Buffs Bites: 50+ alumni-owned restaurants to satisfy any craving
Known as “America’s Foodiest Town,” Boulder is home to Michelin-starred restaurants, local farm-to-table bistros and famous farmers markets. It’s no surprise, then, that Buffs know their way around the kitchen. From Californian sushi houses to Chicagoan burger joints, here are over 50 alumni-owned restaurants that will leave you full of good food and Buff Pride.
The Breakfast Club • Fort Collins, Greeley and Loveland, CO
Dakota Soifer, a 2003 architecture graduate and his wife, Michelle, take us back in time with these old-school breakfast diners in Northern Colorado. Enjoy house-made hashbrowns and original omelets so good you’ll be walking out the door with your fist raised in the air, Judd Nelson-style.
Foolish Craig’s • Boulder, CO
Don’t be a fool and miss out on this Pearl Street brunch spot. Featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Buff Craig Moelis serves award-winning, freshly baked bread and locally supplied ingredients to ensure your day starts off on the right foot.
Hen and Harvest Eatery • Saratoga, WY
Have a meal that matches Saratoga’s small-town charm. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy fried chicken or buttery Belgian waffles, Danny Burau, a 2004 journalism alum, cooks up classic comfort food that will make you feel right at home.
The Huckleberry • Louisville, CO
Equipped with a full-service bakery, a lavish cocktail menu and afternoon teatimes, this family-owned nook is perfect for a morning sweet treat or a midday pick-me-up. Plus, The Huckleberry’s organic produce is grown at owner and class of 1989 Buff, Lenny Martinelli’s Three Leaf Farm, making the menu fresh and seasonal.
Leroy’s Bagels • Denver, CO
This SloHi staple is stacked with 16 bagel flavors and limitless sandwich combinations. Made on-site daily, Buff Sarah Green delivers gluten-free options, no-waste bagel chips and cream-of-the-crop cream cheese that will leave you wanting more.
Tangerine • Boulder, Lafayette and Longmont, CO
Founder and chef Alec Schuler, a 1995 biology graduate, adds Mediterranean flair to American breakfast at Tangerine. Try the Puttanesca Scramble, which fuses soft scrambled eggs with imported Kalamata olives. Or if you’re feeling sweet, order the Pear French Toast — a delectable piece of fluffy brioche topped with a tart pear sauce and a rich maple-cinnamon butter.
Curtis Park Delicatessen • Boulder and Denver, CO
Get a taste of history at Curtis Park Delicatessen. Co-owner Michael Reif, of the class of 2004, grounds Denver and Boulder’s ever-evolving food scene with classic homemade condiments, cold-cuts and ciabatta.
Rye Society Delicatessen and Picklery • Denver, CO
Jerrod Rosen, a 2004 management alum, brings the Big Apple to the Mile High City with this New York-style deli. Featured in The Washington Post and on The Food Network, “The Gentile” — a bologna and white American cheese sandwich — is sure to be a fan favorite.
SoupSmith • Louisville, CO
Found inside the Relish Food Hall and Pickleball facility, SoupSmith serves made-from-scratch soups and sandwiches that will fuel your athleticism. Alums Graham and Emily Smith, the husband-and-wife team behind SoupSmith, also sweeten up the courts with their Cinnamon and Sugar Focaccia and homemade baked goods.
Sweetie’s Bakery & Deli • Salida, CO
In the mood for a slam-dunk sandwich or a wrap even a Greek God would love? Try the #23 Sandwich — “the Michael Jordan of cheesesteaks” — or The Parthenon Wrap — a love letter to feta and hummus — at 2012 Buff Rob Gartzman’s Salida specialty.
Three Sisters Cafe • Denver, CO
Brian Swenson, a 1994 marketing graduate, and his four-person staff have served Denver for over a decade. With freshly handmade soups made daily and sandwiches made to order, Brian’s consistency, care and commitment are felt in every bite.
Chicago Chop Shop • Chicago, IL
The Chop Shop is not your ordinary burger joint; it’s home to Chicago’s only sustainable butcher, restaurant and concert venue. Located within a century-old former auto body shop, Nick Moretti, from the class of 2003, has crafted a one-of-a-kind dining experience, marked by an award-winning menu and a state-of-the-art sound stage.
The Louisville Underground • Louisville, CO
Located underneath its sister bar, Tilt Pinball, this Prohibition-style speakeasy is the perfect place for a laugh and a specialty hot dog. Mark Oberholzer, a 1992 mechanical engineering graduate, showcases local comedic and musical talent and puts a Coney Island spin on traditional bar food, which makes it hard to keep this hidden gem a secret.
The Post • Denver, Boulder, Lafayette, Longmont and Estes Park, CO
Since 2014, Big Red F Restaurant Group co-owner and CU alum Dana Query has brought soul to Colorado with The Post’s signature fried chicken. Crispy, juicy and tender, even Guy Fieri couldn’t get enough of it on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
School House Kitchen and Libations • Arvada, CO
Scott Spears, a 2006 alum, repurposed a historic schoolhouse in Olde Town Arvada to teach people the craft of liquor and classic comfort food. With over 2,000 whiskeys from around the world and a regional menu, prepare to be educated by School House.
Velvet Elk Lounge • Boulder, CO
Catch a local band or themed dance party at this intimate cocktail bar. Here, Dave and Dana Query keep the menu short and sweet — sliders, tenders and wings — and lets the talent speak for itself.
West End Tavern • Boulder, CO
Located in the former Boulder Police Station, which dates to 1906, this gourmet BBQ smokehouse serves classic recipes that are nearly as old as its building. From shepherd’s pie to smoked brisket sandwiches, Dave and Dana Query pay homage to Boulder tradition with saloon-inspired cuisine.
Big Mountain Burrito • Evergreen, CO
Extend your morning coffee run with a stop at Java Groove Cafe for this food truck’s mountainous burritos, which are served until 6 p.m. daily. Sean Tennant, a 2005 finance major, gives his menu a pop with specialty burritos, like the jalapeno-cream cheese-filled Chicken Popper, and the protein-packed Chicken Bacon Ranch.
Bonfire Burritos • Golden, Arvada and Wheat Ridge, CO
Power through your day with flame-y flavors at this Mexican brunch bistro. The Javelina Breakfast Taco will give you a sweet start with its crispy hashbrowns, grilled pineapple and homemade chipotle crema; and the savory Chupacabra will give you a mid-day energy boost with 2010 alum Robert Schnautz’s house-smoked carne asada and all-natural chorizo.
Casa Bonita • Lakewood, CO
This legendary dining experience has been a Denver staple, notorious for its mediocre food and daring dive shows for over 50 years. But when the iconic pink castle filed for bankruptcy in 2023, South Park creators and Buffs Trey Parker and Matt Stone set out on a mission to preserve its magic and elevate its menu.
Efrain’s of Boulder • Boulder, CO
Since 1998, Efrain’s scratch-made chimichangas and blue corn enchiladas have enchanted Boulderites’ stomachs. Efrain and his nephew Cristian Pinon, a class of 2018 graduate, smother everything from burritos to pork ribs in Westword’s Best Green Chili.
El Patio • Austin, TX
Jeffery Attal, 2020 communications alum, proves Tex-Mex is best in Texas at this family-owned Mexican food pioneer. Since 1954, the mezcal margarita has hit diners with Texas twang, and the fiery fajitas have blessed guests’ hearts.
Illegal Pete’s • CO + AZ
The spicy queso and margaritas at this rogue Mission-style mesa are so good they should be illegal. Pete Turner, who graduated in 1993, gives college towns and lively downtown neighborhoods a taste of the wild side with his full burrito and booze bars.
Santo • Boulder, CO
Top Chef, Season 5 winner Hosea Rosenberg, a 1997 engineering physics graduate, introduces Boulder to new Western flavors with recipes inspired by his hometown, Taos, New Mexico. At this Michelin-recommended restaurant, try New Mexican staples like green chili-smothered montadas and crispy bizcochitos.
Big Choice Pizzeria and Brewery • Brighton, CO
From hand-tossed crispy crusts to homemade craft beer, this neighborhood pizzeria is a carb-lover's paradise. Buff Nathainel Miller bakes and brews specialty, made-to order pizzas and signature hops so good the only hard choice will be choosing what not to order.
Fox Pizza • Novato, CA
Husband and wife duo Anna and Jeff Fox, who graduated in 2015, know how romantic pizza can be, so they created the perfect date night spot. Pair one of the couple’s sourdough pies (made at home in their sourdough starter) with a fine bottle of Californian wine for a match-made meal.
Mannie and Bo’s Pizzeria • Golden, CO
Don’t be fooled by the red-checkered tablecloths; this is not your typical pizzeria. Ditch the pepperoni and try one of alum Mark Lineaweaver’s specialties, like the Mango Paradise (mango habanero sauce, pineapple, chicken, jalapenos and bacon) or the Matador (homemade chorizo, green chile strips, jalapenos and Philly Cream Cheese).
Pasta Jay’s • Boulder, CO + Moab, UT
For nearly 40 years, this family-owned Italian favorite has been the host to ample birthday dinners, anniversary celebrations and happy hour hangouts, making it the heart of Pearl Street. With a second location just outside Arches National Park, the love for Buff Jay Elowsky’s infamous jumbo shells now extends beyond Boulder and crosses state lines.
Pizza Daughter • Los Angeles, CA
As a third-generation pizzaiola, Melissa Goldman, a 2010 speech, language and hearing sciences major, caters handmade sourdough pizzas to private events across the L.A. area. She wood-fires all her pizzas in her transportable oven and even teaches guests how to make their own.
Pizza Ranch • Pueblo and Colorado Springs, CO
Eat your heart out at this buffet-style pizza playground. From the beefy Bronco to the Texan Taco, Glen Grady, a class of 1985 graduate, serves every slice imaginable — but don’t hesitate to brainstorm your own cheesy creation. Choose from Pizza Ranch’s three crust options, three sauce types and over 20 toppings to make your dream pizza a reality.
The Old Mine • Erie, CO
Located in a restored 19th century mercantile building, this comfort cidery pairs refreshing ciders with rustic pies. John Jacquat, a 2001 finance alum, pushes the boundaries of pizza-making by toasting his dough with garlic olive oil and offering ranch and barbecue sauce as base options.
Zucca Italian Ristorante • Louisville, CO
Another Tree Leaf favorite, Lenny Martinelli brings a taste of Sicily to Boulder with handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. He combines high-end ingredients like rainbow chard, brown butter cream sauce and Calabrian chilis to redefine your concept of quality Italian cuisine.
The Bindery • Denver, CO
Named as one of 5280’s 25 Best Restaurants in Denver, this artisanal eatery is sure to expand your palette with its innovative menu. From grilled Spanish octopus to coffee rubbed short ribs, The Bindery blends global food cultures and defines culinary excellence. The James Beard Foundation recognized Buff alum and chef Linda Hampsten Fox’s exquisite and creative crispy lamb tacos by crowning her the Lamb Jam Master in 2024.
Blackbelly Market • Boulder and Denver, CO
This Michelin-recognized steakhouse is Boulder’s only whole animal butcher shop. Hosea Rosenberg, a 1997 alum, sources nearly all of Blackbelly’s meats and produce from Boulder County ranchers and farmers, which earned his first restaurant endeavor a Green Star for Sustainable Gastronomy in 2023 and 2024.
Bosq Restaurant • Aspen, CO
As an Aspen native, Buff Barclay Dodge brings the taste of the valley to the table with seasonal ingredients and mountainous dishes at this Michelin Star restaurant. While the menu changes with the leaves, the multi-course tasting menu ensures you get a bite of the best each season has to offer.
Chatauqua Dining Hall • Boulder, CO
Bask in the Flatirons as you break into Citrus Salmon or Fire Cider Pork Chops at this Boulder monument. Originally managed by Oliver T. Jackson, the founder of Colorado’s largest Black homesteading settlement, in 1910, the Chautauqua Dining Hall serves a side of history with its hors d'oeuvres. A full bar stocked with local beverages, including tea from owner Lenny Martinelli’s esteemed Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, is also offered.
Cultivar Sausalito • Sausalito and San Francisco, CA
Sip on Cultivar’s cultivated Chardonnay or Cabernet Franc as you savor this sea escape. Founder and wine sommelier Jody Harris, a 1999 economics graduate, curates an oceanic seasonal menu designed to complement the estate’s Napa Valley noirs.
Jax Fish House and Oyster Bar • Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins and Colorado Springs, CO
Dave and Dana Query bring the coast to the coast-less with specialty scallops and Squid Ink Tonnarelli at this sustainable fish house. As the first seafood restaurants in Colorado to be certified by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Watch, Jax Fish Houses responsibly source all their products to prevent overfishing, preserve marine environments and promote a guilt-free dining experience.
The Light Horse • Alexandria, VA
Still mourning the death of The Dark Horse? The Light Horse will ease your grief with patriotic hamburgers and revolutionary fish and chips reminiscent of the ones previously sold at the iconic Boulder bar. At this historic grill, Buffs Kevin Penn and John Jarecki prepare elevated American cuisine in the town where George Washington once resided.
Michael’s • Santa Monica, CA and New York, NY
Michael McCarty, a 2015 alum, turns food into art at his eponymous restaurant. He treats every plate as a palette, earning the praises of The LA Times, USA Today, Food and Wine and Goop. So, whether you’re in the mood for Crispy Local Vermillion Rockfish or a 30-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye, Michael’s menu offers the best exhibition of Californian cuisine.
Up the Creek Bar and Grill • Vail, CO
After hiking the trails or hitting the slopes on Vail Mountain, refuel at this family-owned bistro. Brothers Peter and Mike Stadler, a 2002 mechanical engineering graduate, used to bus at the Creek’s farm-fresh tables — once owned by their father — and now, they proudly operate it. The brothers mix tuna and trout with tenderloins and tri-cuts to make for a gourmet, relaxed fine dining experience.
Blue Ribbon Restaurants • NYC, Miami, LA, Boston, Las Vegas, Nashville, Philadelphia
At these world-renowned brasseries, Bruce Bromberg, from the class of 1988, chefs for chefs. The late Anthony Bourdain claimed the landmark Blue Ribbon SoHo location as “the original late-night New York City chef hangout.” Now, with 20 restaurants in seven major American cities, Bruce and his brother Eric have conquered global cuisine with their first-class sushi and unpretentious bar foods.
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse • Boulder, CO
You don’t need a plane ticket to taste the world at this Michelin-recommended Tajikistani teahouse. Take your taste buds on an adventure with Lenny Martinelli’s diverse menu, which includes Slavic salads, Malaysian curries, Uruguayan sandwiches and West African shokos. Not only is this colorful Boulder landmark the only Tajik teahouse in the Western Hemisphere, but it’s also the largest teahouse in the United States.
Cafe Aion • Boulder, CO
Cutthroat Kitchen winner Dakota Soifer, a 2003 architecture graduate, turns The Hill into the Basque Country at this Spanish French bistro. For a European excursion, share the house paella and a jar of sangria, or pair the steak and frites with a bottle of Parisian wine. Bon Appetit!
Mike O'Shays Restaurant and Ale House • Longmont, CO
Grab a Guinness and gallop down to this Galway-inspired pub. With fresh Irish fare like Bangers and Mash and Emerald Isle Salmon, class of 1994 Buff Reuben Verplank makes you feel like you’re right on the Cliffs of Moher.
Michael Haith, a 1984 journalism major, believes serving anything but made-to-order, wholesome food is lunacy. That’s why he only uses fresh ingredients to make top-notch customizable teriyaki bowls at more than 200 locations in 41 states.
The Biker and Baker • Salida, CO
On weekend evenings, Salida’s beloved Sweetie’s Sandwich Shop transforms into an upscale dessert and wine bar. Once the deli meats are put away, Rob Gartzman and his wife Sarah concoct craft cocktails and creamy cheesecakes classy enough to be featured in Vogue magazine.
Legacy Pie Co. • Denver, CO
This four-generation family business has filled Colorado with sugar and spice for nearly 100 years. Elias Lehnert, a 2015 alum, continues his great-grandmother’s legacy by sharing her signature fruit pies and makes his own mark on the menu with hearty hand pies. We promise not to tell Ralphie if you give the Mini Bison Hot and Ready Pie a try.
Right Cream • Denver, CO
You don’t have to choose between savory and sweet at this ice cream start-up. By serving everything from burgers to breakfast to barbecue, 2014 alum Josh Siegel ensures your taste buds are treated just right. Plus, with an ever-evolving weekly flavor menu, every visit is packed with secret surprises.
Scrumptious Ice Cream and Candy • Longmont and Arvada, CO
Satisfy your sweet tooth at this specialty sweets shop. Voted Denver’s Best Ice Cream Shop, Scott Spears, a 2006 graduate, uses all-natural ingredients to make “all good,” all original ice cream. Complement your scoop with nostalgic, hard-to-find bulk candy and bottled sodas, which will transport you straight to the 1950s.
Sweet Cow • Boulder, Longmont, Louisville and Denver, CO
At this unmistakably Coloradan ice cream shop, Drew Honness, 1996 history alum, shares the sweetness of being a Buff with a CU Boulder-inspired flavor: the Buffalo Chip. The Buffalo Chip — a brown sugar butter ice cream with dark chocolate and butterscotch chips — tastes almost as sweet as a Buffs victory. Drew also partners with local businesses, such as Ozo Coffee, the Savory Spice Shop and Hammond’s Candy Factory, to offer 23+ other personality-filled flavors.