Good Day Downtown Boulder!
There are lots of vibrant patios, live music, and happy hour drinks flowing in our downtown district during the summer. However, we can tell that fall is quickly approaching when the leaves begin to turn color and the sun sets at 6:30. Tragically, I will have to trade in my flip-flops for a chic trench coat buttoned up the top. Rather than rooftop patios, I'm searching for cozy corners. Think of this as your insider guide for warming up downtown this fall and winter season.
Stop 1: Capital One Cafe
You must stop by Capital One Cafe, where you are warmly welcomed and given access to a remote office and cafe. From iced drinks and lattes to deliciously baked goods, they have a lot to offer. You can reserve work spaces using their app and receive half off your drink orders if you have a Capital One card (not sponsored, but they were the only ones to approve my first credit card)! While you’re there take advantage of asking actual experts questions about banking (How does cashback even work?). A great place to finish your schoolwork, get a handcrafted drink, or simply sample their new fall menu. My personal recommendation is the Maple Flash Brew or Honey Lavender Latte. This caffeine will keep you moving and buzzing for the rest of the stops on this autumn starter guide.
Stop 2: Zoe Ma Ma
Next stop up is Zoe Ma Ma, a popular favorite known for their affordable prices, homemade food, and hearty service. Not to mention it’s also a 2025 MICHELIN Guide Recommended restaurant. As the autumn days approach, the weather starts to cool and I always begin to crave soup. Unfortunately my mom can’t always be here to make a warm chicken noodle from scratch, but not to worry because this is the next best thing (maybe even better if your mom never learned to cook). My personal favorite is something that can make you sweat…The Dan Dan Mian Noodle soup. It’s a housemade broth with fresh egg noodles. Zoe Ma Ma tops the noodles off with all the good stuff including minced pork, spicy chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn sauce, pickled radish, scallions, and bok choy. If spicy isn't for you, don't fret because they have a variety of options. Their steaming soups are like wrapping yourself in the snuggest of blankets.
Stop 3: Spruce Confections
Some could argue that retail therapy comes next, but for me, it's time for something sweet. After a nice bowl of noodles, Spruce Confections is the ideal spot to treat your tummy. Everyone deserves a sweet treat, after all. Those pesky fall blues will vanish with just one taste of their seasonal pies, cakes, and cookies. Don’t miss their fall classics. I walked in undercover (not that they pay attention to interns) to taste their spiced apple cider and apple scones. Let's just say that if an apple could be their mascot, it should be. They have a great outdoor space so be sure to enjoy it before the cold and snow beat you to it!
Stop 4: Boulder Bookstore
It's time for a little shopping therapy now. The smell of old pages and wood shelves make the bookstore peak during the fall season. There is much to see on all three floors. While I was browsing, the cookbook section alone took me an hour to look through. Browsing is the the kind of hobby that feels productive, which is perfect for a student like me who loves to procrastinate. Don’t forget to ask employees what they recommend.
Stop 5: Mountain Sun
Every autumn starter guide needs its end. But don’t get too sad because our last stop is Mountain Sun. Nothing finishes a fall day like a cider. I understand cider isn’t always everyone’s jam but no worries because Mountain Sun has an impressive tap list. And the cool thing is that their drink menu can change at any time. With Oktoberfest coming up, Mountain Sun is gearing up with traditional German-style lagers. Come peckish because their famous pub fries hit the spot everytime. The vibe is casual, friendly and there's lots of board games readily available so you can disconnect with whoever joins you. If I can offer any advice, it’s to try their Spice Rack Chai Cream Stout when in season. Their list of seasonal stouts is longer than this blog.
So that’s the starter guide. Even if downtown isn’t boosting my productivity, at least it’s keeping me well fed and distracted.
Until next time,
Fatima
Tagged: Boulder