Step into the vibrant coffee culture of the Mile High City, where delightful coffee shops adorn every corner, creating a caffeinated haven for locals and visitors alike. Having immersed ourselves in the Denver coffee scene for a year, we’ve sipped our way through countless cups to uncover the gems that truly stand out. In this blog, we’re excited to spill the coffee beans on our top 10 favorite spots. Get ready for a journey through Denver’s coffee wonderland, and be sure not to miss out on the quirky charm of our #10 pick for a truly unique coffee experience!
Hours: Open Weekdays 6:30AM to 2PM and Weekends 7AM to 2PM
Queensberry Coffee is a hidden gem tucked away in the vibrant LoHi neighborhood on Navajo St. Once owned by Coors Beer and serving as a Live Theater and Bar in the early 1900s, this local spot has a fascinating history that adds a unique charm to your coffee experience.
Beyond the captivating tales, Queensberry is a haven for coffee lovers, offering a delightful selection of flavors like Lavender, Dark Mocha, and the latest obsession, Rose Cardamom. But it’s not just about the coffee – indulge in a variety of teas and treat your taste buds to mouthwatering options, including our top pick, the Veggie breakfast burrito. Don’t miss the chance to experience the inviting atmosphere, especially when the garage door swings open during the summer months, providing a refreshing and airy ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a caffeine fix, a cozy space to work, or a quiet corner to study, Queensberry Coffee has it all – making it a must-visit spot in Denver’s coffee scene!
Hours: Open Everyday 6:30Am to 5PM
Pinwheel Coffee is also located in the charming LoHi neighborhood on Navajo St. This cute and colorful spot has a backstory as intriguing as its decor. What makes Pinwheel truly special is that its location, design, branding, and business plan were all crafted by students through the Embark Education program – and they nailed it!
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of an old-school diner or classic coffee shop. Pinwheel doesn’t just win hearts with its aesthetics; their drink menu boasts cool and unique options, like the Turmeric Ginger Latte and our personal favorite, the Chai Spiced cold brew. Pair your drink with a tempting selection of pastries for the ultimate treat.
As you sip and savor, keep an eye out for the neighborhood’s feline celebrity, Sushi. This playful cat loves to roam and add an extra dash of charm to the experience. So, whether you’re into innovative drinks, delicious pastries, or feline company, Pinwheel Coffee promises a delightful and unique stop in Denver!
Hours: Open Everyday 6AM to 12AM (6th Ave Location)
Lil’ Coffea is a prime spot in the Capitol Hill neighborhood on 6th Ave. This gem also has another location near South Denver on Downing St. The 6th Ave spot has become our weekly go-to, especially when en route to Trader Joe’s, and let us tell you – it’s a journey worth making!
Lil’ Coffea stands out not just for its diverse array of flavors but also for its fantastic food offerings. Beyond the usual coffee fare, you can indulge in Italian Sodas, Smoothies, Pastries, and more. What makes this place even more delightful? The creative names they’ve given to their drinks and food items – from the Karmel Sutra to the Sir Mix a Latte Toast and the intriguing Hazy Daisy.
Our personal favorite? The Iced Vanilla Rose Latte, a sweet and flowery concoction that hits all the right notes. But Lil’ Coffea isn’t just about the expected – surprise your taste buds with unique menu items like the Chicken Tikka Pizza and Coconut Bao Buns.
If you’re on the lookout for a coffee shop that goes beyond the ordinary, Lil’ Coffea is a must-visit. So, swing by next time you need a fresh coffee experience – you won’t be disappointed!
Hours: Open Monday through Thursday 7AM to 10PM,
Friday & Saturday 7AM to 11PM, and Sunday 7AM to 9PM
Hello Darling is nestled in downtown Denver, right across from Commons Park. This aesthetic coffee shop and bar seamlessly transforms from a serene workspace in the quiet mornings to a vibrant hub as the afternoon unfolds. With an abundance of cozy seating, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and hang out.
What sets this place apart is its versatility – from hosting trivia nights to creating a lively bar atmosphere, this shop caters to a variety of tastes. Their menu is equally diverse, featuring an array of pastries and breakfast burritos for early munchies, and charcuterie with nuts for those later-day cravings. Don’t miss out on their seasonal syrups – the homemade gingerbread during winter is simply to die for, while summer calls for the refreshing lavender flavor.
Furry companions are more than welcome until 5 pm every day, making Hello Darling not just a hangout spot for you but also for your four-legged friends. So, whether you’re seeking a quiet work nook, a lively evening out, or just a delightful place to snack and sip, Hello Darling promises a great time in the heart of downtown Denver – don’t pass up the chance to stop by!
Hours: Open Everyday 8AM to 3PM
Dandy Lion is situated in Northeast Denver, near the Denver Zoo. If you’ve ever yearned for a coffee shop that doubles as a green oasis, Dandy Lion is your dream come true. The abundance of beautiful plants and quirky furniture pieces scattered throughout the shop creates an environment that’s as delightful as it is Instagram-worthy. Feel free to grab a plant or some funky decor to bring a piece of Dandy Lion’s green charm home with you.
What sets this spot apart is its commitment to eco-friendliness, evident in its indoor mini greenhouse and swing-style chairs. Dandy Lion is not just a coffee shop; it’s a vibrant community hub where people gather, chat, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The menu is a treasure trove of unique and rare drinks, from the refreshing Chrysanthemum Iced Tea to the smooth Kyoto Cold Brew and the bold Vietnamese Iced Coffee.
For those who can’t get enough of Dandy Lion’s distinctive brews, they offer a convenient subscription service for coffee delivery straight to your home. If you’re in search of an experience that goes beyond the ordinary coffee spot, Dandy Lion is a must-visit – where greenery meets creativity in the heart of Northeast Denver!
Hours: Open Daily 8AM – 2PM, Closed on Tuedays
Inside of the Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery in Denver, you’ll discover Slackline Coffee at the front entrance. This unique gem wears multiple hats, starting as a bustling coffee shop in the mornings and transforming into a vibrant brewery as the day unfolds. It’s the perfect place to set up shop for studying or working, especially during the tranquil mornings.
The space is expansive, offering ample room to find your own cozy corner and spread out. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to indulge in their Spicy Mocha latte – a delightful blend of just the right amount of spice with a touch of Mexican Chocolate sweetness. If spice isn’t your cup of coffee, explore their diverse range of flavors, including the intriguing pistachio.
Feeling hungry? Slackline Coffee has you covered with a tempting selection of breakfast options, from hearty burritos to scrumptious pastries. And if you decide to linger into the evening, explore the brewery’s events or consult the food truck calendar to see which vendors are adding to the culinary experience that week. Slackline Coffee at Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery is not just a pit stop; it’s a dynamic space where coffee, work, and events seamlessly come together – a must-visit for a multifaceted experience in Denver!
Hours: Open Monday through Friday 6:30AM – 6PM, Saturday and Sunday 7AM – 6PM
Kaffe Landskap, a Northern-European coffee shop, is located near Union Station (1 of 4 locations). Drawn in by the captivating logo, we discovered that this coffee shop is more than just a visual delight – it’s a homage to Scandinavian heritage, evident in every corner of its interior space, authentic cuisine, and top-notch beverages.
Kaffe Landskap stands out with a menu that echoes its commitment to quality and uniqueness. Indulge in the enticing Brown Sugar Chai Latte, sip on the delicate Rose Soda, or dive into the earthy goodness of the Chagachino (Chaga mushroom) Latte. For a delightful pastry experience, don’t miss the Kardemummabulle – a knotted delight filled with sweet Cardamom sugar. And if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, their Blueberry Chaga Magic smoothie and Almond Hemp protein smoothie won’t disappoint.
What sets Kaffe Landskap apart is its emphasis on real, wholesome food, making it one of the healthiest additions to our coffee shop list. Plus, the bonus of a view of Union Station, letting you soak in the sights and sounds of trains coming in and out. A morning spent at Kaffe Landskap, sipping a cup of joe and savoring a bite, is undeniably a morning well spent – an experience that transcends the ordinary coffee shop visit!
Hours: Open Everyday 7AM to 3PM
Convivio Cafe, in the Mountain View area just Northwest of Denver, stands proudly as the first women-owned, Guatemalan-inspired, bilingual cafe in the city. Embodying the spirit of a convivio – a warm gathering in Guatemala where everyone is welcomed – this cafe exudes an unmistakable inviting ambiance from the moment you step inside.
Convivio Cafe is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community space where you’ll find people engrossed in reading, working, knitting, or forging new connections. If you’re eager to enhance your language skills, the cafe hosts various events, including an English and Spanish meetup.
As for the menu, Convivio Cafe delights with special coffee flavors like Dulce de Leche, Cardamomo, and Picosita (spicy chocolate). Complementing these unique brews are a variety of Latin and Central American-inspired snacks and pastries, creating a fusion of flavors that you won’t find anywhere else.
Step into Convivio Cafe for a truly special experience – a blend of inviting community vibes, bilingual interactions, and a delectable array of coffee and pastries that reflect the cafe’s unique Guatemalan inspiration. It’s a coffee shop where every visit feels like joining a convivio – a warm and welcoming gathering.
Hours: Open Monday through Wednesday 6AM – 5PM,
Thursday and Friday 6AM – 9PM, Saturday 7AM – 9PM, Sunday 7AM – 4PM
Cafe Zuri, a European family-owned coffee shop and micro bar, is nestled in the heart of the Highlands neighborhood. This vibrant gem stands out not just for its enticing coffee selection but also for its lively and colorful exterior that’s sure to catch your eye. As you step inside, the fun ambiance invites you to explore a myriad of flavors, with the Rose and Honey latte stealing the spotlight as a must-try favorite.
Beyond the coffee, Cafe Zuri elevates your morning experience with delicious breakfast options and pastries crafted by skilled European bakers. But this spot is more than just a coffee haven; it’s a dual-purpose establishment with a twist – it transforms into a lively bar. Consider spicing up your coffee with an Irish kick, turning your visit into a unique blend of coffee and cocktails. Notably, Cafe Zuri takes a different approach by embracing a tech-free environment; laptops are left at home, and Wi-Fi is not on the menu. Instead, the focus is on fostering community connections, encouraging locals to gather, hang out, and truly get to know one another. If you’re in the Highlands neighborhood and craving a vibrant, flavor-packed, and community-centered experience, Cafe Zuri is a must-stop destination.
Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday 6AM – 10PM, Friday and Saturday 6AM – 1AM
Prepare for a unique and futuristic coffee experience at our final pick – Javai – a kiosk located in the Nationwide Parking Services lot in downtown Denver on Wazee St. This extraordinary spot stands out for more reasons than one, notably because there are no baristas in sight. Instead, a robot, the sole employee, tirelessly works to craft your perfect cup of coffee. The machine, about the size of a bus stop, may be easily overlooked if you’re not in the know, but it’s a revolutionary addition to Denver’s coffee scene.
Despite the unconventional setup, the coffee here is surprisingly excellent and comes at a more budget-friendly price compared to traditional shops. Convenience is key, with the option to order ahead using your phone, allowing the machine to prepare your drink promptly. The menu features delightful options such as the Dirty Chai Latte, Vanilla Latte, and the specialty Javai Latte, complete with toffee bits. This innovative coffee experience is brought to you by a Denver company founded in 2022 with the ambitious goal of transforming the way coffee is served. Join them on this pioneering journey and be sure to give this robotic coffee maestro a try – it’s an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, marking a futuristic leap in the world of coffee.