As a plant-based eater, the thought of going to a buffet can seem pretty much like a waste of time. Maybe there’ll be a few salads and if we’re lucky a few other meat- and dairy-free items among a sea of carving stations, but ultimately, not worth the time or money.
But before you swear off buffets forever, check out Jill’s Restaurant, located inside the luxurious St. Julien Hotel & Spa in Boulder. Every Friday, during their daily “Ooh La La Lunch Buffet”, it turns completely vegan. That’s right – every single item served is free of meat, dairy, and any other animal products. This gives vegan diners the unique experience of just simply enjoying a buffet and meal out without what’s in the dish or avoiding anything that appears to be a plant-based no-no.
As a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Restaurant, you can expect delicious food with high-quality ingredients along with fantastic service. In addition to an eclectic, large food and dessert selection, a complimentary glass of wine is served to accompany your meal.
All tasty items served are seasonal and change with every visit, so you can happily return for more without double dipping. During my dining experiences, there was always an abundance to choose from, pleasing a wide variety of palates. For starters, they offer an assortment of dips and spreads to top off toasted baguette slices – hummus, white bean dip, and pesto. There are always two delicious soups to choose from (or you can have both, of course), including Corn Chowder and Charred Kale and Potato. A selection of salads, including pasta and other grain salads, and juicy fresh fruits round out the cold options.
An array of thin crust pizzas, some complete with melted vegan cheese, are constantly rotating and coming out fresh from the fire burning oven. Pesto, arugula, figs, avocado, black olives, peppers, and onions are just a handful of the toppings I’ve seen. There are always a few hot dishes, such as a creamy pumpkin pasta or lasagna.
End your dining experience with a great selection of desserts. Tiny plates of brownies, cookies, cupcakes, pudding, and turnovers are ready to be grabbed. Pour the hot fondue-style chocolate sauce over a selection of fruits, such as strawberries, pineapples, and melon.
Whether you’re a strict vegan or just looking for something different for lunch, Jill’s vegan buffet is a great lunch destination. Even for those who are just curious about vegan food, the dishes are familiar and approachable, such as their comfort-food pasta dishes, pizzas, and chocolate-covered fruits.
Bringing a carnivore along? No sweat! Jill’s daily a la carte lunch menu is also available during lunchtime for anyone not interested in the buffet. However, the food is hearty, savory, and proving that the stereotype of vegan food being unsatisfying is very much wrong.
At less than $14 per person, this is a fantastic deal for any Friday you’re able to take a longer lunch. Reservations are recommended. Call (720)-406-7399 to reserve your spot. Check out their website for more information.
