The Ultimate Guide to the Best Coffee in Denver: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

The Bardo Coffee House

Baker, Wheat Ridge, Lakewood

Every location of Bardo Coffee House offers a welcoming and homey atmosphere. You can enjoy delicious lattes made with coffee or tea, and they have both in-house seating and pickup options. Additionally, all three locations have ample parking, so you don't have to worry about meters or street parking. If you decide to stay for a while, you can take advantage of their Wi-Fi and even use their color printer. The best part? They're open until midnight every day, so you can get your work done even late at night.

Hudson Hill

Sweet Bloom 

If I had to describe Sweet Bloom in one word, it would be precise. They know exactly what they're doing and have the awards to prove it. The owner, Andy Sprenger, is a two-time US Brewers Cup Champion and runner-up in the World Brewers Cup Championship. As roasters, they're even more impressive. They supply Sweet Bloom beans to Filter, a coffee shop in Cork City, Ireland. While they have a few cafe locations, their tasting room and roastery in Lakewood is my personal favorite. It's located on a quiet residential street, a few blocks away from the well-known Casa Bonita Mexican restaurant. The space is always changing, but currently, there's enough seating for everyone. Just keep in mind that it can be quite loud due to the active roastery, so it's not the best place for important phone calls. A friend of mine summed up Sweet Bloom perfectly by saying, "I just like it." I couldn't agree more.

You can find Sweet Bloom at 1619 N. Reed St., Lakewood, CO 80214.

Quince Coffee House

This inclusive and welcoming coffee shop is located in a literal house off Colfax in east Park Hill. It's the epitome of coziness, with smaller rooms and nooks where neighbors can engage in conversation, play board games, or simply relax with a book. The friendly staff is always ready to guide you through their menu, which includes drinks made with locally roasted First Crack Coffee and Konjo Ethiopian Coffee beans. They also have whimsical seasonal specials, such as monthly zodiac-inspired features based on your sun sign.

Drink: Locally brewed, honey-sweetened Sanctuary Chai

Eat: Traditional French pastries from La Belle French Bakery, vegan baked goods from Make Believe Bakery, gluten-free cakes from Danny Cakes, and a variety of burritos, sandwiches, and quiches

Booze? No1447 Quince St.

Prodigy Coffeehouse

Prodigy is not just your average coffee shop—it's actually a nonprofit organization that offers educational barista apprenticeship programs to youth in north Denver. The apprentices learn valuable skills while the community gets vibrant gathering spaces and top-notch craft coffee with beans from local roaster Strava Craft Coffee. The Elyria-Swansea location is easy to spot with its bright murals and large patio area. The Globeville shop, located in a former motorcycle maintenance garage, features a four-season shaded patio, walk-up window, and a Craft Coffee Learning Lab and Community Space.

Drink: House-made horchata latte

Eat: House-made hand-held waffles, breakfast burritos, and breakfast tortas from Prieto's Catering, as well as pastries by Rebel Bread

Booze: No3801 E. 40th Ave.; 4500 Broadway

Stylus & Crate

Stylus and Crate is known for serving delicious leige Belgian waffles. Photo courtesy of Stylus and CrateIf you're looking for great coffee, kind baristas, and mouth-watering waffles, Stylus and Crate is the place to be. This shop, which opened in June 2020, quickly became a favorite among locals in Wheat Ridge. They serve drinks made with Queen City Collective beans and house-made syrups. They also offer plenty of family-friendly options like Italian sodas and artisan hot chocolates. The attention to detail is evident throughout the shop, including the record player that allows patrons to bring in their own albums and a mini vinyl shop at the back. Don't leave without trying their authentic Belgian liège waffles, made fresh on an imported waffle iron with pearl sugar. They taste fantastic on their own, but you can also add optional toppings if you're feeling indulgent.

Drink: A chagaccino, which is a latte enhanced with a blend of antioxidant-packed chaga mushrooms, raw cacao, and cinnamon

Eat: Belgian liège waffles, sweet and savory toasts, and cake pops

Booze: No6985 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge

Tí Cafe

Cafe Trung (Vietnamese egg coffee) at Tí Cafe. Photo courtesy of Tí CafeOwned by a trio of sisters, Tí Cafe is Denver's first standalone Vietnamese coffee shop. They import robusta beans from Vietnam, which gives their coffee a unique and robust flavor. Their classic Vietnamese coffee preparations are exceptional, and they also offer their own twist on concoctions like egg coffee, which features Vietnamese espresso topped with a frothy foam made from whipped egg yolk and condensed milk, dusted with cocoa powder. In addition to their coffee, they serve house-made sodas, teas, intricate moon cakes (both traditional and vegan options), and pastries. The cafe itself is small, with limited indoor seating and no patio, so it's best for quick meet-ups rather than long study sessions.

Drink: Try the Flan Cafe Sua Da for a sweet treat, combining Vietnamese iced coffee with a fluffy flan topping

Eat: Enjoy locally made mooncakes, sesame balls, meat pies, and macarons

Booze: No30 N. Broadway

Plant Magic Cafe

Plant Magic Cafe is all about relaxation. Photo by Callie SummonWhen it comes to providing a relaxed atmosphere, Plant Magic Cafe takes the cake. It's located in the historic Cranmer Sterling House in Capitol Hill and boasts inviting outdoor seating with red-capped inflatable mushrooms. Inside, the cafe exudes tranquility with the scent of incense and ambient music playing in the background. Order a mushroom coffee from the counter and sink into one of their comfortable blue velvet chairs or wooden booths. The cafe is adorned with hanging plants, eclectic thrift-store art, and glass light fixtures, creating a laid-back and unpretentious vibe. If you're looking for more positive energy, Plant Magic Cafe hosts various educational community events, including plant medicine seminars and cacao ceremonies.

Drink: Try their functional mushroom-infused chaggaccino magic latte

Eat: Indulge in pastries, quiches, breakfast burritos, and gluten-free and vegan soups

Booze? No925 E. 17th Ave.

Unravel Coffee

Unravel Coffee is known for their commitment to sustainability. They stand out by serving to-go drinks in glass jars instead of paper cups, and if you return the jar, you'll get a discount on your next drink. This level of thoughtfulness extends to every aspect of their operation. They source beans directly from their own Ethiopian farms and roast small batches in-house using zero-emissions Bellwether roasters. These roasters are fully electric and built right into the barista counters at each Unravel location. Although they don't have their own cafe space, their reputation as a beloved roaster in Denver has extended beyond their brand, with their beans being used by high-end chocolatiers and craft breweries. They also offer tours and classes on topics like seed-to-cup culture and brewing techniques.

Drink: Their popular Two Stitch Blend, which combines beans from two regions in Ethiopia

Eat: Instead of pastries, Unravel offers an Australian-cafe-inspired menu featuring tartines, a breakfast sandwich, and smoothies. Make sure to try their fig toast with crème fraîche and pistachios.

Booze: Available at all mountain town locations, not in Denver: 1441 S. Holly St., Denver; 605 S. Park Ave., Breckenridge; 352 E. Meadow Dr., Vail; 78869 US Hwy. 40, Winter Park; 315 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen

Weathervane Cafe

This beloved Uptown coffee shop has a unique charm that feels like visiting your cool aunt's house. The mismatched vintage couches, two levels of seating, large retail area, and spacious outdoor patio create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You'll find hanging plants and eclectic thrift-store art that give the space an unpretentious vibe. Weathervane Cafe focuses on creating a sociable and upbeat environment, so they don't offer Wi-Fi to encourage conversations and connections. Their espresso drinks feature Huckleberry Roasters' Blue Orchid Blend, and their house French press and cold brew use beans from Queen City Roasters. If you love the aesthetic of Weathervane Cafe, you should check out their sister business, Flying Moon Cabins.

Drink: Try their signature Happy Camper Latte, sweetened with smokey maple syrup and garnished with fragrant pine sugar

Eat: Their affordable food menu includes a customizable breakfast sandwich and salad, as well as a rotating seasonal chia pudding that you mustn't miss. Order online for faster food pickup.

Booze? No1725 E. 17th Ave.

Middle State

Middle State is a beloved coffee roaster that focuses on delivering the classics. They don't have their own cafe space, but their roasts speak for themselves. From cortados and cappuccinos to batch brews and espresso tonics, Middle State's goal is to highlight their house roasts. Each blend or single-varietal offers unique flavors, from toffee and stone fruit to marshmallow and milk chocolate. They also make their own syrups and ganache to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever you need a sugar rush.

Novo

Novo is a beloved roaster that has been a pioneer in the third-wave-coffee movement since its establishment in 2002. They champion ethical sourcing, house roasting, and proper brewing and presentation. Their commitment to quality has earned them a reputation that extends beyond their own brand. Their beans are used by high-end chocolatiers and craft breweries in Denver and beyond. They also offer tours and classes to educate coffee lovers about the seed-to-cup process and brewing techniques. Novo is truly an integral part of the Denver coffee scene.

Jubilee Roasting Co.

Jubilee Roasting, located in North Aurora, is one of Denver's top coffee roasters. Their skilled roasters are experts at bringing out the complex and balanced flavors in their meticulously sourced beans. When you take a sip of their espresso, you'll be able to taste the craftsmanship. The cozy Aurora shop is accompanied by a converted warehouse that now serves as art studios for local artists. This creative energy permeates the cafe, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. With plenty of sunlight and fresh air flowing in through the garage doors, you'll feel right at home. Jubilee's commitment to being a good neighbor can be seen in their friendly staff and their affordable $2 drip coffee.

Drink: The One & One—a double shot of espresso divided into a macchiato and a neat espresso, so you can taste the coffee with milk and withoutEat: Breakfast burritos, toasts, sandwiches, in-house baked pastriesBooze: No1452 Kenton St, Aurora; 1075 Park Ave. W., Ste. 110

Procession Coffee

RiNoYes, this is the mobile-cart-turned-Zeppelin-coffee shop where you can get a free drip coffee every day for the rest of your life if you get their logo tattooed on you (rules apply). However, even if you're not up for that level of commitment, Procession Coffee still welcomes and encourages you to stop by for a single latte or shot of espresso. The coffee here is so incredible that it will keep you coming back, regardless of whether or not you have the tattoo. While you're there, don't forget to check out the punky merch they have for sale by the register.

Queen City Collective Coffee

Dirt Coffee

Littleton/Park HillSome coffee shops just have that homely feeling, whether it's because they're located in a cozy bungalow or have carefully chosen farmhouse decor. Dirt Coffee in Littleton achieves this balance impressively. Not only do they serve exceptional coffee, but they also make a difference in the lives of neurodivergent individuals every day. When you visit their OG outpost or their new Park Hill location, you'll not only be greeted with a smile, but you'll also notice the valuable skill training behind the barista bar and the interesting neurodivergent facts scattered throughout the shop. Every sip you take here contributes to a good cause.

crema coffeehouse

Downpours

Congress Park, BerkeleyDownpours is a beloved coffee shop that locals from all over Denver can't resist coming back to. Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee to go or settling in for a few hours of work with a pour-over, Downpours is guaranteed to satisfy. Their espresso is sensational, and they offer rotating seasonal flavors that keep things exciting. Don't forget to try their scratch-made milk alternatives and their warm, buttery croissants straight out of the oven.

MiddleState Coffee

Blue Sparrow

Highland & RiNoEvery month, Blue Sparrow features coffee from a different roaster that excels in quality, sustainability, and community. This unique and curated approach keeps the experience fresh and exciting. In addition to their exceptional coffee, they also offer other specialty selections such as CBD coffee, Japanese iced coffee, local kombucha on tap, and eats from community partners like La Fillette and Rebel Bread. You can enjoy your coffee indoors for remote working, a date, or some solo time, or you can take advantage of their outdoor patio in RiNo when the weather is warm.

Prodigy Coffeehouse

Logan House

Aurora/RiNo/Lowry/LoDoLogan House, originally a home delivery coffee service, now has four locations across Denver. Their flagship location is in the Stanley Marketplace, and they also have locations in RiNo, Lowry, and LoDo. Each location is nestled within local shops, restaurants, and small businesses, creating a vibrant and supportive community. When you visit any of their locations, you not only get to enjoy fantastic coffee but also have the opportunity to support other local vendors in the area. Whether you choose to sit and savor your coffee indoors or on one of their patios, you'll be bathed in natural light during your visit. And don't forget to try their rotating pastries and treats—they're not to be missed.

Rivers and Roads

Queen City Collective Coffee

Queen City Collective Coffee has three locations in Wheat Ridge, Broomfield, and Baker. The Baker location also shares its space with Novel Strand Brewing Company. At Queen City Collective Coffee, they excel in bringing out the most flavors from their beans, whether it's El Paraíso Community Lot from Peru or Ethiopian Guji Jigesa. Even their basic "cuppa brew" is a delight. Each sip at this coffee shop contributes to their larger mission of supporting rhino conservation. A portion of their proceeds is donated to Care For Wild, an organization dedicated to protecting rhinos. While their philanthropic focus is global, their sourcing is local. They proudly feature locally sourced goods, from Novo Coffee beans to Onefold breakfast burritos to Rebel Bread pastries. And if you're in a hurry, they even have a convenient takeout window.

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Lekker Coffee

Lekker Coffee, located in RiNo, is a bright and spacious cafe run by a mother-and-daughter team. The name "Lekker" is an Afrikaans slang word that means "tasty" or "fantastic." The shop's name, along with the rhino mural by Pat Milbery of So-Gnar Creative, hint at their larger mission. After volunteering at Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary in South Africa, daughter Kara Finkelstein became passionate about rhino conservation. As a result, 10% of the cafe's proceeds are donated to Care For Wild. While their focus may be global, their sourcing is local. Lekker Coffee is committed to supporting the community by offering locally sourced goods, from Novo Coffee beans to Onefold breakfast burritos to Rebel Bread pastries. You can indulge in their delicious coffee and pastries with the knowledge that you're making a positive impact. And if you're in a rush, you can always grab your coffee to-go from their convenient takeout window.

Drink: The horchata latteEat: Black Box pastries, Pandemic Donuts, Little Man Ice Cream, and Onefold breakfast burritosBooze: Oh yes. Local beer, wine, and cocktails (cold brew martinis!)3460 Larimer St.

Huckleberry Roasters

Dairy Block/Sunnyside/Tennyson/BakerWhat started in 2011 as a small roasting operation in a backyard garage has now become Huckleberry Roasters. They have four cafe locations across Denver, with their latest addition being the former Allegro space on Tennyson. Whether you're in the mood for an oat milk latte or a classic drip coffee, you can trust that Huckleberry delivers high-quality caffeine. They are also known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. They work closely with smallholder farms and coffee co-ops, and they prioritize supporting local and community-based businesses.

Whittier Cafe

Hearth Bakery

Hearth Bakery, located in RiNo behind Uchi, is a small but mighty cafe. They opened their doors in September and have quickly become a hidden gem. They offer delicious americanos, mochas, and cortados made with beans from Hearth's sister coffee company, Tablón Coffee. Their extensive menu also includes Ecuadorian nano-lots, such as Pepe Jijón Caturra, Geisha, and Typica. With mindful packaging and a focus on sustainability, Hearth Bakery offers a unique and enjoyable experience. You won't want to miss their freshly baked pastries made with house-milled grains. The cozy space may be small, but it's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat on the go or relax on their dog-friendly patio.

Drink: The Jeff, which combines caramelized coconut condensed milk, espresso, and your choice of milkEat: A Hatch green chile and cheddar twirl pastryBooze? No2500 Lawrence St., Unit 200

Copper Door Coffee Roasters

Copper Door Coffee Roasters is Denver's only woman-owned roastery. They prioritize showcasing coffees produced by women, sourcing most of their beans from female-owned farms. You can experience the flavor and quality of their wind-power-roasted offerings at their three locations across Denver or their Littleton outpost in Aspen Grove. Our favorite location is the dreamy cafe nestled within the Denver Botanic Gardens. You can enjoy your coffee surrounded by lush greenery on the enclosed patio or inside their tranquil space with high ceilings.

Drink: A latte with house-made hazelnut syrupEat: Mame's breakfast burritos and pastries from Handcraft Bakery and French for SugarBooze?  NoDenver Botanic Gardens, 1085 York St.; 7581 E. Academy Blvd.; the Yard, 900 W. First Ave., Ste. 180; Aspen Grove, 7301 S. Santa Fe Dr., Ste. 310, Littleton

Boxcar Coffee Roasters

While Boxcar Coffee Roasters supplies coffee to many establishments in Denver, their cafe in Boulder is worth a visit. You can indulge in their single-origin espresso or try something unique like their cardamom-rose latte. Don't forget to pair your drink with a freshly baked croissant or a peach fritter from their onsite bakery. While you're there, take the time to explore their cozy space shared with Dedalus, a wine and gourmet shop. And keep an eye out for their second location opening soon in the Table Mesa Shopping Center.

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Dandy Lion Coffee

Dandy Lion Coffee is not your typical coffee shop. It combines a coffee shop with a plant shop, complete with an indoor greenhouse. Come for their unique Vietnamese coffee, a chicory cold brew with condensed milk, or try their iced chai with toffee-nut and macadamia milk. While you're there, take advantage of the free horticultural therapy or browse their selection of plants available for purchase.

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Rivers and Roads Coffee

Rivers and Roads Coffee, located in Clayton with a second location in Curtis Park, is a community-driven coffee shop. They do everything in-house, from roasting to baking to syrup making. While they take their coffee seriously, they also know how to have fun. The friendly crew is just as happy to pour you a vanilla-orange chai or a chili-spiked hot chocolate with marshmallows as they are to make you a cortado. Their menu includes loaded breakfast fries and apple-butter crumble bars that perfectly complement their coffee.

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Glissade Coffee Company

The owner of this new roastery in Aurora spent ten years honing his craft in Seattle, the coffee capital of the country. His expertise is evident in every pour-over, macchiato, and nitro float. But when you're in the mood for a little more indulgence, the Glissade Chill is the perfect choice. This shaken drink combines espresso, half-and-half, maple syrup, and vanilla syrup for a truly decadent treat. Pair it with a pastry from Bánh & Butter for the ultimate experience. If you're looking for something other than coffee, Glissade also offers a small selection of beers and wines to enjoy.

Hudson Hill

Located in Capitol Hill, Hudson Hill is part bar, part coffee shop, making it the perfect place to spend your entire day. The stylish atmosphere features exposed beams, warm wood floors, brick walls, and hanging plants. Whether you're having a breakfast meeting or studying quietly, the attentive and friendly table service ensures you'll have a great experience. Their locally roasted Middle State Coffee beans are expertly brewed into cortados and cappuccinos. For a fun and frothy treat, try their whipped Dalgona coffee. And when it's time for happy hour, you don't have to leave. Hudson Hill offers craft cocktails and a snack menu that seamlessly transitions from day to night.

Drink: Indulge in a lavender oat milk latte.Eat: Savor the delicious pastries from La Fillette, including their savory green chile cheddar roll.Booze? Yes, they have a great selection of beers and wines. Located at 619 E. 13th Ave.

Convivio Café

At Convivio Café, their mission is to create a community-centric coffee shop that celebrates the artistry of Guatemalan and Latinx artisans. The founders, Kristin Lacy and Vivi Lemus, met at the non-profit organization Re:Vision, where they developed the idea for this bilingual coffee shop. The space is adorned with beautiful murals by local artists, black and white accents, and hand-made Guatemalan hibiscus flower accent tiles. Sip on their rotating café del dia, featuring Guatemalan Gento and Paralelo 14 coffees, or enjoy their tangy iced rosa de jamaica agua fresca.

Drink: Try their café con leche y cardamom, a latte with house-made cardamom syrup.Eat: Indulge in Guatemalan treats such as champurradas, ponche scones, and alfajores. They also offer savory antojitos like tostadas and refried beans with chips.Booze? No, they focus on the coffee experience. It's located at 4935 W. 38th Ave.

LaTinto Café

LaTinto Café is the sibling of La Chiva, a Colombian restaurant located across the street. This South Broadway cafe specializes in brewing coffee using single-origin Colombian beans. The Campesino, spiked with panela syrup, is a must-try. Enjoy your coffee and snack in their charming sitting room, which is filled with plants and features a colorful mural.

Steam Espresso Bar

Established in 2013 by twin brothers, Steam Espresso Bar takes a unique approach to coffee. They use premium-quality beans sourced from micro-roasters, and their specialty is sustainable and environmentally-friendly brewing techniques. They strive to bring out the authentic flavors of coffee without the need for flavored syrups or paper filters. This sleek café in Wash Park is a haven for true coffee lovers.

Crema Coffee House

Located in Denver's vibrant RiNo neighborhood, Crema Coffee House is a favorite spot for artists and young professionals. Whether you're looking for coffee, tea, fresh juice, or kombucha, they have it all. Their menu features small and large bites, including a mouthwatering pork belly banh mi sandwich. Visit their flagship location or stop by their Crema Bodega in Denver Central Market.

Downpours Coffee

Corvus Coffee Roasters

Established in 2010, Corvus Coffee Roasters is a popular destination for coffee enthusiasts. They take their coffee seriously, using a Dutch cast-iron roaster and offering a selection of bagged beans on display. Their menu features unique flavors like citrus-spiced cola, strawberry syrup, and mint Kyoto-style brews. They also offer seasonal options like honey-pear lattes and rosemary and lemon brews. With multiple locations across Denver, they are open daily from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm.

Quince Essential

Quince Essential Coffee House is a charming cafe located off East Colfax. Housed in an old residential home, it feels like a cozy home-away-from-home for the neighborhood. Each room is filled with colorful and quaint decorations, including local paintings, board games, and potted plants. Enjoy your coffee on the front porch or in the backyard, where you'll find seating, a hammock, and even a coop with ducks and chickens. Quince Essential is all about creating a warm and heartwarming experience.

Whittier Cafe

Located in the historic Whittier neighborhood, Whittier Cafe is dedicated to bringing the community together and serving coffee roasted entirely in Africa. In addition to their Ethiopian coffee ceremonies every Sunday, they are also Denver's only African espresso bar. If you're feeling adventurous, they also offer African beer. The cafe has a diverse crowd, local art, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Logan House Coffee Company

Stowaway Kitchen

Stowaway Kitchen is the go-to place in Denver for the best coffee and brunch. They serve a variety of well-known brands and locally roasted beans. From flats with cashew milk to Aeropress and flavored coffee, they have something for everyone. Their hot chocolate and root beer are also highly recommended. With a liquor license, they even offer unique cocktails to accompany your meal.

For brunch, try their avocado toast or choose from their small and large plate options. Favorites include chai-flavored porridge, Colorful Colorado, and salt and vinegar hash. They also offer classic options like eggs and ham. Stowaway is open from Thursday to Monday, 8 am to 2 pm.

In addition to these great options, Denver is home to many other noteworthy coffee shops worth exploring. Olive & Finch, River and Roads Coffee, Kaladi Coffee Roasters, Black Eye Coffee, and Weathervane Café all deserve a special mention. And if you find yourself in Boulder, don't miss out on their top coffee shops. And when the coffee shops close, Denver's hidden bars and speakeasies are waiting to continue your crafty adventure. Sip on a cool cocktail to conclude your day in the capital city.

In a city where coffee culture runs deep, Denver's best coffee shops stand out for their exceptional brews, cozy atmospheres, and passionate baristas. From the trendy Milk & Honey, where hipsters flock to sip on unique creations, to the charming Little Owl Coffee, serving up a warm cup of comfort, the Mile High City offers a caffeinated journey like no other. Whether you find yourself at the chic Quince Coffee House or the vibrant Prodigy Coffeehouse, each sip transports you to a world of rich flavors and aromatic blends. So, whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just in need of a pick-me-up, Denver's thriving coffee scene is sure to leave you buzzing with delight.