Boulder’s food scene continues to evolve, and sushi lovers now have two exciting new reasons to celebrate. This spring, two highly anticipated restaurants opened their doors, bringing different but equally compelling approaches to Japanese-inspired dining.

Located on opposite sides of town, Wellness Counter on Pearl Street and Odd Rabbit on Arapahoe Avenue are already attracting attention for their commitment to quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and distinctive dining experiences.

Whether you’re looking for a chef-driven sushi experience or a more playful menu featuring creative small plates and ramen, these two newcomers are worth adding to your Boulder dining list.

Wellness Counter Brings Traditional Techniques to Pearl Street

Located at 1117 Pearl Street, Wellness Counter opened in May 2026 from husband-and-wife team Steven and Phoebe Lee, founders of Denver’s popular Wellness Sushi.

Unlike their original plant-based concept, Wellness Counter focuses on premium seafood and traditional Japanese techniques while still offering select plant-based options.

One of the restaurant’s signature features is its dry-aged fish program. Dry-aging is a technique that allows fish to develop deeper flavor and a firmer texture, creating a different experience from traditional fresh-cut sushi. Guests can enjoy selections that may include bluefin tuna, salmon, hamachi, madai, and other seasonal offerings prepared as nigiri or sashimi.

The restaurant features an intimate dining room with chef-counter seating that allows guests to observe the preparation process up close. The atmosphere feels calm and refined, making it an appealing destination for both special occasions and casual dinners.

In addition to sushi and sashimi, Wellness Counter offers sake, cocktails, matcha beverages, and a variety of Japanese-inspired dishes that complement its seafood-focused menu.

For Boulder diners seeking a more traditional sushi experience with a focus on craftsmanship, Wellness Counter brings something unique to the Pearl Street area.

Odd Rabbit Offers a Creative Twist on Sushi

On the east side of Boulder, Odd Rabbit opened in April 2026 at 5863 Arapahoe Avenue.

The restaurant comes from Christopher and Ariana Teigland, the team behind Denver’s acclaimed Glo Noodle House, which earned recognition from the Michelin Guide. Chef Stephen Nguyen, whose background includes Denver’s respected Temaki Den, leads the culinary program.

While sushi remains central to the menu, Odd Rabbit embraces a broader and more playful approach to dining.

Guests will find traditional nigiri options featuring premium ingredients such as bluefin tuna, salmon, hamachi, scallops, and Colorado wagyu. Alongside these offerings are inventive dishes designed to encourage sharing and exploration.

Popular menu items include crispy rice topped with premium seafood, creative small plates, and Japanese-inspired appetizers that showcase the restaurant’s willingness to blend tradition with modern influences.

For diners who may not be focused exclusively on sushi, Odd Rabbit also serves ramen and additional menu options that make it approachable for a variety of tastes.

The restaurant’s spacious dining room and seasonal patio provide plenty of room for gathering with friends and family, making it an attractive choice during Boulder’s warm summer evenings.

A Growing Culinary Scene in Boulder

The arrival of Wellness Counter and Odd Rabbit reflects the continued growth and sophistication of Boulder’s dining landscape.

Both restaurants bring experienced culinary teams, high-quality ingredients, and distinct identities to the local food scene. Rather than competing directly, they offer two different experiences that help expand Boulder’s options for sushi and Japanese-inspired cuisine.

Wellness Counter emphasizes traditional technique, seafood quality, and an intimate chef-driven atmosphere. Odd Rabbit offers a broader menu with creative influences and a lively social setting.

Together, they represent the latest chapter in Boulder’s evolving restaurant community.

For locals looking to try something new this summer, both destinations offer fresh opportunities to explore Japanese cuisine without leaving Boulder.

Whether you’re a longtime sushi enthusiast or simply looking for your next memorable meal, Wellness Counter and Odd Rabbit are two of Boulder’s newest restaurants worth checking out.

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