Billed as more than just a restaurant, but also a community gathering place, Shinehas held true to the vision of the triplets that opened it just two years ago in the heart of downtown Boulder. The women had a prior hit in the Boulder restaurant scene when they ran Trilogy for many years, located just next door to Shine’s current location.

This space feels more grown up, with healthier food options, lots of potent elixirs and beer brewed in-house. In addition to the delicious food and drinks, there is free yoga night, music in the back room, and many opportunities to get involved in the Boulder scene.

Open for lunch and dinner daily, Shine also offers daily happy hours and brunch on the weekends. All their food is made with local organic products and the kitchen is completely gluten-free. With dishes like pulled pork, coconut curry, and cauliflower mashers, carnivores and vegetarians alike can find something to satisfy on Shine’s menu. And if you’re looking for beer, Shine has gluten-free varieties as well along with all the varieties of beer they brew directly on premises. The restaurant’s fantastic location near 13th and Pearl makes it an easy stop if you’re looking for a nosh downtown or need a place to get a drink before a show at theBoulder Theater.

The triplets have scored again with Shine’s ambiance. The restaurant exudes warmth from the minute you walk in. With large ceilings, an open dining room / bar combination and yellow walls featuring the mural of a large tree, there are many elements that contribute to that feeling. There’s a meeting space in the back of the restaurant and a sitting lounge in the middle with smaller tables for a bit more privacy.

From dance parties to open mics to trunk shows, Shine is intent on becoming a place where just about anything can happen in the back room. Boulder needs spaces like this so that the community can grow stronger and different people can have the opportunity to come together. Be sure to check out the calendar on Shine’s site or follow them on Twitter to find out more about the daily specials and what’s going down in their gathering space.