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Denver is a city that takes its coffee seriously. With a thriving coffee culture and an abundance of local roasters and cafes, there is no shortage of great coffee shops to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick caffeine fix or looking for a cozy place to hang out and work, Denver's coffee scene has something for everyone. From specialty coffee shops that roast their beans in-house to community-focused cafes that provide job training to at-risk youth, Denver's coffee shops offer more than just great coffee. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best coffee shops in Denver, highlighting their unique offerings and why they stand out in a city that loves its coffee. So grab your favorite mug and get ready to explore Denver's vibrant coffee scene.

Daniel's Park Trail during a sunset
Daniel's Park Trail

Criteria for Selecting the Best Coffee Shops in Denver

When it comes to selecting the best coffee shops in Denver, there are several key criteria that coffee enthusiasts consider:

Staff: How friendly were they when we first walked in the door? How was the overall service?
Atmosphere:
If we're there to work, is it a good space? Is it loud? What about for meetings, or for entertainment? These were important factors.
Quality Coffee:
The quality of the coffee itself and menu variety is of paramount importance.

Best Coffee Shops In Denver To Work

If you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or simply someone who enjoys working in a relaxed and cozy environment, finding the perfect coffee shop can be a game-changer. In Denver, there is no shortage of coffee shops, but not all of them offer the ideal atmosphere for working. That's why we've compiled a list of the best coffee shops in Denver to work from. These coffee shops not only serve top-quality coffee and snacks but also provide comfortable seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and a quiet ambiance that's conducive to productivity. Whether you're looking for a change of scenery from your home office or just need a break from the corporate world, these coffee shops are sure to become your new go-to workspaces in Denver.

  1. The Bardo Coffee House - Open until midnight!
  2. Crema Coffee House

Best Coffee Shops In Denver For Specialty Coffee

  1. Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters Lakewood
  2. Prodigy Coffee House
  3. Tí Cafe
  4. Steam Espresso Bar
  5. Little Owl Coffee Blake Street Cafe

Best Coffee Shops In Denver For Entertainment

  1. Whittier Cafe
  2. Lekker Coffee & Watering Hole
  3. The Weathervane Cafe

Best Coffee Shops For Patio Space

  1. Lost Coffee Littleton
  2. Dandy Lion Coffee Co

A Deeper Look at Our Picks

The Bardo Coffee House

4.6 out of 1194 Reviews • 238 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209
The Bardo Coffee HouseThe Bardo Coffee House

At times, you need your caffeine fix late at night, and finding a late-night coffee house nearby will make a huge difference. The Bardo Coffee House is a popular coffee shop located in the Sunnyside neighborhood of Denver. They are well-known for their delicious coffee, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. What sets Bardo apart is that they are open until midnight, making it an ideal spot for night owls or those who like to work late. The shop has a welcoming ambiance with plenty of seating options, including comfortable couches and communal tables. Bardo serves a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and snacks, including vegan and gluten-free options. Their commitment to using high-quality, ethically sourced beans and environmentally sustainable practices make it a great choice for conscientious coffee drinkers. If you're looking for a great coffee shop to work in Denver, Bardo Coffee House is definitely worth a visit.

For a place with an extensive coffee and tea menu paired with a perfect vibe and friendly staff, The Bardo Coffee House is a perfect spot to get your work done. They give a WIFI password when you purchase food. However, WIFI lasts two hours, so you may need to purchase more drinks to get a new code.

Crema Coffee House

4.6 out of 1256 Reviews • 2862 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Crema Coffee HouseCrema Coffee House

Crema Coffee House is a trendy and stylish coffee shop located in Denver's RiNo Art District. The Crema Coffee House has super tasty coffee and chai with a great ambiance, natural light, plenty of seating area, and good WIFI that is perfect for reading or working. Although the Crema Coffee House coffee shop gets a little packed, the service is fast. They are known for their exceptional coffee made from beans that are locally roasted and sustainably sourced. The shop has a sleek and modern interior, with plenty of natural light and a spacious seating area. Crema Coffee House offers a variety of coffee drinks, including pour-overs, espresso, and cold brew, as well as a small menu of delicious pastries and light snacks. The friendly and knowledgeable baristas are always happy to share their coffee expertise and recommend a drink to suit your taste. With its hip atmosphere and exceptional coffee, Crema Coffee House is a must-visit for any coffee lover in Denver. They also have a great breakfast menu that you can enjoy with your favorite drink. Why not try their quiche? You will surely love it!

Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters Lakewood

4.8 out of 640 Reviews • 1619 Reed Street, Lakewood
Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters LakewoodSweet Bloom Coffee Roasters Lakewood

Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop located in Lakewood, a suburb of Denver. This coffee shop has gained a reputation for its exceptional coffee and is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts in the area. The shop sources their beans directly from farmers around the world, and the baristas are trained to brew each coffee to perfection. Sweet Bloom offers a variety of specialty drinks, such as pour-overs, espresso-based beverages, and cold brews. In addition to their delicious coffee, the shop offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and plenty of natural light. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just looking for a great cup of joe, Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters is a must-visit coffee shop in Denver.

Prodigy Coffeehouse / 40th & Colorado

4.6 out of 786 Reviews • 3801 E 40th Ave, Denver, CO 80205
Prodigy Coffeehouse / 40th & ColoradoProdigy Coffeehouse / 40th & Colorado

Not only is Prodigy Coffee House a great coffee shop to get your morning caffeine fix, but also a place where craft meets culture. They make your coffee from freshly roasted coffee beans, so you get to enjoy fresh coffee, lovely coffee aroma, and tasty bites.

If you are a big lover of natural lights as I am, you will enjoy coming to the Prodigy Coffee House whenever you want a quick caffeine fix from the best coffee roaster Denver has or to enjoy a chai latte as you take in the warm ambiance in this coffee shop in Denver.

Prodigy Coffee is a specialty coffee shop located in Denver's Five Points neighborhood. This coffee shop has a unique mission: to provide job training and employment opportunities for at-risk youth in the community. Prodigy Coffee's baristas are all students in their program, and they receive hands-on training in all aspects of the coffee business, from roasting to latte art. The coffee shop offers a variety of delicious coffee drinks, made from beans that are ethically sourced and roasted in-house. In addition to their exceptional coffee, Prodigy Coffee has a modern and inviting atmosphere, with plenty of seating options and a friendly staff. By visiting Prodigy Coffee, customers not only enjoy great coffee but also support a meaningful cause and make a positive impact in the community. Check out their short documentary on the hard work and beautiful mission.

Ti Cafe

4.8 out of 249 Reviews • 30 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Ti CafeTi Cafe

Ti Cafe is a unique Vietnamese coffee shop located in Denver, Colorado. They specialize in serving traditional Vietnamese coffee, which is made using a strong, dark roast coffee that is brewed using a drip filter and mixed with sweetened condensed milk. Ti Cafe's menu also includes a variety of other Vietnamese-inspired drinks and snacks, such as iced coffee, egg coffee, smoothies, and banh mi sandwiches. The shop has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of traditional and modern decor, and plenty of seating options. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they're happy to help customers navigate the menu and find their new favorite drink. If you're looking for a new and exciting coffee experience in Denver, Ti Cafe is a must-visit. It is a great coffee shop for a date thanks to its warm and intimate setting.

Steam Espresso Bar

4.6 out of 646 Reviews • 1801 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Steam Espresso BarSteam Espresso Bar

The Steam Espresso Bar is one of the best coffee shops in Denver with premium coffee sourced from micro-roasters. They serve coffee for true coffee lovers who enjoy coffee’s authentic flavor. So, no syrups in this coffee shop!  Steam Espresso Bar is a cozy and friendly coffee shop located in the heart of Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood. They are committed to serving high-quality coffee made from beans that are locally roasted and ethically sourced. The shop has a minimalist and modern interior, with plenty of natural light and a comfortable seating area. Steam Espresso Bar offers a variety of espresso drinks, pour-overs, and drip coffee, as well as tasty pastries and light snacks. Their friendly and knowledgeable baristas are always happy to recommend a drink or chat about coffee. If you're looking for a relaxing and unpretentious coffee shop in Denver, Steam Espresso Bar is a great choice. Steam Espresso Bar has two coffee shops; one at 1801 S. Pearl Street and the Firehouse Cafe at 3600 Tejon St.

This Platt Park coffee shop has a great selection of pastries you can enjoy with your favorite cup of joe while enjoying the coffee shop’s ambiance. Or chill on the patio when the weather is warm.

Little Owl Coffee

4.7 out of 939 Reviews • 1555 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202
Little Owl CoffeeLittle Owl Coffee

With a roastery mainlanded in Denver, Colorado, Little Owl Coffee prides itself in its refreshing and cozy offerings. They boast an impressive repertoire of coffee choices, including various selections like the Costa Rica - Carlos Morena Anaerobic Natural, and the Nensebo - Ethiopia, among others. Their offerings seem to be in touch with their local environment and culture, like the Yam Queen, a naturally flavored drink that is served with marshmallows on top, which seemed fitting with the fall seasons. They also stand out for their seasonal menu, which includes the Honey Basil Latte and Vietnamese spiced Coffee that are quite intriguing to the taste buds. Additionally, they give you the option to choose between different beans or roast profiles in some of their drinks.

On the downside, there seem to be fewer choices when it comes to snacks. The setting also leans more towards being laid-back rather than comfortable for sit-down laptop usage. However, their coffee selections and dedication towards their craft make it a worthy spot for any coffee enthusiast. Little Owl Coffee seems to be a hub for a full-bodied and indulgent coffee experience.

Whittier Cafe

4.8 out of 722 Reviews • 1710 E 25th Ave, Denver, CO 80205
Whittier CafeWhittier Cafe

Whittier Cafe specializes in coffee, promising an experience with brews from the African continent. They offer an array of both indoor and outdoor seating, and they have expanded their interior capacity recently. The ambiance carries an Ethiopian / activist vibe coupled with an eclectic music selection. They additionally serve small bites including pastries, burritos, and paninis, though some customers have found the quality inconsistent. Whittier Cafe aims to be more than just a place for a hot cup of joe – it's actively involved in local activism and schedules regular East African Coffee Ceremonies. Their identity as a community hub comes through, even as they face occasional challenges with staffing and crowd management.

Lekker Coffee & Watering Hole

4.9 out of 273 Reviews • 3460 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Lekker Coffee & Watering HoleLekker Coffee & Watering Hole

The mother-daughter team behind Lekker Coffee takes the idea of locally sourced goodness and adds a global spin. Firstly, their coffee is a partnership with Novo Coffee, utilizing a relationship-focused approach to connect great coffee producers with consumers. For those seeking strength, the espresso at Lekker gets consistently good feedback, though the Americana has been deemed light. Adventurous palates may be satiated with unique orders like iced lavender lattes.

But it isn't all about the coffee here. Environmentally conscious, Lekker are actively supporting Care For Wild, the largest rhino orphanage and sanctuary in the world. Feature walls of artistically designed decor provide visual appeal and reinforce their mission of education and awareness. Their team is friendly lending to a communal atmosphere. Regardless of your coffee preference, Lekker Coffee offers more than just a caffeine fix. This RiNo neighborhood shop is a place where drinking coffee contributes to a greater cause.

The Weathervane Cafe

4.8 out of 695 Reviews • 1725 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
The Weathervane CafeThe Weathervane Cafe

The Weathervane Cafe is a popular coffee shop serving espresso drinks and breakfast options, making it a great place to stop when you need a quick caffeine fix. They have spacious seating spaces, plenty of natural lighting, and great artwork.

The Weathervane Cafe is a charming coffee shop located in the historic West Washington Park neighborhood of Denver. They offer a variety of coffee drinks made from locally roasted beans, as well as a small menu of delicious pastries and light bites. The shop also features a performance space and hosts a variety of events, including live music, poetry readings, and art shows. With its welcoming atmosphere, comfortable seating, and frequent entertainment offerings, The Weathervane Cafe is a great spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy some of Denver's vibrant arts and culture scene.

Enjoy their happy camper latte and yummy pastries at the Weathervane Cafe whenever you are going for a hike, or enjoy the cool ambiance whenever you want to cool down with a drink of your choice on a sunny afternoon.

Lost Coffee Littleton

Lost Coffee LittletonLost Coffee Littleton

Lost Coffee is a popular coffee shop with multiple locations in the Denver area. They pride themselves on their commitment to providing customers with high-quality, ethically sourced coffee. Their menu features a variety of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews, as well as a selection of loose-leaf teas and baked goods. Lost Coffee has an inviting and trendy atmosphere, which includes unique decor and ample seating options, perfect for catching up with friends or getting work done. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they create a welcoming environment for all customers. Whether you're in the mood for a quick caffeine fix or looking for a place to hang out for a while, Lost Coffee is a great choice for any coffee lover in Denver.

Dandy Lion Coffee Co.

4.9 out of 203 Reviews • 5225 E 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80207
Dandy Lion Coffee Co.Dandy Lion Coffee Co.

Dandy Lion Coffee is not just a coffee shop but also a living greenhouse where you get to witness a variety of plants amidst a cosy atmosphere. The shop stands passively tucked away in an industrial plaza with swings for seating, enhancing the uniqueness of the place. Despite its tranquil location, this shop's highlight remains its Kyoto Iced Coffee, well-noted for its smooth mouthfeel, allowing the intrinsic notes of the coffee to be savored distinctly. An additional unique feature of this shop is the myriad of handcrafted goods and fascinating plant arrangements that bring forth an intriguing charm to the place. The espresso at Dandy Lion Coffee is freshly pulled and served with a striking friendliness.

The standout appeal still reigns with their coffee provisions; a notable mention goes to their Lavender Latte— an absolute delight. A visit here is not just about sipping on an extraordinary cup of coffee but also about engaging and exploring a diverse boutique of items. All in all, this place nestles the vibes and atmosphere that anyone might fancy during a coffee break. Encompassed in a space that adorns coffee, plants, and exclusive boutique items, Dandy Lion Coffee exceeds expectations.

Two cappucino cups side by side

Conclusion

Denver's coffee scene offers a diverse range of specialty coffee shops, each with their unique atmosphere and offerings. From ethical sourcing to job training programs, these coffee shops are not just places to get your caffeine fix, but also contribute positively to the community. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the best coffee shops in Denver is a must-do activity to fully immerse yourself in the city's vibrant coffee culture.

Denver’s coffee scene is rich, and the baristas sure know how to make great espressos, lattes and specialty drinks. Whether you are traveling, or just moved into this bustling city, you will not be disappointed whenever you are looking for coffee roasters in Denver or when searching for “the best coffee shops near me” while in Denver. 

close up of a cortado drink

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.

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