by A.N. Carter

Created on: December 04, 2008   Last Updated: January 08, 2009

Whether you live in Denver or are just visiting, privately owned coffee houses are a great way to experience quality caffeine and check out the locals. Personally, I prefer independent coffee shops to chains, as they have better atmospheres, customer service, and quality products.

Finding a coffee house is as simple as surfing the internet. Of course, you can visit phone book sites like

www.yellowpages.com, but I prefer to find a location based upon local reviews. www.denvercoffeespots.com features a large list of independent Denver coffee houses with reviews by locals and an interactive map. You can also try www.indiecoffeeshops.com for a wide variety of information.

The following shops are all independently owned and operated, and are my favorites in the area!

COFFEE ON THE LOWELL

Located at 4995 Lowell Boulevard, this coffee house serves excellent java and assorted baked goods. This location is popular with university students and locals alike. The atmosphere is a great reflection of the area and the pastries are to die for! It is quiet, calm, and feels like a small-town shop. You should also check out the unique selection of gifts they provide.

TAZA DE CAF

3565 West 44th Avenue is lucky to be home to this coffee house. Taza is a latino restaurant, and many locals recommend their breakfast menu and hot java for its originality. Try the egg & bacon bagel sandwich with spicy chipotle sauce along with a steaming hot cup of coffee. They have patio seating, vibrant walls, and quick service. You are sure to be satisfied with each sip of this local flavor.

THE MARKET

The Market was the first espresso bar in Denver and is much more than just a coffee house. It sits at 1445 Larimer Square, and has a full deli and restaurant, which is mostly self-serve. It is located in the middle of a busy tourist trap, but the food and coffee are so good, a great number of locals visit daily. They are also well-known for their excellent teas and espressos. I recommend avoiding the lunch time crowd, as it is nearly impossible to find seating.

INK COFFEE

At 1590 Little Raven Street, Ink Coffee is an excellent choice if you want more than coffee. They serve alcohol, shakes, and have a fantastic menu. The patio area is heated, so you can enjoy the outdoors without freezing! The coffee is excellent, the service is fast, and it is a great place to get your coffee and go. However, it is a little like a cookie-cutter coffee house, but since Ink is located within many attractions, including Six Flags, it is a convenient place for tourists to check out.

SHOOTING STAR CAF

With a full kitchen, multiple rooms, and extensive menu, Shooting Star Caf is an excellent place to kick back at. Along with catering to local film discussion groups, they host an open mic night. The cafe is actually an old house, so the ambiance is very different from run-of-the-mill coffee shops. The java is excellent and it is a great place to blend in with the locals. It is located at 2737 West 26th Avenue.

Denver has a large assortment of independent coffee shops. Whether you are looking for a quick pick-me-up or a place to kick your feet up, surf the internet, and sip away, these places are sure to be accommodating.

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