Local Love: Blofish Sushi Boulder
Photo by @blofishco
If you’re looking for sushi in Boulder that puts the focus where it belongs, on exceptionally fresh fish and thoughtful preparation, BloFish Sushi is a spot worth knowing. BloFish is a small, intimate restaurant inspired by the feel of a Tokyo sushi bar, with a cozy, friendly atmosphere that intentionally leaves arrogance at the door. The concept is simple: take high quality ingredients, treat them with respect, and let the food speak for itself. It’s elevated sushi without the formality, designed to be enjoyed no matter the occasion. The restaurant works directly with one of Japan’s oldest and most trusted fish purveyors and emphasizes responsible seafood sourcing, sustainable practices, and organic ingredients. That commitment is reflected throughout the menu. They’ve built its identity around doing one thing exceptionally well: serving sushi that highlights the quality and freshness of its ingredients, and it shows.
Photo by @blofishco
The restaurant’s approach also makes it particularly approachable for everyday dining. BloFish was created around the idea that great sushi doesn’t have to be reserved for a special occasion or a formal experience. Its menu includes traditional sushi and sashimi as well as rolls and kitchen favorites, making it easy to order a little of everything and share around the table. Current offerings include dishes such as hamachi jalapeño, crispy rice, agedashi tofu, edamame, nigiri, sashimi, and a variety of specialty rolls.
There’s an interesting story behind the restaurant, too. BloFish emerged from a shared appreciation for exceptional food between operations partner Avi Scheinbaum and chef Curtis Gardner. Gardner’s path into sushi began while studying mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, eventually leading him behind the sushi counter and toward his own restaurant. His approach is rooted in traditional sushi, and BloFish’s philosophy reflects that respect for technique and quality. The restaurant opened in November 2020, growing from an idea shaped during the pandemic into a permanent part of Boulder’s food scene. That origin story helps explain why BloFish feels a little different from a typical sushi restaurant.
Blofish’s chef, Curtis Gardner
Photo by @blofishco
Another thing that makes this such an amazing restaurant space is its location. At 1932 14th Street, BloFish sits close to some of Boulder’s most walkable and recognizable areas, making it an easy addition to a day spent exploring the city. The restaurant currently offers both dine in and takeout, with lunch service Tuesday through Sunday and dinner service throughout the week, giving you plenty of opportunities to work it into your plans.
For Boulder locals, sushi lovers, or anyone who appreciates restaurants that put genuine care into their ingredients, BloFish is a great reminder that sometimes the best dining experiences are the ones that don't try too hard. The setting is intimate, the approach is unfussy, and the focus stays firmly on the quality of what's on your plate. If you’re craving fresh sushi and sashimi without the stuffiness that can sometimes come with high end Japanese dining, BloFish delivers a more relaxed version of the experience, and one that feels right at home in Boulder.
Located at 1932 14th Street Boulder, Colorado 80302 | Open Monday for dinner from 4pm to 8:30pm and Tuesday through Sunday for lunch (12pm to 2:30pm) and then again for dinner from 4pm-9pm.