My favorite part about this time of year in Boulder is the warm summer nights. Sitting outside with a cold drink, friends and family as the sun sets…it just doesn’t get any better than that. Enjoying the long summer days means staying out later, so I rounded up a few late night restaurants in Boulder for you to check out.
Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Mountain Sun offers delicious pub-style food and operates its own brewery. The friendly staff knows it can be tough to choose among the long list of beers, so they’re more than happy to bring you a few samples to make your decision easier. Mountain Sun is open until 2 a.m., which is perfect if you’re craving a late night drink and their savory pub fries. Other great options include the Spicy Pollo Asado Burrito, the Date Night Burger with a date purée, or their tasty nachos. Don’t eat meat? No problem, they’ve got options for vegetarians & vegans alike. There are several locations in Boulder, but my go-to is the one on 1535 Pearl Street. They are cash only, though, so be prepared.
The Bitter Bar
With a large patio complete with twinkling lights, it’s hard to leave The Bitter Bar, a throwback to classic cocktails and simple bar food. Open until 1 a.m., they offer small plates, such as various cheese selections and charcuterie, and keep a large wine menu on hand. This late night establishment has an impressive list of cocktails, so I encourage you to ask for suggestions…and don’t be surprised if they decide to whip up something new for you. The Bitter Bar is the perfect spot to sip and relax on a warm summer evening.
Shine Restaurant & Gathering Place
Shine is the quintessential Boulder dining spot. Named the “Best Gluten Free Kitchen” 3 years running by Boulder Weekly, Shine is a warm, comfortable, friendly restaurant full of all things uniquely Boulder. Stop by for great music in the evenings, a fully organic and GMO free meal, or sip on one of their magical elixirs or potions. Shine also offers a selection of craft beers, wine, and holistic comfort food with a little bit of everything and something for everyone. Complete with outdoor seating, room for dancing, and a great bar, Shine is a great pick for everyone in your group to find something they love…day or night.
Oak at fourteenth
Oak is the perfect mix of city sophistication with the laid back, easygoing vibe of Boulder. This one of a kind restaurant serves an awesome selection of seasonal and local options on its dinner menu ‘til 10pm, and a full bar of hand-crafted cocktails, wine, and beer mixed with several delicious late night snacks until 12am..Whether you’re a seasoned local, or one of the many friendly visitors to Boulder, Oak is a restaurant that never disappoints for a fun time, great atmosphere, and amazing food.
Bramble & Hare
Among Boulder’s plentiful selection of farm-to-table restaurants, Bramble & Hare stands out from the rest. Owners Jill and Chef Eric Skokan run their own farm, located just outside Boulder, giving them easy access to fresh produce and meats to create their signature dishes. Bramble & Hare offers a late night menu after 9 pm, where you can snack on Lentil Fritters with Spicy Aioli, or their delicious Grilled Cheese (I highly suggest adding bacon). This restaurant is a quaint spot for fresh, tasty dishes with a quiet atmosphere to relax with friends.
When the days are longer, staying out to enjoy the warm weather is a no-brainer, and finding a restaurant that’s open late makes it that much more enjoyable. What are some of your favorite late-night eateries around town? Please share them in the comments below!