The Colorado Coffee Column

Calling all coffee lovers, from near and far. The young and the old; the bargain drip and the mocha latte; the single morning brew and the ten-cups-a-day; the beginner and the coffee connoisseur.

You’ve all come to the right place. Welcome to the Colorado Coffee Column. Dedicated, purely, to the exploration of the best coffee shops across the state.

Here you will find reviews – of the bean, the execution, the vibe and even the music – leading you to your dream cup.

Every month. Same time, same place. Lets embark on this (virtual) road trip together.

Check out our first spotlight. 

– Margot Calmar, The 100 Companies

This week, we’re headed up to Steamboat Springs to visit Big Iron Coffee Co.

Tucked away on the lower level of a commercial building on Lincoln Ave, Big Iron Coffee Co takes the wood-first, outdoor hippie vibe of Steamboat and makes it coffee focused. The spot used to be the home of Steamboat Coffee House, before becoming the new home of Big Iron Roastery.

Bowen and Nina Mundy Rodkey, husband and wife, had started the roasters just months before the Steamboat location opened up. Taking action, they redid the space with an emphasis on wood, strong colors, antlers, soft orange lighting and humorous art.

My initial take: not what I was expecting. Nestled between tourist traps, I anticipated a commercial, impersonal, yet beautiful location. Instead, it has character, warmth and a bit of funk.

Strong local presence, with all ages taking their time with their coffee at the various tables. An extensive menu – as one would expect – and locally roasted coffee for sale.

We tested their dark roast drip and grabbed a bag for the road. The cashier radiated warmth, and struck up a genuine conversation even in the momentary passing. We sat at an small corner table by the window, and enjoyed a strong, chocolatey, dual-origin blend from Guatemala and Columbia.

To put it lightly, we were impressed. The location made you want to stay, listen to some Lenny Kravitz, try a latte and relax. The personality of the couple shines through, even from just a quick stop.

Are you enticed yet? Try it for yourself and let us know what you think.

Make sure to check back in, next month as we travel to Breckinridge.