If one were to think of Aspen cafès prior to visiting, images of people sipping coffee with one pinky finger raised may come to mind, but what they are not also envisioning is who those people are conversing with, which quite often are men and women with their ski/snowboard and AT boots on, getting their adrenaline going before they head off to slopes. When in Aspen one must step in to get the real story. And that's what we over here at ARL do. We step in and get the story.
Below we have listed a few of the coffee joints where we like to hang, but please know that this list could be far more extensive if you, our readers, submitted to us your input in a creative writing style to aspenreallife@gmail.com. This is your platform. Take advantage of it.
Explore Booksellers
A beautiful new addition blending bookstore culture with café coziness. Upstairs at Explore Books Café is perfect for slow mornings, creative afternoons, and local community gatherings. Expect pastries, perfect lattes, and author events.
At a time when local businesses are shuttering around town, and when local bookstores and cafes are closing around the country, Nelson wants the cafe to be a community-focused space that is inextricably linked with the bookstore.
“We’re a really well-funded community, so wherever they want to put their money manages to stay alive,” Nelson said. “I can’t emphasize enough how fortunate we are to be here, and just the power of people reading, keeping us here.”
FELIX HOTEL JEROME
FRANK PASTRY CAFE
An intimate setting located across from the airport at the AABC (Aspen Airport Business Center) with closely set small tables, Franck Thirion French Pastry and Catering has one of the most delicious omelets and coffee. Aspen has lost too many of our favorite breakfast spots but Franck Thirion still thrives. Sandwiches are served on fresh baked french bread. Also on the menu are salads and fine french pastries. Populated by word of mouth by the locals that live and work at the AABC (yes you will have to go past the roundabout). Catering and French Cakes available. (970) 925-3569. AABC in Aspen
Gorsuch Cafe
A place where ex and current ski racers, Patrollers and Instructors go for an Après coffee ... or beer, while others shop the Gorsuch Ski Accessories; helmets, goggles, gloves, hats and long underwear, or wait for their custom ski boots to be fitted.
Go slip into a Sheepskin covered chair and drool over their hiker boots, while sipping coffee, or Champagne with a wildly diverse, and European, mix of locals and guests.
If you see one of our beloved Aspen Snowmass Ski Company Patrollers or Instructors while you are in there, be sure to buy them a drink, it will only lead to great conversation, AND they deserve it!
Louis Swiss Bakery
If you don't want a sit down breakfast, go to Louis Swiss Bakery. Louis Swiss not only has fresh bread, pastries (including regular, chocolate and meat and cheese croissants) AND doughnuts and cakes that are baked every morning. Louis Swiss is the local hot spot for those wanting to grab a delicious burrito and cup of coffee on their way to work. Going on a picnic, or wanting to save money while skiing on our mountains? Louis Swiss has some of the best sandwiches in town - the kind made on freshly baked bread that cause drool to slurp out and travel down one's chin just to think about them. You also can get fresh farm eggs there on Thursdays - but you may want to call first.
Silvers
Located close to The Gondola Plaza, Silvers is a welcoming and cozy place to sit in the mornings and watch the regulars as they stop by to stuff a … before heading out to the mountains.
In the winter many skiers will zip down to Silvers … for lunch? , rather than spend their hard earned dollars at the Sundeck. Olivier offers a variety of grains, fish, meats and vegetables so you can create your own plate, or make your own sandwich. Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Early Dinner?. 710 East Durant Ave in Aspen (Near City Market).
Swedish Hill - Aspen Art Museum
Located on the rooftop of the Aspen Art Museum, Swedish Hill is your destination for coffee, freshly baked breads and pastries, made-to-order sandwiches, salads, soups, pastas and other specials. Take it to-go or grab a seat in the cafe or on the outdoor patio. Serving a cafe and bar menu from
637 East Hyman Avenue, Aspen, Colorado 81611
(970) 925-8050 aspeninfo@swedishhillbakery.com Open Tuesday - Sunday 9am - 3pm
Sant Ambroeus Aspen
For those craving a more elevated European café experience, Sant Ambroeus Aspen brings a taste of Milan to the mountains. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, beautifully executed espresso drinks, pastries, and people-watching, it’s the kind of place where locals, visitors, and stylish regulars gather over cappuccinos and lingering morning conversations.
The interiors feel polished yet warm, and whether you stop in for a quick macchiato, an elegant breakfast, or an afternoon espresso break after shopping downtown, Sant Ambroeus offers one of Aspen’s chicest coffee experiences.
T Lazy 7 Ranch Coffee Shop
If your idea of the perfect coffee stop leans more rustic Colorado than European café culture, head out toward the iconic T Lazy 7 Ranch area for a quieter mountain morning surrounded by open space, horses, and breathtaking views.
The coffee shop atmosphere here feels relaxed, local, and connected to Aspen’s ranching roots — the kind of place where you can sip coffee slowly before heading off to hike, fish, horseback ride, or simply enjoy being outside. It’s a refreshing contrast to downtown Aspen’s bustle and a reminder that some of the valley’s best moments happen just slightly off the beaten path.
