Contributing to Boulder's reputation as a great place to eat are chefs Matthew Jansen, Modou Jaiteh, and Megill Stewart. Bringing their talents to the culinary scene, they operate local favorites Mateo, Raglin Market, Jacaranda, and Big Daddy's Texas BBQ.
From the upscale charm of Mateo to the fresh-casual delights of Raglin Market, the West African-inspired creations of Jacaranda, and the irresistible BBQ from Big Daddy's, these restaurants are more than just dining destinations; they are pillars of a thriving, inclusive community, enriching Boulder's vibrant culinary scene.
Bringing a diverse array of flavors and traditions, these notable restaurants are making their mark in Boulder:
Mateo
Nestled in the heart of Boulder, Mateo brings fine French dining to Pearl Street. This chic, sophisticated spot brings an exquisite blend of upscale elegance and cozy charm, making it a go-to destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience.
Founded in 2001 by Matthew Jansen, Mateo is chef and owner-operated with a culinary artistry inspired by the picturesque Provence Region of Europe. The menu boasts a delightful array of options, from juicy burgers and crispy fries to succulent duck confit and flavorful lamb bolognese. And if you're looking for the perfect brunch spot, Mateo has you covered on the weekends.
What sets Mateo apart is its commitment to using local ingredients in crafting delectable dishes that reflect the flavors of Provence. Complementing their seasonal menu, the restaurant offers a curated wine list featuring small-batch French and Italian varietals.
Mateo has firmly established itself as a beloved local gem that prides itself on supporting the community by sourcing from nearby farmers and ranchers. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outdoors or opt for the convenience of takeout, this cozy, chic ambiance ensures you feel right at home while savoring an elevated dining experience.
Raglin Market
Located in the burgeoning Gunbarrel Center of Boulder, Raglin Market stands as another culinary gem under the visionary leadership of Chef and Owner Matthew Jansen.
Jansen chose the name Raglin Market in homage to his birth name, Raglin, a traditional Jamaican moniker. Following Mateo's resounding success, Raglin Market emerged in 2018 as Chef Jansen's fresh-casual dining concept. This venture embodies the ethos of sourcing farm-fresh ingredients while delivering family-friendly, casual-fine dining to Gunbarrel.
The driving vision for the Market was clear: to create a fresh-casual dining haven where the remarkable quality of food and wine experienced abroad could be savored right at home. This eatery seamlessly combines the allure of chef-made sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts with a captivating focus on the art of winemaking and libations.
Raglin Market has become a daily retreat for those seeking handcrafted, health-conscious fare that adheres to the highest culinary standards. The restaurant prides itself on consistently delivering outstanding cuisine, exceptional wines, thirst-quenching beers, and finely crafted cocktails in an inviting and warm ambiance.
It's an ideal destination for unwinding after a productive day and achieves its mission of offering exceptional and affordable cuisine. With Raglin Market, Jansen enthusiastically connects with the Boulder community, bringing farm-fresh flavors to the table and creating a distinctive dining experience that resonates with local sensibilities.
Jacaranda
Jacaranda, a West African dining experience that once stood in Rosetta Hall, added a vibrant touch to Boulder's culinary scene. As one of the independent restaurants within this trendy food hall, Jacaranda offered diners an exquisite rooftop vantage point, affording picturesque views of the iconic Flatirons.
Chef Modou Jaiteh, the creative force behind Jacaranda, has carved out a niche with his signature dish–a delectable peanut butter stew featuring succulent Boulder lamb, fried plantains, and a hint of kimchi. This flavorful concoction leaves an indelible mark on your taste buds, and it's no surprise that it has become a favorite for many. Additionally, the menu boasts a mouthwatering vegetarian option, the Ghana Po Boy, among other West African-inspired delights.
With a steadfast commitment to using fresh, locally sourced components and a pantry brimming with spices and ingredients native to the region, Jacaranda offers a distinct and scrumptious West African dining opportunity, now in their current home of South Carolina.
Big Daddy's Texas BBQ
Big Daddy's Texas BBQ is more than just a food truck; it's a culinary ambassador, bringing the bold and flavorful tastes of the Lone Star State to the Mile High City. With owner Megill "Big Daddy" Stewart at the helm, a barbecue maestro with over two decades of experience, you can expect nothing less than perfection from every bite.
With location updates being regularly communicated through their social media, Big Daddy's Texas BBQ pops up all over. Beyond Boulder, Big Daddy's Texas BBQ proudly serves all of Colorado, with catering services available from Ft. Collins, Boulder, and Denver to Colorado Springs, and even venturing into the mountains and beyond.
With their commitment to delivering outstanding BBQ experiences, this Texas-style casual dining has become a must-try destination for BBQ aficionados across the region.
