A couple weeks have passed since I visited some old friends in Colorado. Just like me, they left in exodus from our home state of Illinois. While I left for a warm climate, they found a cold, but beautiful area surrounded by mountains. I was fortunate to stay at their home in Arvada, CO, just outside of Denver. I started off my vacation by taking the train into downtown Denver while I waited for them to end the workday. The first day of my trip was filled with breweries, barbecue, and well..more breweries. The beer was wonderful, but here’s 5 lesser known spots around Denver and Boulder that I absolutely loved.

#1. Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

Before our hike, we stopped for brunch at this wonderful teahouse. The teahouse had been built in Dushanbe, Tajikstan, many years ago, taken apart, and shipped to Boulder. The teahouse boasted Indian and Tajikstani style food with an American twist. Surrounded by the Tajikstani background, the tea list was extensive. We finally settled on a “Silver Pu-erh tea”. For our meal, I had a scrambled egg sandwich with onions and peppers. To my surprise, it was flavored with Indian spices — Not the American breakfast you’d expect. The Dushanbe Teahouse is a must-see in Boulder!

#2. Akihabara Arcade and Bar

8901 N Harlan St, Westminster, CO 80031

Akihabara has a number of beers and Japanese arcade games. These games are..all in Japanese, which makes it difficult for the average consumer. For the weeb looking for a waifu, check this place out. For real, this was a cool spot. I never heard of “Music GunGun!” It’s like Dance Dance Revolution, but you shoot guns to the rhythm. Taito really knows what Americans want! Grooving and guns. The arcade had a number of other Japanese RPGs and traditional arcade games. Even if you can’t speak Japanese, the environment was so aesthetically pleasing, that I’d highly recommend.

#3. Sassafras American Eatery

1027 Washington Ave, Golden, CO 80401

Sassafras was our brunch spot on the way to Frisco. A friend of mine recommended it and I’m incredibly grateful. This breakfast spot had wonderful Cajun style recipes. I happily ordered the Catfish Po’ Boy (Where are you gonna find catfish in SoCal??) The Bloody Mary was even better. I’d never had quail egg before and it was peculiar. This drink had the perfect amount of spices and a strong ratio favoring vodka to tomato juice. This place is great and they also have a couple other locations in the Denver area. You’re missing out!

#4. Highside Brewery/Outer Range Brewing Company

720 Main St. Frisco, CO. 80443/182 Lusher Ct, Frisco, CO 80443

My friends and I checked out a brief hike in Frisco. After a good 30 minute stroll and interrupting some wedding pictures (We’re lazy, I know), we headed over to a couple breweries. Highside and Outer Range were within close proximity of each other. The beers were able to negate the frigid mountain temperatures we faced. If there’s one thing I learned in Colorado, 9000 elevation gets you drunk much faster than sea level. Both breweries had solid IPAs and also took pride in their stouts. Dark and strong beers were perfect for the cold weather!

#5. Yak and Yeti

8665 Sheridan Blvd. Westminster, CO 80003

Yak & Yeti Indian Restaurant and Spice Trade Brewery

Yak & Yeti was an unexpected treat. The Yak represents Nepalese and Indian cuisine while the Yeti represents their bond with Colorado. The Yeti is out there somewhere, but ditch the cold, and enjoy some incredible Indian and Nepalese food. The restaurant is set up buffet style and naturally you can order as much garlic naan was you like. Unlike many Indian restaurants, Yak & Yeti also hosts Spice Trade Brewery. Their IPA paired well with some of the buffet options. I’m still an amateur when it comes to good Indian food, but I was impressed. Panak paneer and chicken tikki masala left me bloated, but elated. If I make it back to Colorado, I’m definitely eating here again.