10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars

Anna Tolette — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:47:40 +0000

10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars Anna Tolette Tue, 07/22/2025 - 09:47

Julia MacLean

Boulder’s food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From budget-friendly bites near campus to globally inspired dishes and laid-back spots brimming with local character, there's something here for every craving and occasion. Here are 10 standout restaurants that showcase the best of what Boulder has to offer.

1. The Sink

One of Boulder’s most iconic restaurants, The Sink is known for its graffiti-covered walls, delicious burgers, which it claims are the “best in Boulder,” and quirky charm. A local favorite since 1923, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving great food and a true taste of Boulder history.

2. The Buff

The Buff is a beloved Boulder brunch spot just minutes from the �� Boulder campus, known for its hearty breakfasts, house-made green chili and cozy, welcoming vibe. Family-owned since 1995, it's famous for generous portions, 99-cent mimosas and dishes like the Saddlebags pancakes.

3. Frasca Food and Wine

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant recently won the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Known for its Northern Italian cuisine, Frasca Food and Wine is consistently excellent with exceptional hospitality.

4. Avanti

Avanti Boulder is a stylish food hall with multiple distinct restaurants offering diverse cuisine from pizza to arepas, all under one roof. With rooftop views of the Flatirons, two full bars and a lively, communal vibe, it's perfect for groups, dates or solo diners seeking variety and atmosphere.

5. Japango

If you’re in the mood for top-notch sushi and a vibrant atmosphere, Japango is a Pearl Street standout. With its creative rolls, patio seating and friendly service, it’s perfect for everything from a casual night out to a special date.

6. Gemini

Inspired by Barcelona and San Sebastián, Gemini’s seasonal menu features tapas and larger dishes made with sustainably sourced Colorado ingredients. With a great selection of Spanish wines, craft cocktails and local brews, Gemini combines quality food and a warm atmosphere.

7. Dushanbe Teahouse

The only authentic Persian teahouse in the Western Hemisphere, the Dushanbe Teahouse was handcrafted by Tajik artisans, then disassembled, shipped and reassembled along Boulder Creek. Guests enjoy global cuisine sourced from the teahouse’s own Three Leaf Farm, along with refined afternoon tea services with over 100 teas to choose from.

8. Bartaco

Bartaco offers freshly made, flavorful tacos and small plates in a fun, coastal-inspired setting with outdoor seating. With fresh ingredients, great cocktails and easy app-based ordering, it’s perfect for a casual meal or lively night in downtown Boulder.

9. The Corner

Located on The Hill, The Corner is an affordable, go-to spot near campus known for its fresh, all-natural menu with options like breakfast burritos, paleo bowls, burgers and salads. With fast, friendly service, generous portions and a sunny patio, it’s a favorite for students and locals alike.

10. Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

If you’re looking for extremely casual and affordable, this iconic hot dog stand is located at the corner of Broadway and Pearl. Open daily and late on weekends, Freddie’s serves up Vienna Beef hot dogs, pork brats, Polish sausages, turkey and veggie dogs, plus nitrate-free elk and buffalo brats.

Whether you’re planning your Homecoming Weekend or just stopping by for a campus visit, this list can fuel your Boulder adventures and help you discover new local favorites.

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10 Alumni-Written Books to Read This Summer

Anna Tolette — Tue, 20 May 2025 15:25:46 +0000

10 Alumni-Written Books to Read This Summer Anna Tolette Tue, 05/20/2025 - 09:25

Dive into new, compelling reads by talented �� Boulder alumni authors. From historical fiction to powerful memoirs, these 10 books published within the last year offer something for everyone.

1. Blossoms on a Poisoned Sea

By Mariko Tatsumoto (Psych’74; PhDLaw’77)

This historical novel explores the devastating Minamata mercury poisoning through the eyes of two young lovers from opposite sides of a class divide. With positive reviews from Midwest Book Review, Asian Review of Books, Pacific Citizen, the North American Post and the Historical Novel Society, it is set in 1950s Japan and is a human-centered story that brings a forgotten tragedy to life.

2. It Started With a Turtle

By Kevin Fitzgerald (Bio’73; M’78; PhD’82)

This memoir chronicles an extraordinary life journey. From working as security for rock legends like The Rolling Stones to becoming a beloved veterinarian on Animal Planet's Emergency Vets, Fitzgerald shares his unique path with humor and heart, offering readers an inspiring look at a life dedicated to animals, adventure and advocacy.

3. Silver Echoes

By Rebecca Rosenberg (Engl’76; Psych’76)

Set in the 1920s, this historical novel follows a young woman who rises from poverty to become a renowned performer. With positive reviews from BookList, BlueInk Review and Kirkus Review, the story is a compelling read about the complexities of societal expectations in the early 20th century.

4. The Pilot’s Wife

By Cynthia Anderson (Chin’87)

A dual-timeline novel that weaves together a World War II-era resistance story with a modern journey of self-discovery. Scheduled to be published on May 29, the book follows the story of a young Swiss woman helping Allied soldiers. The book explores love, sacrifice and long-buried family secrets.

5. The Blunder Years

By Phil Caragol (Comm’75)

This book is a hilarious and heartfelt coming-of-age story set in 1950s and 1960s Long Island. Caragol recounts his misadventures growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in a strict Catholic household. This memoir delivers laugh-out-loud moments and reflections on the trials and triumphs of youth.

6. Around the World in 80 Years: A Lifetime of Extraordinary People and Adventures

By Pat Peterson (Soc’60)

This book shares a personal journey through decades of global adventures that go far beyond typical travel tales. From stories of surviving near-death experiences to sharing meaningful encounters with people around the world, this book is perfect for anyone craving inspiration, exploration and the fearless curiosity of a life fully lived.

7. Friends Helping Friends

By Patrick Hoffman (FilmSt’98)

This novel is a fast-paced thriller that explores the unexpected and dangerous turns life can take when friendship and desperation collide. It follows Bunny Simpson and his best friend Jerry as they find themselves drawn into crime, extremism and betrayal. With a positive review from The Wall Street Journal, the book is perfect for those who enjoy crime fiction with a deep emotional core.

8. Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed: The recipe for asking and getting what you want in the workplace

By TianEn Stephenson (Mgmt'11)

An empowering guide that teaches readers how to confidently pursue their desires and ask for what they want, both professionally and personally, this book is perfect for anyone looking to create opportunities for success and abundance in their life.

9. Parents in Recovery: Navigating a Sober Family Lifestyle

By Sarah Allen Benton (Jour’98)

This is a guide for parents navigating the challenges of sobriety while raising children. The book empowers readers with real-world advice and research-backed guidance instead of providing parenting “how-tos.”

10. Debt and Taxes: Defusing America’s Debt Bomb

By Howard Mick (Bus'58; PhDLaw’58)

This book analyzes America’s growing national debt and the fiscal policies that have driven it to the brink. It provides historical context, factual analysis and practical solutions for reducing the debt, while empowering readers to understand and take action on this urgent issue.

Celebrate the brilliant writers in the �� Boulder community! The Alumni Association hosts a Forever Buffs book club where �� alumni connect virtually and read books written by fellow alumni. Register for the Forever Buffs Network and learn more about the club. The July book will be announced soon!

Join the Forever Buffs book club

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