Best Independent Coffee Shops in North West Denver

In a writer's ambivalent quest for the "Best Independent Coffee Shops" in Denver or any city, it can be a calorie ridden dose of caffeinated confusion. In the McDonaldization of coffee houses, it might seem the less stressful choice to go with the unpredictability of a Starbucks, yet a writer's spirit is conducive to independent coffee shops.

While Denver's metro area is a sprawling geography, it's an interspersed Mecca of some of the best independent coffee houses in the west. Maintaining a less-than flourishing career of freelance writing, this coffee shop nomad keeps a mental rolodex of Independent houses that nourish taste, atmosphere and free wireless connections. While writers may have certain contradictory criteria, (good affordable coffee, quiet distractions and nocturnal hours without crowds), this guide will suit anyone in search of Denver's Best Independent Coffee Shops.

Best Independent Coffee Shops in North and West Denver Metro

Common Grounds Coffeehouse - West Highland Location
3484 W. 32^nd Ave. (32^nd and Lowell Blvd.) (303)458-5248 www.commongroundscoffeehouse.com
This neighborhood spot in the exponentially trendy Highlands area, offers plenty of seating, a decent food menu, even wine and beer. It's often filled with friendly conversation, frustrated students, eavesdropping on consultations; both professional and personal, which gives the joint a steady buzz of activity. It's a good place to meet and greet, but may prove frustrating in actually getting some work done. A great smattering of tea choices, and they roast their own coffee, yet I say go for the Americano instead.

Paris on the Platte
1553 Platte St. (15^th and Platte St.) (303)455-2451 www.parisontheplattecafeandbar.com
One of Denver's original coffee roasters. Once a smoker's haven for those seeking to quench a Parisian moment, perhaps flaunting an outrageous outfit, contemplating Sartre over a Café Fantasia or just soaking up a truly unique Denver experience. The food is scrumptious and appropriately proportioned too. Now that they've hopped on the smoking ban bandwagon, the food will probably taste even better. Though the crowd has noticeably changed; an annoyance to some and invitation to others. It's still a well-equipped laptop sanctuary, with big pots of affordable coffee to keep your stream of consciousness flowing. The service is often slow, but it's worth hanging around for. Like the City of Lights itself, Paris on the Platte is open into the wee hours of the night. Free wireless

The Press Coffee Company
7150 W. Alaska Dr., Lakewood, (Belmar Mall) (303)922-0911 www.presscoffee.com
Ok, so The Press is actually in Lakewood at the Swanky outdoor Belmar Mall, but as their website claims, it is a "fiercely independent coffee house." It's quieter than Starbucks, and the Baristas are certainly more laidback. Lots of people watching here, but the Mall crowd may sometimes invade what is certainly a befitting coffeehouse atmosphere. Some food items (breakfast burrito thumbs-up), good handling of Vail Mountain Coffee and a decent tea selection. Free wireless

The Red Trolley
2639 W. 32^nd Ave. (Between Clay and Bryant) (303)433-7200 www.theredtrolley.com
Maybe this gem of a coffeehouse is better suited to a list of Best Gelato or Best hotdogs, but they serve Denver's own Novo coffee with a Clover Machine, which makes them a forerunner on my list. Located off the beaten path of the Highlands area, this neighborhood spot caters to a diversity of patrons. The goods; great coffee, an early morning breakfast menu, self-proclaimed best hotdogs in Denver, seductive desserts and gelato. It's a welcome environment to those with laptops, kids or just wanting a taste of something different. You won't be able to resist hitting the big red button located by the entrance either. Free wireless

Tenn Street Coffee & Books
4418 Tennyson St. (at 44^th Ave.) (303)455-0279 www.tennstreetcoffee.com
Tenn Street sums up an idealized Independent coffee shop experience. While it may be adorned by the Dazbog Coffee brand, it's maintained a local, independent feel, with a quaint book store, often relaxing live music, artwork and quiet neighborhood setting of Tennyson Street. They've got some satisfying local food items (breakfast burrito thumbs-up) and additional to free wireless internet, a handful of free to use computers.

Two Rivers Coffee
7745 Wadsworth Blvd., (at 77^th Dr. by the Vitamin Cottage) (303)424-1313 www.tworiverscoffee.com
Once one of the only Novo Coffee storefronts, new ownership kept the Clover Machine and a loyalty to Novo beans. While technically it can't be said to be one of Denver's established best, the combination of new owners with the freedom of independence working with this low-key, spacious coffeehouse will surely grow into Arvada's best. Free Wireless.

Sundial Coffee
4403 W. 52^nd Ave. (at Tennyson St.)
Nuzzled up in a nook off Tennyson St., this cramped little operation offers up some good coffee and espresso and a small food menu. It's what owner/operator Superdave calls "Scottish train food" on homemade ciabatta bread. Its one of the few coffeehouses around that seems to encourage Chess play. Free wireless.

I will be updating and adding to this guide as often as possible, also look for my guides to the Best Independent Coffee Shops in other Denver areas: Best Independent Coffee Shops in Downtown Denver, Uptown and LoDo