We all know that the long waits at Lucile's Creole Cafe [2] are just part of the experience (and they're richly rewarded with pipin' hot beignets and platters of Creole and Cajun eats). But for Boulderites with less patience—or those seeking down-home cooking for lunch or dinner—there's the newly opened Shug's Low Country Cuisine [3] just down the street.

Owners Sean Shelby (a low-country native and a former CU Buff) and Phil Bendele showcase Shelby's heirloom family recipes on the value-laden menu. Look for dishes like crispy Big Mamma's Fried Chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy; earthy Voodoo greens; and a richly nuanced shrimp and crawfish gumbo made with fresh-cut okra.

Music Lovers: Take your dessert (don't miss the Key lime pie) to the Shack at Shug's [4] in the back room for live blues.

2017 13th St., Boulder, 720-398-9036