Upon description, the very new Black Eye Coffee location in Capital Hill sounds like it may have a bit of an identify crisis – it’s a coffeehouse, that’s also a full bar, that also offers full-service, all-day dining. But not only does it do all of these things well, it wraps them in a very nicely designed package.
Located on Sherman & 8th on the ground floor of a new apartment complex, Black Eye was designed from the ground up as a space that seamlessly transitions throughout the day. Shelves turn, lights dim; the mid-day coffee shop vibe is replaced by the after-hours cocktail vibe. Just as you may not want coffee all-day, Black Eye smartly recognized the need to be a transitioning space in a busy neighborhood.
It’s a space that also pays homage to the neighborhood surrounding it. Very near historic Poet’s Row, the bathrooms offer famous poet’s quotes in neon, and the names of the cocktails are inspired by poetry and literature.
The bold color choices and industrial hardware play together beautifully. The seating areas are mixed as you would expect in a space that flexes as the day proceeds. There are some small booths for the sit-down food service, but keep your party small if you want to stay seated together.
I’ve visited a few times recently, enjoying the space and dining options at different times of day. I most recently popped in for breakfast on the weekend and enjoyed their Bread Pudding French Toast (shown here), along with a Mocha with almond milk. The bread pudding was excellent, and the portion was spot-on. Though it looked like too small of a dish a first glance, it was rich and filling enough that it turned out to be the perfect size.
Jill also visited Black Eye very recently. Here is her take on this new offering:
I have a friend who recently went to Black Eye in Cap Hill and said that she was equally excited and weirded out that she could get either a steak or a coffee. I got to go for happy hour, and really liked the ambiance. It’s a little darker and more intimate, which I like. I ordered the pasta and my friend ordered the pork belly sliders. They were both delicious. I’m looking forward to checking it out at different times of the day. Oh ya, and it’s open until 2 am!
Black Eye Coffee (Capital Hill location) – 800 Sherman St, Denver, CO 80203