Love coffee, tea, books and community? You will love Trident Booksellers & Cafe. An indie feel in an iconic building this classic Boulder establishment will show you a taste of ‘old Boulder’ with some quality modern touches. Known for community it is always packed with old and new friends.
We were established in 1979 as a Buddhist Bookstore, in 1982 we added a café. In 2017 we started publishing books with Trident Press.
Wine and Beer are served in the bookstore. A 50 seat back patio includes a sandbox for the little ones.
Local bookstore-cafe with outdoor seating, plus readings, live concerts & plays.
Anas Sayyad
Super cozy spot with a great book selection and a chill vibe. Most of the staff were really friendly, but when I went to order my second beer, a short-haired employee asked for my ID again in a rude way, even though I had just shown it to the first person. I get the rules, but the tone could’ve been a lot better, especially for someone visiting Boulder for the first time. Other than that, I loved the place. The live music in the back was great, and the overall atmosphere makes it worth stopping by if you’re into books, coffee, or just a relaxed hangout.
… moreOakley Whalen
This place is a VIBE. I’m obsessed. Great matcha and pastries. Good tunes & overall amazing atmosphere.
… moreJennifer St.Clair
A perfect Boulder refuge. We ducked in from the rain, browsed and bought a couple of books, then sat on the covered patio with great coffee. The vibe is cozy and relaxed—part indie bookstore, part café, all charm.
If you love books, good brews, and a place to linger while the weather does its thing, this spot is a must.
… moreKauai Cakery
Cute and cozy place! Great place for meeting friends, grabbing a quick snack, or just have a place to study and relax. I love the outdoor patio and the pastries they have. I also love that there are lots of books for sale too.
… moreM Rahman
Matcha was great! Lots of options for books. Lots of seating and they have happy hour too. There is live music and other events. I see why so many people were there.
… moreManfred Erjak
Trident Booksellers and Cafe is the quintessential independent bookstore experience. Tucked away on Pearl Street, this spot is more than just a shop—it’s a vibrant, cozy community hub.
Walking in, you’re immediately enveloped in the classic bookstore smell of paper and rich coffee. The cafe offers delicious, high-quality coffee and a fantastic selection of teas, making it the perfect place to settle in. Whether you grab an outdoor table on their patio or find a quiet corner inside, it’s an ideal spot for reading, studying, or catching up with a friend.
… moreMegan Reznicek
This is a quintessential stop if you are visiting or frequenting downtown Boulder. I think they do tea, especially well. Would suggest their orange ginger mint. Excellent community excellent mission. And a lot of that old school, Boulder charm
… moreChris Bryant
This place is iconic; a true asset to downtown Boulder for 45 years. If you like grabbing a coffee or other pick-me-up, you cannot miss it.
Lots of seating options, although it can get busy. A very good amount of outlets to plug in, settle down, and get some work done.
There is a large outdoor area (covered and open air) with small tables, a medium-sized table for 6 people or so, benches, etc. BONUS: it’s dog-friendly out there! Bummer no doggos were present during my ~1 hour at the cafe.
The attached bookstore was nice, not huge, although it did seem like it was only new books (at new book prices, although I’m sure there are sales from time to time).
The staff was SUPER friendly and chill, too.
Extremely recommended!
… moreveena nudurupati
Haven’t seen such a cute little place in any other town! Lovely corner with great coffee and an amazing vibe! The seating is lovely and gives vintage feels! Surely give it a try and enjoy going through their bookstore while you garb their amazing coffee!
… moreCasey Rooney
Cool, Dreamy spot in the heart of Boulder. Staff recommendations are always top notch. I participated as an artist for one of their backyard markets, and as an occasional patron as well. The staff was so communicative, accommodating and helpful, and it’s one of the coolest summer markets I’ve been to!
… more