16 Must-Try Coffee Shops in Boulder, CO
If you love coffee as much as we do, you’ll be happy to know that Boulder, Colorado, has some of the best coffee shops to check out.
Boulder is not only a beautiful city with fabulous views of the Rocky Mountains and a fun college vibe. It also has a coffee culture that draws in both locals and visitors.
Whether you want to curl up with a book, chat with your friends, or get some work done, there’s a place for you. In this blog post, we’ll show you some of the best coffee shops in Boulder, from local cafes to roasters to bookstores.
You’ll see what makes each one special and why you should try them. So grab your mug and join us on a caffeinated tour of Boulder’s coffee scene!
Coffee Shops in Boulder
The Laughing Goat
The Laughing Goat is a famous coffeehouse in Boulder. They offer drinks, snacks, and live shows at Pearl, Baby, and Norlin.
The Pearl spot, where it all started at 1709 Pearl Street, has a comfy, artsy vibe. They’ve got local art on the walls and live music most nights.
You can sip award-winning Kaladi Brothers Coffee from Denver here with teas, wines, beers, and pastries. It’s where you can savor the finest espresso around.
Located at 2907 55th Street, The Baby Place is a smaller version of Pearl. It’s got a modern look, a roomy patio, and a fireplace.
They serve the same menu as Pearl, plus sandwiches, salads, and soups. It’s a great spot to kick back and work with fast internet and power plugs.
The newest Norlin spot at the University of Colorado’s Norlin Library caters to busy students and faculty. It’s chill about studying at the tables and offers the same menu as the other two, with smoothies, juices, and energy bars. It’s a comfy spot to study and hang out, with a great library view.
The Laughing Goat isn’t just a coffee joint; it’s a place where Boulder’s culture and diversity shine.
Boxcar Coffee Roasters
Boxcar is one of the best Boulder coffee shops you can find. It was started by a husband and wife duo, Vajra and Cara Rich, in 2010.
They’re all about making top-notch coffee. Their secret sauce? Well, it’s a special method they call the Boilermakr, where they boil water in a fancy vacuum to get even more flavor out of those coffee beans.
If you’re strolling down Pearl Street, pop into their cafe and bakery. They’ve got all the good stuff – espresso, fancy drinks, and delicious French pastries. And guess what? You can also order their coffee online.
There’s plenty of indoor seating and a few tables outside, too. Boxcar attracts coffee enthusiasts from Boulder and beyond. Many locals love them for their dedication to great coffee and creative ideas in the coffee world.
Ozo Coffee
OZO is a coffee roaster and shop in Boulder that started in 2007, focusing on service, quality, community, and sustainability.
They offer roasted organic coffee, instant coffee, coffee subscriptions, and cool gear. OZO has three spots in Boulder: Arapahoe, East Pearl, and Flatiron.
OZO Arapahoe, the first location from 2007, has a full espresso bar and a roomy seating area. OZO East Pearl opened downtown in May 2019 and has freshly baked goodies and treats.
OZO Flatiron serves as the roastery and training hub, where you can see how coffee is roasted and learn more about it.
OZO is all about getting coffee responsibly and making sure it’s top-notch for you. They have a unique drink, the Bhakti Chai. If you like stronger flavors, ask the barista to make it bolder.
To learn more about OZO, visit their website or drop by one of their places to savor their coffee firsthand.
Flatiron Coffee
Flatiron is your go-to local coffee shop in Boulder. This incredible place has been around since 2009, and they’re all about quality and craftsmanship. They use local coffee beans, dairy, baked goods, and artisanal ingredients.
The owner, Melissa, has been making espresso drinks by hand for over 20 years. She’s always coming up with new and exciting ways to brew that perfect cup of joe.
Even more remarkable is that Flatiron is about giving back to the community. They support local organizations and events.
The vibe in this Boulder coffee shop is super relaxing and friendly. You can chill out with free Wi-Fi, join their monthly book club, or listen to live music.
They’ve got some impressive signature ones like the Ice Cap, a cold brewed espresso turned into a creamy delight. Or you can try the Honey Pot Latte, made with espresso, honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and milk.
And remember the Nitro Cold Brew, which is like coffee on a whole new level because it’s infused with nitrogen.
If you’re into gluten-free or vegan options, Flatiron has covered you with pastries and food.
Trident Booksellers and Cafe
Trident is an independent, employee-owned cafe and bookstore in Downtown Boulder. At Trident, you’ll find a great mix of new and used books and beautiful art prints from local artists.
Whether you’re into fiction, poetry, philosophy, or spirituality, you will discover something that interests you.
But that’s not all Trident has to offer! They also serve delicious single-origin pour-overs, handpicked beer and wine, and mouthwatering pastries that are freshly baked and locally sourced.
You can relax and enjoy drinks and treats inside the chic and comfy interior or sit on their spacious patio.
What sets Trident apart is its lively events. Almost every night, they host exciting happenings like live music, poetry readings, book signings, and much more. It’s the perfect place to indulge in literature and art and connect with the thriving Boulder community.
So, if you’re looking for a unique book-buying or café experience, visit Trident Booksellers and Cafe. It’s a leading destination for bookworms, coffee enthusiasts, and art lovers alike.
Beleza Coffee Bar
Beleza is a friendly neighborhood coffee spot that serves top-notch coffee and light bites.
The name “Beleza” is Portuguese for ‘beauty’ and in Brazilian slang, it’s all about good vibes.
Greg Lefcourt and Nafisa Ramos (the owners) aim to build a community with a beautiful and chill atmosphere.
At Beleza, they partner with different roasters across North America, anchored by Sweet Bloom Coffee.
They’ve got more than just coffee; check out golden milk, espresso tonic, and espresso milkshakes. Beleza also doubles as an art hub and sells local and fair-trade goods at ‘Beleza Mercantile.’
Inside, it’s cozy with various seating options like community tables, comfy couches, bar counters, and a bench with pillows and platter tables.
Plus, some greenery and flowers for that natural charm. You’ll spot plants, textiles, ceramics, and local art inside, giving the place a global feel.
Find Beleza open daily at 2680 Broadway Street. It’s the spot to savor coffee, connect, and soak in Boulder’s beauty.
Ampersand Coffee Roasters
Kurt founded Ampersand in 2016 because he believed that great coffee isn’t just about the brew but the story.
Ampersand not only roasts coffee for wholesale but also has a tasting room and sells directly to coffee lovers online. Their coffee is 100% Fair-Trade and ethically sourced, empowering women in coffee-producing regions.
They offer various coffee options, including their unique signature creations, from espressos to nitro brews. Are they ordering their coffee online? Enjoy free shipping on orders exceeding $25.
At Ampersand, they’re not just passionate about coffee but committed to sustainability. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff is always eager to share their expertise with you. You can even bring your furry pals; it’s a dog-friendly place.
Whether you seek a fresh cup, a bag of beans, or a gift for a fellow coffee enthusiast, Ampersand has you covered.
Visit Ampersand for an exceptional coffee experience. It’s one of the best Boulder coffee shops you don’t want to miss.
Village Coffee Shop
Are you looking for an unforgettable breakfast with caffeine in Boulder? Look no further than the Village Coffee Shop.
This friendly diner has been serving the locals for an impressive 50 years. Whether you’re ready for a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying snack, this classic neighborhood spot covers you.
They offer coffee options like regular, decaf, espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Pair your favorite coffee with one of their delicious dishes, such as pancakes, omelets, burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Sit at the long counter with stools and watch the skilled cooks prepare your food on the grill. And if it’s your first time visiting, be prepared for a warm round of applause from the entire restaurant.
Located at 1605 Folsom Street in Boulder, you can quickly call them for an order or to make a reservation. So, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Village Coffee Shop—890 square feet of reality right in the heart of Boulder.
Amante Coffee
If you love Italian coffee, try Amante in Boulder. It has two shops: one in Downtown Boulder and one in Uptown Broadway.
The Ghigo family in Bra, Italy, roasts all their beans. They do it the old way in Northern Italy. That’s why they say their beans are the best.
You will feel like you are in Europe when you visit Amante, one of the best coffee shops in Boulder.
You can order espresso, cappuccino, latte, and other special drinks at Amante Coffee. It also has ice cream, gelato, pastries, sandwiches, salads, and breakfast food.
You can park easily and find a free spot most of the time. Stop at one of their locations for a delicious coffee, a relaxing break, a productive work session, or a friendly chat.
Alpine Modern Cafe
Alpine Modern Cafe is a place where you can enjoy specialty coffee, fresh food, and fantastic design. It is a local business that values quality over quantity and creates a minimalist and cozy space for customers.
You can visit Alpine Modern Cafe at two locations in Boulder: one on University Hill and another on 29th Street Mall. They are open every day but have different hours depending on the location.
Try Americano or Mocha; Americano is black coffee with espresso. Mocha is espresso, milk, chocolate, and cream.
They have many menu options like avocado toast, quinoa bowl, burrata toast, and more.
You can also shop online for curated products and gifts. Alpine Modern Cafe is more than just a coffee shop. It is a lifestyle brand that celebrates nature and simplicity.
Gabee Coffee
If you love organic coffee with a Korean twist, you’ll love Gabee. They roast their beans fresh daily and make drinks that look and taste amazing.
The owner is an expert roaster who knows how to brew coffee like an artist.
Gabee has many kinds of drinks, both coffee and non-coffee. Try their special coffees with rare beans like Jamaica Blue Mountain and Yemen Mocca Mattari. Some are Korean favorites like Cherry Blossom Latte and Sweet Potato Latte.
The people who work there are super nice and helpful, and the place is cute, with jazz and classical music in the air.
Gabee is one of the most popular Boulder coffee shops. It is open daily, but the hours vary depending on the day. You can find them at 3040 28th Street.
Red Rock Coffeehouse
If you’re looking for a less crowded and friendly place to have coffee and a snack in North Boulder, you’ll love Red Rock Coffeehouse.
They have all kinds of drinks like espresso, coffee, chai, kombucha, smoothies, and frappes. And they also have yummy treats like baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and banana bread.
Try their dirty chai: It’s a chai latte with an espresso shot. Or their iced caramel macchiato: It’s a cold espresso drink with caramel sauce and milk. Or their espresso frappe: It’s a cold brew espresso blended with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream.
They have a lot of space to sit outside and inside. You’ll want to come back to this place when you’re in Colorado. And you should check it out, too, if you’re near this spot!
Bona Coffee Roasters
Bona is an independent family coffee roaster in Boulder. Andre Di Bonaventura established Bona Coffee Roasters in 2017 with a passion for coffee.
This Boulder coffee shop is like a paradise for coffee fans. You can smell the fresh and delicious aroma as soon as you enter. If you go further, you can find the taproom where they serve their coffee on tap.
If you go outside, you can enjoy one of the biggest outdoor patios in Boulder. There are picnic tables, and a dog-friendly area, a taco truck.
They make unique blends for different tastes. For example, the Sant’Omero espresso blend is perfect for a strong and smooth shot. The Curupira breakfast blend is excellent for a morning boost.
They also let you see how they roast their beans in their roastery. You can learn more about their craft and passion there.
Bona loves coffee but also loves people, culture, and conversation. They welcome you to join them and feel the good luck of incredible coffee.
The Point Cafe
You can find The Point Cafe near the University of Colorado campus on 13th Street. It is a coffee shop and roasting company that serves people with love and points them to Jesus.
The cafe has a peaceful vibe, with live music and spaces for kids. They want to inspire people to serve others and to share the gospel with them.
They donate their business profits to the local church and global missions. It also lets any local ministry use its space for free for their events.
The cafe cares about the farmers who grow its coffee. It buys from fair-trade sources and tries to connect with and support them in Christ.
You can enjoy some of their tasty drinks, such as Nitro Cold Brew, a smooth and creamy cold brew coffee—oat Milk Latte: a vegan-friendly latte with oat milk and a sweet and nutty flavor.
The Point Cafe is more than just a coffee shop. It is where you can have a great cup of coffee, make new friends, and feel God’s love.
January Coffee
January is one of the best coffee shops in Boulder that serves coffee, tea, and breakfast. It is located at Market Square Shopping Center and is open daily.
The owners, Kristi Persinger and John Imig, are experts in the specialty coffee industry. They have traveled worldwide to find the best roasts for their customers.
You can enjoy drinks made with high-quality beans from Onyx Coffee and other roasters. They have it all, whether you prefer drip coffee, cold brew, nitro cold brew, or pour-over. And don’t miss their seasonal specials and vegan options.
The shop has two floors of seating and an outdoor patio, where you can admire the murals painted by the owners. They show beautiful nature scenes from their trips.
The shop is also filled with green plants that make you feel relaxed and refreshed. And if you have kids, they can play with some toys upstairs.
Pekoe Sip House
Are you looking for a nice cup of tea, coffee, or a yummy sandwich? At Pekoe, you’ll find just what you need!
Alisha, one of the founders, used her barista ability and design skills to create the welcoming and open space you see today.
Pekoe has been a new part of the Boulder community since 2003, offering a wide variety of tasty teas, freshly brewed chai, coffee, and their famous Boba teas.
And that’s not all – they also serve delicious breakfast, lunch, and locally made pastries like burritos, cookies, and scones.
With two locations in Boulder – one on Alpine Avenue and another on the CU Boulder campus – Pekoe supplies indoor and outdoor seating so you can relax and enjoy your drink.
The interiors are clean and beautifully decorated, creating a pleasant ambiance. Pekoe welcomes you every day of the week, with varying hours depending on the location.
Final Thoughts
We hope you explored this guide to the must-try coffee shops in Boulder. Whether a coffee connoisseur or a caffeine addict, you can find a place that matches your taste and mood.
Each of these coffee shops has something special to offer, from the quality of their beans to the atmosphere of their space.
So, next time you are in Boulder, take advantage of the chance to visit one of these great spots and experience the coffee culture of this vibrant city. You won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of drinks can I find in Boulder coffee shops?
You can find black coffee, classic espresso, nitrous, lattes, Americanos, mochas, cold brews, and many more. Some coffee shops like Ozo provide a rotating selection of single-origin coffee and blends, instant coffee, bagged beans, or in-house pour-over.
Which coffee shops in Boulder have live music?
Several coffee shops in Boulder feature live music. Trident Booksellers Cafe and The Laughing Goat actively host live music events.
Can I find Starbucks in Boulder?
Yes, there are several Starbucks locations in Boulder. One is conveniently located at the University of Colorado Boulder’s UMC. There are also other locations at 1352 College Ave and 2400 Baseline Rd.
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
