Dish Gourmet

For owner and head chef EJ, food and community have always gone hand in hand. Growing up in East Tennessee, he spent countless hours in the garden with his parents, who loved to can, to preserve, and to share the fruits of their labor. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for cooking and hospitality, and eventually, the opening of Dish Gourmet.

After training in Charleston and Manhattan, he moved to Boulder in the summer of 1996, drawn by the mountains and the active, welcoming spirit of the community, and like so many others, he never left. In March 2006, Dish Gourmet opened in the heart of downtown.

Located on the East End of Pearl Street, Dish Gourmet is known for its fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, creative catering, and warm, neighborly atmosphere. The location offers convenient parking and a sunny patio, the perfect spot to sit outside and enjoy Boulder’s beauty.

Cooking remains at the center of everything EJ does, but what keeps Dish Gourmet thriving is its deep connection to the community. Each year, the team gathers donations to provide meals for TGTHR, a local nonprofit supporting youth in Boulder. Thanks to the generosity of their customers, this holiday tradition has continued for the past five years.

There are plenty of ways to support Dish Gourmet, from following along on social media to booking catering services for your next event or simply stopping by for a delicious lunch. When the holidays approach, Dish Gourmet takes orders for fully cooked and prepared holiday dinners and private holiday parties, a local favorite that fills up fast each season.

From humble roots in a Tennessee garden to a beloved downtown Boulder staple, Dish Gourmet continues to celebrate good food, community, and connection every single day.