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Alec Schuler, chef-owner of Boulder’s Arugula Bar e Ristorante (one of our Best New Restaurants in 2009), is at it again, opening two new spots in the past two weeks.
First up is Tangerine, a farm-to-table breakfast and lunch spot with Mediterranean influences. Take in a view of the Flatirons from the patio while you choose from an array of beautiful egg dishes in scrumptious combinations—like the asparagus and mushroom option, which arrives with two local, organic eggs, Hazel Dell mushrooms, charred asparagus, grana Padano cheese, and truffle oil. Or check out the rest of the menu, which is replete with fluffy pancakes, French toast, waffles, and a host of house specialties, such as biscuits with sausage-and-duck-confit gravy. Don’t forget an order of smooth Conscious Coffees for a true early morning delight. One caveat: The high-quality ingredients mean the food’s not cheap; many breakfast dishes are priced from $8 to $11—but you get what you pay for.
For late-night eaters, there’s Schuler’s last addition: Amaro Drinkery Italia. The refreshing menu features 32 handmade cocktails, a moderate selection of wines, and a noteworthy small plate menu. I recommend the chicken-and-duck-liver mousse, silky homemade Burrata, or braised Long Family Farm pork shoulder with the creamiest white polenta in town.
Tangerine, 2777 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303-443-2333
Amaro Drinkery Italia, 2785 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303-443-5100