The Buzz: Black Eye Coffee Shop and Roostercat Coffeehouse

Denver’s coffee scene just continues to grow. Case in point: In the last two weeks, Black Eye Coffee Shop (pictured) and Roostercat Coffeehouse have opened their doors. Both spots have distinct appeal. Black Eye is the newest entry in the hip, coffee-geek circuit (think Crema or Happy). The staff is Stumptown cool with a we-know-best attitude. The menu is tightly curated to showcase Boxcar Coffee Roasters‘ exquisite beans and the space is sparse but thoughtful with community tables and a gleaming Synesso. Of Black Eye’s three pour over options, I tried the Burundi and loved the delicate floral nuances. No cream or sugar needed. (Hint: If you’re a venti caramel macchiato type, this is not your type of place.)

Roostercat, on the other hand, is more focused on the consumer who holes up for several of hours and requires both caffeine and food along the way. The beans of choice are Coda and the welcoming room and spacious patio are suited to both casual meetings and hunkering down. Where Roostercat really scores is with the food. The salads and sandwiches, all of which feature local breads and ingredients, can be modified for allergies. There’s no eye roll when you ask for dairy-free cheese, no attitude when you order off the gluten-free menu. Co-owner Autumn Green has her own food restrictions and she understands the importance of honoring the requests. More than anything, there’s a friendliness that pervades Roostercat and it makes you want to claim this shop as your own.

Bonus: For more of my favorite coffeeshops—and why—click here.

Blackeye Coffee, 3408 Navajo St.,

Roostercat Coffee House, 1045 Lincoln St., 303-495-3898