Five Places Worth Trying This Weekend

FOR A QUICK LUNCH: Cured Boulder

A jaunt up U.S. 36 for a day trip to Boulder presents natural beauty, potential for adventure, and a collection of culinary options. This couple-owned cafe housed inside the same space as Boxcar Coffee Roasters on Pearl Street offers meticulously filled shelves of gourmet market goods, rotated regularly. A hand-picked selection of cheeses, charcuterie boards, European-style sandwiches, fresh salads, house-made pastas, and pates are all perfect for a picnic or spontaneous meal on-the-go.

FOR DRINKS: Bar Max

This gathering space in a former hair salon on East Colfax presents a simple, loungy atmosphere with a notable bar program and a small, subtle kitchen. Socializing is encouraged over twists on classic cocktails, a selection of boutique spirits, wine, and beer. Under the cocktail category “Shaken,” is the Beat Poet, with Irish whiskey, coffee liqueur, cream, and bitters. The “Spice” selection includes a Bloody Madison, complete with vodka, caper berry, sriracha, and lemon.

FOR DINNER: Beatrice & Woodsley

A romantic eatery that feels like it floated out of someone’s imagination onto South Broadway, as far as date night goes, Beatrice and Woodsley is a sure thing. Diners here will discover a dimly lit space filled with aspen trees and soft white drapes overhead. A few small bites start off the list of fare, ranging from mussels to beignets, followed by mains, including a sweet pea tortellini and parsnip steak. A wide variety of liquid potions take creative liberties with classic cocktails, and the wine list is extensive. Also, the bathrooms are a real conversation-starter.

FOR BRUNCH: Abejas

Twice a week from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., this seasonal eatery, housed in what was once a Piggly Wiggly Wholesale Grocery Store in Golden, serves a bountiful brunch menu. The menu is built on strong relationships with local farmers and community suppliers, featuring seasonal ingredients and flavors. Items such as potato pancakes, smoked salmon Benedict, duck eggs, and more can be found here.

ALL DAY: Punch Bowl Social Stapleton

Located below the former Stapleton Airport air traffic control tower, the 10th location of this restaurant, bar, and arcade destination opened last fall with six bowling lanes, private karaoke rooms, bocce courts, and more. While working up an appetite with all the activities, customers should try the all-day food menu crafted by celebrity chef Hugh Acheson. It includes biscuits and gravy, mini fried bologna and cheese sandwiches, gluten-free Southern fried chicken, and much more.

• Even More Places to Try This Weekend [EDEN]