If you’re new to the city, you’ve most likely been consulting Google for the best restaurants in town. But there’s only so much searching “restaurants near me, boulder co” you can do before the results start getting a little redundant. After all, you live here. You may not be looking for the hippest, trendiest spot every time you grab a bite. Our Boulder real estate agents adore all the Pearl Street hot spots. But they’re not the only eateries that deserve love. There are some seriously talented chefs all over Boulder.
The Burgess Group | Compass Boulder realtor team has put this guide together so you can spend less time researching and more time eating.
Parkway Cafe – Boulder
Touted as Boulder’s best-kept secret, Parkway Cafe serves a mix of classic breakfast comfort food, fresh Mexican favorites, and juicy burgers. Pups are welcome on the patio!
Off-Campus Cafe – Lafayette
Off-Campus Cafe makes it easy to grab quality food quickly. It’s order-at-the-counter style and is perfect for anyone with a timed lunch break. But the convenience doesn’t detract from amazing flavors. Their extensive menu includes smothered burritos, crepes, benedicts, and salads stacked with fresh veggies. It’s located next door to the Good Samaritan Medical Center and is a lunchtime favorite for essential workers. But we highly recommend making the trip out there, even if you’re not part of the medical system.
Il Pastaio- Boulder
This Italian joint doesn’t have the dim lights or flickering candles of typical date-night Italian eateries. But our Boulder realtors are convinced the food is just as good (or more!) as any upscale Italian eatery in metropolitan Denver. Il Pastaio is family-owned, and they make their pasta from scratch. They also offer amazing deals on take-and-bake ravioli and sauces. If you’re not hungry now… just take one look at their menu and that will change.
Efrain’s- Boulder
This colorful restaurant features Mexican cuisine from the Northern Chihuahua region. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, although the juicy chile Verde bowl is the pride and joy of the kitchen. Margarita lovers can choose between 17 different specialty margs. Check out the full menu here.
Sachi Sushi- Niwot
The location of this spot is the exact definition of a hole-in-the-wall. Sachi Sushi can be found in the back of the Niwot Market. Every dish is hand-made (including the soup broths!). You can dine on incredible sushi at reasonable prices. Or you can opt for creative ramen or rice bowls. View the full menu here.
Tacos Aya Yay- Lafayette
AYA YAY these are the best tacos in town! Especially the carnitas. Choose your base and mix n’match your tacos. They also have an incredible $4 breakfast burrito. Check out the menu here.
La Pupusa Loca- Louisville.
This tiny little pupusa hut can be found parked on south boulder road. It’s easy to drive past. But next time you see the open sign flashing under the PUPUSA sign, make a stop. All they serve is pupusas, but there are plenty of flavor options. The savory griddle cakes are made with all the love of a family matriarch.
Le French Cafe- Boulder
Francophiles must try out this little cafe on Arapahoe Avenue. It’s known for its incredible sandwiches (les croques, les croissants, or les baguettes). But the sweet and savory crepes will haunt your dreams. And in true french fashion, beer, wine, and San Pellegrino are available to enjoy with your lunch. View the menu before you go.
Rincon Argentino- Boulder
After spending a month vacationing in Buenos Aires, a friend of the Boulder Group | Compass Boulder realtor team frequented Rincon Argentino. It was the only place in town where she could re-live the incredible meals she experienced in Argentina. Especially noteworthy is their extensive empanada menu. Pair it with a glass of yerba mate for the full Argentinian experience.
Tibet Kitchen- Boulder
Warning: the cooking at Tibet Kitchen may temporarily make you think our Rocky Mountain Peaks are Himalayan Peaks. The infamous soups, noodles, and dumplings at Tibet Kitchen will warm your soul on a cold day. They’re especially known for their incredible lunch special where you can get 2 entrees and a side for $7.95.
Doesn’t sound real, does it? Check their menu if you don’t believe us!
Kalita Grill Greek Cafe- Boulder
Kalita’s is our go-to for Greek night. The gyros at Kalita Grill are a flavor explosion, and we love the vegetarian menu too!
Ras Kassa’s Ethiopian Restaurant- Lafayette
We love how Ras Kassa’s uses locally sourced ingredients (like Rocky Mountain red trout) and applies them to authentic Ethiopian recipes. Their “Feast for Two” is a great date night option. You’ll get 2 glasses of libation, and a four-course meal to share. Check out the options here.
Tiffins India Cafe- Boulder
An amazing spot for curry, whether you’re a tiki masala or a chana saag kind of person. We especially love the vegan and vegetarian options at this eatery! It’s an amazing spot for take-out.
Boulder Pho- Boulder
It’s always a tough choice whether to get the Pho or the Bahn-Mi at this place. Both options are fresh and flavorful. So we decide based on the weather. A cold snowy boulder day is always a Pho day. A hot, summer afternoon is perfect for Bahn Mi. Their extensive menu has plenty of flavor and base protein options.
