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The Hill Boulder Food Guide: 2025 Edition

September 26, 2025
16 mins read

Looking for where to eat on The Hill in Boulder? Whether you’re a student at CU Boulder or just exploring this iconic neighborhood, this guide covers the best restaurants The Hill Boulder has to offer. From quick bites to sit-down spots, discover places to eat on The Hill Boulder that locals and visitors love.

The Hill Boulder Food Guide: 2025 Edition

University Hill — or simply The Hill — is Boulder’s iconic dining and nightlife district just steps from CU’s campus. Known for its mix of historic eateries, late-night legends, and new chef-driven kitchens, The Hill offers a unique food scene that blends college-town energy with Boulder’s evolving culinary culture.

If you’re wondering where to eat The Hill Boulder, this 2025 guide spotlights the best restaurants The Hill Boulder has to offer, from long-loved staples to brand-new standouts. Whether you’re a CU student, alum revisiting, or a local exploring, here’s the definitive list of places to eat on The Hill Boulder.

Read our Pearl Street Restaurant Guide

The Sink

  • Address: 1165 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (303) 444-7465
  • Yelp Profile: The Sink on Yelp
  • Website: thesink.com
  • Menu: Sink Menus
  • Operating Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–10pm; Fri–Sat 11am–11pm; Sun 11am–10pm

The Sink is more than a restaurant — it’s a Boulder institution. Open since 1923, it’s the city’s oldest operating eatery and a magnet for CU students, alumni, and even U.S. presidents (Obama and Clinton both visited). Its graffiti-covered walls and lively bar make it a must-visit landmark on The Hill.

Customer favorites include the Buddha Basil pizza, the tongue-in-cheek P.O.T.U.S. pizza, juicy burgers, creamy baked mac & cheese, and game-day ready wings. Dessert lovers rave about the giant snickerdoodle and carnival-inspired elephant ears.

With a full bar, happy hour, and TVs tuned to CU Buffs games, The Sink is one of the best restaurants The Hill Boulder for both food and atmosphere.

Half Fast Subs (Reopened 2025)

  • Address: 1215 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (303) 449-0404
  • Yelp Profile: Half Fast Subs on Yelp
  • Operating Hours: Daily 10:30am–11pm (later Thu–Sat; check current schedule)

After a devastating fire in January 2025, Half Fast Subs officially reopened in September — to the delight of generations of CU students. Since 1996, this sub shop has been the go-to spot for massive sandwiches and legendary pitchers.

Must-tries include the Chicken Bacon Ranch sub, Italian combo, hearty meatball sub, and customizable veggie options. The Strong Island pitcher is practically a rite of passage for CU upperclassmen.

Expect long lines during lunch rushes and late nights, but this Hill classic is worth the wait. If you’re compiling a bucket list of restaurants near CU Boulder, Half Fast is non-negotiable.

Illegal Pete’s – The Hill

A burrito chain with deep Boulder roots, Illegal Pete’s is practically synonymous with The Hill. Known for its Mission-style burritos, loaded bowls, and boozy house margaritas, it’s both a pregame spot and a late-night recovery station.

Popular orders include the queso burrito, adobo chicken bowls, and fish tacos. Nachos piled high with Pete’s salsas are a local favorite for sharing.

With music blasting, a full bar, and patio seating, it’s one of the liveliest places to eat on The Hill Boulder.

The Ginger Pig (Boulder)

The Ginger Pig brings Asian street-food energy to The Hill. The full-service restaurant has an upbeat vibe perfect for date nights or casual group dinners.

Fan favorites include the Kkanpunggi (Korean fried chicken), Char Siu pork, and karaage. Lighter bites like the smashed cucumber salad balance the richer options, while the playful Hong Kong French Toast is a must for dessert. Bento boxes and rice bowls round out the menu.

It’s a modern twist on Boulder The Hill food and one of the most distinctive newcomers to the scene.

Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings

This casual dumpling house adds a welcome dose of comfort to The Hill’s dining mix. Known for its quick service and budget-friendly menu, it’s a hit with students and late-night snackers alike.

Best bets include the soup dumplings (XLB), crispy pork potstickers, flaky scallion pancakes, and fluffy bao. Noodle dishes like lo mein and small bites like sesame balls make it easy to order a full spread to share.

Nana’s is one of those restaurants near CU Boulder that delivers both convenience and crave-worthy eats.

Sushi Hana (Hill)

  • Address: 1220 Pennsylvania Ave, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (303) 447-9883
  • Yelp Profile: Sushi Hana on Yelp
  • Website: sushihanaboulder.com
  • Menu: Available on website
  • Operating Hours: Mon 4–10pm; Tue–Sun 12–10pm

Sushi Hana is a student favorite for accessible Japanese fare on The Hill. Its casual setting and late hours make it one of the more reliable sushi spots near campus.

Diners praise rolls like the Pink Lady, Rainbow roll, and spicy tuna roll, while gyoza and miso soup make popular starters. Sushi Hana also offers affordable nigiri sampler plates, giving students and locals a chance to try variety without breaking the bank.

For those searching for places to eat on The Hill Boulder with a lighter option, this Japanese joint is a steady pick.

Café Aion

Sitting just off College Avenue, Café Aion is a cozy brasserie blending Spanish and Moroccan influences. Known for its paella and tapas, the restaurant has earned a reputation as a date-night destination on The Hill.

Standout dishes include papas bravas, French onion soup, moules-frites, and the house paella (made to order, allow ~50 minutes). Comfort classics like coq au vin and steak frites round out the menu, while the Basque cheesecake makes for a memorable finish.

With its intimate setting and refined flavors, Café Aion is among the best restaurants The Hill Boulder for an elevated evening.

Mister Oso (Boulder @ Moxy)

Denver’s beloved Mister Oso arrived on The Hill in 2025, bringing its playful, pan-Latin menu to CU’s doorstep. Located inside the Moxy hotel, the restaurant is equal parts stylish and fun.

Recommended dishes include birria tacos, mojo pork tacos, and queso — paired perfectly with a strong cocktail program. On the lighter side, the Brussels sprouts salad and coconut rice get frequent mentions. Dessert fans gravitate toward the churros.

With its vibrant design and energetic vibe, Mister Oso represents a modern wave of Boulder The Hill food that blends nightlife and dining seamlessly.

Rush Bowls – The Hill

For something healthy and quick, Rush Bowls has been a Hill staple for years. This counter-service spot focuses on smoothies and fruit bowls — perfect for a pre-class breakfast or post-gym refuel.

Local favorites include the Beach Bowl, Summit Bowl, and Power Bowl, along with smoothie blends like Berry Bliss and the Peanut Butter & Jelly Bowl. The “Destination” line of bowls and smoothies adds more adventurous flavor profiles.

If you’re looking for nutritious restaurants near CU Boulder, Rush Bowls is a dependable go-to.

D.P. Dough (Hill)

When it comes to late-night eats on The Hill, few names are as legendary as D.P. Dough. Open until 4am, this counter-service calzone shop fuels CU students through countless all-nighters.

Signature zones include the Buffer Zone (buffalo chicken), Passing Zone (chicken-bacon-ranch), Mac Daddy Zone, and Italian Zone. A “build-your-own” option ensures every craving is covered.

For after-hours dining, D.P. Dough is a cornerstone of Boulder The Hill food, beloved for its combination of affordability, portability, and comfort.

Deli Zone – The Hill

Deli Zone brings New York–style deli sandwiches to The Hill. Popular with students on the go, it’s a reliable stop for hearty breakfast and lunch subs.

The Baby Kong (breakfast sub) is a cult favorite, while sandwiches like the Wall Street, Godfather, and Bronx Bomber keep things classic. Veggie-friendly options like the Veggi Zone are also available. And don’t skip the signature Rasta sauce.

Among places to eat on The Hill Boulder for breakfast, Deli Zone stands out for both speed and satisfaction.

Peckish

Peckish is The Hill’s dedicated chicken wing and tender shop, serving up baskets of fried comfort food with an impressive lineup of sauces. The vibe is casual and sports-bar friendly, with TVs running during big games.

Best-loved items include classic buffalo wings, garlic-parmesan tenders, and spicy Nashville Hot. Vegetarians lean toward the cauliflower wings, while sides like loaded fries make the meal complete.

It’s a top contender in the Boulder The Hill food category when cravings strike for saucy, messy finger food.

Pizza 3.14

When the clock strikes midnight, Pizza 3.14 comes alive. This counter-service slice shop is beloved for thin-crust pies that hit the sweet spot between greasy college food and crave-worthy quality.

Popular orders include Mike’s Hot Pepperoni (finished with Mike’s Hot Honey), The Meats, and Margherita. The NY White satisfies cheese purists, while garlic knots are the snack of choice for sharing.

For late-night restaurants near CU Boulder, Pizza 3.14 is a Hill essential.

Fat Shack (Hill)

Fat Shack is a notorious late-night joint, often serving until nearly 3am on weekends. Known for its over-the-top sandwiches and fried indulgences, it’s a rite of passage for CU students.

The Fat Andy, Fat Doobie, and Fat Cow sandwiches pack everything from mozzarella sticks to chicken tenders inside hoagie rolls. Wings, fried sides, and thick milkshakes round out the menu.

If you’re exploring where to eat The Hill Boulder after midnight, Fat Shack is the move.

Ado’s Kitchen & Bar

A cozier option on The Hill, Ado’s Kitchen & Bar offers globally inspired comfort food with a more sit-down, family-friendly feel.

Highlights include Salt ’n’ Pepper Calamari, Mushroom Crepes, and burgers with house-seasoned fries. Brunch-goers rave about scrambles, pancakes, and truffle fries. For dinner, the salmon entrée often draws praise.

For those who want a more relaxed pace, Ado’s is one of the best restaurants The Hill Boulder to enjoy with friends or family.

Alpine Modern Café (College Ave)

Alpine Modern Café brings Scandinavian-inspired design and food to The Hill. Bright, airy interiors with patio seating make it a go-to café for students and locals.

Signature tartines include the Avocado Tartine and Six-Minute Egg Tartine, while the quinoa bowl, ham & Gruyère melt, and croissants round out the menu. Drinks like the golden chai are especially popular.

It’s one of the most stylish places to eat on The Hill Boulder, particularly for daytime café vibes.

The Corner

The Corner is a fast-casual staple on The Hill, known for its bowls, tacos, and smoothies. Its sunny patio and customizable menu options make it especially popular with health-conscious students.

Favorites include the Corner Bowls (Latin, Paleo, Thai), Mahi tacos, breakfast burritos, and crispy sweet potato fries. Smoothies provide an easy pick-me-up between classes.

For quick, balanced meals, The Corner is a strong entry in the Boulder The Hill food lineup.

The Lab Bar & Bites

The Lab Bar & Bites is a student-favorite hangout with sports-bar energy, pitchers, and comfort food. It’s especially lively during Wing Wednesday, where wings and beers take center stage.

Popular items include the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, green-chile fries, and classic burgers and tenders. The casual bar setting makes it a go-to for group hangs on The Hill.

Aviano Coffee (Moxy Boulder)

Imported from Denver, Aviano Coffee brings third-wave coffee culture to the Moxy Hotel on The Hill. Its sleek design and calm vibe contrast with the bustling Hill energy, making it ideal for studying or catching up with friends.

Customer favorites include cappuccinos, single-origin espresso shots, and rotating seasonal lattes. A small selection of pastries rounds out the offerings.

Lollicup Coffee & Tea (Hill)

Lollicup is a boba and snack stop that’s been serving CU students for years. With fast counter-service and budget-friendly options, it’s one of the busiest grab-and-go spots on The Hill.

Best-sellers include Thai milk tea with boba, Mango milk tea, and Peach green tea. The popcorn chicken and potstickers are cult favorites for quick bites.

The Loving Cup

The Loving Cup is a cozy café-market hybrid serving coffee, baked goods, and light breakfast. The atmosphere is mellow, drawing students and locals looking for something quieter than the Hill’s rowdier options.

Favorites include breakfast burritos, sandwiches, muffins, scones, and crafted lattes.

Insomnia Cookies (Hill)

Famous nationwide for its late-night cookie delivery, Insomnia Cookies is a staple on The Hill, often serving until 3am on weekends.

Fan favorites include Deluxe Chocolate Chunk, Snickerdoodle, and PB Deluxe. You can also build your own cookie ice cream sandwich (“Cookie’wich”) or order brownies and cookie cakes.

Gaia Masala & Burger

Gaia Masala & Burger might be The Hill’s most unexpected fusion joint. The menu runs the gamut from Indian curries to burgers and gyros, offering something for everyone.

Top dishes include chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, and the quirky masala burger. The tikka masala calzone is a standout crossover dish, while mango lassi keeps things refreshing.

Sushi Bento-ria (Hill Mall)

  • Address: 1310 College Ave, Ste 240, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (303) 953-8918
  • Yelp Profile: Bento-ria on Yelp
  • Website: Not available
  • Menu: Not available

Tucked upstairs in the Hill Mall, Sushi Bento-ria is a small, budget-friendly sushi and bento shop. It’s one of those hidden spots that students stumble on and keep in rotation.

Popular orders include salmon poke bowls, California and spicy tuna rolls, miso soup, and gyoza. Bento boxes make it easy for quick, affordable lunches.

(Note: some maps list Bento-ria as permanently closed — check status day-of.)

Seoul Kitchen

  • Address: 1310 College Ave, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (303) 449-5897
  • Yelp Profile: Seoul Kitchen on Yelp
  • Website: Not available
  • Menu: Available via Grubhub

Seoul Kitchen is a family-run Korean spot on The Hill, known for generous portions and homestyle flavors. The atmosphere is simple, but the food draws loyal fans.

Favorites include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bulgogi, bibimbap, kimchi fried rice, japchae noodles, and handmade mandoo dumplings. It’s one of the best places to eat on The Hill Boulder for comfort-heavy Korean fare.

Chicken on the Hill

Part sports bar, part fried chicken shop, Chicken on the Hill is another recent addition to Boulder’s Hill food scene.

Diners rave about the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, baskets of tenders, and creamy mac & cheese. Smaller bites like sliders, fries, and coleslaw round out the menu. Beer pitchers make it easy for groups.

Ajax Tavern (Limelight Boulder)

A high-profile Aspen import, Ajax Tavern arrived in 2025 inside the Limelight Hotel at Broadway and University. It’s polished, upscale, and brings après-ski chic to The Hill.

Signature items include the wagyu double cheeseburger, steak frites, and prime rib dip. Lighter fare like hamachi crudo and roast chicken balance the menu, while cocktails are a strong focus.

For elevated dining near CU, Ajax Tavern is one of the newest best restaurants The Hill Boulder.

Boulder Burger (Hill Mall)

  • Address: 1310 College Ave, Ste 210, Boulder, CO 80302
  • Phone: (720) 548-0776
  • Yelp Profile: Boulder Burger on Yelp
  • Website: Not available
  • Menu: Not available

Upstairs in the College Ave complex, Boulder Burger is a no-frills burger-and-fries stop aimed at students.

Diners note the house burger, classic fries, and even brownies as standouts. Shakes make it a full throwback meal.

Brasserie Boulder

Brasserie Boulder is the sister concept to Café Aion, serving French brasserie classics in the same cozy setting.

Notable dishes include French onion soup, coq au vin, mussels, steak frites, and desserts like crème brûlée. It’s a more relaxed, European-inspired alternative for The Hill crowd.

Thai Avenue (Hill)

A quick-service Thai shop, Thai Avenue is all about flavorful noodle and curry dishes at student-friendly prices.

Go-to picks include Chicken Pad Thai, Street Noodles, Tom Yum soup, Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), and green curry. Egg rolls round out the snack side.

(Note: some status fluctuations have been reported; verify current hours before visiting.)

The Hill Boulder: Quick Reference Guide

With so many restaurants on The Hill Boulder, it helps to see them grouped by type. Whether you’re a CU Boulder student, a visiting parent, or just hungry, here’s how the food scene breaks down.

🍔 Student Favorites & Late-Night Eats

The Hill is legendary for food after dark — perfect for post-party cravings or late study sessions.

  • Half Fast Subs – giant subs & drink pitchers (open late).
  • Fat Shack – outrageous fried “fat sandwiches,” wings, shakes.
  • D.P. Dough – calzones until 4am (Buffer Zone, Mac Daddy).
  • Pizza 3.14 – hot honey pepperoni & late-night slices.
  • Insomnia Cookies – warm cookies & ice cream until 3am.
  • Chicken on the Hill – Nashville hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, pitchers.
  • Peckish – wings & loaded fries, open late on weekends.

🍕 Casual & Fast-Casual Meals

Quick, affordable, and reliable — these are the backbone of The Hill Boulder food scene.

  • Illegal Pete’s – mission-style burritos, queso, margaritas.
  • Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings – soup dumplings, bao, noodles.
  • Sushi Hana – rolls, nigiri, bento boxes.
  • Deli Zone – New York–style breakfast and lunch subs.
  • The Corner – bowls, tacos, smoothies, casual café vibe.
  • Gaia Masala & Burger – Indian curries, gyros, fusion burgers.
  • Sushi Bento-ria – poke bowls, bento, affordable sushi.
  • Seoul Kitchen – homestyle Korean dishes like bibimbap & tteokbokki.
  • Thai Avenue – noodles, curries, and quick Thai classics.
  • Boulder Burger – burgers, fries, shakes.

🍳 Sit-Down & Full-Service Restaurants

If you’re looking for a real dinner spot or somewhere to take visiting family, these shine.

  • The Sink – iconic graffiti-covered pub, pizzas, burgers, and history.
  • Café Aion – tapas, paella, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
  • Brasserie Boulder – French brasserie classics (soup, steak frites, crème brûlée).
  • The Ginger Pig – Asian street food (Korean fried chicken, Hong Kong French Toast).
  • Mister Oso – pan-Latin with tacos, birria, and craft cocktails.
  • Ado’s Kitchen & Bar – global comfort food with brunch & family-friendly vibe.
  • Ajax Tavern (Limelight Boulder) – Aspen import with wagyu burgers, steak frites, and polished après energy.
  • The Lab Bar & Bites – casual wings, burgers, and student bar atmosphere.

☕ Cafés, Coffee & Smoothies

Perfect for mornings, study sessions, or quick caffeine fixes.

  • Alpine Modern Café – Scandinavian-style café with tartines & golden chai.
  • Aviano Coffee (Moxy) – third-wave espresso bar inside the hotel.
  • Rush Bowls – açaí & smoothie bowls, health-focused.
  • Lollicup – boba teas, milk teas, popcorn chicken.
  • The Loving Cup – cozy café with coffee, burritos, and pastries.

🍦 Sweets & Desserts

Because no Hill food crawl is complete without sugar.

  • Insomnia Cookies – late-night cookies & ice cream sandwiches.
  • The Sink – giant snickerdoodle & elephant ears (house desserts).
  • Peckish – sweet & savory loaded fries, dessert wings.
  • Mister Oso – churros with coconut rice (pan-Latin twist).

FAQ: The Hill Boulder Food

Q: What’s the best late-night food on The Hill Boulder?
For sheer hours and crowd energy, D.P. Dough (open until 4am) and Fat Shack (open until ~3am) are student legends. Pizza 3.14 is the fastest grab-and-go for slices after midnight.

Q: Where should I take visiting parents on The Hill Boulder?
Try The Sink (history, CU nostalgia), Café Aion (date-night tapas), or the new Ajax Tavern at the Limelight Hotel for something upscale.

Q: What are the healthiest places to eat on The Hill Boulder?
Rush Bowls (açaí bowls & smoothies), Alpine Modern Café (tartines & bowls), and The Corner (bowls & fresh tacos) are the best bets for lighter fare.

Q: Best CU Boulder pre-game or happy hour spots?
Half Fast Subs (pitchers), Illegal Pete’s (margs & queso), and Chicken on the Hill (sports bar + pitchers) are top picks.

Q: Any hidden gems?
Yes — Seoul Kitchen (authentic Korean comfort), Nana’s Dim Sum (soup dumplings), and Brasserie Boulder (French bistro) don’t get as much buzz but are beloved by locals.

Final Thoughts

The Hill Boulder is one of the most diverse and student-driven dining neighborhoods in Colorado. From late-night calzones to chef-driven tapas to smoothie bowls, it packs an entire city’s worth of dining into a few blocks around CU Boulder.

Whether you’re asking “where to eat The Hill Boulder” before a night out, or searching for the best restaurants The Hill Boulder to impress visitors, this guide covers every spot worth knowing in 2025.

David Lanketh Latest posts

Editor & Publisher, Colorado Food Reviews

David Lanketh is an editor and publisher at Colorado Food Reviews, overseeing the publication’s statewide coverage strategy, contributor development, and editorial standards.

With a background in research-driven content and regional media, David helped launch the platform to fill a gap in Colorado’s food landscape — focusing on overlooked towns, independent restaurants, and consistent, category-based food coverage across the state.

He works closely with the editorial team to develop and review content built on verified public data, social sourcing, and trend analysis. His role includes managing city-by-city rollout plans, setting category coverage priorities, and ensuring every piece meets the publication’s standards for clarity and reliability.

David is based in Colorado and leads expansion efforts to deepen regional coverage and scale the brand’s presence across the state.

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