After a life chock-full of varied occupations and experiences, Dino Espejo has found his niche. He opened up The Laughing Latte (2001 W. 32nd Ave.) earlier this month and plans on providing a hospitable space for Denverites who live in the Highlands. Espejo says, “I’m a catalyst for bringing the whole community together—with a smile.”
Once upon a time, Espejo was a stand-up comedian, which is part of the explanation for the name of his coffee shop; he credits his wife Deanna for coming up with “Laugh a latte.” Story goes, that’s what she did when he told her how he wanted to open up a coffee shop. It was positive humor though, as Espejo credits his wife and admits, “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without God and my wife.” From the name of the shop to the burlap curtains made from old coffee bags hanging up, Espejo thanks his wife.
It’s likely you’ll see Espejo if you show up to The Laughing Latte; if not in the flesh sitting a table in the corner working or bouncing around conversing with the crew of regulars that has already formed, then at least on the wall in the bathroom, striking his signature pose (that painting, along with the one you can find of his wife and the one of their three-year-old son Jovani, were all made by one of the baristas).
The Laughing Latte
2001 W. 32nd Ave.
Denver, CO 80211
*Check their Facebook page for current hours
If you are the owner of a forthcoming coffeehouse and would like an article written about your shop, email the Denver Coffeeshop Examiner.
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