It’s difficult not to find prime real estate in Boulder, Colorado, with its picture-perfect location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re interested in sweeping mountain vistas or Instagram-ably charming college town vibes, there’s seemingly something for everyone in this suburb just 45 minutes away from Denver. And if you’re looking for a great food scene, you’ve certainly come to the right place. With dozens of restaurants with settings that are as beautiful as the food is divine, deciding where to eat in Boulder is a pleasant challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up just a few of our favorite, prettiest restaurants in Boulder.
Stella’s Cucina
If you don’t know what you’re looking for, you might just miss Stella’s Cucina, whose almost speakeasy-esque entrance grants way into a spectacularly chic, perfectly moody dining room. Behind a scarcely marked metal door is a long corridor that leads into the modern restaurant, whose dark walls, striking central bar, and minimalist furnishings are the perfect setting for a delicious meal. While appetizers and entrees alike are delicious, do not miss out on the “terra”misu, a tiramisu served in a flower pot.
Flagstaff House
For a quintessential Boulder experience, it is practically required to pay a visit to Flagstaff House, situated atop Flagstaff Mountain. With stunning views of the city below, the Flagstaff House was initially intended as a summer cabin in the early 1900s. Today, it’s a fine dining destination that attracts not only folks from Boulder, but from across Colorado. We love the wine list and the chef’s tasting menu for a splurge dinner.
OAK at Fourteenth
Set in the heart of Boulder’s famous Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian strip spanning four blocks in downtown, OAK at Fourteenth is known for great cocktails, great food, and its warm, inviting dining room. Sit at the long (oak) bar under the hanging pendant lights, and be sure to order the chicken liver pate.
Rosetta Hall
Rosetta Hall redefines the food hall in the most elegant, refined way possible. Check out one of the many dining concepts on the main floor, but then, take your party upstairs to the rooftop, where gorgeous views of the mountains await. We particularly love Rosetta in the winter, when you can sit around one of several cleverly-placed fire pits.
Jill’s Restaurant at St. Julien
Set in the beautiful St. Julien hotel, Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro makes use of local ingredients (including produce grown on-site in the hotel’s garden) in its take on new American cuisine. The elegant, intimate dining room, with its beautifully upholstered chairs and exposed brick, is almost as beguiling as the outdoor patio, which offers beautiful mountain views. For an extra special event, book the private dining room.
SALT
The expansive, industrial chic dining room at SALT is the perfect place to spend time with friends, family, or even a few friendly strangers. The inviting entrance, situated on a busy corner of Pearl Street, welcomes guests into a restaurant that almost feels like a lodge (especially on a cold day). When the weather is nicer, head to the patio to enjoy a flatbread or a local brew.
The Kitchen
At The Kitchen, you’ll eat with your eyes first. The experience starts the moment you walk into the restaurant, whose two statement chandeliers are the perfect juxtaposition against the exposed brick and stone walls. The team doesn’t shy away from color, both in terms of decor (like the mint green booths) and the food (get the roasted carrots if they’re on the menu). Thanks to the shared plate concept, you’ll be able to try just about everything that the chefs have to offer, so plan to stay a while.
Japango
So popular is Japango that there are now two locations in Colorado – one in Boulder and one in Fort Collins. And once you’ve paid a visit, it’s easy to understand why. The lively atmosphere combined with expertly crafted sushi, served in truly eye-catching presentations, makes this the ideal destination for dates and large groups alike. Fresh sashimi is presented in beautiful florets, and drinks are expertly garnished with citrus slices, flowers, and everything in between. Go during daily happy hour for truly great deals on food and drinks alike.
