Boulder, Colo., receives many accolades for its standard of living; commitment to outdoor recreation; food scene; and, in recent years, the collection of thriving microbreweries that keep locals and visitors alike guzzling some of the most delicious concoctions in the Colorado Front Range.
New to this already diverse scene is BRU. Its young vibe, edgy food and complex beer will impress even the most rigid of ale snobs. This combination's sure to serve as a perfect treat after work or during weekend festivities.
Located in East Boulder, just off Foothills and Arapahoe, this brewpub is tucked away in its own cozy little corner, away from the traffic and distractions of the downtown area.
BRU perfectly pairs their unique beers with sumptuous menu options — Photo courtesy of BRU
"Handbuilt Ales"
The unique beers of BRU derive their complexity from the variety of spices, sugars, sweets and roots utilized to create a sensory feast for drinkers.
A favorite, the Obitus is an American Brown Ale with caramelized sugar and dates. This sweet yet savory beer tastes of chocolate and smells like your grandmother's kitchen on pie day. Pairing perfectly with strong cheeses but quite delicious on its own, the Obitus is the perfect seasonal dark beer.
For IPA lovers, BRU has created the Citrum, with juniper and lemon zest. This beer goes down light and refreshing but still packs a hoppy punch. Its subtle tartness will bring back memories of sucking on Lemonheads as a kid. The drink pairs well with juicy burgers, light sandwiches and salads.
BRU's warm and hip environment makes for the perfect drinking spot — Photo courtesy of BRU
The Eats
Start off your evening at BRU with one of their ample shared plates, including the inventive Horseraddish Popcorn or Cheddar and Corn Fritters with charred red jelly.
Continue your sampling of their unique fare with either the Crispy Fried Chicken – glazed in red chili honey and perfectly complimented by the buttermilk biscuits and collard greens – or one of their filling and original sourdough pizzas.
Happy Hour, celebrated daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., is another area where BRU really shines. Small plates that are anything but small go for $2 to $5, and select beers are on special for $3/16 ounces and $5/22 ounces.
The Sweets and Treats
Beer and dessert don't have to be mutually exclusive. Try BRU's Beer Float, and choose your ale. In the mood for something decadent and imaginative? Treat yourself to the Blackberry and Peach Cobbler with ginger ice cream.
For those of you who are interested in purchasing a beer sampler, BRU is happy to accommodate. In fact, it's highly recommended that you do so in order to get a comprehensive feel for their extensive selection.