The Most Loved Coffee Shops in Boulder, CO
Boulder’s coffee culture is a testament to its adventurous and intellectual community. The city’s coffee shops are more than just places to grab a quick cup; they are social centers, creative spaces, and a reflection of the city’s unique spirit. Whether you’re a student seeking a study spot, a professional looking for a place to meet, or a traveler wanting a taste of local flavor, you’ll find a café that feels uniquely Boulder.
Here’s a curated guide to some of the most loved coffee shops in Boulder, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Boulder Originals & Roasters
1. Ozo Coffee Co.
📍 Multiple locations, including 1521 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
As a Boulder institution, Ozo is known for its meticulous approach to roasting and brewing. They are committed to ethically sourced beans and educating their customers about the craft of coffee. Their numerous locations offer bright, airy spaces perfect for people-watching or getting work done.
2. Boxcar Coffee Roasters
📍 1825 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
A true Boulder original, Boxcar roasts its own beans in-house, ensuring a fresh and exceptional cup. This minimalist cafe has a reputation for high-quality, single-origin coffees and a “Boilermakr” brewing method that produces rich, sweet, and memorable results. It’s a must-visit for coffee purists.
3. Trident Booksellers and Cafe
📍 940 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
A Boulder staple since 1980, Trident is a cozy and eclectic haven. This unique combination of a bookstore and a cafe creates an intellectual and laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to get lost for an hour, sipping a cappuccino while browsing through a new or used book.
Neighborhood Gems
4. The Laughing Goat Coffeehouse
📍 1709 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
The Laughing Goat is a Pearl Street institution known for its vibrant, community-driven atmosphere. By day, it’s a popular spot for students and locals, but by night, it transforms into a lively venue with live music. It’s a great place to get a feel for Boulder’s artistic and bohemian side.
5. Alpine Modern Cafe
📍 904 College Ave, Boulder, CO 80302
Embodying Boulder’s mountain-meets-modern aesthetic, this cafe focuses on simplicity and quality with a Scandinavian influence. The location on “The Hill” is a quaint stone cottage with an outdoor fire pit, offering a minimalist yet cozy space to enjoy expertly crafted coffee and a peaceful moment.
6. Beleza Coffee Bar
📍 2680 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304
Known for its exceptional quality and commitment to community, Beleza is a must-visit. The name means “beauty” in Portuguese, and the cafe lives up to it with its thoughtful design and art. While they don’t offer public Wi-Fi to encourage conversation, they do have a fantastic selection of specialty lattes and baked goods.
7. Süti & Co.
📍 2031 16th St, Boulder, CO 80302
Süti & Co. is a charming Scandinavian-style cafe dedicated to the art of simple pleasures. This intimate spot is known for its signature shortbread cookies and a full coffee bar that serves a variety of unique and delicious lattes. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind with a warm drink and a sweet treat.
Worth a Visit
8. The Village Coffee Shop
📍 1605 Folsom St, Boulder, CO 80302
A true Boulder hole-in-the-wall, The Village Coffee Shop is a beloved local diner known for its down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s a no-frills, cash-only spot that serves up a great cup of joe alongside classic diner breakfast and lunch staples.
9. January Coffee
📍 1886 30th St, Ste B, Boulder, CO 80301
This modern and minimalist cafe is a hidden gem that has quickly become a local favorite. January Coffee focuses on creating a cozy, plant-filled space where conversation and togetherness are prioritized. They’re known for their unique menu, which includes the fan-favorite “Dirty Horchata.”
Boulder’s coffee landscape is a vibrant and welcoming one. Whether you’re stopping for a quick visit to Boxcar Coffee or settling in for a long afternoon at The Laughing Goat, each café offers a distinct and delicious experience that perfectly captures the heart of this mountain town.
