Best Restaurants in Boulder (2025)
Boulder’s benchmark for gracious, Friuli-inspired dining from Bobby Stuckey and Lachlan Mackinnon‑Patterson. Michelin-starred and honored by the James Beard Foundation, it’s where polished service meets Colorado ingredients. Featured by Michelin and celebrated in national press.
Chef Hosea Rosenberg’s whole‑animal butchery and Colorado sourcing earned a Michelin Green Star. The in‑house charcuterie and steaks reflect a true nose‑to‑tail ethos. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and praised by food media for sustainability and flavor.
Eric and Jill Skokan’s farmhouse bistro channels their nearby organic farm, earning a Michelin Green Star. The three‑course menu changes nightly and showcases Boulder’s terroir. Lauded by Michelin and highlighted by local critics for true farm‑to‑table integrity.
Concrete floors, cream walls and an open kitchen with a wood-burning oven set an industrial-chic tone at Basta. Snag a spot at the bar and you'll have a front row seat to the culinary action, where family-style, contemporary Italian-American cooking is the name of the game. Start things off right with a shareable starter like burrata or the silky chicken liver mousse with peach mostarda that is sided by crusty bread from next-door sister bakery, Dry Storage. Definitely don't skip the smoked dark green olives—they're an unexpected delight. From there, entrees are satisfying, especially the half chicken. End on a sweet note with a plate of five beignet-style doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar and a dulce de leche Chantilly cream.
A downtown staple from Steven Redzikowski and Bryan Dayton, Oak pairs wood‑fired cooking with a strong bar program. Recommended by the Michelin Guide and frequently featured by regional critics for seasonal Colorado comfort with finesse.
A Spanish‑leaning steakhouse perched over downtown with Flatirons views. Known for tapas hour, dry‑aged beef, and Iberian wines. Praised by Eater and local magazines for its rooftop setting and lively, Iberia‑inspired menu.
A family‑run fine‑dining landmark since the 1970s, now led by Chris Royster and Adam Monette. Famous for a world‑class wine cellar and mountaintop setting. Consistently honored by Wine Spectator and Boulder Weekly; a quintessential celebration spot.
Contemporary Spanish cooking on Pearl Street with low‑intervention wines and all‑day energy. Applauded by Eater and local publications for thoughtful tapas and Basque accents. A polished, independent addition to Boulder’s Iberian wave.
Edwin and Anna Zoe’s beloved counter‑service Chinese spot serves handmade dumplings, noodles, and rotating homestyle specials. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and lauded by local editors for soulful cooking at friendly prices.
A hand‑crafted Tajik teahouse gifted to Boulder, now a community dining room serving global dishes, brunch, and afternoon tea. Frequently cited by local media for cultural significance as much as for its broad, traveler‑friendly menu.
North Boulder’s go‑to for Tibetan staples like momos, thenthuk, and laphing alongside Indian favorites. Included in Eater’s Boulder guide and praised by locals for heartfelt cooking that reflects Boulder’s Himalayan community.