SONDER -- a delayed pilgrimage that was well worth the wait

SONDER Coffee & Tea
Denver, CO

I must confess that I have been wanting to visit Sonder for some time now. A couple of years ago, I had a training class in the area, but being a non-morning-functioning individual (to be honest, most divas aren’t), I never could seem to get over there before my class. So, alas, I only just now had the incredible privilege of making my first visit to Sonder. On this rare free day, I opted to swing over on my way back from another coffee-related errand.

Friendly staff to greet you at the counter

I actually grew up not too far from its current location. It brought back some happy memories to be in the old neighborhood again, as some things still seemed the same. What has changed is that the mixed-use development where Sonder is located wasn’t there when I was growing up. It kind of threw me for a bit of a loop, as I was searching for what I thought would be some sort of updated strip mall, but I ended up finding a new, very nice, upscale-looking luxury apartment development, Lugano at Cherry Creek, which also had retail space at street-level. Don’t let it throw you if you happen to swing by for a visit. You are indeed in the right place. The afternoon sun was absolutely perfect for illuminating the SONDER Coffee & Tea sign, so I was delighted to know I had found my much anticipated destination. In fact, the Highline Canal Trail is nearby as well, which makes for a convenient stop to refuel and reward oneself on a future bike ride.

When I walked up to the counter I was greeted by Ethan, the manager on duty. His warm smile was so friendly and really did help welcome me into what could otherwise seem very upscale and modern (which can sometimes be intimidating). My first impressions/observations were as follows:

Amazing atmosphere
All white with a few black accents, modern, and clean
Chillout music playing in the background
Featured menu with cold brew mocktails and many other unique drink choices
Very friendly staff

I saw a fair amount of folks sitting and enjoying their drinks and food, but it wasn’t too crowded — just a very chill vibe. One is instantly pulled toward the counter with an enticing assortment of drink menus, brewing machines, and merch. The white theme with pops of black accents is carried throughout the counter area, menus, cups, and brewing equipment. Based solely on look and feel, you could almost for a moment wonder if Sonder couldn’t be the newest NYC coffee chain import to Denver, but then you are reminded it’s a friendly local place with down-to-earth staff and accessible drink options. Since this was my second coffee stop for the day, I wasn’t sure what to try. Ethan pointed me to their cold brew mocktails, which sounded like a fun indulgence on a toasty September afternoon. I wouldn’t normally go rogue and try something so out of the ordinary for one of my coffee shop visits, but I simply couldn’t pass up trying one of the featured drinks.

I went with their Peaches N’ Cream cold brew, which was served up by the other friendly staff member, Delaney. Yes, at this point, it may be more sweet creaminess than actual coffee, but it was delightful just the same. The peaches weren’t just a flavoring, but rather there was actual peach pulp in my drink. It lent itself to a more earthy flavor profile. While it was a bit sweet for my taste, I sipped it all the way home. I even shared it with my husband when I arrived chez nous. Next time I go, I will definitely try something more traditional (perhaps a latte or pour over made from their in-house small batch roasted coffee), but I did very much enjoy venturing out into the world of cold brew experimentation. How fun is it to play with coffee!? It’s possible to attract a larger customer base when you offer such a wide variety of experimental drinks, all while providing a very chic atmosphere in which to make and serve them. Sonder has clearly mastered this.

Coffee options for pour over, espresso, etc.

Since we are unfortunately still in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, I should also touch on Sonder’s covid protocols. As I approached the front entry door, I saw a sign saying that masks are recommended, but I didn’t initially happen to notice anyone else masked up including staff. One of the front doors was propped open, as was the side patio door, presumably to help facilitate better ventilation. It did offer a slight breeze as you walk in. I do appreciate that there was at least a recommendation for customers to mask up if possible, but after taking a better look, I only saw a couple of folks wearing them while seated. I opted to take my drink to go, as is the case for all of my outings until my 6 yr. old kiddo is finally able to get the covid-19 vaccine.

There is a display near the register with the various offerings for pour overs, tea, cold brew, and espresso. I love their approach to posting the options. It seems a bit more intimate to have them displayed on business card-sized menu choices. Again, they also do small batch roasting in-house, so I highly recommend trying one of their featured coffee options. Oh, and I did I mention they offer tea as well? Your tea-loving friend who prefers to sip some oolong while you pound a quad shot cappuccino can now join you for some catching up while you sit and sonder.