Denver Coffee: High Altitude, Serious Beans

Denver's most technically serious roaster. The sourcing program is deep, the single-origins rotate with the seasons, and the South Broadway room rewards staying the full morning. One of the better espresso programs in the Mountain West, period.

South Pearl Street institution that's been here long enough to stop trying to prove anything. Not trying to be fancy, not competing with the specialty wave. Just consistent, good, and full of people who have been coming for years. The patio is better than it has any right to be.

Denver's most beloved breakfast institution, and the coffee is part of the reason people wait in line. Cafe au lait with chicory, eggs Sardou, and a room that's been feeding Capitol Hill for decades. Come hungry and plan to stay.

Denver's most interesting room. The Mercury has been hosting live music, poetry, and swing dance nights since 1975 and makes no apologies. The coffee is a legitimate reason to show up in the morning. The history of the place makes it worth an hour of your time regardless.