5 Best Restaurants in Boulder, Colorado to Try

With the Flatirons rising dramatically at the city’s edge, Boulder unites outdoor adventure, mindful living, and relentless culinary curiosity.

Its legendary food culture is local to the core, forward-thinking, and never boring.

Frasca Food and Wine

One of the Mountain West’s most acclaimed restaurants, Frasca specializes in Friuli-inspired Italian cuisine: housemade agnolotti, dry-aged beef, Tajarin pasta with butter and sage, and a wine list celebrated nationwide.

Acclaimed service, soft lighting, and views of Pearl Street set the perfect stage for celebrations—this is Boulder’s ultimate splurge restaurant.

The Kitchen

With a menu focused on local, sustainable, and “farmhouse” flavors, The Kitchen is where Boulder’s ethos comes to life.

Think roast half chicken with pan gravy, kale and quinoa salads, rainbow carrots with yogurt and honey, and local trout.

The bar is always buzzing, and their brunch is equally beloved.

The community table reflects Boulder’s neighborly, open spirit.

Sherpa’s Adventure Restaurant & Bar

Nepali and Indian classics star at Sherpa’s, an atmospheric, tent-draped spot run by mountaineers and filled with stories from the Himalayas.

Momos (dumplings), palak paneer, and yak curry are house specialties.

Boulderites gather here for happy hour, the patio scene, and a chai that warms even the chilliest night.

Santo

A love letter to Northern New Mexican cuisine by one of Boulder’s top chefs, Santo kicks out smoky posole, pork tamales, green chile stew, and fry bread.

The decor is modern adobe chic, and the mezcal margaritas are next-level. On cold winter nights, the bar’s warmth and energy is infectious.

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Boulder’s original “living-room brewery,” Mountain Sun pours legendary IPAs and stouts alongside loaded nachos, black bean burgers, epic grilled cheese, and hand-cut fries.

Table service is friendly and casual, with jam bands on the stereo and no-tipping policy making for a relaxed, communal atmosphere.