Foodie Friday
There's a good reason Bon Appétit called Boulder, America's Foodiest Town. This weekly blog will help you understand why! Every Friday, check out downtown's food scene and all the incredible opportunities available to tantalize your taste buds! Check out this list of restaurant specials and promotions compiled weekly - just for YOU!
Food-Related Events and Announcements: May 1, 2026
Video Courtesy of St Julien Hotel & Spa
This week’s Foodie Friday is all about celebrating, whether you’re toasting to CU graduation, gearing up for Cinco de Mayo, or just looking for a reason to get out and enjoy downtown. There’s a little something for every kind of vibe this weekend.
Kick things off at Japango, where their latest specials are bringing some serious flavor. Think delicate shrimp ceviche, a whole aji, and a decadent new lobster roll. Pair it all with sake and you’ve got a perfect way to celebrate the weekend.
Over at Bramble & Hare, there’s a new entrée featuring beef two ways that’s worth a visit if you’re in the mood for something hearty and elevated.
And for your caffeine fix, Frasca Food and Wine is now proudly partnering with Boxcar Coffee Roasters, a collaboration that’s about as Boulder as it gets.
Looking ahead, Corrida has announced upcoming tapas and wine nights on May 21 and June 25, so consider this your sign to mark your calendar early.
If you’re keeping things casual, Zoe Ma Ma always hits with a comforting plate of dumplings which are quick, satisfying, and perfect between all the weekend plans.
Got a sweet tooth or just want to spread a little joy? Ben & Jerry’s is celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month with a free flower booth every Wednesday in May, a small but thoughtful way to brighten your day.
And if you’re ready to go all out, St Julien Hotel & Spa is hosting a Kentucky Derby Party this Saturday, May 2. Expect Southern-style bites, an open premium bar, live music, hand-rolled cigars, a derby hat contest, and even puppy racing, all set against the Flatirons. Make sure to grab your tickets and dress your best.
Don’t forget to show some love to the teachers in your life this graduation season! Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is running a gift card special through May 10 - snag $100 for just $75!
Celebrate graduation weekend at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery, where the Class of 2026 can raise a glass with one free pint on the house. Just grab at least $10 in food, mention the offer, and toast to the moment. Valid through Monday, May 4, so don’t miss your chance to cheers to the grads 🍻
And to round it all out, the Boulder County Farmers Market First Wednesday Market is back on Wednesday, May 6 from 3:30 - 7:30 PM, bringing fresh finds and local flavor right downtown.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, grabbing a quick bite, or just soaking up the energy of the season, there’s plenty to taste and experience downtown this weekend.
Ways to Help
Emergency Family Assistance Fund (EFAA) helps those in our community whose immediate needs for food, shelter and other basic necessities cannot be adequately met by other means, and supports their efforts toward financial stability or self-sufficiency. You can help them with a financial contribution, volunteering, or donating non-perishable food and cleaning supplies.
Emergency family assistance fund
Harvest of Hope Pantry's sole mission is food assistance. They offer clients a choice shopping experience where individuals select preferred foods within their shopping allowances. You can help them with financial assistance, volunteering or by hosting food drives.
Boulder Food Rescue aims to create a more just and less wasteful food system by facilitating the sustainable redistribution of healthy food that would otherwise be wasted to low-income communities, by bicycle. The best way to help them currently is to donate or volunteer.
Meals on Wheels Boulder provides nutritious meals and a daily well-being check to Boulder residents, regardless of age or income. The number one way to support them during this time is to contribute financially.