Denver's Coffee Culture: 12 Must-Visit Cafes

An exceptional coffee scene has taken root in the Mile High City, building community one cup at a time

August 27, 2024 - Rankin, Goulder, Kissinger

Coloradans know how to brew as Denver has long been hailed as a craft beer mecca, with a thriving community of innovative breweries that have helped define the city's identity. However, over the last decade, the Mile High City has also emerged as a hub for exceptional specialty coffee roasters and cafes, establishing itself as a true dual-threat in the world of craft beverages.

Denver's coffee landscape is characterized by a relentless pursuit of quality, with purveyors constantly pushing the boundaries of flavor and brewing technique. From the carefully sourced beans and meticulously perfected roast profiles to the intricate latte art and thoughtful cafe ambiances, the attention to detail in Denver's coffee scene is as unique as the city itself.

Whether savoring a bold, full-bodied pour-over, sipping a orange blossom honey latte, or indulging in a unique cultural event, Denverites have elevated the humble cup of coffee to an essential element of our lifestyle and communities. From immersive cultural experiences to serene natural surroundings and a behind-the-scenes look at the art of roasting, Denver's coffee culture offers something to captivate every palate and excite every interest.

Here are our team's favorite spots for a great cup of coffee:

Above: Hannah Ulbrich at Copper Door Coffee Roasters not only boasts some of the best coffee in Denver, but is proud to be woman-owned. Photo credit: Copper Door Coffee Roasters Facebook

Copper Door Coffee Roasters - This pioneering roasting company stands as Denver's first to be 100% woman-owned. And with that distinction comes a steadfast commitment to sustainability and inclusivity that permeates every aspect of the business. Whether it's the signature Shady Lady blend, specifically crafted to shine in cold brew, or the captivating limited releases like the Stranahan's Whiskey Barrel Aged Ethiopian, the roasters here transform each offering into an expression of their philosophy. But the impact of this trailblazing enterprise extends well beyond its home base in the city. Satellite outposts in Park Hill and Littleton, as well as a presence at the Denver Botanic Gardens, bring this message of quality, community, and social responsibility to coffee enthusiasts across the Mile High region.
Located at 1085 York Street | 7am-5pm Daily - Multiple locations and hours of operation

Rivers & Roads Coffee - From roasting their own premium beans to baking decadent pastries and crafting innovative syrups in-house, every element is a labor of love. But while the team at this neighborhood gem takes their coffee seriously, they also believe in the power of playful indulgence. Alongside meticulously pulled cortados, guests will find vanilla-orange chai, chili-spiked hot chocolate crowned with fluffy marshmallows, and other imaginative specialty beverages.
Located at 2539 Bruce Randolph Avenue | 7am-3pm Weekdays & 8am-3pm Weekends    

Dandy Lion Coffee - A truly one-of-a-kind experience at this Park Hill captivating hybrid coffee and plant shop. Step inside and you'll be greeted by an enchanting indoor greenhouse, where lush greenery creates a serene, nature-infused ambiance. But the real draw lies in the expertly crafted beverages - sip on a refreshing Vietnamese coffee, its robust chicory-infused cold brew perfectly balanced by creamy condensed milk. Or savor the fragrant complexity of an iced chai, elevated with toffee-nut and macadamia milk.  
Located at 5225 E 38th Avenue | 8am-3pm Daily  

Queen City Collective Coffee - Anchoring the vibrant Five Points neighborhood, this cafe stands as the flagship of a tight-knit family of four sibling locations, each found in distinct pockets of the Denver metro area - from Wheat Ridge to Broomfield and beyond. But while the footprint may have expanded, the unwavering commitment to coffee excellence has remained the guiding principle. Whether it's the richly nuanced El Paraíso Community Lot from Peru or the captivating complexity of the Ethiopian Guji Jigesa, the roasters here turn out consistently superb offerings. And even the most straightforward "cuppa brew" shines, especially when paired with the playful inventions of the in-house Pandemic Doughnuts. This community-focused collective has elevated the art of coffee to new heights, cultivating a loyal following across the Mile High City through their uncompromising dedication to flavor, quality, and hospitality.
Located at 2962 Welton Street | 6:30am-3:30pm Daily - Multiple locations and hours of operation

Denver Best Coffee Shops List
Above: The coffee ceremony at Whittier Cafe blend community, culture and coffee every Sunday starting at 2PM. Photo credit: Whittier Cafe Facebook

Whittier Cafe - A vibrant sense of community fills the inviting interior of Whittier Café in one of our favorite Denver neighborhoods. Colorful decor, rotating art displays, and shelves brimming with books create a welcoming, creative atmosphere where locals gather for events ranging from poetry readings to live music. At the heart of this neighborhood hub lies a cherished Sunday tradition - the authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony performed every week at 2 p.m. It is this spirited blend of community, culture, and carefully crafted coffee that makes Whittier Café a true standout among Denver's bustling cafes.  
Located at 1710 E 25th Avenue | 7am-7pm Weekdays & 7am-8pm Weekends  

Huckleberry Roasters - The flagship Sunnyside location of this well-established roastery and cafe offers an artsy, colorful space and expansive patio. But the allure of this beloved brand extends far beyond its original home. Three equally enticing sibling outposts have sprung up across the city, each delivering the same commitment to quality and community. Patrons can savor the rich, complex notes of Hulikere beans from India at the sleek Dairy Block downtown cafe, or indulge in the aromatic allure of orange blossom-honey lattes at the Tennyson Street or Broadway locations. No matter which outpost you visit, you're sure to be greeted with equally good vibes and a passion for craft that has defined this roastery's legacy.  
Located at 4301 Pecos Street | 7am-4pm Daily   

Crema Coffee House - From the very beginning in 2009, patrons could discern the distinction of this pioneering establishment. Crema's meticulous approach to sourcing premium beans and crafting each beverage with unwavering attention to detail set it apart. That tradition of excellence has remained over the years, as Crema has solidified its reputation as a beacon for coffee connoisseurs. And now, the beloved brand has expanded its reach, adding a second location within the Denver Central Market. Whether sipping a perfectly pulled espresso at the original Larimer Street cafe or savoring a meticulously brewed pour-over at the market outpost, customers are treated to the same commitment to quality that has defined Crema's legacy from the start.
Located at 2862 Larimer Street | 7am-5pm Daily   

Little Owl Coffee - Tucked away in the heart of LoDo, Little Owl Coffee has carved out a reputation as a haven for coffee connoisseurs. From their small but elegantly appointed shop, they meticulously serve individual cups brewed to perfection using small-batch, single-origin beans. While their espresso drinks are undeniably delectable, it is the graceful ritual of the pour-over brew that truly captivates visitors. The baristas here elevate the experience, their skilled hands and keen eyes ensuring each cup is a masterful balance of nuanced flavors and aromatic allure.  
Located at 1555 Blake Street | 7am-5pm Weekdays & 8am-5pm Weekends

Above: Commitment to sustainability and exceptional coffee sets Blue Sparrow apart...not to mention the pastries from Hearth Bakery. Photo credit: Blue Sparrow Coffee Facebook

Blue Sparrow Coffee - This bright and intimate café located in the heart of RiNo embraces a unique dual-level design, blessed with both a charming courtyard and a cozy rooftop patio. But the real draw lies in the cafe's commitment to sustainability and its ever-evolving roster of exceptional coffee offerings. Behind the counter, a large list of rotating selections of both domestic and international roasters - from Ireland's Root & Branch to South Carolina's JUNTO - each featured in the cafe's expertly crafted espresso drinks and specialty brews. And to complement these meticulously sourced and prepared beverages, the café sources its tempting pastries from the nearby artisanal haven of Hearth Bakery.  
Located at 3070 Blake Street #180 | 6:30am-5:30pm Daily  

Ti Cafe - At this chic Baker district cafe, the true star of the menu is the captivating Vietnamese coffee. Whether served straight up or crowned with a cloud of pillowy egg foam or silky flan, these delectable brews take center stage. The café's roster of specialty drinks does not disappoint - from velvety lattes to refreshing matcha-coconut cold brews and indulgent raspberry mochas. And to perfectly complement these dreamy concoctions, the bakery case beckons with an array of authentic Vietnamese delights, from fragrant mooncakes and sesame balls to savory BBQ pork buns. This vibrant, spruce-accented cafe has truly elevated the Vietnamese coffee experience, inviting patrons to embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the rich cultural heritage.  
Located at 30 N Broadway | 9am-6pm Monday-Saturday & 10am-6pm Sunday  

Steam Espresso Bar - Just steps from Old South Pearl Street district, this Platt Park coffee shop often finds itself with a line spilling out the door. The devotion is well-earned, the cafe's unwavering commitment to supporting local microroasters results in a consistently exceptional coffee program. Alongside the expertly brewed beverages, the bakery case beckons with a tempting selection of freshly baked goods. And the funky, art-filled space only adds to the allure, with garage doors that open onto a spacious patio, blurring the line between indoors and out. 
Located at 1801 S. Pearl Street | 7am-3pm Daily

Best Coffee Shops in Denver
Above: Credited at the first artisan cafe in Denver, Novo has served Denver diligently for the past two decades. Photo Credit: Novo Coffee Facebook

Novo Coffee - We perhaps saved the best for last…The pioneer of the artisan coffee movement in Denver since 2002, this renowned roastery has built a reputation for exceptional quality and innovation. Over the course of two decades, they have honed a collection of more than a dozen signature roasts, each showcasing the team's relentless pursuit of perfection. Customers can savor these meticulously crafted offerings at one of Novo's four conveniently located cafes across the city. But for a truly immersive experience, coffee enthusiasts would be wise to sign up for the roastery's Friday cupping and tour event. For just $20, guests are invited behind the scenes to witness the roasting process firsthand, while indulging in a tasting that highlights the nuanced flavors of Novo's latest small-batch creations. And of course, no visit is complete without taking home a bag of freshly roasted beans to continue the experience at home.  
Located at 1600 Glenarm Place | 6:30am–5pm Weekdays & 7am–4pm Weekends - Multiple locations and hours of operation

This beloved beverage is far more than just a morning ritual - it is a social glue, a creative catalyst, and an essential part of a thriving community. And for many Mile High residents, the daily coffee run is a sacred tradition, a moment of peace amidst the bustle, a chance to recharge and refocus. The Denver coffee culture extends well beyond the individual - it has helped shape the very character of Denver, fueling the city's entrepreneurial spirit, flourishing arts scene, and instilling a profound sense of community.

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Denver's Coffee Culture: 12 Must-Visit Cafes