Upon my arrival in Boulder last fall, my roommate and I would hear about and try out different restaurants. Boulder is a foodie’s dream destination, so we had plenty of options to choose from when we went out. One day, after hearing wonderful things and craving something new, we stumbled into Bartaco, and my lifbe was changed forever.
Let’s talk about Bartaco’s ambience for a minute. The outside seating is awesome for when the weather is nice, but the interior is just as cute and spacious, and somehow I never feel squished even though the place is constantly busy. I also really dig the bar and the bar’s seating area, primarily because the bartenders are fine and I can get my drinks faster.
Speaking of drinks, whew! Those bartenders make their drinks strong. I personally think they have one of the better drink menus on Pearl Street (not open for discussion). Usually, I get the same drink or versions of it when I’m ordering, but so many cocktails on the Bartaco menu just look so pretty and delicious that I feel compelled to order something different every time I go. I was just there over the weekend, and I got a simple margarita with salt on the rim — and boy, did it go straight to my head. ONE margarita! Next time I’m there, I think I’ll either get the Pineapple Express (Libélula Joven + gentian liqueur + orange + mint + lime + passionfruit syrup + chia + Montelobos Mezcal mist) or the Winter Caipirinha (Cachaça 51 + fresh pomegranate + limes + sugar). Either way, I know I’ll be in good hands!
Y’all…the food at Bartaco is simply stunning.
They have some of my all-time favorite appetizers here. The classic chips and guacamole are impeccably fresh and delicious, although I will say it’s slightly on the expensive side. They also serve amazing ceviche, and ya girl loves seafood, so you know that’s on my mind when I walk in. If you’re a fan of elote, GET THE ESQUITES! Trust me.
True to its name, Bartaco has an extensive taco list and even has #secrettacos on the menu from time to time. Their “not taco” menu is also really good, but I’m there for the tacos, and I’m never disappointed. During my last trip, I ordered the following incredible tacos:
- Roasted duck taco (tamarind glaze)
- Chili-lime shrimp taco (w/ jícama escabeche + zesty pepita salsa macha)
- Tuna tatako taco (ancho-crusted tuna + asian slaw [bibb lettuce shell])
- Spiced lamb kofta taco (Mediterranean spiced lamb kofta w/ herb yogurt crema + tabbouleh)
- Seared chorizo taco (Argentinian-style spiced ground pork w/ sweet onion + cilantro + smoky red chimichurri sauce)
- Baja fish taco (spicy tempura-battered cod w/ chipotle slaw)
AND THEY WERE ALL FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!
Unbeknownst to me, Bartaco also offers desserts. The churros with chocolate and vanilla sauces, tres leches with caramel sauce and toasted coconut, and the key-lime pie are already things I like and I just know that Bartaco would do those desserts justice. If you find yourself in Boulder and want to eat something light yet delicious and filling, make your way to Pearl Street and head to Bartaco!