Date Night Delights in Boulder: My Top Picks

Navigating the whirlwind life of managing Salon Freebird, juggling professional commitments, and raising three energetic kids, my husband and I treasure those rare moments when we can steal away for some quality time. Sometimes, our "date night" may just be a lunch break, but these moments of reprieve are sacrosanct. When we do manage to sneak out, there's nothing more disappointing than receiving lackluster service. So, to help you sidestep such pitfalls, I'm sharing my top Boulder spots where the food and ambiance never disappoint.

1. Basta: Tucked away in Boulder, Basta stands as a temple to culinary simplicity, quality, and authenticity. Its minimalist menu, which highlights the purity of each ingredient, is a reflection of its philosophy. The Italian word "Basta," meaning "enough," perfectly encapsulates their approach: skillfully prepared fresh ingredients that offer profound satisfaction. From their flawlessly charred pizzas to the freshest seafood, Basta promises a gastronomic journey in a contemporary yet cozy setting. Their service always brims with warmth and enthusiasm. A personal secret? My husband and I have kept Basta to ourselves, refraining from introducing our kids to it. It's our culinary haven, and we savor every visit. My top picks: the Burrata appetizer, Oysters, and Roberto Pizza.

2. The Post: A quintessential American eatery, The Post is the embodiment of heartwarming comfort food. Renowned for its award-winning fried chicken and handcrafted beers, this place exudes a familial, community-focused vibe. Featured on 'Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives,' The Post is perfect for a family dinner or a relaxed meal with friends. Our family's favorites? The Grilled Oysters, Chicken Sandwich, and we always indulge in an extra fried thigh on the side. And if you're into beers, theirs are a must-try!

3. Hapa Sushi: Hapa Sushi, with its fusion of Asian and American cultures, offers a menu that dances between traditional sushi offerings and contemporary twists. Its ambiance strikes the right balance between chic and laid-back, catering to both sushi first-timers and aficionados. And there's exciting news for Hapa lovers: they've relocated to a new spot a bit further west on Pearl. If you visit, don't restrict yourself to just sushi; their main courses are equally tantalizing.

These are just a glimpse into our favorite haunts in Boulder. I hope you find as much joy in our city's culinary offerings as we do.

Stay hungry and adventurous, Sarah