Friday Night is Funky Night in the DTB

Posted on February 3, 2012

You might have looked out your window this morning and let out a shriek of excitement as you realized school was cancelled and maybe even work. Maybe you smiled and sunk back into your blankets to indulge in that satisfaction of a snow day. But Boulder, that is no excuse to not make plans for your Friday night. To get that surge of motivation going, I give you a few indoor options which are sure to make you enjoy every step you walked (or biked?) in the snow to get downtown.

I hope you’re ready for some top notch music tonight, because Downtown Boulder is blowing up with all sorts of incredible live music. To get your ears ready for a rip rocking good time, be sure to eat a nutritious dinner (to get your strength to 110%), hydrate (because it makes you beautiful), find and put on your dance pants (none of that sweat-pant stuff), rally up the troops (people who have equal excitement to jam), and don’t forget to warm up (listen to a few good tunes to get your voice and dance moves at that perfect level). Ladies and gentlemen, it is time for a good time.

At the Boulder Theater, we have Dr. Dog. Now this may sound like an odd name for a band, a Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg love child perhaps, but there is nothing odd about their passion for delivering the best music. Dr. Dog is a six man band hailing from Pennsylvania playing music that has been strongly influenced by the 60s, with some psychedelic rock influences. Boulder Theater is proud to host these fine young men as they prepare to release their second album on February 7 under the Anti-Records label. “This record comes from our pushing toward a rawer, more powerful, somewhat jittery competence…music that’s got its roots in live expression rather than that studio-perfected sort of vibe.” So basically, Dr. Dog is not just some band that only sounds good on a CD, but a band that thrives on sounding best live; which is how it should be. This just in: Dr. Dog has been postponed due to the weather! However, you can use your ticket to see The Lemonheads tonight at the Fox instead! Check this out for more information.

If you are skeptical about Dre/Dogg love child band and instead wish to enjoy the smooth sounds of a jazz trio, then pop on over to The Rib House and listen to the Chris Kroger Trio. The Denver native trio is a phenomenal combination of jazz and blues, guaranteed to get your fingers a snappin’ and your foot a tappin’. Personally, I never used to be into jazz music, but I had an epiphany this summer that changed the inner workings of my music loving soul. I strolled into a club on “free jazz night” and ended up being the last one to leave because I simply could not get enough. The sounds of the Chris Kroger Trio has brought me back to that very summer night where I became friends with jazz music, so I highly encourage you, lovers of jazz or not, to cruise into The Rib House tonight and let the music take you over.

A night of only music sound too singular? How about a night of art and culture instead? OpenArts Studio is hosting their art fundraiser and celebration from 6-10 p.m. at the Rembrandt Yard. For $50 per person, you will have the opportunity to eat, drink, and enjoy art with fellow art appreciators. Bid on work juried by Open Studios artists, vote for the 2012 Open Studios Fall Artist Tour poster image, and mingle with new and old friends. Festive attire is encouraged and all ages are welcome!

So let it snow, let it snow! But bring on the jams and have a delightful night of good music, good company, and good times. Check out our event calendar for more listings of music and happenings in our snow kissed downtown.

-Devon

Related Tags: Boulder, Art, Fridays , Music

Get Artsy!

Posted on October 7, 2011

Every season is art season in Downtown Boulder. In the spirit of today being the First Friday of the month, I put on my journalism cap and went exploring to find out what downtown has to offer in terms of artistic relief. I found some favorite spots and some pretty cool events going on TONIGHT for first Friday. So if you’re looking for a different way to spend the evening (or an impressive date night, boys… hint…hint) keep reading!

I first stumbled into the Boulder Arts and Crafts Gallery on the 1400 block of Pearl Street and had a lovely chat with long time employee Kristen, who used to be responsible for all of the visual displays in the gallery. The BoulderArts and Crafts Gallery has been an artist cooperative since 1971 and has everything from stained glass windows to specially made organic cotton mittens. Tonight, their First Friday Reception will feature a couple of items. First of all, Carol Walker will be there with her beautiful horse photographs. Second, there will be a special demonstration from 6-8 p.m. of the use of an old fashion letter press benefiting The Book Arts League. Letterpress artists will also be in attendance for the demonstration. Sobring your date, refresh yourself, and meet some talented individuals tonight!

Next, I walked across Pearl Street and found myself at Earthwood Gallery. This one’s a personal fav, mostly because they have lots of pieces involving dogs, and who doesn’t love dogs? This particular piece is done by Sarah Rogers and it’s actually a portrait of her own dog! So cute. Roger is from Wyoming and does lots of work of abstract, bright colored animals. She is a part of the current ongoing exhibit at Earthwood, entitled “Woman of the West II” featuring female artists from the west (obviously). Girl power!

I found myself at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art on 13th between Canyon and Arapahoe next. I’ve always been a fan of contemporary art museums, mostly for their wide open spaces, and of course, the pieces that are just a little…odd. Maybe I haven’t reached the peak age of art wisdom, but sometimes it’s hard not to find yourself pleasantly amused and silently wondering where exactly the artists come up with this stuff. Yes, there is a piece is just a sign on the floor that says “Big Whoop.” Point taken? Still, most of the stuff is very cool and appealing to a younger crowd. This Mickey Mouse really caught my eye.

Walk back on 13th street toward Spruce and you’ll find one of the newest additions to the Boulder art scene, the Elm & Oak Gallery. A visit to their website uncovers that they are a design firm offering services like web and print design, brand and logo creation, promotional art, apparel design and custom mural painting. They definitely have an alternative feel. Tonight they are hosting an even called Fighting Distraction featuring new works by local artist Leland Crow. There will be music by Anansi, and Rockstar energy drinks for everyone…they also claim there will be pieces ranging in prices so that there is something for everyone! (Good news college kiddos!) Sounds more like a party than a swanky gallery show.

My last stop was to SmithKlein Gallery on the 1100 block of Pearl Street next to Savvy. I had thepleasure of talking to the owner as well as her son Nathan (great people). They were especially excited because they just booked an artist they have been pursuing for years; Contemporary western artist, Craig Kosak, who is quite exclusive in the galleries he chooses to display his work. Since SmithKlien celebrated their 20th year of business in September, itlooks like they finally earned a spot! They will be receiving mostly pieces featuring bison that will be arriving homecoming weekend. Nathan said they are great pieces for the alum visiting over homecoming who want a piece to commemorate their time in Boulder and celebrate the CU Buffs. But, back to today, SmithKlein will be hosting an opening tonight for two of their Fall Featured Artists, Jessica Garrett and Ann Dettmer. Garrett is only 27 years old and paints well beyond her years. It’s extremely rare to see an artist of her age paint realistic, western scenes. (Us youngins are into abstracts apparently...) Dettmer is well known for her big, chopping brush strokes. I loved these ones of hers. Both are definitely worth checking out.

Well Boulderites, I hope I helped and/or inspired you to begin an art adventure in downtown. These are only a few of the great art shops in Boulder. Check out an entire list of downtown galleries here. Happy First Friday!

-Lindsey

Related Tags: Boulder, Art, Dating, Fridays

The Kitchen

Posted on August 10, 2011

This small restaurant on the West End, right off the bricks, is absolutely wonderful. After unsuccessfully attempting to go for brunch without a wait time (who eats brunch at noon on a Sunday, come on) and being too hungry to wait, I decided to go back and check it out for dinner.

The Kitchen is very Boulderesque in that they serve all local food in an eco-friendly environment running on local wind power (don’t deny it, you’re impressed). The Kitchen has always popped up on my radar whether through various event listings or passing by on one of my endless stops to Holiday & Co. And after hearing from a friend about their awesome eco-friendly attitude and stellar reviews, I decided to try it and bring my friend along with me.

The ambience in the restaurant was awesome. There is a trend of clean simplicity with the décor, menu, and cocktails. I felt as if I were in a must be seen in, trendy restaurant in downtown Manhattan, but with the comforts of home cooking. We started with the Beet Bruchetta, not at all what I was expecting. I am a texture person so blue cheese with the combination of beets, just wasn’t my cup of tea. However, my friend’s sister LOVED it, so if beets and blue cheese is on your radar you should definitely try it! After my tastebuds and emotions settled (yes, textures freak me out that much) my amazing, delicious, mouth watering lobster entrée came. Being from the East Coast, I know my lobster, and this lobster was absolutely divine. It came with grilled corn and lime flavored fries (YUM!) and I ate every bite, and I’m not sorry about it.

If you’re a pork chop, duck, beet or lobster fan this place is a must! The Kitchen’s eccentric menu has something for everyone. You also have to be sure to check out The Kitchen’s other two sister restaurants The Kitchen [Next Door] and The Kitchen Upstairs. Literally upstairs and right next door so don’t fret about trying to find them! The Kitchen [Next Door] has a casual pub-like atmosphere while still serving farm-to-table food. The Kitchen Upstairs is wine, beer and cocktail lounge, with one of the best beer and wine lists in all Colorado! It’s perfect for a date night, night on the town with friends or for a relaxing cocktail (or two).

So check out The Kitchen, The Kitchen Upstairs, or the The Kitchen [Next Door] and let me know what you think!

Cheers,

Erika

Related Tags: Boulder, Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars, Shopping, Fridays , Coffee

Top 10 Places to Bring Your Dog in Downtown Boulder

Posted on July 27, 2011

by grace on July 27, 2011 on gracefullplate.com
(reposted with permission)

Post image for Top 10 Places to Bring Your Dog in Downtown Boulder

The man and I have a dog of our own (see above) and with this beautiful town, hate having to leave him at home while we’re out and about in the sunshine, especially in the Summer. Hopefully, this post is as useful to you, as it is to me.

I’m excited to be collaborating with my friend Eli with Downtown Boulder (http://boulderdowntown.com/) who helped with a large portion of the research on this post. You can find a full, complete list of dog friendly patios in downtown Boulder here (map included – great resource). I picked my favorite ten in downtown Boulder. The criteria/my opinion: delicious food and enough patio space.

Please note: Having a dog on the Pearl Street walking mall is not allowed. These locations are downtown off the walking mall.

—

Arabesque | 1634 Walnut Street

Arabesque’s outside red-brick patio sits under shady trees, covered with umbrellas. The authentic, made-with-love food from Manal Jarrar is Middle Eastern and honestly, one of my favorite spots for lunch. It sits on the corner of Walnut and 17th. Order the chicken shawarma plate with fresh greens and homemade hummus and order a side of Tabbouleh out on their sunny patio.

Boulder Creek Market | 1801 13th Street

Boulder Creek Market has gourmet sandwiches boasting ostrich, buffalo and even many vegetarian varieties including the veggie: avocado, cucumber, sprouts, provolone and roasted red pepper cream cheese. You can order a half or whole sandwich. Sitting in a courtyard next to a small bar and spa, there is plenty of space for your pup to lounge in the sun on the warm bricks.

The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse | 1770 13th Street

I recently wrote about Dushanbe and their annual tea festival they hold every year in July. Rooted in deep history and cultural significance, it sits along the Boulder Creek (and path) also along the Boulder Farmers Market (every Wednesday and Saturday ). There are two side patios, covered with hanging vines and the sound of the bubbling creek. Their food is International. Try one of their hundreds of loose-leaf teas (hand-picked) and try the Indian Masala Dosa: cumin, fennel crepe with curried potatoes, cauliflower, onions, tomatoes, peas and dahl with raisin chutney, cucumber yogurt and an onion fritter.

Brasserie TenTen | 1011 Walnut Street

Brasserie has one of the best happy hours in Boulder. Small plates from $2-5 with the likes of olive tapenade, salman tartare with minced peppers, sesame oil, kennebec chips and truffle citrus tossed arugula and frites with truffle aioli. You can sample wines and beers for under $4 from 3-6:30 PM everyday. Their side patio is small (about 5 tables) but if you snag a spot for brunch, happy hour, lunch or dinner your dog is welcome. Also, great spot for people watching.

Foolish Craig’s | 1611 Pearl Street

Featured on Diner, Drive-ins and Dives, Foolish Craig’s is one of those places that has something for everyone. It’s unpretentious and lining outside the restaurant, is a similarly long patio to Brasserie TenTen’s with 5 or so tables that welcome dogs. I personally love Foolish Craig’s lengthy breakfast menu peppered with crepes and diesel omelettes. Try the Boulder omelette with broccoli, green peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, cheddar and your choice of pesto or salsa. A killer crepe is their Fahgeddaboudit (Think Brooklyn) with breaded eggplant, spinach, mushrooms, onions, mozzarella and crushed walnuts topped with marinara and parmesan.

The Kitchen / The Kitchen [NEXT DOOR] | 1039 Pearl Street

I included these two together, as two separate restaurants (same ownership) they’re right next to each other and each offer a small patio for dogs. The Kitchen (fine dining) has two spots out front where dogs can comfortably hang and people watch on the Western end of Pearl Street. The Kitchen [NEXT DOOR] has a larger patio with about 3-5 tables for dogs. Their food is farm fresh, organic and a top five place to eat (period) for me in Boulder. At The Kitchen [NEXT DOOR], try their garlic smashers (roasted potatoes) and beet burger. I covered them here when they recently opened in June 2011.

Walnut Brewery |1123 Walnut Street

Just South of the Pearl Street walking mall, The Walnut Brewery sits between Broadway and 11th Street. For pub food and beers brewed in house, it’s a casual establishment with an outside patio where I always see dogs. They have pizza, nachos, steaks, tacos and spaghetti. Try their handcrafted beer as you sit in the sun. The St. James Irish Red Ale was a 2006 Bronze Medal and 2003 Silver Medal Winner at Great American Beer Festival.

Saxy’s Cafe | 2018 10th Street

Saxy’s is a coffee shop, that has delicious, robust salads. On any given day, you will find entrepreneurs or students gathered around their computers or studying. Their patio outside offers a handful of tables for your dog to relax, while you sample their fare. It’s a great spot to get some work done, relax and read or have a meeting. My favorite salad is their Insalata di Spinaci with turkey, fresh spinach, gorgonzola cheese, sun-dried cranberries, pine nuts and maple balsamic vinaigrette.

The West End Tavern | 926 Pearl Street

The patio is small (2-3 tables) but those tables often have dogs lounging. I love their West End Coin Margarita with a splash of cranberry – if you order at happy hour (3-6 PM Mon-Fri) it’s $5. Try their housemade yam chips with fresh guacamole and buffalo wings. It’s a hopping place, where anyone can find something to enjoy.

VG Burgers |1650 Broadway

I include this on my list because whenever we bring our dog there, they ensure there’s fresh water in the dog bowl out front and give Cerna (the pup) a big pet and hug. Their patio isn’t much to call home about, it’s on the side of their restaurant but there are 5 patio tables that are comfortable to sit on while you enjoy their entirely vegetarian/vegan menu. The Man, a seriously meat-loving kind of guy, loves their ‘Bacon Cheeseburger’ (remember, all faux meat) and craves it. Also order their tempeh ‘hot wings’. You need not be a vegetarian, I see all kinds of people in there who often muse how they love meat and VG Burger. Try it. Seriously.

Honorable noteworthy mentions: Boulder Farmer’s Market, Farfel’s Farm a pet store on Pearl Street that always leaves a bowl of water out front and has dogs milling around inside and Alfalfa’s Market, a natural grocery store (blocks from my house) that has ‘dog parking’ out front where you can tie up your dog with fresh water bowls.

Please check out Downtown Boulder’s complete dog-friendly list (all spots have been confirmed to be dog-friendly) and has 27 spots! There are many spots that are great whether it’s a coffee shop, restaurant, bar or shop.

-reposted with permission from gracefullplate.com

Click here to see original article or to comment.

Related Tags: Dining, Happy Hour, Restaurants, Bars, Fridays

Sunny with a Chance of: Rain, Snow, Wind and (Turkey) Meatballs

Posted on February 18, 2011

Happy Friday Boulder!

I love Fridays! Friday justifies having to sally through every other day of the week. I'm spending this Friday sipping Chai, writing and people-watching from my window seat at the Bookend Espresso Cafe. (I feel very Carrie Bradshaw-ish!). It's currently 45 degrees and sunny, and Pearl St. is a-hopping with festival goers, DiMe attendees and Boulderites. The weather is perfect for a little window shopping on the mall, a bike ride to Lyons or for stalking James Franco. (Disclaimer: I have not, nor am I currently stalking the actor. It's one of those things that sounds like a good idea, until you're sitting in a jail cell, explaining to a large woman dressed in flannel that it was purely coincidental that you happened to be in the men's bathroom at the Boulder Theater at the same time as Mr. Franco).

But as we all know, Colorado weather is pretty indecisive and though it's beautiful outside this afternoon, my sources tell me that it's just a teaser, and snow showers will be moving in over the weekend. (Note: My main source for weather information is the tingling that I get in my right knee when the weather is changing. It started after I had my ACL repaired, and it's been a pretty reliable source of information. And by pretty reliable, I'd say I have about a 58% success rate at predicting the weather-- not too shabby). Weather reports show that Saturday will be like the poor kid whose parents are getting divorced and can't decide which one to live with. The morning/afternoon weather will be sunny, with a high of 55 degrees, and night will bring a 30% chance of waterworks. So, with all of that information, and everything going on Downtown over the next three days, I've put together a few ideas for things to do this weekend:

1.) First of all, there are still seats available for the Wine Dinner at Frasca Food and Wine tonight. Four course dinner menu, paired with Zidarich wines. Super classy, super delicious. Check it out. Say to Hi to Bobby S. for me.

2.) The Indulgers, a Celtic Rock band from Boulder, will be playing at Connor O'Neils on Friday night @ 10:00 p.m. Hear them out.

3.) BIFF. Saturday night has a pretty awesome film line-up, including, "Hand Held"-- A film that a great friend of mine, and the Community Outreach Coordinator at BCAP will be introducing. Also, "The Labyrinth" and "One-Thousand Pictures" both look like pretty awesome documentaries. Check them out.

4.) Downtown Boulder's Mid-Winter Sidewalk Sale is happening February 19 - 21(also known as Saturday through Monday). This year, DBI has partnered with BIFF and just showing your BIFF pass, or ticket stub will get you some awesome discounts and freebies at over twenty different Downtown Boulder retailers and restaurants. For instance, Antica Roma is offering a complimentary glass of Prosecco or tiramisu with any entree purchase. The Rio has a free $5.00 marg and a cup of green chile soup for BIFF attendees. Take 40% off all winter accessories and 30% of selected clothing at Blue Skies. Receive 15% off your purchase at Weekends... the list goes on. Definitely check it out.

5.) Cheer yourself up from Sunday's gray skies by catching a movie at the St. Julien. This Sunday's movie is Breakfast at Tiffanys. If Audrey Hepburn doesn't make you smile, then the cocktails you'll be sippin' on while you're watching... will. Smile it out.

If you don't spend at least one day Downtown this weekend-- you'd better have a pretty good reason.

Acceptable reasons: You're hitting the slopes. You don't live in Colorado. You got busted stalking James Franco, and are sitting in a BoCo jail cell-- in which case I can offer you about twenty dollars towards your bail.

So come to Downtown this weekend, Boulder. Drinks are on me. :)

- Tyra

Related Tags: Boulder, Restaurants, Shopping, Fridays

Friday Night is Funky Night in the DTB

Get Artsy!

The Kitchen

Top 10 Places to Bring Your Dog in Downtown Boulder

Sunny with a Chance of: Rain, Snow, Wind and (Turkey) Meatballs

Happy Friday Boulder!

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