The morning doesn't begin for me until that first sip of hot coffee. At home that means a freshly brewed pot, but when visiting my parents in Aspen that means a ritualistic trip to Ink! Coffee. The java is dark and strong, but the coffeeshop's eats are ho-hum. But now, with Victoria's Espresso Wine Bar & Gourmet Grazing located just a couple doors down, there's an excellent selection of breakfast fare.
Wander into the sunny space for a bounty of freshly baked scones (give the ginger a try), veggie-packed frittatas, flaky croissants, and buttery egg and bagel sandwiches. Whatever you order, don't miss the baked doughnuts (pictured, center); these cinnamony bundles (they're brushed with a cinnamon-vanilla-sugar glaze) are a delicious cross between a mini muffin and a cake doughnut. Take my word for it and buy several.
Bonus: Later in the day, stop in for a bowl of hot soup (at least four varieties daily), a kale salad, and a glass of wine.
510 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, 970-920-3001