Coffee Culture
Winter 2024-2025
Nevada’s locally owned coffee shops cater to all tastes.
BY KIPPY S. SPILKER
Coffee is integral to the overall enjoyment of a great Nevada road trip. At least, that’s how it is in our car. And while there are plenty of coffee chains, we try to seek out homegrown, one-of-a-kind cafes. There’s nothing like that enticing coffee smell paired with baked goods and interesting conversations. It’s enough to put pep in your step and a smile on your face.
But these days, coffee shops aren’t just for mornings: Most offer iced or blended drinks, teas, smoothies, and everything from breakfast treats to lunchtime meals. In addition, many host events and provide opportunities to support artists and other community causes. Every town has a memorable spot to sip gourmet brew amid local color, but here are a few of my favorites to consider on your travels around the Silver State.
Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore
Boulder City
Almost nothing pairs so well as coffee and books, and Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore offers up both in a bright, comfortable setting. It’s equally tempting to find yourself a comfy reading nook or to enter deep conversation with old (or new) friends. With local artwork and boutique crafts for sale, it’s easy to spend enough time to need a second cup before you leave. Dam Roast House also offers outdoor seating, so you can bring your favorite four-legged friend with you.
Death Valley Coffee Time
Beatty
Located inside Death Valley Nut & Candy Co., this small coffee shop might be the only thing that’ll pull your attention from the store’s candy-coated interior. In addition to its delicious coffee concoctions, this woman-owned business offers made-to-order waffles, crepes, omelets, and breakfast burritos. Enjoy your breakfast at a table for two or pull a couple together for larger groups—and there’s plenty of room for wheelchair access. Once properly caffeinated, your party will enjoy exploring the rest of the establishment’s unique food, drinks, stuffed animals, and sugary goodies.
Double Shot Coffee Clinic
Laughlin
Owner David Lewis is a Las Vegas-born actor you might recognize from TV shows like “True Blood” and “Glee.” But believe me when I say Lewis’ background isn’t even the most impressive thing about this small-but-mighty shop. Double Shot Coffee Clinic focuses on a welcoming vibe while offering organic and sustainable products like mushroom coffees and teas. You’ll find great conversation as your food and drinks are prepared and you’ll be supporting a good cause: Double Shot supports addiction recovery programs in the southern Nevada area.
Star Village Coffee
Reno
American Indian-owned and family-operated, Star Village Coffee is one of Reno’s true hidden gems. This establishment roasts their own coffee and offers unique, regional flavors like their delicious—and slightly addictive—maize corn and pine nut lattes. Additionally, they provide baked, gluten-free temptations like apple pine nut bread, blueberry huckleberry cake, and pistachio rose cake. The shop’s interior is bright and airy with beautiful American Indian art and decor, and the conversation is easy and friendly. Star Village Coffee will absolutely be a stop on my next Reno visit.
Taproot
Ely
Fun, funky, and delicious. This café greets visitors with an upbeat and welcoming vibe. Taproot certainly feels like an appropriate name: This coffee shop is fully rooted in supporting the Ely community. There is plenty of local art and other goodies to peruse while you await your order, which could include everything from coffee, boba tea, milkshakes, smoothies, or just plain ice cream—Taproot is a treat for pretty much all the senses. And for those looking for a little evening pick-me-up, right next door is The Space at Taproot, which offers live music, karaoke, and more!
Stone Cabin Coffee
Fallon
It’s pretty much all in the name: If you enjoy a log-cabin-type atmosphere, this is the coffee shop for you. In fact, this café’s mantra just happens to be “take a break from the ordinary.” The interior is cozy and rustic, and there are many offerings to choose from. In fact, not only do they serve coffees (many with bear-themed names) and teas, they also offer a selection of beer, wine, and hot adult beverages. A selection of pastries rounds out the menu. Stone Cabin Coffee is a place for gathering and socializing, and while there is a drive-through, we absolutely recommend treating yourself and going inside.
