Best Coffee Shops in Denver

If you spend any time walking around Denver, it becomes apparent the city is powered by two very distinct but disparate beverages — coffee and craft beer.

While craft beer may get the headlines, coffee shops fuel the populace with chain stores as well as cozy, independent neighborhood cafes. Serving up everything from dark roast to lattes, Denver’s brewing scene is dominated, not by the hops, but by the beans.

At last count, Google maps identified over 100 coffee shops in Denver that focus on not only the perfect cup of coffee but also  ambiance, food, and barista charm. Whether it’s in a to-go container or a soup-size mug, nothing beats starting the day with a hot beverage in the morning with friends or family. Many of the coffee shops feature local coffee roasters like Kaladi,  Kabod, Novo, Corvus, Allegro, Coda and  Sweet Bloom.

From Highlands to Washington Park, Central Park to Ruby Hill, you’ll find an amazing array of coffee shops that are sure to fire up your day. Here is a list of some of the best coffee shops in Denver, in no particular order, according to members of the Usaj Realty brokerage.

Kaladi 

Tori Casella, Broker Associate

Kaladi Coffee Roasters strive to establish a new benchmark for coffee excellence and a hub for fostering community spirit. They meticulously select premium coffee beans from farmers dedicated to sustainable cultivation techniques. This results in a brew that exudes richness, flavor, and aroma often absent in mainstream coffee offerings. By employing the innovative Fluid-bed Air Roasting method and utilizing top-of-the-line equipment, Kaladi Coffee Roasters deliver an unparalleled coffee experience that is truly exceptional.

1730 E. Evans (University neighborhood)

2823 S. Broadway (Englewood)

Prodigy

Recommended by Megan Ivy, Broker Associate

Beyond just a coffee shop, Prodigy offers valuable work opportunities for young adults navigating their paths. Those disconnected from traditional avenues are welcomed into a year-long apprenticeship fostering skills, work experience, and strong work ethics for fulfilling careers. With a menu featuring a variety of coffee and specialty drinks, cold brews, and delectable breakfast items, you’re bound to be a regular. Don’t miss out on the hand-held waffle! The vibrant ambiance and engaging company make every visit a delight.

3801 E. 40th Ave. (Clayton neighborhood)

Hoja

Recommended by Maddy Hollar, Broker Associate

Hoja is a delightful spot for breakfast and brunch, offering exceptional coffee alongside homemade bread and Mexican-inspired dishes. This laid-back establishment is perfect for enjoying a delicious cup of joe or indulging in a cocktail. Be sure to sample their signature Cafe de Olla beverage, featuring espresso-infused Mexican cold brew, spiced piloncillo syrup, almond milk, and a hint of orange.

1284 S Pearl St (Platt Park neighborhood)

Other Usaj Realty Favorites

Queensberry Rules Coffee

Embracing the working-class history and character of the LoHi Denver neighborhood, this cafe has classic good looks with an exposed brick wall, throwback cooler and interior touches that make your visit one to remember. Featuring breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch, everything is fresh and made in-house.

3408 Navajo St. (LoHi neighborhood)

Whittier Cafe

Experience Denver’s only African espresso bar. All of their coffee comes from various African nations including Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee! If you’re not in the mood for coffee, enjoy beer and wine from Africa. Whitter Cafe believes in social justice and supports related causes.

1710 East 25th Ave. (Whittier neighborhood)

Aviano

Aviano prides itself on the creativity of their coffee beverages and the spaces they create. If the ambiance isn’t enough to get you heading to Cherry Creek, they also serve up Intelligentsia Coffee, a fantastic roasting company out of Chicago.

244 Detroit St + 215 S Paul St (Cherry Creek North neighborhood)

Buzz Coffee

Huckleberry Roasters

Huckleberry has graced the Mile High City with  two locations: one in the Sunnyside neighborhood and one at the Dairy Block in downtown Denver. As a sustainable company with some darn good coffee, either of their locations are full of charm and worth a visit.

4301 N. Pecos St. (Sunnyside neighborhood)

1800 Wazee St. (LoDo neighborhood)

Sojourners Coffee & Tea

Located in Virginia Vale, Sojourners concentrates on providing great coffee and tea to the Denver community.  That means brewing espressos on the beloved Synesso Cyncra, offering French Press coffee, and individually brewing teas by the cup or pot using loose leaf teas. Sojourners uses mostly locally roasted coffee (Coda Coffee and Novo Coffee), but occasionally Sojourners brings in guest roasts from outside the Denver area. Our single leaf teas are from Teatulia, a Denver-based company, and The Tea Spot, a company from Boulder. Pastries come from Laurent Gava’s Figaro Bakery and The Last Crumb Bakery, a gluten-free baked goods provider.

1501 S. Holly St. (Virginia Vale neighborhood)

Quince Coffee House

To many, a great coffee shop is one where you can snuggle up into a corner and get some serious work knocked out, but is equally conducive to meeting clients or sitting down with a good friend to talk to. Tucked away in the East Colfax neighborhood of Denver, this hidden gem checks all those boxes and is well worth the trek. Housed in a converted old home with all the quaint charm you can imagine, enjoy the porch or backyard on a nice day. If the weather isn’t cooperating, there are three small rooms with an eclectic variety of chairs, sofas, and high top tables from which to work. Offering all the basics from great coffee and local eats to free WiFi, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and will leave a happy customer.

1447 Quince St. (East Colfax neighborhood)

Devil’s Food Bakery & Cookery

Established in 1999, Devil’s Food Bakery on Old South Gaylord Street began as a charming spot offering pastries, coffee, and tea. Since then, it has grown into a spacious venue providing breakfast, lunch, supper, and brunch, alongside an array of delectable pastries, becoming a beloved destination in Denver’s vibrant neighborhood. Whether your palate craves classic chicken and waffles or the wholesome goodness of quinoa cakes and eggs, this café promises to delight your taste buds.

1004 S. Gaylord St.  (Old South Gaylord Street neighborhood)

Amante Coffee

Nestled within the Oxford Hotel Annex in LoDo, this hidden gem boasts an exquisite array of teas and coffees. Amante earns extra points for its laid-back, budget-friendly happy hour. Its prime location near Union Station ensures a bustling atmosphere. Ideal for savoring an espresso and breakfast pastry, Amante transforms into a charming spot in the afternoon, where you can relish a glass of wine while indulging in some people-watching from the patio or cozy window seats.

1612 17th St. (LoDo neighborhood)

(Editor’s note: This blog was originally published in November of 2017. It has been updated and revised to reflect new information).