If you're on vacation in Boulder, you have a free pass to sample the treats of the town. Gelato, truffles, cookies, pasteries — try it all. Below are some favorites.
805 Pearl Street (map)
(303) 449-4804
Website
Sometimes you just need a truffle. Or two. Or a piece of cake. Or perhaps a chocolate-making class. Piece, Love & Chocolate has all that, and more. With over 50 truffle flavors lined up in neat rows, PL&C is a great place to treat yourself after strolling around Boulder. Umbrella-shaded seats out front make for a nice resting place.
1021 Pearl Street (map) / 1433 Pearl Street (map)
(720) 456-6132 / (720) 269-4117
Website
Not one, but two Gelato Boys make their home on Pearl Street. Famous for their dairy-free, vegan, and other unique options, the Boys are popular spots. From deep chocolate gelato to colorful fruit sorbets, you'll have a variety of flavors to choose between. Located near 10th street and 14th street on opposite sides of the mall.
767 Pearl Street (map)
(303) 449-6773
Website
This hidden gem on West Pearl street offers a tasty selection of breads, cakes, cookies, and specialty coffee drinks. Many are gluten-free. Spruce's sidewalk patio is a treat, and the south-facing location means that you can lounge in the winter sun. Cyclists, students, and entrepreneurs mingle on warm weekend mornings. Friendly staff and a great view of tree-lined West Pearl makes Spruce a lovely place to visit.
1203 Pearl Street (map)
(303) 444-5725
Website
Although there are over 600 Ben & Jerry's ice cream shops around the world, the Boulder location is centrally located in the middle of the Pearl Street mall. Across the street is Haagen-Dazs if you prefer those flavors. Both shops are open until at least 11:00 pm in case you're craving a treat late in the evening. Another local ice cream option is Sweet Cow (2628 Broadway), just five blocks north of Pearl.
900 Walnut Street (map)
(720) 406-7399
Website
The back patio of the St Julien Hotel is a beautiful place to enjoy a dessert and drink. Jill's restaurant employs some highly skilled pastry chefs, and offers a rotating dessert menu. Variations of the creme brulees are always delightful.
Dessert lovers may also want to try Petite Fleur at Rosetta Hall (1109 Walnut Street), just a block away from the St Julien. The Belgian Chocolate Cake there is wonderful.