The Ultimate 48-Hour Food & Beer Lover’s Guide to Boulder, Colorado Breweries

Are you passionate about exceptional food and craft beer? Embark on an unforgettable two-day journey to Boulder, Colorado, with this comprehensive 48-hour guide designed for the ultimate culinary and beer enthusiast. From world-class breweries to innovative restaurants and local tap houses, prepare for a vacation where every sip and bite is a discovery.

Boulder, Colorado, a vibrant city nestled at the base of the majestic Rocky Mountains, is renowned for its active, outdoorsy lifestyle. People flock here to hike the iconic Flatirons, bike scenic trails, and enjoy a myriad of outdoor pursuits against a breathtaking natural backdrop. However, for those of us whose passions lean more towards the gastronomic delights and the rich world of craft beer, Boulder holds an equally compelling, albeit different, allure.

While the mountains certainly provide a stunning setting, my visits to Boulder are almost exclusively dedicated to two sublime pursuits: world-class beer and incredible food. This charming city has established itself as a premier destination for epicureans and hop-heads alike, boasting an impressive array of breweries, inventive tap houses, and restaurants serving dishes that truly tantalize the taste buds.

Among Boulder’s many gems, two establishments stand out as absolute must-visits for any serious beer adventure: Avery Brewing Co. and FATE Brewing Company. While an ambitious visitor might attempt to squeeze both into a single day, I highly recommend extending your trip to a full weekend. This allows ample time to truly savor the unique offerings of these major breweries, delve into Boulder’s vibrant local culture, explore smaller craft breweries, and fully immerse yourself in the authentic Colorado experience.

Your 48-Hour Boulder Food & Beer Itinerary: Day One

Begin your Boulder journey by focusing on one of its most celebrated craft beer institutions. A leisurely pace ensures you fully appreciate the craftsmanship behind each brew and the culinary artistry accompanying it.

Avery Brewing Co.: Craft Excellence and Culinary Delights

Our adventure kicks off at Avery Brewing Co.’s impressive modern facility. As you approach, the sheer scale and thoughtful design of the building immediately convey a sense of arrival. With its multiple bars, two-story restaurant, and expansive brewing operation, Avery is a true standout in Boulder’s competitive brewery landscape.

I’ve been a devoted fan of Avery’s beers for years. Their distinctive gold-capped special releases are legendary, often cellared by aficionados for years to mature – for example, we’ve enjoyed their Tweak vintages from 2014, 2015, and 2016 during special occasions. What truly sets Avery apart is their unwavering commitment to innovation, offering a constantly rotating selection of unique beers that cater to every palate. Even if you can find their widely distributed bottles in stores, a visit to the brewery is essential. Here, you can sample exclusive taps that aren’t bottled for nationwide distribution, offering a truly local and fresh experience.

Avery also has a knack for reintroducing old-school and even ancient beer styles, giving them a contemporary twist or simply offering a rare taste of brewing history. Their recent Apricot Sour, for instance, is an absolute revelation – so exceptional that it rivals, or perhaps even surpasses, their beloved Raspberry Sour. It’s a testament to their continuous experimentation and mastery of flavor.

Beyond the magnificent beers, Avery’s culinary program is equally impressive. They operate a smoker all day, every day, turning out some of the most phenomenal barbecue in Boulder. I highly recommend indulging in their Wagyu Beef Brisket – it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and bursting with smoky flavor. Don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable beertenders for their expert pairing recommendations. During warmer months, the lively downstairs dining area or the inviting patio are perfect spots to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the enticing aroma of barbecue, and the quintessential Colorado charm.

My Favorite Dishes at Avery: Wagyu Beef Brisket, BBQ Beef Sandwich, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Fish n Chips

My Favorite Beers at Avery: Apricot Sour, Bolder Weisse (especially with peach rosemary and strawberry basil syrups), Dui Cochi, Tweak, Raspberry Sour

Your 48-Hour Boulder Food & Beer Itinerary: Day Two

After a satisfying immersion at Avery, prepare for another day of culinary and craft beer exploration, focusing on a brewery that masterfully blends traditional brewing with innovative gastronomy.

FATE Brewing Company: Where Beer, Food, and Cocktails Converge

Describing FATE Brewing Company feels almost inadequate; it’s an experience that transcends mere words, inspiring an almost joyful, emotional response. This place is a harmonious blend of exceptional brewing, inventive cuisine, and a truly inviting atmosphere.

The brewery restaurant itself is a marvel, housed in a spacious setting adorned with reclaimed wood, clever branding, and a grand bar. This bar showcases FATE’s extensive beer list, a curated selection of guest beers, and a full bar offering imaginative cocktails and fine wines. Their multi-level patio is a particular highlight – a perfect spot to spend an entire afternoon soaking up the Colorado sunshine, indulging in a fantastic array of food and drink.

FATE’s beer variety is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s genuinely challenging to pick favorites from their impressive lineup! Their standard beers include Great American Beer Festival Gold Medalists, and their IPA was once recognized by Beer Connoisseur as the second favorite in the entire country. Beyond these classics, delve into their specialty brews like the unique coffee IPA (one of my all-time favorites) or the incredibly creamy Chocolate Banana Milk Stout – a decadent treat that will make your taste buds sing.

But FATE doesn’t stop at beer. They offer an array of ingenious beer-focused cocktails, incorporating their brews and other beer elements like cranberry-hopped simple syrup. These innovative concoctions, like the wonderfully named “Struggles Von Fuggles” (pictured below), are perfect for any meal, especially brunch, adding another layer of unique flavor to your dining experience.

Finally, we must talk about the food. During my visit, Chef Arik Markus, relatively new to FATE at the time, absolutely redefined my expectations. His menu is a masterpiece of intention and tantalizing flavors. While everything I tasted was exceptional, you absolutely must try the Chili Bombs – jalapeños expertly stuffed with kimchi, rice, and succulent beef brisket. And for dessert? The Fudgy Quinoa Brownie, topped with crispy bacon, is an unexpected yet utterly delightful combination.

From new brunch features and Israeli-inspired appetizers to locally-sourced meat dishes, Chef Arik has crafted a gorgeous menu. Each dish is delicious on its own, yet all are designed to pair exquisitely with FATE’s masterfully brewed beers, creating a harmonious and memorable dining experience.

My Favorite Dishes at FATE: Thai Lemongrass Hanger Steak over Cold Ramen Noodles, Chili Bombs, Hummus, Lamb Cigars, Fudgy Quinoa Brownie, Butternut Squash Tart

My Favorite Beers at FATE: Pinot Noir Uror, Uror Gose, Norns Roggenbier, Sudice American Stout, Chocolate Banana Milk Stout, Moirai Coffee IPA

My Favorite Cocktails at FATE: Morning Wood, Struggles Von Fuggles, Welcome Cocktail

Other Must-Visit Boulder Eateries & Tap Houses

Beyond the major breweries, Boulder offers a wealth of other fantastic spots to satisfy your cravings for local flavors and diverse craft beers.

Backcountry Pizza and Tap House

For a more casual, local vibe, Backcountry Pizza and Tap House is an excellent choice. Boasting an extensive tap list that features not only Boulder’s best but also broader Colorado craft beers, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a late-night stop. It’s where you can truly feel the pulse of Boulder’s local beer scene without the intensity of a large production brewery.

Rayback Collective

The Rayback Collective is a truly unique indoor-outdoor venue that embodies Boulder’s laid-back, community-focused spirit. With a curated list of local and Colorado craft beers on tap and a revolving lineup of diverse food trucks, it’s a dynamic social hub. Whether you’re lingering with friends, enjoying delicious snacks, or gathering around a cozy fire pit, Rayback offers a flexible and enjoyable experience, no matter what the unpredictable Colorado weather brings.

Beyond the Big Names: More Boulder Breweries to Explore

If your 48 hours allow for even more brewery hopping, consider these additional Boulder craft beer destinations, perfect for rounding out your tour.

• Upslope Brewing Company: Known for their award-winning canned beers and diverse styles, Upslope offers a fantastic tasting room experience.
• Twisted Pine Brewing Company: A Boulder institution, Twisted Pine is celebrated for its unique and experimental brews, including chili beers and other adventurous flavors.
• Wild Woods Brewery: Embrace the spirit of the Rockies with beers inspired by Colorado’s forests and mountains, offering a distinctive and natural flavor profile.

Embrace Boulder: Beyond the Suds and Bites

Should you find yourself with a little extra time and a desire to explore more of Boulder’s charm, there’s plenty to see and do. A stroll around Pearl Street in downtown Boulder is highly recommended. This vibrant pedestrian mall is perfect for unique shopping, people-watching, and enjoying the lively street performers.

If the Colorado weather is inviting, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Hike the iconic Flatirons for unparalleled views or venture up Flagstaff Mountain. These outdoor excursions offer a refreshing break from city life and provide stunning panoramic vistas that truly showcase Boulder’s natural beauty. After all, soaking in the pristine nature before indulging in exquisite beer and food is the ultimate Colorado way to experience this magnificent state.

This 48-hour guide offers a robust framework for an unforgettable food and beer adventure in Boulder. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or a curious foodie, prepare to be captivated by Boulder’s vibrant culinary scene and its world-class breweries. Enjoy your journey!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Avery Brewing Co. and Fate Brewing Company. While I was compensated with product for this post, as always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!