
Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
A beloved Boulder institution, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery offers award-winning house brews and satisfying pub grub in a lively, TV-free atmosphere tha...

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Must-see attractions
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Boulder institution, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery offers award-winning house brews and satisfying pub grub in a lively, TV-free atmosphere that encourages connection.
"Experience the best of Boulder with incredible beers, delicious burgers, and truly outstanding service!"
Bring Cash Only
The pub is cash or check only. An ATM is available on-site, but be aware of potential fees.
Stout Beers Month
Visit in February for Stout Beers Month to enjoy a special selection of unique and strong brews.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Pub Food, Brewery
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Craft Beers
Experience a diverse range of award-winning house-brewed beers, from seasonal specials to unique blends like the Blackberry Wheat.

Mouthwatering Burgers
Indulge in delicious burgers like the bison burger, S.O.B. burger, and classic options, often praised for their perfect cooking.

Lively, Informal Atmosphere
Enjoy a unique, unpretentious gathering place with hippie flair, perfect for socializing and board games, sans TVs.
Plans like a pro.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash Only
The pub is cash or check only. An ATM is available on-site, but be aware of potential fees.
Stout Beers Month
Visit in February for Stout Beers Month to enjoy a special selection of unique and strong brews.
Plan Your Visit
Expect a lively, popular atmosphere. Consider reservations or arriving early to secure a table.
Parking Options
Paid street parking and a parking garage are available nearby for convenience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash Only
The pub is cash or check only. An ATM is available on-site, but be aware of potential fees.
Stout Beers Month
Visit in February for Stout Beers Month to enjoy a special selection of unique and strong brews.
Plan Your Visit
Expect a lively, popular atmosphere. Consider reservations or arriving early to secure a table.
Parking Options
Paid street parking and a parking garage are available nearby for convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is lauded for its exceptional craft beer selection and delicious, well-cooked burgers. Diners consistently praise the friendly and attentive service, contributing to a lively and welcoming atmosphere. While the cash-only policy is a notable point, most find the overall experience to be a fantastic value and a local favorite.
"I had the bison burger and it was as delicious! Beer was good. Atmosphere and service were ok, but not 5 star. Be aware that you need to have cash."
Jill Walter
"Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery: A Must-Visit (Just Bring Cash!)
Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery is an absolute gem in Boulder! My recent visit with my family was fantastic, solidifying its spot as a must-try.
The food is absolutely amazing. My wife and I both had burgers that were cooked perfectly and incredibly flavorful. Our kid devoured the nachos, declaring them "the best ever!" Everything was top-notch and clearly made with quality ingredients.
Beyond the delicious food, the service was wonderful – attentive without being overbearing – and the atmosphere was lively and inviting, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
Just a heads-up: Mountain Sun is cash or check only. Make sure you hit the ATM before you go so you can enjoy every bit of this incredible spot without a hitch!
There is an ATM in the back."
Christian Francis
"Stopped in Boulder for some lunch, drinks and people watching.
Decided to hit this MSPB, and made a good choice.
We ordered Bison Burger, Classic Burger, SOB Burger and all had home fries and chips n salsa.
All burgers were spot on as ordered and loved my Bison Burger... when in Colorado right!! Fries were soooo good, can't beat fresh cut home fries.
Chips all made fresh - salsa was very mild.. ordered a side of the roasted hatch chilies to add, but still didn't have much kick. They did have a hot sauce as well, but we like it hot hot - so if you like mild this is for you.
Food, Service, Atmosphere - ALL VERY GOOD!!! We would come back here for sure on our next visit."
Paul Boyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is cash or check only. They do have an ATM on-site for your convenience.
The bison burger is highly recommended, along with other popular burger options. Their hand-cut fries are also a favorite.
Yes, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery occasionally hosts live music, often on Sundays and Mondays.
The atmosphere is lively, informal, and has a "hippie flair." It's designed to encourage conversation and board games, with no TVs.
Consider visiting in February for Stout Beers Month to experience a special selection of brews.
While specific vegetarian dishes aren't detailed, the menu does mention vegetarian options and they are noted as popular.
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Boulder has at least 25 breweries within the county limits, and for many 20-year-old Mountain Sun is still the hippy king of hops, with a stunning range of brews that aren't available anywhere but the four Sun locations in the area (there's one in Denver, too). The Mountain Sun is a favourite of locals returning from hiking, biking or just perusing the Pearl Street Mall, Boulder's central shopping district. Its small patio is perfect for people-watching, and the atmosphere is lively and informal.
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A local institution with a sister pub and pizzeria (the Southern Sun and Under the Sun, respectively) in south Boulder, this laid-back crowd favorite offers a killer selection of its award-winning brews and always-satisfying burgers and sandwiches.Why go: Walking into this place is like coming home to a family rec room with hippie flair. It’s just plain fun to eat here, and you’ll find everyone from weary hikers to strolling tourists kicking back with a cold one.Price: Bargain
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There are always more than a dozen beers on tap at this casual brewery, which crafts more than 100 beers throughout the year. A favorite is the FYIPA, a dry-hopped American IPA with a citrusy flavor. Stay for a cheeseburger and hand-cut fries, or for live music on Sunday night.
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With a similar friendly and laid-back vibe as its sister location, Mountain Sun, Southern Sun is a place for good beer, good burgers and no-hassle parking…
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Mountain Sun pubs swept this year’s Best of Boulder awards, including best beer selection [gold], craft brewery [silver] and bar [bronze], among many other awards. Those of us who are regular Boulder beer drinkers know Mountain Sun (and its sister pubs and breweries, Southern Sun and Under the Sun) well for its unique and delicious beers, both flagship and seasonal temporaries (stay tuned here at Your Boulder for more about Stout Month). Original downtown Mountain Sun boasts what’s probably (in this author’s opinion, anyway) the best Pearl Street people watching patio in the city.
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It is hard to avoid falling head over heels for the Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery. The wooden booths and carpeted floors, the colourful, hand-drawn chalk art and the closet full of board games make it feel as though you are enjoying that black bean chilli, order of nachos and six flights of fresh-brewed beer in your living room instead of a brew pub. Mountain Sun and its South Boulder sister restaurant Southern Sun brew more than a dozen beers in-house, cook up creative versions of standard bar food and host live music on Sundays and Mondays.
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Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery: There are no frills here, just plenty of Colorado sunshine, great seasonal ales to choose from and – a big plus for Colorado culinary school students – low prices. The brewery purposefully bans TVs from the premises so that guests can relax and enjoy a board game, some friendly conversation and, of course, a focus on the beer in front of them. Great ales to try out include the Blackberry Wheat (a bestseller), Jah Mon Ginger (made with crushed ginger and fresh lemongrass) and the always-hoppy Colorado Kind Ale.
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Situated in downtown Boulder, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery exudes a cozy and inviting vibe, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Brewing a rotating selection of handcrafted beers on-site, Mountain Sun prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, which make up the majority of their kitchen menu, and sustainable brewing practices. Whether you’re craving a classic pale ale or a seasonal specialty, Mountain Sun offers something for every beer aficionado to enjoy.
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On the east end of Pearl St. is another long-time favorite of mine, Mountain Sun, where I spent many, many Saturday nights. (Its sister Boulder location is Southern Sun.) It’s a place that wants you to feel like you’re in your living room, except for one thing – there are no TVs. The narrow space has a large communal table at its center that encourages patrons to talk to each other, play games and cards, and listen to live music as they enjoy microbrews and fresh comfort food.
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is a haven for those who cherish good food and great beer in equal measure. The spicy fried chicken sandwich, known as the Red Rooster, stands out for its bold flavors and satisfying crunch, encapsulating the pub’s commitment to elevating pub fare. With a lively atmosphere and a broad selection of house-brewed beers, Mountain Sun is a community hub where friends can gather, share a meal, and enjoy the simple pleasures of well-crafted food and drink.
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One of Boulder’s longest standing and most reliable brewers, the Mountain Sun (along with its sister breweries spread throughout the front range) has been pumping out kegs of fresh Colorado beer since 1993. Even though it’s not the oldest brewery in town, the Mountain Sun sits in the heart of Boulder, along the famous Pearl Street Mall, and is arguably Boulder’s most iconic brewery, with food and styling that embodies the adventurous spirit of the community.
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Nestled in the picturesque city of Boulder, Colorado, lies the whimsical Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery. Boasting a menu as diverse as a chameleon on roller skates, this quirky establishment is a haven for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. Prepare to be enchanted by the tantalizing aromas of their craft brews, served by staff members who are so friendly, they can make even the most introverted hiker feel like the life of the après-ski party.
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Beginning as an overnight cook at King Soopers doing “scoop and serve stuff,” Bissell moved on to act as a prep cook at the Mountain Sun, assuming a managerial role at the Southern Sun after graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder. He was part of the opening team at Old Major before moving over to Acorn to work under Watts — who Bissell labels his prime mentor. “He has uncompromising standards no matter what,” he said.
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Located right on Pearl Street, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is the epitome of Boulder’s laid-back, community-focused spirit. This brewery doesn’t just serve beer; it serves good vibes and a commitment to social responsibility. Their six-barrel brewing system churns out some of the freshest and most flavorful beers in town, while their mission to promote environmental stewardship and employee equity sets them apart.
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Its locally brewed beers have won a slew of medals, including multiple golds at the Great American Beer Festival. Mountain Sun is often packed — the burgers, burritos, and other affordable menu items draw crowds for dinner. Other tap houses and breweries semi-walkable from Pearl include The Post (2027 13th Street), Sanitas (3550 Frontier Ave), Kettle & Spoke (2500 47th Street), and Twisted Pine (3201 Walnut).
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery offers a sanctuary for those seeking solace and community in the heart of the city. Its cozy vibe is like a warm embrace, inviting you to settle in with a strong, meticulously crafted beer. This smaller, intimate brewery experience feels like gathering in a friend’s living room, where conversations flow as freely as the beer, and the ambiance encourages relaxation and connection.
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery in Boulder is a gem among the city's brewery scene. From the moment you step foot inside, you're greeted by a friendly staff who are not only knowledgeable about their beers but genuinely passionate about their craft. The great service is evident from the moment you take a seat at the bar, as the staff is quick to offer recommendations and make you feel right at home.
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Mountain Sun on Pearl Street in the heart of downtown Boulder offers a more intimate setting to grab a pint. Adorned with Grateful Dead-inspired décor, the brewpub serves award-winning beer (four gold medals from the Great American Beer Festival) and a well-rounded food menu with ample vegetarian options. The company also operates brewpubs in South Boulder and Longmont, Colorado.
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Mountain Sun is a Boulder staple and a hot spot among the locals. This relaxing, locally owned pub, located right on the Pearl Street Mall, brews more than 75 different types of craft beer throughout the year that you can use to wash down a pretty naughty and delicious menu. Mountain Sun rounds off its offerings with live music and even an open bluegrass pick, all for free.
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The Mountain Sun in Boulder is a longtime source for live local bluegrass and acoustic artists. But its other locations in Denver and Longmont have been taking up the torch in their respective communities. Check out Longs Peak Pub, which opened in 2014 at 600 Longs Peak Ave. in Longmont, as an alternative Sun-y musical experience, or the Southern Sun, at 627 S.
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Mountain Sun, and its sister branch on South Broadway, Southern Sun, are favorite local hangouts. They brew their own craft beer (more than 75 different types throughout the year) and serve up guilty pub grub, which you can enjoy to live acoustic, bluegrass and folk several nights a week (typically Wednesday, Sunday and Monday). Got a skill to share?
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This craft brewery has three locations in Boulder: Mountain Sun, Southern Sun, and Under the Sun. After hitting one of Boulder’s many hiking trails, we often head over to Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery for a burger and a beer. The menu is also filled with sandwiches, burritos, and more, but we almost always get the sweet and spicy Date Night burger!
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In a city known for being laid back and relaxed, this brewery fits right in. The casual atmosphere and attentive service pair perfectly with the low prices and amazing beer. There are no televisions, no noisy music; just great food and great beer in a super cozy environment, making this spot a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
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The Mountain Sun is the local rock climber’s hot spot for great burgers and micro-brews. Boulder is famous for its brew pubs and you could try a new one every night of the week with a side of bluegrass music!. Jump in the car and head out to Avery Brewery (about 15 minutes from The Bradley) and try one of their fresh new hops.
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The Grateful Dead are alive and well, at least as a decorative motif, at this tie-dye styled brewpub that features some of the best beer in the region. For a kick, try the coffee-inspired Java Porter. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will appreciate the well rounded menu, affordable, food featuring high-quality pub fare.
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This brewpub, the first of five around the state, exudes Colorado drinking at its finest. What do we mean by that?. At Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery, the mission is to not only brew the highest-quality beers on its six-barrel system but also to promote community engagement, environmental stewardship, and employee equity.
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Boulder's best microbrewery offers some interesting suds to say the least. Beyond the flagship Colorado Kind Ale, there are beers brewed with chocolate, coffee, and raspberries flowing from the tap, and seasonal experiments are the norm. The menu includes burritos, burgers, and a…
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If your lunch break allows you time to enjoy a sit down meal, go to Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery. Create your own version of a grilled cheese, or consume one of their many sandwiches/burgers options for under $15. You will go back to work with a full belly and a smile on your face.
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It seems like many breweries in Boulder take awards home, as the Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is another establishment with an accumulated number of awards. They have won multiple awards from BoB. When you visit their taproom, you try out their top beers for free as samples.
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery in South Boulder is a great brewery if you have an appetite!. They use only the best ingredients in both their beer and food. They love to experiment with fun, exciting, and bold flavours but they’ve got a solid lineup of the classics as well.
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Mountain Sun: A local favorite, Mountain Sun offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, emphasizing high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Their welcoming atmosphere and dedication to serving top-notch ales make them a key player in Boulder's microbrewery scene.
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For a touch of Boulder's craft culture, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery presents an array of homebrewed delights in a warm, community-centered environment. With no TV screens, the focus here is on good beer and great conversations — and perhaps a board game or two.
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Taste beer from the original Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery to see how its success has started numerous Boulder breweries. It’s located in Pearl Street Mall is where it all started. Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery opened in 1993 to serve its signature craft beer.
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Another popular restaurant in Boulder that’s located on Pearl Street is Mountain Sun. I like to meet up with friends here since it’s a bar with a louder, more energetic atmosphere. At Mountain Sun you can drink some beer and have some good bar food.
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Mountain Sub Pub & Brewery has several locations in Boulder, Denver, and Longmont. The additional location in Boulder is Southern Sun Pub & Brewery. Mountain Sun has a six-barrel brewery and is located on busy Pearl Street in downtown Boulder.
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- Rating: 4.4/5 (1794 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 1535 Pearl St. Boulder, Colorado - Categories: Pubs, Burgers, Breweries- Read more on Yelp. You may also like:Highest-rated cafes in the Boulder area by diners
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Some of the most popular are The Post Brewing Co. and Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery. If that’s not your thing, the varied nightlife also offers live music, cocktails, or anything else you may be looking for.
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Two chocolate-infused brews to try: Mountain Sun’s Chocolate Dip Stout (into which brewers crush 10-pound Belgian chocolate bars) or Avery’s Vanilla Bean Stout (with chocolate essences).
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A craft brewery and chain of brew pubs, Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries has four locations. Each location serves a variety of craft beers, in addition to a full menu of pub fare.
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery is famous for its extensive craft beer selection and folksy atmosphere with live acoustic music. You’ll be raving about the XXX Pale Ale for days.
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Wild Mountain Brewery offers Kids Eat Free on the first Tuesday of each month. For kids 12 and under with a paying adult. 70 East First Street, Nederland.
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Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery 1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886; mountainsunpub.com. Pub fare with vegetarian options. Temporarily closed due to COVID.
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Discover the finest craft beers and live music in Boulder at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery, where every visit is a celebration of local flavors.
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Another classic burger spot is Mountain Sun; they brew all their own beer and it’s a good place to sit out front and people-watch.
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