Restaurant Review // Steam Espresso Bar

A visit to steam espresso bar on south pearl street is a coffee experience. From the moment you walk into the beautifully designed space, full of natural light, reclaimed wood and industrial-chic accents, you are greeted by the friendliest of staff, welcoming you in like you are entering their home. The staff is one of the top reasons I continue to stop into steam, since its opening in 2013. They are gracious, friendly and bring warmth to every visit.

The caffeinated beverages at steam are of course top-notch as well; serving up ethically sourced coffee from boxcar roasters. While you will not find flavored drinks with caramel swirls, mocha chips and whipped cream like you might at other coffee shops in denver, you will instead have a delicious beverage that stands on its own. Steam prides themselves on serving premium coffee and crafting each cup with integrity. This is obvious if you snag one of the best seats in the house, at the high-top coffee bar, and watch the time and passion put into each pour-over. I typically order a latte or cappuccino which comes out frothy every time. Not a coffee drinker? No problem, steam serves up a bevy of loose leaf teas, chai and fresh pressed juice. Pair your beverage with a flaky chocolate croissant, a slice of almond cake or one of the many sweet treats (supplied by trompeau bakery) in the case and find a seat in the stylish space.

With warmer weather on the horizon, steam's large and welcoming patio is sure to be filled with families, business meet-ups, coffee dates and a pup or two. The patio, complete with an old airplane in the back, is just the place to enjoy a caffeine break, no matter what the time. There are few bad things to say about steam; the ambiance is refreshing and chic, the coffee is great and the staff is awesome. I guess if I had to point out a negative, the place is quite busy and you might have to wait 10 minutes for your beverage. However, I see this as a bit of a positive because seeing a locally owned and operated small business succeeding, is something I want to support. Next time you are near platt park, make sure you stop into steam, you will not be disappointed.