Any time that I am showing homes to clients up in the Highlands or Sloans Lake (I think I was in over 300 homes in that area in 2008 alone), I always stop in at Common Grounds and “office” with their free wireless while looking at the intersection of 32nd and Lowell.
I am always greeted with friendly staff and a full house of customers. Here is a little bit about this growing local chain from their web site:
Common Grounds, a coffeehouse, was opened by Mary and Lisa Rogers in 1992 as an alternative to the Denver bar scene.
In 1992 alternative meant “No Smoking,” charging a whole 75¢ for a cup of coffee, and offering a live music stage. It also meant taking a chance on a struggling neighborhood, the Highlands.
We’ve grown since then by opening another location in Crestone in 1994 (although we closed it in 1995) and then our third store in LoDo in 1999.
In 2002, we began roasting our own coffee under the name Highland Coffee & Tea. We are still family owned and operated.
West Highland Neighborhood Location
3484 W. 32nd Avenue at 32nd and Lowell Blvd. – 303-458-5248
In 1992 we shared the block with Pizza Alley, the original location of Sabor Latino, a few liquor stores, a furniture store and kitchen cabinet maker. Now, the whole of the Highlands Neighborhoods have blossomed into life and the strip runs from Iriving to Perry! We are still front and center and full of activity. We now offer soups, salads, and sandwiches in addition to the best coffee, espresso, and tea drinks in Denver. As of 2007 you may also enjoy beer and wine at this location. And don’t forget we serve Denver-made Liks Premium ice cream!
Downtown LoDo Location – We have moved diagonally across the street to:
1550 17th Street, Suite 110 on the corner of 17th & Wazee – 303-296-9248
If you find yourself Downtown, remember we have a fantastic location just up from Union Station across the street from the Oxford Hotel and McCormicks. Smack dab in the middle of the action only a short walk from all the major sports stadiums and arts venues. In addition to thier menu of food, this store will also soon be offering beer and wine.

Common Grounds Logo