33 Best Boulder Restaurants in 2024
When it comes to Boulder restaurants, you can expect some of the most celebrated dining spots in the world. From Michelin Star winners to James Beard award recipients, some of the best fine dining restaurants in the world are located in Boulder. If fine dining isn't your thing, don't worry, there are also many locally owned casual Boulder restaurants to check out. Some of these have even been featured on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” with Guy Fieri for their excellence.
Boulder, Colorado is a scenic mountain town popular with outdoor enthusiasts, vacationers and of course, food lovers. If you're one of those foodies looking for a great place to grab a bite to eat before hitting the slopes, or you'd like an intimate dinner overlooking the mountain ranges, there is a Boulder restaurant waiting for you in this comprehensive list.
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The 33 Best Restaurants in Boulder
1. Pearl Street Pub & Cellar
Known for its well-priced food, good music and games, Pearl Street Pub & Cellar is a local gem in the Boulder area. A dive bar through and through, this Boulder restaurant is best for a boozy night out with friends.
The Vibe
The scene at this Boulder restaurant is rugged and casual, so there's no need to get dressed up and put on airs. Swing by the pub to enjoy a stiff drink and listen to local musicians play long into the night.
What to Order
Dig into some delicious and greasy bar food with zero guilt. The fried mac and cheese is a local favorite at this Boulder restaurant, as are the sliders with house-made fries.
Pearl Street Pub & Cellar | 1108 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $
2. Half Fast Subs
Peruse the largest sub sandwich menu in the USA at Half Fast Subs. This old-school sub shop offers a great variety of premium sub sandwiches with over a hundred different sandwich combinations to choose from.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant is a fast-casual sandwich shop with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Indulge in a cocktail from the bar while choosing from the creatively-large menu.
What to Order
The options are endless at this Boulder restaurant, but there are a few standout sandwiches you should try, including the classic BLT, the hot dog and bacon stuffed Texas Tommy and the Big Fat Greek Gyro piled high with gyro meat and refreshing tzatziki.
Half Fast Subs | 1215 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $
3. University Hill Market & Deli
The affectionately named "Smelly Deli" is a late-night staple for hungry college kids and locals alike. Indulge in authentic shawarma, shish kabobs and so much more at this Boulder restaurant. The deli offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacks, all conveniently available for delivery.
The Vibe
Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere at University Hill Market & Deli. It is also dog friendly and welcomes your furry friends.
What to Order
The beef gyro platter is a popular option, served with rice, hummus and tabbouleh salad. The authentic falafel is also a crowd favorite.
University Hill Market & Deli | 1134 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $
4. Illegal Pete's
Step into Illegal Pete's and experience a quirky counter service joint serving up burritos made with the freshest ingredients. This Boulder restaurant also makes an effort to give back and is involved in multiple projects benefiting the local community.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant is very casual and straightforward and is a great place to grab a satisfying lunch or laid-back dinner.
What to Order
Everything at Illegal Pete's is build-your-own. Choose from a burrito, nachos, taco, bowl or salad, and customize it just how you like it.
Illegal Pete's | Multiple Locations | $
5. Cosmo’s Pizza
Known for its handmade pizza and signature spicy ranch, Cosmo’s Pizza has been a staple among the restaurants Boulder locals love since 2001. Every pizza is hand-tossed and cooked to perfection in the deck oven.
The Vibe
Relaxed and laid-back is the vibe at Cosmo’s. It's one of the few Boulder restaurants that's open late for post-party meals, ensuring everyone gets their pizza fix when they need it.
What to Order
Try the Cosmo’s Classic, a vegetarian pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil and garlic on a light and fluffy crust.
Cosmo’s Pizza | Multiple Locations | $
6. Asher Brewing Company
Enjoy the beautiful Colorado weather at Asher Brewing Company. This locally owned brewery is the first in the state to brew certified organic beer. It uses 100% organic ingredients to produce a beer that is better for both you and the environment.
The Vibe
Like many Boulder restaurants, Asher Brewing Company is edgy and cool, but still laid-back. Take advantage of this Boulder restaurant's spacious outdoor seating areas and weekly events.
What to Order
Try the earthy and approachable Green Bullet IPA, or fill a growler with the seasonal Pulp Fiction Hard Seltzer for a tangy citrus treat.
Asher Brewing Company | 4699 Nautilus Court South, Ste. 104, Boulder, Colorado 80301 | $
7. The Corner
Explore fresh salads, tacos and sandwiches at The Corner. This quaint neighborhood diner offers up classic American food with a fresh Colorado twist. Locals love this spot for the large selection of healthy dishes.
The Vibe
The Corner is a family-friendly eatery offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. The expansive outdoor seating at this Boulder restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a handcrafted and nourishing meal.
What to Order
Try the blackened mahi mahi sandwich for a tropical meal. Tacos are also popular here, and you can even build your own Corner bowl packed with all your favorite flavors.
The Corner | 1100 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302| $
8. Café Mexicali
Enjoy vibrant Mexican fusion cuisine at Café Mexicali. This unassuming local spot packs a punch with big flavors and zesty burritos. The welcoming atmosphere and quick service make this spot a great place to stop for lunch.
The Vibe
Café Mexicali is a casual counter service Boulder restaurant serving up fresh Mexican fusion flavors.
What to Order
Try the specialty plate — sweet pork with a creamy habanero sauce that has just the right amount of heat without setting your mouth ablaze.
Café Mexicali | Multiple Locations | $
9. Zoe Ma Ma
Embark on a tasting tour of China at Zoe Ma Ma. This locally owned joint serves up authentic Sichuan street food that is tasty and affordable. It offers dine-in and quick delivery to satisfy all your street food cravings.
The Vibe
Zoe Ma Ma is a Boulder restaurant with all flavor and no fluff thanks to its casual counter service dining.
What to Order
Order the crispy Ma Ma potstickers or the fluffy and savory pork bao buns served with a crisp vegetable slaw. Try one of the many authentic noodle bowls to warm up on a chilly Colorado night.
Zoe Ma Ma | Multiple Locations | $
10. Izakaya Amu
This high-end Japanese restaurant offers premium sushi and sake selections. “Izakaya”, in Japan, is a pub style diner similar to that of a tapas bar, featuring small plates and drinks. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture by dining in the elaborately decorated tea room at Izakaya Amu.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant is an extremely popular high-end establishment, so reservations are recommended.
What to Order
Order the popular Boulder roll with tuna, yellowtail and avocado, or try out the deep-fried agedashi tofu for a crispy delight.
Izakaya Amu | 1221 Spruce St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$$
11. Black Cat Bistro
Locally owned with farm-to-table dining, Black Cat Bistro brings the unique flavors of Colorado to its restaurant. Known for foraging locally grown mushrooms, herbs and fruits, as well as growing its own produce, this Boulder restaurant is a one-of-a-kind dining experience you won’t find anywhere else.
The Vibe
Dine against a stunning backdrop of craggy mountain ranges and rolling farmlands while enjoying this Boulder restaurant's indoor and outdoor dining spaces.
What to Order
The menu is seasonal and changes often to ensure peak freshness. Come with an open mind and a big appetite for an amazing experience.
Black Cat Bistro | 1964 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$$
12. Oak at Fourteenth
With an innovative New-American menu packed with seasonal wood-fired cuisine, Oak at Fourteenth is a unique dining experience. Indulge in fresh food and hand-crafted beverages for a nostalgic Colorado experience.
The Vibe
Located in the bustling Pearl Street Mall area, this Boulder restaurant is an upscale dinner spot for an enjoyable night on the town.
What to Order
The oak-roasted lamb chop served with black garlic, potatoes and goat cheese is a standout on the menu. Don’t forget to try the fan-favorite house-made gnocchi for a shareable dinner accompaniment.
Oak at Fourteenth | 1400 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$$
13. Frasca Food and Wine
Don’t miss out on this Michelin-Starred Boulder restaurant which has won critical acclaim from numerous sources. Enjoy expert hospitality, a carefully curated wine cellar and cuisine inspired by Northern Italy at Frasca Food and Wine.
The Vibe
Frasca is an upscale, special-occasion restaurant that's sure to be an amazing experience. This Boulder restaurant's sleek modern décor and attentive service make it a real dining treat.
What to Order
Go all out and try the elaborate tasting menu, including multiple courses and expert wine pairings, for a truly unforgettable night.
Frasca Food and Wine | 1738 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$$$
14. The Flagstaff House
Dine atop the picturesque Flagstaff mountain in this one-of-a-kind Boulder restaurant. Expect breathtaking views and an award-winning New-American menu when walking into The Flagstaff House.
The Vibe
The Flagstaff House is upscale dining at its finest. This Boulder restaurant is reservation only, so be sure to plan ahead.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the chef's decadent tasting menu, consisting of eight courses paired with an award-winning wine list.
The Flagstaff House | 1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, CO | $$$$
15. Bramble & Hare
A sister to the locally acclaimed Black Cat Bistro, Bramble & Hare has a green Michelin Star under its belt, making this Boulder restaurant a standout in both taste and sustainability.
The Vibe
Bramble and Hare is upscale-casual with a hint of fine dining, but not at all stuffy.
What to Order
The menu is a three-course prix fixe affair featuring seasonal produce and craft cocktails.
Bramble & Hare | 1970 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$$$
16. Big Daddy Bagels
Enjoy a hand-crafted bagel made in-store at Big Daddy Bagels. This delightful Boulder restaurant offers a large number of bagel flavors and a variety of homemade schmears.
The Vibe
This is an easy-breezy Boulder restaurant, great for grabbing a quick breakfast on-the-go.
What to Order
Order the popular Italiano bagel with the house-made lox schmear.
Big Daddy Bagels | Multiple Locations | $
17. The Buff Restaurant
Established in 1995, The Buff Restaurant quickly became an institution among Boulder restaurants. Known for its hot-and-ready breakfasts and its bold, boozy bar, it is no wonder The Buff is so popular with the locals.
The Vibe
You’ll find a classic family-friendly breakfast diner perfect for a hearty morning meal.
What to Order
Dig into the sizzling American Homestead skillet, or try the white chocolate chip-filled White Buffalo pancakes straight from the griddle. Wash it all down with a Dirty Sherpa, brewed with locally owned Sherpa chai.
The Buff Restaurant | 2600 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, CO 80302 | $
18. The Chautauqua Dining Hall
Built in 1989, The Chautauqua Dining Hall has been a local treasure ever since. The intricate Victorian architecture and gourmet menu set this Boulder restaurant apart.
The Vibe
The dining hall is casual at this relaxed Boulder restaurant, but with a high-quality menu and impeccable service.
What to Order
Order the Baseline poutine with thick-cut fries, chorizo gravy and fresh cheese curds.
The Chautauqua Dining Hall | 900 Baseline Road, Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
19. Dot’s Diner
Visiting this sunny and cheery Boulder restaurant is the perfect way to start your day right. As a locally owned spot, Dot’s Diner has been serving up American breakfasts and smiles for over 40 years.
The Vibe
Step into a welcoming, family-friendly breakfast eatery when visiting Dot's Diner.
What to Order
The large menu offers all your favorite breakfast classics such as French toast, large omelettes, pancakes and so much more.
Dot's Diner | 2716 28th St., Boulder, CO 80301 | $
20. Foolish Craig's Café
Are you looking for a fun and playful restaurant in Boulder to grab a great breakfast? Pop into Foolish Craig's Café for big flavors and friendly service. If that's not enough to convince you, it was even featured on an episode of “Diners Drive-Ins and Dives” by Food Network celebrity, Guy Fieri.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant is quirky and fun with an accessible American menu.
What to Order
Satisfy your sweet tooth with The Blintz, featuring two delicate crêpes piled high with strawberry compote, whipped cream, fresh strawberries, fresh bananas and cream cheese.
Foolish Craig's Café | 1611 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
21. Lucile’s
Elevate your next brunch outing with a trip to Lucile’s. This quaint cottage features authentic Creole cuisine and a delightful atmosphere.
The Vibe
Bask in the charms of old New Orleans at this one-of-a-kind Boulder restaurant.
What to Order
Don’t miss the biscuits and gravy for a filling starter before enjoying the red beans and rice.
Lucile’s | Multiple Locations | $$
22. Leaf
As a vegetarian eatery featuring farm-to-table cuisine and renewable harvesting practices, Leaf is definitely one of the healthier Boulder restaurants to visit. Its American-fusion menu pulls inspiration from all across the globe to bring innovative vegetarian cuisine to your table.
The Vibe
Loved by vegetarians and meat eaters alike, Leaf is a casual Boulder restaurant serving flavorful health-conscious dishes.
What to Order
The handheld buffalo cauliflower tacos are a great entrée. For a heartier dish, try the Thai green curry served with tofu and grilled jicama.
Leaf | 1710 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
23. Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Customarily, teahouses in central Asia are a space to gather and be part of a community, and that's exactly what you'll find at Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse — an artfully-decorated traditional teahouse serving vegetarian-friendly Persian food.
The Vibe
Be whisked away into Persian history when you step inside this charming teahouse. The ambience is casual and reservations are not required.
What to Order
Try the Persian chickpea kufteh, made with vegetarian chickpea croquettes and served on a bed of sauteed greens.
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse | 1770 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
24. Watercourse Foods
If you're a vegan foodie looking for a great Boulder restaurant, Watercourse Foods is the place to be. It's a fully vegan eatery offering classic American comfort food with a twist.
The Vibe
With its innovative, flavorful menu and welcoming atmosphere, Watercourse Foods proves that plant-based is for everyone. The atmosphere is casual with great service.
What to Order
Dig into a big warm bowl of cheesy baked mac and cheese and finish off your meal with a sweet churro cannoli.
Watercourse Foods | 837 E. 17th Ave., Denver, CO 80218 | $$
25. Thrive
Don’t let a busy schedule keep you from nourishing your body at Thrive, an all-organic, vegan-friendly drive-through Boulder restaurant with outdoor dining space and a patio.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant goes above and beyond with a menu packed full of gluten-free, soy-free and vegan options.
What to Order
Order the zesty pad Thai salad heaped with peanuts and fresh vegetables. Wash your meal down with an ultra-nourishing green Gaia smoothie.
Thrive | 1509 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
26. Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro
Located in the St. Julien Hotel, Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro is an upscale new American joint. This Boulder restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine utilizing fresh vegetables and herbs grown in an onsite garden.
The Vibe
A casual and family-friendly Boulder restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.
What to Order
Order the luxurious creamy vegan mushroom risotto topped with blackened tofu and shaved black truffle.
Jill's Restaurant and Bistro | 900 Walnut St., St Julien Hotel & Spa, Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
27. Zeal
Pop into Zeal, a zany little restaurant in Boulder for nutritious dishes that are not only good for you, but taste great, too. The menu is made up of American fusion cuisine with many vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The Vibe
Zeal is a contemporary casual Boulder restaurant great for grabbing a healthy lunch or a satisfying dinner.
What to Order
Try the veggie sandwich made with a house falafel patty topped with pesto and harissa, served with a side of fries.
Zeal | 3101 Pearl Parkway, Boulder, CO 80301 | $$
28. Boulder Baked
Get ready to eat dessert first at Boulder Baked. This gourmet Boulder restaurant offers homemade cakes, cookies and cupcakes to satisfy any sugary craving. It also has a wide range of vegan and gluten-free baked goods.
The Vibe
Boulder Baked is a casual bakery offering dine-in and delivery seven days a week.
What to Order
Try the decadent chocolate chunk cookies or the fun and flirty funfetti cupcakes. The menu has a huge selection for every kind of sweet celebration.
Boulder Baked | 5290 Arapahoe Ave., Unit H, Boulder, CO 80303 | $
29. Dark Horse
Escape for a late-night drink and snack at Dark Horse, a casual neighborhood bar that's been serving beer, wings and burgers since 1975. This Boulder restaurant excels in offering straightforward American food that is fresh and tasty.
The Vibe
Very casual and dive-bar-esque, with a menu full of satisfying dishes.
What to Order
Stick to the bar food classics at Dark Horse and order a thick and juicy hickory bacon burger, with a heaped basket of fresh fries on the side.
Dark Horse | 2922 Baseline Road, Boulder, CO 80303 | $
30. River and Woods
Located in a historic miner’s cabin that is over a hundred years old, River and Woods is an eclectic Boulder restaurant serving locally sourced Colorado comfort food.
The Vibe
This Boulder restaurant is rustic and casual with sit-down service. River and Woods is the perfect spot to enjoy a tasty meal of elevated comfort food with family and friends.
What to Order
Try the slow-braised Colorado short rib served with halloumi veggie hash and aji Amarillo purée.
River and Woods | 2328 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
31. The Sink
Home to the self-annointed "best burger in Boulder," The Sink is another Boulder restaurant to have featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” It has been serving classic American cuisine to loyal Boulder diners for over 100 years.
The Vibe
A laid-back American diner serving pizza, burgers and drinks to everyone, from families to college kids.
What to Order
Pizzas are always popular, as is the famous build your own Sink burger, made using premium Colorado grass-fed beef with gourmet toppings.
The Sink | 1165 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
32. Avanti F&B
Located in a food court with a rooftop bar and spacious outdoor dining, Avanti F&B is a collective eatery. Explore multiple Boulder restaurants with varied cuisines, spanning from Thai food to Latin American fusion.
The Vibe
This is a casual eatery with many restaurants to choose from.
What to Order
Choose your own adventure at Avanti F&B. Start with arepas from Quiero Arepas, grab a delectable dessert at Lost City and end with drinks at the rooftop bar in this multi-level culinary experience.
Avanti F&B | 1401 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
33. Bohemian Biergarten
Be transported to Europe with a beer at the local beer garden of Bohemian Biergarten, an authentic European gastropub in Boulder serving Central European cuisine. Inspired by the homeland of its Czechoslovakian owner, this Boulder restaurant is a culinary European escape.
The Vibe
Enjoy friendly service, authentic cuisine and craft beers at the casual Bohemian Biergarten.
What to Order
Start with the handmade Polish pierogies and indulge in the crispy Jager schnitzel for your main course.
Bohemian Biergarten | 2017 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302 | $$
Learn To Cook Boulder Foods
There is so much amazing culinary history to experience in Boulder, Colorado. However, while eating out can be such a fun experience, learning to make your own restaurant-quality dishes can also be a blast. Explore cooking classes in Boulder taught by renowned, experienced chefs, and learn to make an array of different cuisines, from hand-rolled sushi to sugary sweet French macarons. Reserve your Boulder cooking class experience today.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
From Michelin stars to greasy late-night pubs, the restaurants Boulder has to offer leave no shortage of great places to eat. Whether you're a vacationer searching for the best restaurant in the city or a local trying to shake up your weekly date night routine, you're sure to find the perfect restaurant in Boulder.
For even more ways to explore your Boulder and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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