The 10 Best Tea Places in Denver

According to recent research, Denver has over 410 places to enjoy a cup of tea. While there is an abundance of options, not all tea establishments offer the same quality.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 tea spots in the city. We won’t limit ourselves to traditional tea houses. We’ll also highlight regular cafes and even coffee houses where you can enjoy an exceptional cup of tea.

1. TeaLee’s Teahouse & Bookstore

TeaLee’s Teahouse & Bookstore, situated in the Five Points area of Denver, presents a distinctive blend of a tea shop and a bookstore, offering a quiet refuge for both tea enthusiasts and book lovers. The focus here is on a wide array of teas, ranging from traditional favorites to unique blends. Notable choices include classic chai and vanilla rooibos, each providing a distinct flavor profile.

The menu extends beyond teas, featuring simple yet well-prepared food options such as homemade quiches, fresh salads, and a selection of pastries. These items are designed to complement the tea offerings. The teahouse also experiments with tea-infused cocktails, catering to those looking for a different beverage experience.

The atmosphere of TeaLee’s is welcoming and encourages patrons to relax and engage in conversation or delve into a book from their modest but carefully curated collection. The space, characterized by its Afro-centric design, promotes a sense of community and connection.

TeaLee’s is known for its high tea service, which includes a variety of sandwiches, scones, and desserts served in a traditional manner. This offering is particularly popular among guests seeking a comprehensive tea experience.

Accessibility is a key feature, with the teahouse located in the downtown area, making it a convenient stop for those in the city. TeaLee’s stands out for its commitment to offering a peaceful setting where guests can enjoy a cup of tea and a good book away from the bustling city environment. It’s a place that appeals to those who appreciate the finer aspects of tea and the simple pleasure of reading.

Pros

• Delicious food, especially quiche, and scones.
• Wide variety of tasty teas.
• Friendly and welcoming staff.
• Cozy and pleasant atmosphere.
• Unique experience, including high tea and live events.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 611 22nd St, Denver, CO 80205

2. Babe’s Tea Room

Located in the Denver area, Babe’s Tea Room offers a selection of teas and light fare in a setting that balances casual and traditional elements. This establishment is particularly noted for its tea offerings, with a focus on a variety of Earl Grey and Lady Grey teas, as well as options like White Peach tea, catering to both classic and eclectic tastes.

The menu at Babe’s includes homemade items, with scones being a standout for their compatibility with the available spreads. Seasonal influences are evident in the menu choices, providing a rotating culinary experience. While many items are prepared in-house, some, such as macaroons, are sourced from local bakeries.

The tea room features both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating different preferences. The interior decoration and overall atmosphere are designed to appeal to a wide audience, from families to groups of friends. It’s worth noting that the café can become quite busy, reflecting its popularity in the area.

Service at Babe’s Tea Room has been recognized for its attentiveness, with staff members often highlighted for their helpful tea suggestions. The café is also known for its ability to cater to special occasions and various dietary needs, adding to its versatility as a venue for various events.

Pros

• Variety of teas and flavors, including non-caffeinated options.
• Delicious scones and overall good food quality.
• Accommodating dietary restrictions and offering gluten-free options.
• Friendly and attentive service from staff.
• Suitable for special occasions and groups.
• Charming and cute ambiance.

Cons

• Overcrowded and noisy environment.
• Service can be slow or inattentive.
• Some experiences of being rushed.
• High cost for the value received.
• Limited space and challenging parking.

Location: 2401 15th St, Ste 170, Denver, CO 80202

3. Corvus Coffee Roasters

Corvus Coffee Roasters, founded in 2010, is a coffee shop located in the South Broadway area of Denver, known for its focus on quality and craftsmanship. The cafe is recognized for its collaboration with Hugo Tea importers, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. This approach is consistent with how Corvus sources its coffee, emphasizing direct relationships with producers globally.

The interior of Corvus is cozy, with a darker ambiance that suits both social gatherings and individuals looking to work or read in a relaxed environment. The menu is straightforward, emphasizing the quality of their offerings rather than an extensive variety. Coffee at Corvus is a serious affair, with beans sourced from traditional farms globally and roasted on-site. They offer hand-brewed coffee and espresso drinks, including cortados, cappuccinos, and lattes, all served in traditional sizes.

Tea drinkers will appreciate the variety of seasonal loose-leaf teas available. These teas are selected for their quality and flavor, offering a refreshing alternative to the coffee menu.

In terms of food, Corvus Coffee Roasters provides a selection of pastries and breakfast sandwiches. All the baked goods at Corvus are from their sister company, The Fox & The Raven Bakery. This sister bakery is committed to quality and sustainability, sourcing local grains, milling in-house flour, and employing natural fermentation processes in all their baked items. The cafe also features a range of artisanal chocolates.

Corvus Coffee Roasters stands out for its dedication to the craft of coffee and tea preparation. It’s a place where the quality of the drink is the primary focus, appealing to those who appreciate the nuances of well-crafted beverages. With its convenient location on South Broadway, Corvus is a suitable spot for both quick visits and longer stays, offering a quiet space amidst the urban hustle.

Pros

• Great coffee and tea variety.
• Delicious pastries and food options.
• Pleasant ambiance and atmosphere.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
• Good location with ample parking.

Cons

• Busy and crowded, especially on weekends.

Location: 1740 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210

4. The Kochi Cafe

The Kochi Cafe, situated in the East 8th Avenue area of Denver, provides a space for locals and visitors to enjoy a quiet break. This cafe emphasizes community, offering a place where people can meet for work, socializing, or solo relaxation.

Teas are a particular focus at The Kochi Cafe, with an extensive selection of loose-leaf options. These range from traditional blends to more unique varieties, catering to various tastes. The green tea latte and toasted coconut oolong are popular choices, known for their refreshing qualities. The rooibos chai, a house-made, non-caffeinated chai option, offers a distinctively sweet and spicy flavor.

In addition to teas, the cafe also serves various coffee drinks and a concise food menu. The coffee, available as whole beans, is appreciated for its robust taste. For those planning events, the cafe provides catering services with advance notice.

The interior of The Kochi Cafe has a creative and clean aesthetic, with comfortable seating both inside and out. It’s a suitable environment for casual meetings or focused work, equipped with sufficient outlets for electronic devices.

While the cafe keeps up with modern trends, selling items like tea steeping tumblers and matcha powder, it maintains a relaxed atmosphere. The staff is known for being friendly and efficient, contributing to the overall welcoming feel of the cafe. The Kochi Cafe offers a simple yet satisfying experience for those seeking a tea or coffee break in Denver.

Pros

• Friendly and helpful staff.
• Wide variety of teas and coffee.
• Tasty pastries and food options.
• Comfortable seating, both inside and outside.
• Clean and creatively decorated environment.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 4100 E 8th Ave, Denver, CO 80220

5. Capital Tea

Capital Tea, founded in 2006, is a tea-focused cafe in Denver known for its wide selection of whole-leaf teas. This locally owned establishment emphasizes the quality of its teas, offering a variety of blends from traditional black and green teas to unique flavors like Pomegranate Hibiscus and South Sea Magic. Customers can also purchase these loose-leaf teas for home brewing.

Beyond its tea offerings, Capital Tea serves a range of light fare, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and treats. These items are designed to complement the teas, providing a balanced menu for visitors. The cafe is also equipped to host high tea and private events, adding a touch of tradition to gatherings and celebrations.

The cafe’s interior presents a comfortable setting, with various seating arrangements to accommodate different preferences, from quiet corners to larger tables. Local art and a selection of teaware contribute to the cafe’s inviting atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available, making it a suitable spot for those looking to work or relax over a cup of tea.

Located on South Broadway in Denver, Capital Tea has become a community gathering place. Its friendly staff and diverse tea menu cater to various tastes, from tea aficionados to casual visitors. While the cafe is appreciated for its tea selection and service, it maintains a straightforward, unpretentious vibe, focusing on the simple pleasure of enjoying a good cup of tea.

Pros

• Great selection of teas.
• Knowledgeable and friendly staff.
• Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• Delicious food offerings, including scones and sandwiches.
• Option for high tea experience.
• Suitable for group events like baby showers.
• Affordable pricing.

Cons

• Inconsistent quality of tea, with some being watered down.
• Service can be slow, especially during busy times.
• Limited dessert variety.
• Additional charges for vegetarian options.

Location: 1450 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80238

6. English Tealeaves

English Tealeaves, founded in 2002 by Rob and Lynne Ridge, is a tea room located in the center of Parker, Colorado. It provides over 100 specialty teas, reflecting the owners’ desire to introduce proper English tea to the States. The selection ranges from traditional to more unique blends, catering to various tea preferences.

The menu at English Tealeaves places a significant emphasis on teas, with options that include both well-known and exotic flavors. Customers can explore different tea types, such as the popular Enchanted Garden blend. The tea experience is complemented by a range of cafe foods, including English-style scones, assorted sandwiches, and various soups. Dessert options like flourless chocolate cake are also available, alongside a Royal Afternoon Tea service offering a more extensive spread.

The cafe’s setting contributes to the overall experience. It features an inviting interior with a nod to traditional English aesthetics combined with modern elements for comfort. Additionally, the cafe sells various tea-related items, from teapots and cups to other accessories, appealing to tea enthusiasts interested in enhancing their home brewing experience.

English Tealeaves stands out in Parker as a spot for those interested in exploring various teas and enjoying a casual English tea room atmosphere. The cafe’s focus on tea, paired with its selection of light fare and desserts, offers a glimpse into the traditional English tea culture.

Pros

• Wide selection of teas.
• Knowledgeable and friendly staff.
• Fresh food, including soups, sandwiches, and desserts.
• Unique and quaint atmosphere.
• Various tea accessories available for purchase.
• Option to try different teas and purchase in small quantities.
• Availability of gluten-free options.

Cons

• Inadequate tea serving size.
• Limited vegan options.
• Interior decor may be perceived as plain and lacking a Victorian feel.

Location: 18551 E Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80134

7. The Lumber Baron Inn & Gardens

The Lumber Baron Inn & Gardens in Denver’s Highlands neighborhood is a multifaceted establishment that combines a bed and breakfast, a restaurant, and an event center within a Victorian mansion built in 1890. It reflects its Scottish heritage through its offerings and decor.

This inn features antique-decorated rooms, each equipped with a jetted tub. The breakfast provided to guests is a mix of traditional and Scottish-inspired gourmet dishes. Regarding dining, the Lumber Baron Inn offers a weekend brunch buffet in its grand parlors or outdoor rose gardens, featuring a variety of dishes, including Scottish toast and Huevos Rancheros, along with bottomless mimosas.

A notable aspect of the Lumber Baron Inn is its afternoon High Tea, which is available daily. This includes a selection of teas, ranging from traditional to more unique blends, accompanied by finger sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts. The tea service is noted for its variety of tea cups and presentation.

For those seeking a more private dining experience, the inn offers the turret room, a circular room at the top of the mansion, providing views of Denver and the surrounding neighborhood.

Pros

• Excellent food quality, especially scones, crumpets, and sandwiches.
• Beautiful and well-maintained Victorian-style setting.
• Attentive and kind service from staff.
• Unique features like a hidden bathroom bookcase and ghost stories.
• Wide selection of teas and special dietary options like gluten-free food.
• Comfortable accommodations and beautifully decorated rooms.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 2555 W 37th Ave, Denver, CO 80211

8. Lynn’s Tea Shop and Cafe

Located in Littleton, Colorado, on South Simms Street, Lynn’s Tea Shop and Cafe is a local establishment known for its selection of teas, particularly the Vanilla Butterscotch black tea. The cafe also caters to younger guests, offering options like berry tea served in unique teapots.

The menu at Lynn’s includes a variety of freshly made baked goods like blueberry scones served with Devonshire cream. For heartier options, the breakfast quesadilla, filled with black beans, cheese, and turkey sausage, is available. The afternoon tea service at Lynn’s features an assortment of scones, sandwiches, and sweets, all presented in small, bite-sized portions. Another menu option, the Ladies Lunch, includes soup, quiche, salad, a scone, and a sweet treat.

The interior of Lynn’s Tea Shop and Cafe features nature photos, paintings, and various china tea service pieces, contributing to a cozy ambiance. While the cafe primarily focuses on tea, it also offers coffee selections. Situated in a suburban strip mall, the location provides easy access and ample parking for visitors. Lynn’s Tea Shop and Cafe stands out as a spot in the neighborhood where locals can enjoy a variety of teas and light meals in a relaxed setting.

Pros

• Fresh and tasty baked goods.
• Excellent tea and coffee options.
• Friendly and attentive service.
• Good variety in menu offerings.
• Charming and quaint ambiance.
• Suitable for family and kids.

Cons

• Small portion sizes.
• High prices for the offered portions.
• Some items, like scones and sandwiches, can be dry or unimpressive.
• Interior ambiance could be improved.

Location: 5500 S Simms St, Littleton, CO 80127

9. Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, opened in 1990, is located in Boulder, Colorado, near Boulder Creek in Central Park. This unique establishment serves as a cafe and a symbol of international friendship. It was originally built by hand in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, and then reconstructed in Boulder.

The Teahouse’s architecture, characterized by intricate carvings and colorful paintings, reflects its Tajik heritage, offering a distinctive atmosphere for visitors. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the teahouse provides a variety of meal options.

Among the offerings, the Teahouse is particularly noted for its extensive selection of teas. The menu includes a diverse range of teas from different regions of the world, catering to various tastes. These teas range from traditional favorites to more exotic blends, each chosen for its unique flavor profile.

In addition to its food menu, the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse hosts tea-related events and services, allowing guests to deepen their understanding and appreciation of tea culture. The staff is equipped to guide customers through the tea selection, helping to enhance their experience.

Pros

• Beautiful, unique architecture and ambiance.
• Extensive variety of delicious teas.
• Good quality and variety of food.
• Friendly and attentive service.

Cons

• Long wait times, especially on weekends.
• Some may find the food a bit pricey.
• Service can be slow due to popularity.
• Limited non-tea beverage options.

Location: 1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

10. The Brown Palace Hotel

Located in downtown Denver, The Brown Palace Hotel provides a traditional afternoon tea experience in a historical setting. This establishment, known for its longstanding history, offers a tea service that emphasizes a variety of teas and accompanying delicacies.

The hotel’s interior, marked by its classic architecture, creates an atmosphere that reflects its historical significance. The tea service is conducted in the main atrium, which is often filled with the sounds of live music, contributing to the overall ambiance.

The tea selection at The Brown Palace Hotel is varied, with options like Blue Jasmine and Vanilla Bean being notable for their distinct flavors. These teas are served in elegant bone china, in keeping with the traditional aspect of the service.

Accompanying the tea, a selection of scones, sandwiches, and pastries are served. The scones come in walnut and plain varieties, accompanied by cream and preserves. The sandwiches, including options like curried egg salad and smoked ham salad, are presented in a classic finger sandwich style. The pastries offered are more intricate in flavor, catering to those who prefer unique tastes.

Service at the hotel is generally attentive, with staff members focused on maintaining a comfortable and enjoyable guest experience. Tea is routinely replenished with hot water, and the staff is noted for their polite demeanor.

Pros

• Historical and beautiful ambiance.
• Good quality tea and a variety of tasty food options.
• Attentive and welcoming staff.
• Live music enhances the atmosphere.
• Valet parking service.

Cons

• Expensive pricing, particularly for the high tea experience.
• Limited variety in tea and food offerings.

Location: 321 17th St, Denver, CO 80202