Big Shooter Coffee -- a delicious coffee oasis in an unexpected place

Big Shooter Coffee
Kremmling, CO

On the way back from a lovely spring break in Steamboat Springs, I was hankering for a java pick-me-up. The drive back to Denver is scenic, but one can always use a little help fighting the urge to start some sleepy head bobbing in the passenger seat. I suggested to the family that we swing in to Big Shooter Coffee in Kremmling. After doing the requisite Google searching, this one came up with great reviews — especially for a small, rural Colorado town.

The outside can be a bit deceiving, as the building is rather plain with some kitschy signs and art sprinkled around the exterior. Upon entering, we were greeted by the two friendly guys behind the counter. Their menu is impressive, as they have a lot of unique drink suggestions, many bakery items, breakfast burritos, and ice cream to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The barista, Mike, made me a 16 oz Growler with two shots of espresso (I like a high milk to espresso ratio in lattes). I noticed immediately that the milk temp was perfect! We often get drinks that are steamed to probably 180ºF at many other coffee places, but Big Shooter had the milk temp down. When I complimented Mike on the milk temp, he said he likes to make them the way he prefers them — without the milk being over-steamed. Not too shabby for a little coffee shop off the beaten-path. I chatted with him a bit more and he talked about the challenge of operating during a pandemic. Mike said coffee is very personal and the pandemic makes it difficult for people to taste and get their coffee right in the store.

Omar was the other friendly staff member working that day. He made us some breakfast burritos to help with the road trip back to Denver. They appear to be made on the spot when you order. You have a choice of vegetarian with pepper jack cheese for $6.50, or you can add bacon for $8.50. Not only are they sizable, but salsa and/or sour cream come on the side to perfectly top it all off. Yum! Ice cream is another option if you aren’t in the coffee or burrito mood. My kiddo grabbed a scoop of ice cream and enjoyed it throughly…all over his outfit, in fact. Hehe. A great overall experience. I even purchased a mug to remember my visit. Definitely stop by for a pick-me-up if you are ever in the area.