Summer Update: Drinking, Eating & Sunshine

Boulder is a city with weather so nice, it basically begs you to stay outside. I am here to tell you, that although you probably have to leave the beautiful outdoors for work and sleep, you can enjoy the beautiful mountain air, and sunshine on your face while you eat all your meals this summer! Boulder is home to some amazing outdoor eateries, rooftop bars and patios alike. Consider this is your outdoor summer eating guide.

The West End Tavern: The West End has been around since 1987! It's menu is full of great American classics such as burgers, fries, steaks, fish n' chips, fantastic salads and of course fantastic cocktails. Not to mention, you can enjoy everything off their menu while sitting on their rooftop, which looks directly at the beautiful Flatirons. Don't be discouraged if we get a late snowfall, The West End also offers specials if it does snow, and has heaters on the rooftop so you can enjoy it year round! For a full menu, as well as specials, and hours, visit their website at http://www.thewestendtavern.com/.

The Boulder Café: The Boulder Café, is the place to be for happy hour. From 3pm-6pm daily, (or until 7pm if you stay in the bar) you can enjoy the best happy hour in Boulder. Drink Specials include half priced beer, wine, margaritas, & mixed drinks. In addition to the half priced beverages, their appetizers are also half price. The appetizer menu includes a raw seafood bar (oysters, peel and eat shrimp, crab legs), fondue, sliders, and more. The best part about the Café's happy hour? It can all be enjoyed on their patio, which overlooks the historic Pearl Street Mall.

The Rio Grande: No plans for Cinco de Mayo? We've got the place to be. The Rio Grande Mexican restaurant has been serving Boulder cold margaritas and delicious enchiladas for years. A favorite for both college students and local residents alike, the Rio Grande has one of the best rooftops in Boulder, overlooking the Flatirons. The Rio offers a daily happy hour from 3pm – 5pm, with a dollar off margaritas, $2 Corona or Corona Light, and half priced quesdillas. The Rio also just added a pomegranate margarita, which is a must have for any hot summer day. For more information, visit the Rio's website at http://www.riograndemexican.com/.

Centro Latin Kitchen: Waking up on a lazy Saturday and walking to brunch is one of my favorite activities. With a sunny patio and delicious food, Centro is a great destination. Not only do they have an extensive brunch menu including Huevos Rancheros, and Biscuits & Gravy, but they also feature a brunch happy hour (9:30am-11am) featuring items like burnt grapefruit, breakfast tacos, and bloody marys for $2 or $3! While Centro only serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday, they do serve lunch and dinner daily. For a full menu, hours, and specials, visit their website at http://www.centrolatinkitchen.com/.

Spruce Confections: For a delicious pastry or coffee, Spruce Confections is the place to be. Take it to go, or enjoy a slice of quiche and cappuccino on their patio. With friendly employees, and delicious choices including cakes, cookies, salads and sandwiches, Spruce Confections is the perfect place to start your day, or enjoy lunch with a friend. The best part? Every morning, they post daily horoscopes for you to read while you wait in line!

What's your favorite downtown eatery during the summertime?

A big thanks to our Spring intern, Teale, for this post!