When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Boulder Social
Why Boulder Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Boulder Social stands out as a vibrant and welcoming brewpub and restaurant located on 38th Street in Boulder, Colorado. Established in late 2022, this venue has quickly become a favored spot for locals and visitors alike who seek a lively social atmosphere combined with quality craft beer and delicious food. The spacious layout offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it a versatile location for casual hangouts, celebrations, and larger gatherings with customizable catering menus. One of Boulder Social's defining features is its in-house brewery, offering a selection of five house-brewed beers complemented by a rotating lineup of local guest brews, exemplifying their commitment to craft beer culture. The food menu is equally impressive, featuring a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes—from their signature fresh-shucked oysters and poke bowls to hearty burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and vegan options like the Vegan Reuben, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. Additionally, Boulder Social fosters a strong community vibe by hosting weekly live entertainment with local musicians, making it a true social hub in Central Boulder. Its convenient location near major fairways and easy access to downtown Boulder and Denver add to its appeal as an ideal meetup spot for friends seeking great food, drinks, and entertainment.
Here's what people think of Boulder Social
As of recent, Boulder Social holds a 4.2-star rating based on 240 reviews.
Reviewers generally express strong satisfaction with Boulder Social, highlighting its appealing blend of quality food, craft beer, and a fun social atmosphere. The positive reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, mentioning especially the bartenders who excel in recommendations and service. Visitors enjoy the diverse menu, often emphasizing the Cajun chicken pasta and the variety in the house-brewed beers. The venue's event calendar with live music and the spacious seating arrangements—allowing for indoor and outdoor options—is frequently appreciated for accommodating groups and providing a lively yet comfortable environment. However, some negative feedback points to early teething problems with the brewery's equipment causing delays in beer availability initially, and a few customers felt portions or flavors were pedestrian or just mediocre. A minority noted that the experience fell short in terms of uniqueness or exceptional culinary distinction. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many reviewers recommending Boulder Social as a great neighborhood hub to eat, drink, and socialize. The management appears responsive to feedback and committed to continual improvement, reinforcing its growing reputation within the Boulder community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Enright
Boulder Social offers excellent food and beer. The Smoked Pork Chili deserves 5 stars, and the beer was great. The staff were also commendable. Highly recommend visiting.
Lake Bishop
This place have some of the best food I've ever had a special for bar food! I tried the chicken fingers that have jalapenos blue cheese crumbles and bacon on them! They were amazing some of the best food I've had in a long time my wife got a turkey club that was just an eye for and the wings were good as well. It seems like whoever curated their menu did a great job of making bar food special.
Alyssa Kwiatkowski
Visiting Boulder and came to eat on 7/5 after softball. Had Brussels sprouts, smash burger side salad very clean tasting and good. Others had the pizza, too much crust for me but very good flavor. The breaded chicken sandwich looked amazing and it was huge! Fries very good. Came back on 7/6 to try the wings. They did not disappoint. I had buffalo and the dry rub. Both very delicious! I would ask for all dry rub with a side of the buffalo sauce. The only bummer for me is that there were only 2 flats out of 6. Flats are my favorite. Service was good and the TVs are great. They put thenCubs on by request.
Melanie Pearl
Fun place for happy hour! They have great beers that they brew in-house. The West Coast IPA was smooth and delicious. The fish & chips were really good- light crispy batter made with in-house beer. The slaw was unique and delicious. The prime rib sliders were cooked perfectly and delicious aus jus. Nice atmosphere and friendly service.
Linda Dziadyk
I have been to Boulder Social on several occasions and have been happy with the quality of the food and the service. I was there this evening for happy hour. Fried pickles are no longer on the menu, sorry to hear that. Happy hour cocktail shrimp is now $9 for 6 shrimp so that is $1.50 each. Prices and quantities have changed and not for the better. My stomach is not feeling well right now. Disappointed with the food and prices. Won't be back.
Michael Enright
Boulder Social offers excellent food and beer. The Smoked Pork Chili deserves 5 stars, and the beer was great. The staff were also commendable. Highly recommend visiting.
Lake Bishop
This place have some of the best food I've ever had a special for bar food! I tried the chicken fingers that have jalapenos blue cheese crumbles and bacon on them! They were amazing some of the best food I've had in a long time my wife got a turkey club that was just an eye for and the wings were good as well. It seems like whoever curated their menu did a great job of making bar food special.
Alyssa Kwiatkowski
Visiting Boulder and came to eat on 7/5 after softball. Had Brussels sprouts, smash burger side salad very clean tasting and good. Others had the pizza, too much crust for me but very good flavor. The breaded chicken sandwich looked amazing and it was huge! Fries very good. Came back on 7/6 to try the wings. They did not disappoint. I had buffalo and the dry rub. Both very delicious! I would ask for all dry rub with a side of the buffalo sauce. The only bummer for me is that there were only 2 flats out of 6. Flats are my favorite. Service was good and the TVs are great. They put thenCubs on by request.
Melanie Pearl
Fun place for happy hour! They have great beers that they brew in-house. The West Coast IPA was smooth and delicious. The fish & chips were really good- light crispy batter made with in-house beer. The slaw was unique and delicious. The prime rib sliders were cooked perfectly and delicious aus jus. Nice atmosphere and friendly service.
Linda Dziadyk
I have been to Boulder Social on several occasions and have been happy with the quality of the food and the service. I was there this evening for happy hour. Fried pickles are no longer on the menu, sorry to hear that. Happy hour cocktail shrimp is now $9 for 6 shrimp so that is $1.50 each. Prices and quantities have changed and not for the better. My stomach is not feeling well right now. Disappointed with the food and prices. Won't be back.
How to reach Boulder Social
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Why Boulder Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Boulder Social with your friends?
Boulder Social offers an inviting atmosphere that makes it the ideal spot to gather with friends, family, or colleagues. With its locally owned and operated ethos, this restaurant and craft brewery has cultivated a vibrant yet comfortable environment where social hangouts naturally thrive. Whether you want to enjoy a casual lunch, a festive happy hour, a relaxed dinner, or even a weekend brunch, Boulder Social caters to a variety of social occasions. The spacious interior, featuring a large wrap-around bar and ample dining space, encourages group conversations and shared experiences. Additionally, its two dog-friendly heated covered patios mean that you can bring along furry friends, adding a further layer of warmth and community to your meetup. Plenty of parking is available, solving a frequent challenge of group outings. The blend of freshly brewed in-house craft beers, delicious cocktails, and well-crafted food means that no matter your preference, there’s something to satisfy everyone. This combination of welcoming space, versatile dining options, and a strong community vibe makes Boulder Social a compelling rallying point for any social gathering.
What kinds of food and drinks can groups expect at Boulder Social?
Boulder Social is a culinary hub where guests can enjoy a menu that caters to a range of tastes, making it perfect for diverse groups. Their offerings include American-style dishes that are thoughtfully prepared to complement their craft beers and cocktails. Whether your group prefers hearty meals, light bites, or small plates designed for sharing, Boulder Social delivers with quality and flavor. The freshly brewed in-house craft beer selection is a particular highlight, crafted to appeal to beer enthusiasts seeking unique flavors. Happy hour specials include cocktails, beer, and wine, allowing your group to enjoy premium drinks at great value. The kitchen’s commitment to fresh and delicious food ensures that meals not only taste great but also pair well with their extensive beverage menu. By offering lunch, dinner, late-night options, and weekend brunch, Boulder Social accommodates group meetups at virtually any time of day. This range ensures your gathering can be tailored to your group's schedule and appetites, from midday catch-ups to evening celebrations.
What activities and amenities make Boulder Social perfect for group meetups?
Boulder Social stands out as a premier social destination not just for its food and drinks but because of its thoughtfully designed amenities catering to groups. The large wrap-around bar is a social focal point where friends can gather, chat, and sample a rotating list of craft beers and cocktails. Two heated, covered patios provide outdoor spaces that are dog-friendly, making it a rare venue where everyone—even pets—can join the fun, especially on cooler days or evenings. The spacious dining area is flexible and comfortable, perfect for groups ranging from casual hangouts to more organized meetups. For larger gatherings, Boulder Social offers private and semi-private event spaces suitable for celebrations like rehearsal dinners, graduation parties, baby showers, or corporate events. Ample parking facilitates convenient arrivals and departures for everyone in your group. Add free Wi-Fi and a full bar into the mix, and it’s easy to see why Boulder Social is a one-stop spot for both casual social experiences and special occasions alike.
How does Boulder Social support different types of social gatherings?
Boulder Social is designed with versatility in mind, thriving as a venue for a multitude of social occasions. Whether your group outing calls for a relaxed brunch with friends, a lively happy hour after work, a family dinner, or a private celebration, Boulder Social can accommodate. Their flexible meeting and event spaces can be reserved for special events — from wedding rehearsal dinners and receptions to baby showers and corporate get-togethers. This adaptability makes it a top choice for groups seeking a venue capable of shaping itself around their unique social needs. The staff can facilitate arrangements that ensure your event runs smoothly, providing attentive service without sacrificing the casual, friendly vibe Boulder Social is known for. This flexibility expands the possibilities for group meetups, enabling both small and large gatherings to enjoy the space comfortably and enjoyably.
Why is the location and environment at Boulder Social beneficial for hosting meetups?
Located conveniently at 1600 38th Street in Boulder, Colorado, Boulder Social benefits from easy access and ample parking, an important consideration for group gatherings. The combination of indoor and heated outdoor seating options means guests can choose their preferred setting regardless of the weather. The dog-friendly policy on the patios also appeals to pet owners who want their companions to share in the social experience. The overall ambiance merges a vibrant pub atmosphere with the welcoming charm of a neighborhood spot, striking a balance between lively and laid-back that is ideal for catching up and creating memorable moments. The large wrap-around bar not only serves as a practical gathering point but also adds to the immersive social experience, where the energy of craft brewing and conviviality converge. This balance of accessibility, ambiance, and amenities positions Boulder Social as an inviting hub in the community.
How do customer reviews reflect the experience at Boulder Social?
Customers consistently rate Boulder Social positively, reflecting satisfaction with the atmosphere, food, and beverage offerings. With a solid rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on over 240 reviews, guests highlight the welcoming environment and the quality of the in-house craft beer as standout features. Many reviews praise the friendly and attentive service, noting how it enhances the group dining and social experience. Visitors also appreciate the variety on the menu and the well-curated drink selections, especially during happy hour where value meets quality. Some reviewers mention the heated patios as a unique draw, particularly for groups wanting to bring dogs along. While no business is without occasional critiques, the overall sentiment is that Boulder Social provides a dependable and enjoyable setting for social gatherings, which helps build a loyal customer base and makes it a recommended spot for meetups, celebrations, and casual hangouts alike.
What makes Boulder Social a great value for group social outings?
Boulder Social balances quality and affordability, making it a practical choice for groups who want to enjoy a memorable outing without breaking the bank. Their price range falls within the moderate $$-$$$ category, which is reasonable considering the freshness of ingredients, house-brewed craft beers, and expertly mixed drinks provided. The availability of happy hour specials for drinks and small plates delivers additional savings for groups looking to maximize both social time and budget. The various seating options, from the large bar to heated patios and spacious dining areas, offer choices that accommodate different group sizes and preferences without a premium price tag. Coupled with convenient parking and flexible event spaces, Boulder Social provides comprehensive value that extends beyond just food and drink. This holistic approach to pricing and experience makes it an attractive venue for anyone planning a social outing, whether for casual meetups or special occasions.
Why does the community feel connected to Boulder Social?
Boulder Social has established itself as more than just a restaurant or brewery; it serves as a community gathering place where people come to share in the joy of food, drink, and company. Its local ownership underpins a neighborhood-first attitude that resonates with patrons who appreciate supporting independent businesses. The welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and dog-friendly policies foster a sense of inclusivity that invites repeated visits and lasting relationships. The ability to host a variety of events, from casual dinners to milestone celebrations, strengthens its role as a communal hub. This connection is reinforced by the emphasis on craft brewing and quality food, reflecting Boulder’s local culture and tastes. As such, Boulder Social is often regarded not just as a place to eat and drink, but as a social anchor where friendships are forged and memories are made.