Local Love: Odd Rabbit Boulder
One of the delicious offerings | photo by @oddrabbit.boulder
New restaurants are always a favorite to spotlight in our local love section, and Odd Rabbit is no exception. This incredible spot just opened in East Boulder this past spring, and it was well worth the wait. It isn't trying to be the city's next fancy sushi destination or another neighborhood ramen shop. Instead, it embraces what the team calls a "traditionally non traditional" approach, honoring Japanese technique while leaving plenty of room for creativity, unexpected flavors, and a dining experience that feels approachable rather than intimidating.
The restaurant comes from Christopher and Ariana Teigland, the Michelin recognized duo behind Denver beloved Glo Noodle House (also a fave!). For their newest venture, they partnered with acclaimed sushi chef Stephen Nguyen to create a menu that stretches well beyond what most people expect from a Japanese restaurant. The result? A place where beautifully prepared nigiri shares the spotlight with comforting bowls of ramen, delicious small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and desserts that are just as memorable as the meal itself.
The infamous ramen | photo by @oddrabbit.boulder
One of the things that makes Odd Rabbit stand out is its commitment to being more than a single concept restaurant. Instead of focusing on just sushi or just ramen, the menu encourages you to mix, match, and share a little bit of everything. Start with favorites like the crispy rice with spicy salmon or uni, then dive into fresh temaki hand rolls, beautifully crafted nigiri, and one of their standout bowls of ramen. The spicy shoyu ramen with rabbit confit has quickly become a signature, while the lightly torched nigiri showcases the kitchen's attention to detail. It's the kind of place where every visit can be a little different, and that's exactly the point.
Don’t forget to grab a cocktail (or mocktail) to round out the meal. The creative cocktails continue the restaurant's playful personality, pairing beautifully with the menu's mix of fresh seafood and bold flavors.
Odd Rabbit’s beautiful interior | photo by @oddrabbit.boulder
The dining room itself reflects that same philosophy. Warm wood finishes, an open chef's counter, and an airy layout create an environment where guests can watch the culinary team at work or settle into a leisurely meal on the patio. With seating for around 90 guests, the space feels energetic without becoming overwhelming, making it equally suited for celebrations, casual dinners, or introducing out of town visitors to one of Boulder's newest culinary gems.
Since opening in spring 2026, Odd Rabbit has generated considerable buzz throughout Colorado's dining scene. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as word continues to spread about the restaurant's inventive menu and thoughtful execution.
If you're looking for a restaurant that values craftsmanship without taking itself too seriously, Odd Rabbit is well worth a visit. It delivers the precision of exceptional Japanese cooking alongside an unmistakable sense of fun. It’s proof that honoring tradition and embracing innovation can coexist beautifully on the same plate.
Located at: 5863 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, CO 80303 | Open Monday through Thursday 4pm to 9pm and Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm. Closed Sundays.
For more info, visit their website or instagram.