie gras with sweetbread, tender lamb) and an extensive wine list. Internationally known Flagstaff House sits on the side of Flagstaff Mountain. The views alone are worth a visit, though the food and wine are world class. Everything from caviar to quail eggs are on the menu for the advanced palate. For a more urban feel, we suggest The Kitchen. Their eco-friendly approach combines top-of-the-line ambience with locally influenced dining.
ICE CREAM
Glacier Homemade Ice Cream and Gelato
(several locations in Boulder, www.glacierhomemadeicecream.com)
Ben & Jerry’s (1203 Pearl St., 303-444-5725, www.benjerry.com)
Bliss Organic Ice Cream (2425 Canyon Blvd., 303-443-9596)
There’s no better treat on warm Boulder days than ice cream. Glacier Homemade Ice Cream, an annual favorite for BW readers, goes way beyond the simple chocolate and vanilla. Their ice cream comes in more than 500 flavors (Key Lime Pie anyone?), and can be found at multiple locales throughout the city. For ice-cream shop appeal, the downtown Ben & Jerry’s is always a sure bet. Their hippie-era inspired flavors mesh well with the Pearl Street experience. Bliss Organic Ice Cream is another local love, with a variety of enticing flavors. With their certified organic ingredients, eating ice cream feels guilt-free.
INDIAN / NEPALI RESTAURANT
Sherpa’s Adventurers (825 Walnut St., 303-440-7151, www.sherpaascent.com)
The Taj (2630 Baseline Rd., 303-494-5216)
Tandoori Grill (619 S. Broadway, 303-543-7339, www.tandoorigrillboulder.com)
Himalaya’s (2010 14th St., 303-442-3230, www.himalayasrestaurant.com)
For a taste of Everest, Sherpa’s Adventurers can’t be beat. Run by a former native guide of Nepal, Sherpa’s excels in combining delicious authentic cuisine with a lively and, dare we say, adventuresome atmosphere — pik-axe door handles and backpacker décor complement the fresh naan and pakora perfectly. At The Taj, you have the option of sampling the treats of India during their buffet hours — one of the best in town. Diners are also welcome to full-service bar, excellent service and sit-down menu. Tandoori Grill is a South Boulder spot for elegant Indian dining, with an excellent and well-rounded buffet option to boot. Their naan is some of the best around. Himalaya’s is an underground respite for high-altitude cuisine. Their service is some of the friendliest in town, and a wide array of appetizers, naan, curries and hearty entrées will have you demanding for more in no time.
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Laudisio Ristorante (1710 29th St., Ste. 1076, 303-442-1300, www.laudisio.com)
Carelli’s of Boulder (645 30th St., 303-938-9300, www.carellis.com)
Radda Trattoria (1265 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303-442-6100, www.raddatrattoria.com)
Laudisio Ristorante, located in Boulder’s Twenty Ninth Street Mall, combines delectable fresh Italian fare with chic ambience. Their fresh approach to all of the classics is what separates this joint from all the rest. Another favorite, Carelli’s of Boulder, is a local institution with a romantic and homey vibe. Their menu encompasses all the classics (make sure to try the manicotti), plus pizzas, calzones and an extensive wine list. In addition, there are a plethora of gluten-free options for diet-sensitive diners. Nestled near Broadway and Alpine, Radda Trattoria is focuses on Tuscan-style Italian fare. Their neighborhood vibe makes it an ideal meet-up spot for a glass of wine and Italian appetizer or entrée.
LATE NIGHT FOOD
Abo’s Pizza (several locations in Boulder, www.abospizza.com)
Hapa Sushi (1117 Pearl St., 303-473-4730; 1220 Pennsylvania Ave., 303-447-9883, www.hapasushi.com)
Cosmo’s (several locations in Boulder, www.cosmospizza.com)
One of the best appeals to dining in a college town like Boulder is that there is no shortage of late-night grub. Abo’s Pizza is a revered joint to enjoy an enormous slice of fine New York style pie in the wee hours. On most nights, you can stop by their location on University Hill until 2 a.m. On a different end of the dining spectrum and in two locations is Hapa Sushi. Their delectable sushi is available in a hip, trendy setting until 10 p.m. Cosmo’s Pizza exceeds in the late-night category for carrying delicious nighttime pies, and delivering them straight to your door.
MEXICAN / SOUTHWESTERN RESTAURANT
Efrain’s (1630 63rd St., 303-440-4045, www.efrainsrestaurant.com)
Zolo Grill (2525 Arapahoe Ave., 303-449-0444, www.zologrill.com)
Juanita’s (1043 Pearl St., 303-449-5273, www.juanitas-boulder.com)
The Rio Grande (1101 Walnut St., 303-44-3690, www.riograndemexican.com)
Casa Alvarez (3161 Walnut St., 303-546-0630, www.casaalvarezcolorado.com)
Authenticity is key for Efrain’s. Their Mexican menu offers all of the classics — enchiladas, chile rellenos, tacos and burritos — but with a full flavor hard to find at other Americanized joints. Zolo Grill takes a different approach to Southwestern fare that includes inspiring fusions like mushroom tamales and duck tacos. Their dishes are made with care, and their hip, contemporary décor allows you to savor in style. When it comes to tradition, Juanita’s cannot be beat. This Pearl Street favorite is the place for delectable combination plates and filling entrées — not to mention a great bar and Boulder’s best karaoke (Wednesday nights). The Rio Grande is the place to escape for a fine south-of-the-border experience, with excellent starters and the hands-down best margarita in town. Casa Alvarez focuses on all the standards, with an added emphasis on plates from Mexico’s Jalisco region — meaning lots of spicy seafood dishes.
PIZZA
Abo’s Pizza (several locations in Boulder, www.abospizza.com)
Proto’s Pizzeria Napoletana (4670 Broadway, 720-565-1050, www.protospizza.com)
Nick-N-Willy’s (several locations in Boulder, www.nicknwillys.com)
Cosmo’s (several locations in Boulder, www.cosmospizza.com)
There’s no shortage of pizza in any college town. Thankfully for Boulder diners — students and professionals alike — it’s of the highest quality. Abo’s Pizza is a surefire choice for supreme pies. Their choices in toppings range from healthy to decadent to exotic, and their slices are as enormous as their New York flavor. If a nice dining atmosphere is up your alley, Proto’s is an excellent pizzeria with an inviting neighborhood feel. Their additional menu selections make it a great spot for meeting up with friends or coworkers. For those who like to stay close to home, Nick-N-Willy’s is a one-stop spot for delicious take-and-bake pies with some of the highest-quality ingredients around. How Cosmo’s is able to deliver such top-notch pizzas in such record time we may never know. What we do know, however, is that these massive pies don’t skimp on size or value.
SANDWICH
Snarf’s (several locations in Boulder, www.eatsnarfs.com)
Salvaggio’s Italian Deli (2609 Pearl St., 303-938-1981)
Half Fast Subs (1215 13th St., 303-449-0404, www.halffastsubs.com)
Deli Zone (several locations in Boulder, www.delizone.net)
If a hearty, solid sandwich is what you’re after, Snarf’s delivers (literally). Their fresh bread and tasty concoctions are perfect for a day- or night-time meal for a great price. At Salvaggio’s Italian Deli, it’s all about ingredients. Their fresh meats and cheeses turn a sandwich into a work of art. No one can ever worry about not finding the perfect sub at Half Fast. This institution on Boulder’s University Hill has enough choices to fill a book, or at least the enormous chalkboards posted above the register. For authentic New York-style sandwiches, Deli Zone is definitely the place to go. Their sandwiches are expertly prepared on fresh breads and rolls (pay extra special attention to the breakfast specials).
SUSHI RESTAURANT
Sushi Tora (2014 10th St., 303-444-2280, www.sushitora.net)
Sushi Zanmai (1221 Spruce St., 303-440-0733, www.sushizanmai.com)
Hapa Sushi (1117 Pearl St., 303-473-4730; 1220 Pennsylvania Ave., 303-447-9883, www.hapasushi.com)
Japango (1136 Pearl St., 303-938-0330)
Sushi Tora is a consistent Boulder Weekly favorite, and for good reason. Most of their fish is flown in from Tokyo’s world-renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, and the final product is fresh, delicious sushi (not to mention the best chirashi in town). Sushi Zanmai’s selection of fish is equally appealing, with creamy uni and marbled fatty tuna. Zanmai is also the place to enjoy award-winning sushi while belting out a few karaoke tunes. For those who want to eat well and be seen, Hapa is the best bet. This trendy spot offers Hawaiian-influenced sushi with tantalizing names. And, of course, no one can overlook Japango. This chic Pearl Street establishment is the place for high-end sushi and top-notch service.
TAKE OUT
Siamese Plate (3033 28th St., 303-444-3133; 1575 Folsom St., 303-447-9718; www.siameseplateonthego.com)
Khow Thai Café (1600 Broadway, 303-447-0273, www.khow-thai.com)
China Gourmet (3970 Broadway, 303-440-3500, ww.chinagourmetmenu.com)
Whether you’re in the mood for Thai or Japanese fare, Siamese Plate is a long-time Boulder favorite for busy folks who need to grab their food on the go. Their MSG-free menu makes it an ideal spot for the health-conscious. Khow Thai Café is another Boulder favorite for take out with its huge portions and low prices. Make sure to grab one of their Thai iced teas while you’re at it. China Gourmet has a taste that lives up to its name. This Chinese operation features all the quintessential Chinese-American favorites (Egg Foo Young, Sesame Tofu), but also adds on a traditional Chinese menu for those feeling a bit more authentic.
THAI RESTAURANT
Khow Thai Café (1600 Broadway, 303-447-0273, www.khow-thai.com)
Siamese Plate (3033 28th St., 303-444-3133; 1575 Folsom St., 303-447-9718; www.siameseplateonthego.com)
Chy Thai (2720 Canyon Blvd., 303-440-2903, www.chythaicuisine.com)
Ask anyone in town where to get excellent Thai cuisine, and they will lead you straight to Khow Thai. This downtown restaurant has been serving diners with unassuming appetizers and sizeable entrées in a low-key atmosphere for years. For its low prices, Khow Thai is of true value. Siamese Plate fits a similar bill, with excellent prices and quick service. Their menu is full of fresh meats and fishes, with an expansive selection of vegetarian entrées. Chy Thai prides itself on authentic cuisine. Its fresh stir-fries, noodles and curries are mouth-watering and healthy.
VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
Chez Thuy (2655 28th St., 303-442-1700, www.chezthuy.com)
May Wah (2500 Baseline Rd., 303-499-8225, www.maywah.net)
Chez Thuy is a perennial favorite for Boulder Weekly readers because of its innovative style. Combining new twists with old classics, Chez Thuy succeeds in providing evocative Thai food (and drinks — their coffee is some of the best in town) in elegant surroundings. For those who want to indulge, May Wah offers several options. With everything from Minty Chicken to Shittake Mushroom Duck, this encompassing joint has something for everyone.
OVERALL RESTAURANT
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
Aji (1601 Pearl St., 303-442-3464, www.ajirestaurant.com)
Living up to the title of “Overall Restaurant” takes a lot in Boulder, and The Kitchen certainly has a firm grasp on everything such a christening would entail. This fine restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in contemporary surroundings. Their healthy meals are matched with top-notch service and a local, eco-friendly approach that all restaurants should strive toward. Just down the road, Aji is a Latin restaurant that also contends for such an honorable title with off-the-beaten-path entrees. Items such as their posole and ceviche are of the highest quality around.
VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
Sunflower Restaurant (1701 Pearl St., 303-440-0220, www.sunflowerboulder.com)
Whole Foods (2905 Pearl St., 202-545-6611, www.wholefoodsmarket.com)
Ras Kassa’s (2111 30th St., 303-447-2919, www.raskassas.com)
VG Burgers (3267 28th St. and 1650 Broadway, 303-440-2400, www.vgburgers.com)
Though a plethora of restaurants in town can accommodate for herbivores, Sunflower Restaurant wins out as a haven for vegetarians. Their nationally acclaimed menu changes with the seasons, but is always filled with organic fare. In addition, their dessert and wine menu will make even the most ardent meat-eaters in the group drool with delight. Whole Foods may be a market for veg-friendly goods, but its store on Pearl Street doubles as a great place to pop a squat for lunch or dinner. Their ready-to-eat dishes are a wonderful way to veg out in a low-key style. Ras Kassa’s is Boulder’s finest Ethiopian fare, with vast vegetarian options. Their healthy, authentic dishes will have you living by their motto — “Eat like you’ve never heard of silverware.” VG Burgers is the greatest “fast food” you’ll ever eat. Their organic and meatless interpretation of the quick burger will have you swearing off any chain for the rest of your life.
COFFEE HOUSE
Vic’s (Several locations in Boulder, 303-440-8209)
The Laughing Goat (1709 Pearl St., 303-440-4628, www.thelaughinggoat.com)
Amante (4580 Broadway, 303-448-9999; 1035 Walnut St., 303-546-9999, www.amantecoffee.com)
Vic’s ranks high among the best places to consume caffeine in Boulder. Their strong roasts have been luring the locals for years, and their new soon-to-be open location in South Boulder will have the Vic’s community sprawling across the entire Republic. The Laughing Goat on Pearl Street successfully fills the void left by the closing of Boulder’s famous Penny Lane Coffee House. Their community-oriented spirit, organic approach and live music make it one of the best places to soak in coffee-house culture. Amante is Italian coffee at its finest. In addition to their fine array of caffeine-infused drinks, they also serve delicious pastries, sandwiches and Italian beer.
HAPPY HOUR
Mediterranean Restaurant (1002 Walnut St., 303-444-5335, www.themedboulder.com)
Catacombs (2115 13th St., 303-443-0486)
Boulder Café (1247 Pearl St., 303-444-4884)
A social hotbed, The Med’s happy hour is one of the best for two solid reasons: excellent drinks and excellent food. In addition to the typical drink specials, The Med serves up the town’s best tapas at happy-hour prices in the early evening. If you’re going by prices alone, there is absolutely no beating the happy hour at Catacombs. This den of inequity, located underneath the Hotel Boulderado, has $1 domestics and wells and $2 micros and call drinks until 9 p.m. — seriously. Boulder Café is a great price to class it up on the cheap side. Located on the heart of Pearl Street, we can’t think of a better meet-up spot for post-work wind-downs.
JUICE / SMOOTHIE BAR
Jamba Juice (Several locations in Boulder, www.jambajuice.com)
Berry Best Smoothie Company (2525 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-0044)
Rush (1207 13th St and 4593 N. Broadway, 303-442-7874)
It may be a chain, but there is no denying that Jamba Juice is one of the best ways to revitalize. Their establishment serves sweet, healthy juices that lack any sort of corn syrup or processed foods. Berry Best Smoothie is another Boulder favorite, with local, organic flair. Their smoothies represent excellent value and contain the healthiest ingredients. And let’s not forget Rush. No, their name does not refer to an awesome Canadian metal band or to a certain infamous conservative radio personality; it means you’re gonna get your order really damn fast.
MARTINI
The Kitchen (1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com)
The b.side Lounge (2017 13th St., 303-473-9463, www.thebsidelounge.com)
Didn’t know you could drink a martini and feel good about it? Try Boulder’s most sustainable restaurant, The Kitchen. Their martinis are made with the purest ingredients in some of the most chic surroundings. The b.side Lounge may be a newcomer on the Boulder scene, but they sure don’t act like it. Their martinis are crisp and clean, and their club vibe lets you enjoy live tunes while sipping away.
MICROBREWERY
Mountain Sun/Southern Sun (1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886; 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886, www.mountainsunpub.com)
Walnut Brewery (1123 Walnut St., 303-447-1345, www.walnutbrewery.com)
Boulder Beer Company (2880 Wilderness Pl., 303-444-8448, www.boulderbeer.com)
Avery Brewing Company (5763 Arapahoe Ave., 303-440-4324, www.averybrewing.com)
Boulder’s Mountain Sun (and its sister the Southern Sun) may be cozy pubs, but they are also fine breweries, as well. Their Anapurna Amber is the best around, but be sure to try their Raspberry Wheat, Kind Pale Ale and their wide variety of seasonal brews. Walnut Brewery is a great place to stop by with a downtown headquarters. Try their Old Elk Brown Ale, a Great American Beer Fest winner. Boulder Beer Company is Colorado’s first microbrewery, and their suds have stood the test of time. Probably best known for their Buffalo Gold and Hazed and Infused standards, be sure to also check out their Singletrack Copper Ale. Also on the list, the Avery Brewing Company has high-quality brews and excellent labels that are quickly gaining national momentum. Their White Rascal is a devilish way to start your evening.
TEAHOUSE
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (1770 13th St., 303-442-4993, www.boulderteahouse.com)
Pekoe Sip House (1225 Alpine Ave., 303-444-5953, www.pekoesiphouse.com)
The Tea Spot (1801 13th St., 303-442-4832, www.theteaspot.com)
Celestial Seasonings (4600 Sleepytime Dr., 303-530-5300, www.celestialseasonings.com)
No stay in Boulder is complete without a visit to the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. This downtown respite is a beautifully decorated gift from Boulder’s sister city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan and features every kind of tea under the sun (not to mention delicious meals). Pekoe Sip House is a great neighborhood place to meet up with friends. Its quaint locale on the corner of Broadway and Alpine features a wide variety of loose teas for steeping. The Tea Spot is both a cute sipping house, as well as a fantastic manufacturer of organic teas. Their Red Rocks blend combines almonds and rooibos for the ultimate in a calming, warm drink. Celestial Seasonings, one of the nation’s largest tea manufacturers, is based right here in Boulder and open to public tours. Their mint room can be sniffed out from a mile away and is reason in and of itself to take a tour.
WINE SELECTION
Frasca (1738 Pearl St., 303-442-6966, www.frascafoodandwine.com)
Flagstaff House (1138 Flagsaff Dr., 303-442-4600, www.flagstaffhouse.com)
The b.side Lounge (2017 13th St., 303-473-9463, www.thebsidelounge.com)
Frasca is all about class, and their wine selection is a reflection of that fact. They have more than 200 varietals in their cellar, and the perfect bottle for everyone from the grape newbie to the ultimate oenophile. The Flagstaff House also has wines to match their amazing views. This Boulder institution features an extensive list of expensive and exquisite varietals for the most celebrated occasions. For a more low-key locale, take a trip to The b.side Lounge for excellent wine value. Here, you can sip on a glass while taking in live music.
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