Maybe they know that Prodigy’s goal is similar to Englewood’s Purple Door Coffee, which offers programs for unhoused teens to get back on their feet.Įven if they don’t, it’s the coffee that keeps them coming back. In a Northeast Denver area that’s both a food desert and a historically redlined housing sector, it’s a magnet for quiet laptop jockeys and smiling co-workers. And yet Prodigy, which also has a drive-thru, hums along with its loyal clientele.

Prodigy floats in a lake of concrete just west of Colorado Boulevard at 40th Avenue, and across from a Starbucks with a drive-thru that is often packed. Botanical mural accents and an attached bike library only reinforce the feeling. From open to close, the tastefully spare, airy space gives the impression of yet another crisply curated coffee shop chasing Denver’s new money. That’s not immediately clear from visiting. Visit Aspen this winter to see Andy Warhol’s art and celebrate 75 years of skiing “Young adults disconnected from school and/or work are invited into a year-long apprenticeship as humble learners of life, self, and craft, within a high standards enterprise,” as Prodigy’s website puts it. It’s not just about learning to run a register but developing the mindset and skills to forge a career and real economic mobility. I’m lucky to live near Prodigy, which has been open since 2016 and teaches real-world job skills to its staff. But less common are cafes that make solid coffee and a measurable difference in their communities. (We’ll also let you in on some hidden gems.)Ĭoffeeshops often flaunt their high morals with humanely sourced products, donations and feel-good jargon. Each week, we offer our opinions on the best that Colorado has to offer for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities and more. Denver's Prodigy serves up strong coffee, snacks and job skills Close MenuĮditor’s note: This is part of The Know’s series, Staff Favorites.

Prodigy movies