Next on the list of our cocktail and appetizer-hopping night in Boulder was Oak at Fourteenth, which I’ve heard good things about for years. It’s been #11 on 5280’s Best Restaurants for 2 years running. It’s the sister restaurant to Acorn, which is in the Source in RiNo.
We somehow snagged a spot at the bar, which was exciting, since the restaurant was quite busy that night. The atmosphere feels cozy, friendly, and like you just stepped into Fall, with a lot of natural woods, autumn colors and decorations, and a seasonally-inspired menu. We ordered cocktails, as well as their Matsutake Mushroom Pasta, which we were told is a must-have.
As you all already know, I love whiskey. Equally, I love apple cider, and the combination in the cocktail I had was perfection. It was their special for the night, and it was perfectly complex, honoring of the whiskey, and unique. And that “leaf” you see on the cocktail, is made out of an apple! I appreciate whiskey cocktails that are different from the typical (yet delicious) Old Fashioned and Manhattan, and they nailed this one.
My sister got the French Assault, which was a brandy cocktail with brandy, Grand Marnier, and orange juice that she said was good, but not as good as her drink at Basta. I tried some, and it was really good, but she likes more fruity cocktails. (Whiskey is on the left, Brandy on the right.)
Our mushroom pasta was fantastic. It was so creamy, fresh, and flavorful. The mushrooms were large and delicious. I shared with my sister, but I really wanted it all for myself. It’s a dish I’ll dream about and have to go back for.
Our new friend we met at the bar ordered the Butternut Squash Soup, and it had a large homemade marshmallow in the center, which she said was amazing. I’m going to have to try that next time!
Our bartender was awesome and very kind. At the end of the meal, he brought us bruschetta on the house, made on delicious large rustic pieces of bread, with giant slices of heirloom tomatoes on them. How nice!
Highly recommend Oak at Fourteenth.
Address: 1400 Pearl Street Boulder, CO 80302