The Buff Restaurant

My wife and I were visiting Boulder for a couple of days and on 8 Sep 2025, we opted to have brunch somewhere within the vicinity. I did a Google search of the area and discovered this little gem. In fact, I recall seeing this restaurant a month ago (via Google) whenever I was in the area again, but unfortunately, I wasn't in the mood to try it then. But alas, here we are writing a formal review of this restaurant. Living in Las Vegas, it's not that common to see someone park far away and walk to a restaurant, but that's what we did for this place. We parked at the King Soopers down the road because the weather was nice and I always enjoy walking around after I eat to help with the digestion process. Why is this relevant to this review? It's to inform you that I'm not 100% certain of the parking situation at the restaurant aside from the one parking lot at the restaurant itself...which wasn't full when we arrived. When we walked in, the restaurant wasn't really busy (go figure since the parking lot wasn't that full)...I think a lot of it has to do with it being a typical work/school day. Regardless, I was ecstatic to see this because I was starving and didn't feel like waiting to get seated. After we got seated, our primary server, Anthony, provided us with water and informed us that he'd return to take our order. Throughout the dining experience, he did a remarkable job; he was attentive, professional, and operated efficiently. So kudos to him and the business for validating a good customer service mantra. We ordered coffee, Egg White Veggie Omelette w/Potatoes and Wheat Toast, Valley of the Sun Omelette w/Canadian Bacon, English Muffin, and Fruit, side of Pancakes, and side of Bacon. Everything tasted magnificent to which I had to really chew each bite slowly to ensure it wasn't just my hunger assessing the food quality - it was actually that good. Between the food temperature, texture, flavor, and quantity of ingredients, it's no wonder why this business has a significantly higher rating on Google. The price-to-quantity/quality ratio was reasonable and I highly respect this business for their continued support to the active men and women of the Armed Forces, including its Veterans - thank you for that! I can honestly say that this restaurant is worth the visit and even though it was just my first time, I'm confident that the unparalleled quality, quantity, and service is evident 100% of the time. I highly recommend this restaurant to everyone!

My friend Laura and I hadn’t seen each other in a while because she now lives outside of Colorado for the most part. We decided on the Buff for lunch, which I like to go to because their food has been really really fresh and tasty and always presented very artfully and beautiful. And the service is always warm and inviting. Today, although our server was friendly, he was also brisk and to the point, which is OK but he did come to our table asking if we were ready several times which got to be a bit annoying. He also called me dear, which I don’t really appreciate these days. Perhaps it’s my age. Or perhaps it’s because I don’t like strangers acting as if they know me really well when they don’t. Laura and I both ended up ordering the exact same thing: chili (the chili that’s not spicy and it has meat in it) and salad and the plate comes with homemade corn chips that are thick and pretty yummy tasting. The price was right at $10 for a meal that was not too much food or too little food. It was kind of like the three bears idea where the quantity was just enough. I will definitely go back because I do like their food quite a bit there, their service and when you sit in the side room, it’s quieter and feels rather intimate in the booth.

We have been coming to this place for years, and it has yet to disappoint! Hands down the best breakfast spot in Boulder! Not a coffee drinker but this mocha changes that. I even grab a bag of grinds to take back home! The breakfast sandwich is flavorful and filling. Always a good portion of the eggs and potatoes. Staff is always friendly, we love this place and can’t wait to return to Boulder and have breakfast each day we’re out there!

Some of the best breakfast food we have had in the US! Coffees were delicious, fresh squeezed orange juice and sourdough with a side of avocado was so yummy! We split the fruit platter and it was so yummy and fresh! The bacon and French toast were also divine! Good vibes and great service! A wonderful breakfast date or family outing!

Relaxed atmosphere. Great variety in menu - breakfast and lunch for options of all kinds of diets… including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. Service fast and friendly. Food is exceptional - there were three of us and we all remarked on how delicious it was. Highly recommended.

I usually visit the restaurant in-person on Sundays with my kids and have never had an issue with the food or service. Today I ordered take-out for delivery (via UberEats) and what I received was far from the usual quality of food of what we’re accustomed to. The chicken (in the chicken & French toast) was fried to oblivion and inedible. The cinnabun French toast appetizer (for my son) was also burned to the point where the it just tasted like burnt cinnamon. We may come back for brunch in-person but I won’t be ordering for delivery again if this is what they send out.

My mom and I were visiting Colorado from East Tennessee and we decided to stop here for brunch. Our server Natalie was incredible and so sweet. She was very attentive and welcoming. Coming from a southern gal, their biscuits and gravy are 10/10. My mom loved her omelette and the breakfast potatoes. We shared the white buffalo cakes, and oh my god, & I wish I could find those in TN. A great experience all around!!

Wonderful food and service. The waitress named Cash was super sweet, helpful, and attractive. We had a chai tea with espresso which was fantastic, and they still have 99 cent mimosas, bloody mary's, and tequila sunrise drinks! The chicken and waffles were awesome, and everyone's food was top notch! 5 stars all around!

This place is a Boulder staple and "iconic" or so I've been told. Went here for a work lunch and it was relatively busy. It's primary focus is brunch. Hours are 7-2 everyday to give to you an idea of menu items. They have a crazy drink special where it's 99 cents for a Bloody Mary, mimosa, or tequila sunrise (all on tap) with the purchase of an entree. We had the cheeseburger and B L T T. It was decent, but next time I'll go for the breakfast items as I think that's where they shine.

Had a great experience here. Came with family and between us we tasted the eggs, french toast, a skillet bake and some amazingly huge lattes. The iced lattes come in a mug so big it's like drinking a big gulp. Which I appreciate when I've had a long night and want to wake up! The facility was clean and I really appreciated that you could sit outside with a pre-ordered drink from the bar. There are shaded benches that make the wait much more palatable. The tables were spaced nicely and our waiter was super friendly and attentive. Would come back in a heartbeat next time I'm in Boulder.

There efficient...that's for sure! Food..well , let's just say..it comes out of the kitchen Fast.. You take it from there..

Gotta come for the 99¢ mimosas! Came on a Friday morning around 10 and got seated right away. We got the olé and the pacific benedict. The olé was yummy but a bit heavy with all the cheddar cheese. The pacific benedict toppings were delicious BUT the bagel they served it on was untoasted and so so soggy. Maybe toast the bagel? I know their other food is delicious though, especially the valley of the sun omelette! The servers were really sweet and def a classic Boulder staple!

The most wonderful breakfast restaurant!! On our 5 day stay to Colorado Springs, we drove two hours twice to have The Buff. We ordered the Two Step (which has delicious house potatoes, perfect pancakes, and the best bacon) and the Biscuits and Gravy. Absolutely delicious!! The service is great, too. Even with a wait, we were seated quickly and the food came out faster than we could believe!! Very cozy vibes. Wish we lived closer or had one in Michigan!

If you are looking for a breakfast- brunch spot this is it. It's packed but we were lucky to snag a spot on the patio. We both got the Eggs Benedict. It had some of the best hollandaise sauce I've ever had. The side potatoes were good but the local made ketchup was delicious. Highly recommend this spot.

I love this spot for breakfast when visiting Boulder. Worth the wait on line. They don't use seed oils - a plus for me. Huge selection of coffee and breakfast. Everything to perfection. Looks like a hometown spot inside and out. Service is excellent and staff so helpful and friendly. Definitely have to come when in town !!

Decided to do a little road trip over to Boulder this morning at The Buff Restaurant. We got there around 9:30AM and was shocked to see how busy it is. Not because it's so good, but thought with the university out for summer it would be less busy. I put my name in and was pleasantly surprised it was only a 10 minute wait. Our waiter was friendly and very chatty which was nice. I got the Rustic Benedict which was really good. The only thing I would do differently is get rid of the bacon. The chopped of bacon crumbled reminded me to much of bacon bits. It was still very good and definitely a much have for someone who like a good comfort food.

Sat at the bar, where friendly attendants rehydrated me after my morning hike, made me an "Electric" Screwdriver, and brought me superb biscuits and gravy. Atmosphere was typical: No music? Why do restaurants struggle with this simple accoutrement?

Food was good, Service was attentive and it was a fun and vibrant restaurant. They had good selection of food and drinks for everyone. Waiting time was moving good when we were there on a Saturday late brunch time.

OMG. First of all - I am not a brunch person. HOWEVER NEVER in my life have I been so happy eating simple breakfast food to the point we wanted to come back 2 days later!! Houston girl visiting Colorado and I wasn't expecting to find this gem. The plate sizes are huge (yeehaw cause darn it, I love my Texas size food) and it's very creamy and flavorful. It was a nice touch that they would do $0.99 for 3 drinks (mimosa, tequila sunrise, and Bloody Mary mimosa. We ordered the white buffalo pancakes and rustic Benedict. 12/10 recommend for these two! The server was nice and knowledgeable, and she knew when to bring out the next drink which was a plus. :) The area was clean and looked decent inside as well. Would come back again each time I visit this area.

Hands down one of the best breakfasts I've had in YEARS. We all loved our meals - French toast, egg scramble, and pancakes were all great. Our server Shana was so authentically kind and attentive that it really made the experience. When one of our meals had onions added accidentally - a request she noted when we ordered - she jumped right on it and managed it perfectly. The decor was very Colorado and fun, and super-sized. We all got drinks to go because we enjoyed it so much we wanted to take a little bit of The Buff with us!

The Buff is ! Two Greyhounds off of the Booze Bar menu had me feeling great after a 12-hour shift, and my server, Kash A., delivered some of the best service I have experienced in a long time. I have not visited The Buff since I lived in Boulder back in 2018, and returning was an excellent experience. The place looks great and is very welcoming. The vegan green chili was outstanding, so much so that I ordered an extra to take home for my spouse. The prices are very reasonable, especially when compared to other brunch restaurants in the area, making The Buff an exceptional value for both quality and service. #APlus #Nostalgia #WillBeBack

Molly was so kind and patient. I asked for samples of the chili was really good. I had the French toast with fried chicken and potatoes a little piece of pineapple and strawberry and maple syrup. They had dollar bloody Mary's and dollar mimosa with entrée my daughter's friend got this delicious looking coffee that could probably feed two or three people. The food was good. The service was good. Homemade ketchup.

A fantastic spot for breakfast! My wife and I each had a Honey-Vanilla latte, and I ordered the Two Step--two slices of thick, fluffy French toast, crispy potatoes, and savory bacon. The French toast was golden-brown, generously coated in batter, and beautifully presented. The potatoes had a delicious flavor enhanced by a touch of herbs, and the eggs were cooked exactly to order, making the meal truly outstanding! My wife ordered the Buff sandwich meal, and once again, the diced potatoes delivered a delicious, well-seasoned flavor. The sandwich--featuring crispy bacon, melted cheddar, fresh tomato, and perfectly cooked eggs on toasted sourdough--was a flawless blend of flavors. The side of Hollandaise sauce added a rich, velvety touch, making the meal even more enjoyable. The service was excellent and friendly from the time we entered the door. Highly recommended for breakfast!

Large quantities. Good prices. And really good service. Nothing special about the food. Our friends vegetarian patty was super dry. Alright for a college town I guess.

I was in Colorado for a short trip when a few friends told me about this place. Honestly, I wasn't expecting much, but it totally blew me away. The food? Incredible. We loved it so much, we actually went back on our last day just to get another round of those amazing pancakes and their Tequila Sunrise--which, by the way, was surprisingly affordable. Service-wise, they really nailed it. Everything came out fast, and the staff were attentive. The place itself had that familiar, diner feel--nothing flashy, just good energy and comfort. Highly recommend if you love brunch food.

Came here for Sunday morning breakfast before tackling a 5 mile trail run in the Rocky Mountains. At 9am our wait was less than five minutes. We loaded up with the lemon pecan pancakes which comes with two ($15.25), the Catalina sandwich (turkey/avocado/swiss $15), and a Lavender White Buffalo latte (white choc latte w/ lavender syrup and (tons of) whipped cream $7.75). All was delicious. Latte arrived in 5 min and all food arrived in barely 10 minutes. We requested a little side of whipped cream for the pancakes and they quickly obliged (no charge). Staff was great and attentive. Parking was a bit congested in their large/free lot but not unexpected for Sunday mid-morning. There's also a large outdoor semi-shaded (trees) patio with about 6-8 tables. Unfortunately it was packed, given the beautiful 74 degree weather and we had a schedule to keep! My only critique is that (unlike First Watch) The Buff's hearty potato skillets are a bit overpriced and lack any meaningful protein options (one has bacon, another has chorizo and the rest are basically vegetarian). I would urge them to have a chicken/shredded pork/beef (short rib?!)/duck/salmon/etc. as options with a modest up charge.

Awesome breakfast spot in Boulder. Started with really delicious lattes. Followed it up with a variety of breakfast fare including omelets, skillets, and the basic breakfast combos of eggs, meat, potatoes, and bread. Everything was perfect. Service was fast, efficient, and friendly. Restaurant was packed to the gills at 9 a.m. on a Saturday. They don't take reservations, so expect a bit of a wait.

Great service and excellent coffee. Cool spot if you're looking for a place to hang out with friends before a Buff game, campus visit or a just to chill with friends and family.

This place healed us. The omelette was so good and came out so quickly. Thank you Buff

Solid! Fresh ingredients, friendly service, average prices. What's not to love?! Looks like this is a popular place. Came a little off peak and got it ok, but when I left, there were about 20 people waiting.

Really cool spot. Outdoor seating. Great service and quality food. Loved the dining area. Other than the potatoes, all was great! Potatoes felt more like a wedding side

First visit this AM! Wow! Everything was great. I got the Rustic Eggs Benedict. The bacon under my poached egg and over my buttermilk biscuit was caramelized to perfection (how did they do that?!) The hash browns are bussin, though put some cholua sauce in for a bit of heat. It's worth your dime and money hunny! Get some!

Late breakfast on the patio of the Buff is always a delight! Yesterday no exception. Beautiful weather, wonderful service (by Anthony I). Breakfast two step was wonderful with pancakes, eggs, bacon and potatoes and my skillet. Warm and delicious. Our dog was also welcomed on the patio too! Thanks for a great start to our day!

Solid brunch spot! We stopped by The Buff when we were in Boulder and ordered the Valley of the Sun omelette and Ole skillet, both were very good and nice portion size. The omelette had adequate filling and a nice flavor, and our breakfast skillet was hearty and flavorful. The Buff has a comfortable interior, basic, modern, Western decor and friendly, very quick service. We stopped by on a weekday morning and were seated immediately, but there may be a wait on weekends. Worth a visit!

We came to boulder for a few days and decided to stop here to get some brunch. Food was amazing, service was super fast and thank you to Caitlyn (sorry if I spelled it wrong), our server for making this experience super fun!! Highly recommend!

I was in Boulder and a brunch spot was on the mind. The Buff is a good spot but, especially coming around 11:30-Noon, there will definitely be a wait. It took roughly 15-20 minutes to get seated for us as a table of 2. I got a Valley of the Sun Omelette. For what prices are these days on brunch and in Boulder, I thought it was a plentiful amount of food with hash browns and English muffin that tasted well for the cost. Coffee tasted good and they provided a huge cup for me to-go, too. Service was nice all around. Ambiance was great for having a conversation and, while the place may have been bustling at the front upon our arrival, there was plenty of space and benches outside for the wait and then comfortable, spaced seating when enjoying our meal. There's a fairly large parking lot as well which is convenient for its location in Boulder. Ultimately, for breakfast/brunch when in Boulder, I'd definitely return.

One of my FAVORITES in Boulder. It's hyped but I get why. The food is great and the servers are really nice. I always get the Pacific Eggs Benedict and I love it every time. Only come of you are willing to wait around an hour for a table, because it gets insanely busy. I think the beverages are also overpriced so I have never gotten them. Other than that it's incredible overall!

Such good food and service. They were so fast and no sacrifice of quality. 100% recommend!

I was a bit too forgiving in my last review, but wanted to give this place the benefit of the doubt--this resulted in giving this restaurant another go for breakfast today. To cut to the chase, I won't be returning after such a disappointing meal. Unlike the last time I ate here, the hostesses were friendly and actually nice. Had to wait a little more than 15 minutes to be called, but it was nice getting a bit of sunshine. Our waitress was very nice and didn't rush us to order, despite how busy they were. I swear I've never seen it that busy before! Last time the food was just mediocre, but this time, it was quite terrible. While the potatoes were extra crispy, as requested, they were extremely salty. Dipping them in ketchup didn't do anything to help mask the saltiness. I think I'm good on sodium for the next year. Even the English muffins were horrible, like they were stale or something--so dried out I just left them. The hollandaise sauce couldn't even help revive it. Eggs were cooked perfectly but that's the only positive thing I can say about the food here. I remember when this place used to be the Original Pancake House and when The Buff used to be a separate restaurant. It was so good then, but the popularity of this restaurant has ruined what it used to be. I'll be sticking to my other go-to brunch places from now on.

From what I was told, this place is always packed. Being days after graduation, it was 1/2 full but we sure didn't mind. Great service, $.99 Bloody Mary's or Mimosas and a huge menu of breakfast and lunch items. I tried the chicken and french toast and it really hit the spot. Everyone loved their meals.

This is a must-do place to eat - great cuchina feel to the place, with seating outside as well - loads of options for food - I walked in a little after noon, seated immediately, and the food was fast and fantastic. Opted for the White Buffalo Mocha and Buffaquilles for lunch/brunch - extremely happy with those choices as food was quick to the table and delicious! My server, Kash (pronounced like "cold, hard cash") was friendly and helpful, as well. If you go, go big (and hungry) and if you are lucky enough to get Kash as your server, tip her well!!

Never can say enough good things about my favorite Boulder staple. Everything is insanely delicious. Vegan jefe is the perfect vegetarian option. All coffee is insanely good.

Amazing restaurant!! We came with over 10 people and were able to be seated in about 10 mins. The service was so attentive and the inside was so spacious with lots of outlets and free WiFi. We all ordered skillets ($14-16) and 2 rounds of mimosas or bloody Mary's ($0.99 each). The drinks were beyond cheap and good. The food itself has huge portions and not too flavorful but they give you lots of salsas, quesos, and condiments so you can customize it. Highly recommend for food, prices, and service.

Hands down one of the best brunch spots in Boulder! There is always a line but the wait is quick. The staff is super friendly and the food comes out quick and delicious every time. I used to come here every weekend before moving home. I will always make a special trip any time in town.

A classic in every sense with huge portions, tons of options and a friendly staff. It's definitely old school in the best way possible and there's something for every taste. It's a must visit in boulder.

I am surprised at the great reviews. I really wanted to like this place but it's 3.5 stars at best. It's a bustling, casual brunch place. At peak times, waits are long. At 12:30, we only waited 15 minutes. Staff are friendly and accommodating but mistakes were made so as a celiac diner I get nervous. I was so excited by the abundance of GF options and their safety protocols, but the food itself (1/2 GF Lemon Pecan Pancake & 1/2 GF Benedict) were a 3/5. So disappointing. Hubby gave his food & coffee a decided "meh." My companions did enjoy the $.99 mimosas, bloody marys, & tequila sunrises, so that's something.

What a great brunch spot! I can't wait to come back. Be prepared to wait, as they just take down names and on a Saturday we waited around 45 minutes for a party of 2. However they do move quick. Once seated, service is prompt. The chicken and French toast was to die for and i would absolutely get it again upon returning. The skillet was great but next time I'd love to try the Benedict's. They also had fun fall coffee flavors.

Despite the long lines, they were able to get us in relatively quickly. Once in we were seated and served super fast, but we never felt rushed. Nickolas was an outstanding waiter! He rocks. Chicken and French toast was good. The California omelet had next to no bacon. Don't think we'd ever order that again. A couple other bummers were the biscuits and gravy and the home style potatoes. Biscuit was burned, gravy was more like a chicken gravy than bfast, and the potatoes were very underwhelming. Will leave them off entirely next time. Despite all that we loved the atmosphere, food was mostly good and we'll likely be back if in the area.

As a GM of a 5 star restaurant this serving staff showed lack of respect and serving skills. One gentleman in particular, a white busboy with some pimples interrupted my wife and disrespected her in front of the other women at the bar area. Extremely unprofessional and I would have immediately fired my own employee. Bartender was excellent. Blonde young lady even looked at him like what is he doing.

It was nothing fabulous, kind of overrated in my opinion. But quick service and nice staff. Just kinda thought the brunch was average

I LOVE THE BUFF. it is some of the best breakfast food I've ever had and the prices are fair for them not using seed oils etc. The service was quick and our server was kind and attentive even though we went at peak brunch time!

Good little restaurant in the heart of Boulder,CO. Next to a hotel so you'll see a bunch of tourist in here in the middle of the week, but not too busy. We had the 99cent mimosas and Bloody Mary. Seemed to OJ in the mimosa were a bit warm and the bloody marry was overly spicy (for our taste) I had the Matterhorn skillet with mushrooms and Swiss cheese, pretty good but again just alittle overly cheesesy. Also had the pancakes which were very good. Also, should go without saying but since it's so close to the college your wait staff will most likely be a student...so leave a good tip Would recommend next time

A very consistent place to eat! My favorite thing about the buff is how incredibly fast the food comes out! It is always so busy (rightfully so) but you generally get seated quickly bc the kitchen and wait staff move quick. It's a cute place to go in Boulder. I would go back! Everything there is consistently good!

10/10 restaurant. Great food and even better service! We got there and were told 45 minute wait. Got sat outside on the patio within 20 minutes and our waitress was awesome! Our food came very quickly and she was very friendly. The buff has a lot of great food options so there is something for everyone. I got the headland bowl which is great breakfast option to switch it up from the classics but you still get all the good stuff (potatoes, bacon, eggs and cheese)!! We also got the buff pancakes to share and they were extremely sweet. Great for one bite but I would say it's too much to have this as your meal. Overall everyone loved their food and I would definitely come back here!

Highly recommend, usually a line later in the morning they do open early so that might be a good tip! The food here is fantastic, freshly squeezed OJ and lemonade. The interior is clean and well laid out. Lots of tables, booths, high tops. Water inside the door to stay cool. A shaded outdoor spot to keep cool. Awesome staff and food. You can buy swag too!

What a Boulder staple! The male server we had was ON IT - he was completing our sentences. He gave great suggestions and was very efficient. We all loved our coffee and breakfast orders. We went on a Friday morning and had no wait. Will definitely return if I'm back in the area!

Came to eat with some coworkers , Great atmosphere, I originally ordered a Florentine , but unfortunately didn't personally like the Gorgonzola cheese , Molly made sure to take care of me , and found something I loved ( French toast ) Simple easy fix but when the servers actually care to make sure things are going smooth it really makes the experience that much better ! Shout out to Molly and the managers working that day ! Thank you