Nestled among the towering mountain peaks, Aspen, Colorado, is not just known for its ski slopes and golden aspen trees; it's also a haven for coffee aficionados. The city's vibrant coffee culture is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the Gold Rush era. Pioneers of the period brought with them a love for the beverage that quickly took root, transforming the city into a hotspot for exquisite coffee. From ethically sourced beans to the artistry in every pour, Aspen's coffee scene is as diverse and captivating as the picturesque landscape that surrounds it.
As part of this blog post, we've handpicked the 5 best coffee shops in Aspen based on the quality of their coffee, online customer reviews and ratings, and the environment they provide. Each of these establishments has a unique atmosphere that is equally suited to both work and socializing. Two coffee shops that immediately stand out are the Rooftop Cafe at the Aspen Art Museum and Unravel Coffee + Bar. The former boasts a farm-to-fork experience featuring local, organic food and an early bird special, while the latter provides a novel coffee experience with a focus on agriculture, technology, and sustainability.
A Deeper Look at Our Picks
Rooftop Cafe at the Aspen Art Museum
The Aspen Art Museum prides itself on its partnership with The Farmer & Chef, a team headed by Joey Scarlett & Tiffany Pineda-Scarlett, passionate about providing genuinely local, organic food prepared with meticulous care and love.
Their menu includes various snacks, lunch options, hot and cold beverages, daily specials, and a selection of wines and beers. Options for gluten-free and vegan customers are also available. From classic croissants, avocado toasts, and sandwiches to artisan coffees and teas, there's something to suit everyone's palate. Visit the Aspen Art Museum Rooftop Café for a delightful farm-to-fork experience accompanied by stunning aesthetics.
Unravel Coffee + Bar
Unravel Coffee + Bar Aspen is a unique coffee shop. They offer a comfortable and stylish setting for coffee lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to engage in lively chats about the next big adventure.
The decor provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, reflecting the vibrant energy of the mountain community. Unravel provides a novel coffee experience, emphasizing agriculture, technology, sustainability, and human interaction.
The menu includes organically farmed food, artisan pocket snacks perfect for outdoor activities, and Colorado-made treats for your pantry. Unravel strives to be more than just a coffee shop; they aim to connect people and promote sustainable practices to improve the world. You can order online or host your event at Unravel Coffee + Bar Aspen.
Spring Cafe
The founder, Sabrina Rudin, established the café to provide locals and visitors a place to enjoy vegetarian food that enriches their health-driven lifestyle. They focus on using organic ingredients and are committed to securing from local farms that adhere to organic and biodynamic farming practices whenever possible. This commitment extends to using organic cold-pressed oils, sea salt, and fresh herbs and preparing their pastries with gluten-free and sprouted flour.
Here House Aspen
Here House is a modern, all-inclusive locale just a few steps from the Silver Queen Gondola in downtown Aspen. It is a stylish, interactive social clubhouse, offering a bustling space for locals and visitors to mingle, work, and relax through its membership offerings and events. The clubhouse's schedule is filled with various events such as personal development workshops, wine tastings, and regular monthly coffee chats aimed at connecting members.
Here House has partnerships with domestic and international clubs, reciprocating access to over 40 clubs across the globe. A few membership tiers are on offer with many perks, ranging from priority dining reservations and access to various workshops to exclusive invitations to monthly patron dinners.
Sant Ambroeus Coffee Bar
Sant Ambroeus in Aspen is a unique coffee bar with various coffee drinks and ready-to-go Milanese snacks. It's not just about coffee here; the spot also serves tantalizing lunch and cocktail options. Known for their specialty desserts, the Gianduia – a hazelnut sponge cake, and the classic Tiramisù stand out. The design of the coffee bar takes inspiration from the city of Aspen, embodying an Alpine modern aesthetic.
A visit to Sant Ambroeus provides a taste of exquisite cuisine and a glimpse of Italian artistry.
Aspen’s Past: From Silver Mining Town to a Premier Ski Resort
- Aspen was first settled by the Ute Indians, who gave it its name due to the abundance of Aspen trees in the area.
- The city is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA, and has a population of just over 7,300 people.
- Once a booming silver mining town in the late 19th century, Aspen has transformed into a world-renowned ski resort and a hot spot for the rich and famous.
Aspen's Deep-Rooted Affection for Coffee
- Aspen's love for coffee dates back to the mining era, when miners would start their grueling day with a strong cup of coffee.
- This love has grown with time, and today, Aspen's coffee scene is as vibrant as its ski slopes, filled with a variety of coffee shops each offering unique blends and cozy atmospheres.
Where Locals in Aspen Love to Sip Their Coffee
- Downtown Aspen: With its close proximity to the ski slopes and plethora of boutique shops, it's a popular spot for a post-skiing coffee break.
- West End: This residential neighborhood is known for its quiet, relaxed coffee shops that are perfect for a leisurely morning coffee.
- East End: A trendy area filled with art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops, it's a popular spot for a mid-day coffee break.
Conclusion
Aspen's vibrant coffee scene is a reflection of the city itself - diverse, dynamic, and inviting. Each coffee shop has its own charm and unique offering, catering to the wide-ranging tastes of its residents and visitors.
Whether you're a local looking for a new place to get your daily coffee fix or a visitor eager to explore the city's coffee culture, Aspen’s coffee shops will not disappoint. Find your favorite spot, order a cup of joe, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance that these coffee havens offer. Happy coffee hunting!
Meet the expert
My coffee journey spans 15 years of diverse experiences. Starting from those first sips, my passion for the industry has grown steadily. I've enjoyed working at a local coffee shop, exploring cultures worldwide, meeting incredible farmers on plantation tours, and helping launch a family member's coffee roasting venture. Throughout this journey, discovering and buying coffee from local roasters to support community businesses has been a pleasure. Through Roast Love, I aim to create content that informs, raises awareness, and helps you, the reader, buy and brew that perfect cup of coffee.
