Fine Dining in Boulder

For decades, Boulder had a reputation as a relaxed college town with limited fine dining options. However, over the past few years, a number of award-winning restaurants have planted roots. Below are some of the top fine dining picks in the city.

Frasca

1738 Pearl Street (map)
(303) 442-6966
Website

Inspired by the Friuli region of northern Italy, Frasca offers some of the best Italian fare in Colorado. Since its launch in 2004, Frasca has piled up awards and glowing reviews. Gourmet magazine named Frasca one of America's "top 50 restaurants," and 5280 magazine claimed that, "Frasca rivals some of the best dining experiences in the country." In 2019, the restaurant won the Outstanding Service award from the James Beard Foundation. Frasca is frequently rated the top restaurant in Boulder. Get reservations in advance (weeks in advance if possible).

Flagstaff House

1138 Flagstaff Road (map)
(303) 442-4640
Website

The granddaddy of fine dining in Boulder, Flagstaff House has been around for over fifty years. Perched atop the Boulder foothills, Flagstaff offers sweeping views with your meal. The place isn't cheap, and some might find it overly formal. But for an old-fashioned elegant dining experience, Flagstaff can't be beat. Try a glass of wine at sunset for an affordable intro. Unlike the other restaurants on this list, Flagstaff is not walkable from Pearl Street. However, it's a quick drive up Flagstaff Mountain from the Chautauqua Park area.

The Kitchen

1039 Pearl Street (map)
(303) 544-5973
Website

The Kitchen made a splash on the Boulder dining scene with its fresh "farm to table" approach — and it quickly found a following. Even the New York Times was impressed, claiming that The Kitchen "is creating a culinary community." Known for its organic ingredients and creative spins on old favorites, The Kitchen is one of Boulder's most laid-back fine dining spots. But be warned: prime time weekend waits can be an hour long, and start as early as 6 pm. So plan ahead or visit during off-times. Ascend to the neighboring "Kitchen Upstairs" for a cozy bar experience. If you are lucky, you may get a window seat with a view of Pearl Street and the Flatirons.

Corrida

1023 Walnut Street #400 (map)
(303) 444-1333
Website

Corrida is the newest entry to Boulder's fine dining scene. With food inspired by Northern Spain's Basque country, Corrida features one of the nicest rooftop patio experiences in town. Lovers of aged steaks and tapas should give Corrida a try. The place is known for its gin and tonics served from a wandering cart, as well as a rotating list of exotic craft cocktails. For a more affordable sample, try a happy hour or brunch visit. You'll love the views in the daylight or sunset.

Brasserie Ten Ten

1011 Walnut Street (map)
(303) 998-1010
Website

Paris in Boulder: romantic, elegant, and delicious. Tucked away on Walnut street, Brasserie Ten Ten is often filled to capacity. The bistro cuisine includes French favorites from onion soup and escargots to bouillabaisse and coq au vin. The restaurant is a classy spot for a dinner date, or a pleasant place to dine with family. Brunch on the sidewalk patio is a delight. Enjoy the extensive happy hour menu which includes both seafood appetizers and classic cocktails. Although Brasserie Ten Ten was closed for two years due to Covid, the restaurant reopened in the summer of 2022.

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