This lovely restaurant was a gift from Boulder's sister city, Dushanbe, Tajikistan, which donated the building to the city in the late 1980's. The ornately decorated structure was imported and then rebuilt by workers from Tajikistan. Offering a truly one-of-a-kind brunch, you'll find Indian samosas, German Bratwurst, and Korean Kalbi Short Ribs. For something a bit more traditional, you can try the salmon benedict, homemade oatmeal, or greek scramble. Appetizers include Persian grilled chicken strips marinated in yogurt and spices. Koresht Bademjan, which is Persian braised beef stew with eggplant, onions, tomatoes and spices served with orange currant couscous, and Persian tamarind shrimp are two of the featured main dishes.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: The Dushanbe Teahouse boasts large tables for parties of 12 or more, an international atmosphere, and tea-times that are perfect for a birthday gathering.
Hope's expert tip: You simply must indulge on the Indian samosas or salmon Benedict.
West Flanders Brewing Company, conveniently located on Pearl Street, opened in September of 2012 and has been making a name for itself with the local scene ever since. The Lion Heart Stout, Triple Lutz Belgium and Angry Monk are three of our favorite nectars due to their uniqueness and flavorful embodiment of their own particular beer category. The Angry Monk leans toward a Belgium, but we wager you'll find it to be in a category all its own. What's more, this brewery makes for the perfect large party location, offering a large event space upstairs that overlooks all of Pearl Street's hustle and bustle.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: West Flander's entire upstairs is devoted to large parties. The space can be reserved for meetings or recreational gatherings and comes equipped with a microphone.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to try their Lion Heart Stout!
The ambiance of Fate Brewing Company is that of laidback elegance and taste in more ways than one. Their food is designed to perfectly pair with their libations and an open, cheerful atmosphere makes this Boulder restaurant perfect for getting together after a long day, birthday parties or intimate dinners."But what about the food?" you might be asking. Fate's fare leaves nothing to be desired and blends bistro-style American cuisine with a bit of international flair. Check out the descriptions for some of our favorite dishes.Chicken 'N' Biscuits Smoked brisket, red eye gravy, fresh buttermilk biscuits. FATE-a-RITO Scrambled eggs, potatoes, peppers, pork green chili, cheese, sour cream, fresh salsa, choice of brisket, pork shoulder, bacon or smoked sausage.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Fate Brewing Company offers large party seating and a comprehensive beer menu all in their atmospheric brewery.
Hope's expert tip: "Be sure to try the Ozo Coffee IPA featuring coffee flavors from one of Boulder's favorite coffee shops. "
Set at the foothills of the beautiful Flatirons, this century-old landmark features exquisite indoor and outdoor dining (on the historic property's wraparound porch). Starters include house-smoked salmon, gazpacho, organic beet salad, and steamed mussels. You can also get entrees like grilled Colorado lamb, Rocky Mountain trout, venison steak, pan-seared ahi tuna, salmon, halibut, and vegetarian specialties. An excellent wine list and a great selection of microbrews highlight the beverage list. After your meal, we highly recommend burning off some calories by hiking in the park. The Royal Arch Hike and Green Mountain are scenic routes that will challenge you and ease your guilt when you return to the dining hall for dessert.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Chautauqua Dining Hall offers large party seating near a beautiful and roaring fireplace with views of the Flatirons.
Hope's expert tip: When the weather is fine, as to sit on the wraparound porch for a great views of the Flatirons.
Hands down, one of the best breweries you'll ever visit; Avery Brewing Company offers an escape from the bars and pubs of downtown. The lively atmosphere immediately invites you to snuggle up with your honey, cheers with your friends, or just relax solo and sip in some solitude. A few of their signature brews include the hoppy India Pale Ale, the light Belgian-style White Rascal, and the nutty, savory, Elle's Brown Ale. Avery's new brewhouse is located on the outskirts of Boulder and offers a taproom downstairs, brewery tours, and an elegant dining room for those who prefer to sip their brew in a more intimate and quiet setting. Watch for release parties and special tappings throughout the year.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Avery Brewing Company offers high-top tables perfect for parties of 6 and larger parties can sit back-to-back or gather in their atmospheric barrel aging room.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to grab a pint of the Karma, Avery's most drinkable and refreshingly crisp beer.
This high-energy sushi bar and Japanese restaurant transforms a simple meal into an adventurous spectator event. Watch as flashy Japanese chefs prepare your meal hibachi style or at the sushi bar. The contemporary setting is spacious and designed in neutral tones and natural woods. Karaoke and nightly sushi happy hours add to the boisterous atmosphere. Saturday nights, all rolls are $1 and $2 off and there are drink specials that run well into the late night hours. As an added bit of flare, the staff typically joins in for the singing fun. Be sure to try the Gladiator Roll which packs a flavorful punch.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Sushi Zanmai offers large party seating, private rooms, and karaoke if you and all of your friends wanna rock out.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to stop in on the weekend for their killer happy hour and weekend roll specials.
If you're in the mood for variety, this locally owned gem is the place for you. Not only does The Med serve up a taste of Italy, but you can also take a tour of Spanish, French, and Greek cuisine having never left Boulder. Known for, but not limited to, its fresh, wood oven pizzas and hot-out-of-the bakery bread which is made fresh daily, this eclectic restaurant offers more than just carbs. Be sure to try their Kabob made with your choice of lamb, chicken, or shrimp and flavored to perfection with garlic hummus, tabouleh, basmati rice, seared greens, grilled flat bread & tzatziki. Stop by at happy hour to peruse a to-die-for wine list.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: The Med offers large party seating and menus, not to mention their happy hour is perfect for a group with diverse tastes.
Hope's expert tip: Try the Med's savory Greek Kabob and be sure to stop in for their well-known and frequented happy-hour.
This local brewery offers some of the best refreshments in the area and is perfect to visit after a long hike at Chautauqua Park. One of their most popular beers, the Colorado Kind Ale, is dry hopped deliciousness and should be paired with one of Southern Sun's massive burgers or, our favorite, the grilled cheese. Hot wings and BBQ wings are a staple at this joint, as well as the delicious $1 tacos every Wednesday night. Choose from vegetarian or beef and eat late into the night since tacos service goes on well past pumpkin hour. Perfect place for a late-night snack.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: With its long picnic tables, board games, and wide-open dining room, Southern Sun offers the perfect atmosphere for your friends and family.
Hope's expert tip: Don't miss out of the to-die-for delicious hot wings.
Locally owned and operated by three spunky and innovative sisters, SHINE Restaurant and Gathering Space offers the perfect venue for building community, mingling, getting down to some local music, or just relaxing with a much needed cocktail at the end of the day. Not-to-be-missed, the beet hummus and mini-pizza with buffalo mozzarella, marinara, and arugula pesto are the perfect appetizers to start off your evening and, when you move on to the main course, be sure to consider the Chicken or Jackfruit Soft Tacos ( we highly recommend the jackfruit) and the Grass-Finished Beef Burger made with local meat, arugula, sunflower seed and garlic scape pesto, house-pickled red onion for a kick of flavor, and hearty cheddar cheese.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: SHINE is well-known in the community for its large and luxurious gathering spaces and attention to detail with large parties.
Hope's expert tip: The perfect space for gatherings, bring the entire family or meet up with old friends for unique cocktails and delicious soul-food.
For a relaxed and salt-of-the-earth environment, try Backcountry Pizza and Tap House. With more than 50 beers on tap, gigantic pizzas, and scrumptious pasta concoctions that will satisfy any Italian craving, this local dive is a favorite for beer and pizza lovers alike. The Chicken Parmesan and Meatball Sub are both excellent options for those who like traditional Italian, and for those who'd like to go the more adventurous route, The Hot Mob: ham, salami, pepperoni, lettuce, tomatoes, provolone, and Italian dressing. Our personal favorite, the Nediterranean, blends pesto & red sauce, pine nuts, garlic, roasted red peppers, artichokes, kalamata olives, feta to create one of the most hearty and mouthwatering pizzas in the west.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: With its extensive beer collection, pizzas that can feed 10 or more, and a large gathering room, Backcountry Pizza tops our list.
Hope's expert tip: Blend an American and Italian experience by ordering the Nediterranean Pizza ( named after Boulder's neighboring mountain town, Nederland) and beer.