What’s better than eating on the patio in the warm sunshine of summer? Eating in one of those cool bubbles, which are now set up at Tangerine’s Boulder and Lafayette locations. They’re warm, private and, critically, safe. We stopped by recently to dine in one of said bubbles and ordered the special alambres plate (since it’s a special, check if it’s on the menu before visiting, although Tangerine’s specials are all typically spot-on). Spiced pork, chunky home fries, avocado, crema, tender sweet potatoes and sliced radish are placed atop two tostadas. It’s crunchy, satisfying, flavor-forward and goes pretty darn well with a spiked chai or bloody mary. Check with Tangerine before heading over there as indoor dining will cease in Boulder County as of Nov. 20. (Outdoor dining is still allowed.)
Tangerine. 2777 Iris Ave., Boulder, and 300 S. Public Road, Lafayette (Longmont
location closed for now), tangerineeats.com.
Drink this: Eggnog
One of the best new culinary traditions returns this month: the ’Nog Off. Every year, Longmont’s Dry Land Distillers offers eggnog flights created by chefs and community members in its tap room in this culinary contest. Because of the pandemic, this year it’ll offer the six competing eggnogs in take-home form. Those who sign up to participate will get two eggnogs per week for three weeks, with a final six-nog flight in the final week. Participants will then vote for their favorites and a champ will be crowned. This year’s ’Nog Off entrants include Amanda Adare, owner of Boulder’s Table Mountain Farm; Sean Gafner/Matt Grimes of Longmont’s Jefes Tacos and Tequila; DJ Reimer, bar manager at Erie’s 24 Carrot Bistro; Sarah Morgan, owner of Longmont’s Martini’s Bistro; Nels Wroe, Dry Land cofounder; and last year’s champ, Kelly Dressman of Dry Land. Dairy, cream and eggs come from Longmont Dairy, though you can pick everything up at Dry Land. Sign up today (four weeks of eggnog costs $79) at drylanddistillers.square.site.