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 Romantic Dining because: Chautauqua's picturesque setting, cozy atmosphere, and rich history make it the perfect spot for a romantic brunch or dinner.
Hope's expert tip: When the weather is fine, as to sit on the wraparound porch for a great views of the Flatirons.
Located on enchanting Pearl Street, this pizzeria mixes traditional Italian elegance and charm with some American edge and swagger. Among their mouthwatering concoctions you'll find the Vesuvius, a lite tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad that will leave you refreshed, and more than ready for a glass of one of Pizzeria Locale's ostentatious wines. And, for the main course, may we suggest the Filetto pizza, complete with sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, pungent garlic, fresh basil, and parmigiano reggiano ( we could call it plain, old, Parmesan, but that wouldn't quite describe Pizzeria Locale's take on this well-known cheese). Salute!
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: Not your regular pizza joint, Pizzeria Locale offers tasteful elegance and quality "za" from their brick ovens.
Hope's expert tip: Grab a patio seat and order up the Vesuvious salad for starters, then move onto the main event with the Filetto pizza.
This popular, ultra modern Asian restaurant is a favorite of families and business people and is considered one of the best places in town for sushi dining. The name translates to "Asian but not" and the food carries through this theme with Asian-inspired fare featuring international tastes and flavors. Try the broiled eel, California roll, or delicious caterpillar roll for a taste of "fusion Asian". The ambience is minimal and hip, and crowds flock here for pre-dinner drinks and excellent sushi. The friendly staff keeps things rolling and the prices are just right. For desert, be sure to try the banana split.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: Hapa offers fresh, unique sushi like the orgasm roll — uncommon in both name and broiled presentation.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to order the banana split tempura as your dessert.
Black Cat is the epitome of a Farm-to-Table restaurants, in fact that's what this Boulder favorite is known for. Pulling fresh, seasonal, ingredients from their 130 acre farm paradise situated just outside Boulder, Chef Eric Skokan and his wife, Jill, harvest their farm everyday to bring from-the-vine delights. They also raise sheep, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and ducks. One of our favorites, the Beet Potato Napoleon features quinoa cereal crust, elderberry gastrique,house made ricotta, and spinach. Want to splurge a little? Try their Colorado Beef Ribeye complete with orange scented oats, carrots, and crisp capers. Keep in mind that this Farm-to-Table gem prepares seasonal delights, so their menu is ever-changing, meaning you can always find something new and fresh.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: Black Cat's farm-to-table menu and elegant atmosphere land it the top spot on our powerhouse list.
Hope's expert tip: The Beet and Potato Napoleon is to-die-for- delicious.
This steakhouse is a long-standing Boulder favorite and features a creative menu that includes prime rib, grilled New York strip, and nightly fish specials. In addition, Wine Spectator has repeatedly acknowledged the award-winning wine list for its excellence. For a taste of something unique, indulge on their Sake Salmon or, for happy hour, enjoy Cork potatoes and baby back ribs. The Cork's ambiance of elegance makes it the perfect place to go for a special occasion, but its affordability ensures that you can stop by for a fun night out on the town anytime.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: The Cork offers elegance, an award-winning wine list, and succulent creations that will make your mouth water.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to choose a wine perfect for your palate off of the Cork's award-winning wine list.
This moderately priced restaurant is a popular spot amongst locals and tourists alike because of its elegant yet relaxed environment and high-quality food. Known for being gluten-free friendly, not only is the kitchen willing to accommodate your dietary preferences but they also offer a number of gluten-free items that need no modification, including Pan-Seared Colorado Striped Bass and their savory marinated olives. But never fear, gluten lovers, there's still plenty of variety for you as well, including Hand Rolled Gnocchi with wild mushrooms. Known for accommodating good allergies and preferences, many of The Kitchen's items can be modified to suit your vegan and vegetarian preferences as well.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: As one of Boulder's finest dining establishments, The Kitchen's exquisite atmosphere and comprehensive wine list rank it high on our list.
Hope's expert tip: Try their Pan Roasted Monk fish and be sure to ask for gluten-free dessert options.
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 Romantic Dining because: The Dushanbe Teahouse's unique decor and international cuisine rank it high on our list.
Hope's expert tip: You simply must indulge on the Indian samosas or salmon Benedict.
Located just outside Boulder in quaint Louisville, Colorado The Huckleberry is known for its fresh, delicious, and all-American food. Breakfast and brunch are the time of day when this place really shines, with a variety of eggs benedicts, biscuits and gravy, milkshakes, and homemade pies. Many items can be made gluten free, vegetarian, or vegan to suit your dietary preferences or needs. Tea and pastries can be purchased to take home, as well as a variety of local and handmade gifts such as jewelry, Christmas ornaments, and art work that can be found in The Huckleberry lobby. Also, be sure to have a delicious house chai.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: The Huckleberry's quint atmosphere and charming soul-food rank it high on our list.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to ask for seasonal dishes that use local ingredients and don't miss out on their Huckleberry Ding-Dongs!
The elegant yet rustic Flagstaff House Restaurant of Boulder offers scenic views while guests dine on the finest wild game Colorado has to offer. Guests are also treated to an extensive wine collection featuring over 15,000 bottles from wine regions all over the world, including California, Burgundy, and Bordeaux. Special collaborations with local breweries are just one of the few unique treats which help visitors have a truly one-of-a-kind Colorado experience. Flagstaff House also prides itself on locally sourcing its meats and produce whenever possible, so you can take delight in the fact that you're experience a real taste of the Rocky Mountains.
Recommended for Romantic Dining because: Sweeping views of the Boulder Front Range, an award-winning wine list, and delicious locally sourced options make Flagstaff House Restaurant an elegant and lovely experience.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to peruse the wine-list, as it is one of the very best in town.