25 Best Coffee Shops in North Carolina (2025 Guide)

Awoo Coffee stands out with its adorable atmosphere and welcoming service, featuring comfy seating in an inviting space that caters well to both humans and dogs. The selection of drinks is impressive, from delicious lattes and frappuccinos to quirky specialty options, all served in a setting that promotes relaxation and conversation over the years.

Bitty & Beau's Coffee is celebrated for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where every visit feels like coming home. The staff are known for their exceptional customer service and go above and beyond to ensure each guest has an enjoyable experience. From the thoughtful community engagement to the beautifully decorated space, it stands out not just in flavor but also in heart. Despite being a national brand, Bitty & Beau's maintains its unique charm by catering lovingly to local communities with special offerings and messages of inclusivity on display.

Monuts offers an inviting atmosphere for breakfast and lunch, with a variety of food options and excellent bakery treats that cater to those with sweet cravings. The place is bustling with families and friends enjoying the lively setting, though it might be too noisy for focused work sessions. Despite some dishes being quite strong in flavor, such as the vinaigrette dressing, guests find the overall experience enjoyable, appreciating the quality of their food sourced locally and the friendly service provided by staff.

Asali Desserts & Café offers an inviting ambiance with a focus on quality and culinary creativity. From the thoughtful selection of pastries and cakes to the delightful combinations in dishes like Chocoflan and Raspberry Bar, every aspect contributes to a memorable dining experience. The cafe's attention to detail, including its spacious outdoor seating area shaded for comfort and puppy-friendly options, further enhances the overall appeal. Whether it’s savoring a piece of their famous Knafeh French toast or enjoying a Lavender Rooibos Tea alongside their diverse breakfast selection, Asali Desserts & Café stands out as a must-visit spot in the Triangle area.

Boba Baba offers a range of customizable boba teas with options to adjust sweetness levels, catering to various tastes. Known for their unique combination of sweet treats and fun dining atmosphere, the place allows easy in and out due to swift service. Popular beverages include Boba Baba brown sugar tea, noted for its balance between sweetness and overall drink quality. Desserts like mochi donuts add a delightful touch, though some may prefer variations from other locations.

NoRa Café stands out with its inviting atmosphere that caters to various needs—be it solo reading, family time, or casual meet-ups. The staff is warm and attentive, making every visit feel special. Offering both traditional and creative coffee drinks along with wholesome pastries, NoRa meets a variety of tastes while ensuring quality over cost. Despite room for improvement in seating distribution, the café's commitment to local sourcing, extended hours, and welcoming vibe make it an excellent choice within its community.

PRESS Coffee Crêpes Cocktails stands out with its delightful coffee options and creative crêpe creations. The ambiance is warm and aesthetically pleasing, fitting for both cozy to-go orders and relaxed dining in. Guests appreciate the generous portions and diverse menu that caters well to dietary restrictions, making it a great choice for any occasion. Its central location makes it an ideal spot for a quick stop or a full meal experience, blending convenience with quality food and drinks.

Morning Times is a charming spot for coffee, brunch, and lunch in Raleigh. Surrounded by downtown views, the place offers upstairs seating with outdoor options. Guests appreciate its homey atmosphere, reasonable prices, and attentive staff who ensure smooth operations even when not overly crowded. Despite some aspects needing improvement, it remains a delightful choice for those seeking quality café experience.

Fount Coffee + Kitchen offers an inviting atmosphere with its cozy, modern cafe vibe. The coffee menu features great options from their selection, including espresso-based drinks and a variety of flavors. With a focus on gluten-free and dairy-free meals, there's something for everyone, especially those following dietary restrictions. Despite being crowded at times, the friendly staff ensures a pleasant dining experience where patrons can enjoy their food in a vibrant yet comfortable setting.

Krankies offers a cozy and casual dining experience with a variety of biscuits that consistently meet high standards, though patrons have noted recent reductions in menu options. The establishment serves drinks to go along with meals packaged for takeaway without table service. Despite occasional criticisms over limited variety or efficiency issues, the place still manages to draw visitors who appreciate its warm coffee aroma and old favorites.

Double D's Coffee & Desserts is a unique coffee shop with a quaint and calming atmosphere. Located downtown, the outdoor seating area offers plenty of space to sit and enjoy drinks and pastries. The friendly staff make sure every customer feels welcome, and their coffee stands out for its delicious taste. They take cash only, adding to the authenticity and charm of this place.

Bean Traders is described as an inviting community coffee shop in South Durham offering a wide variety of drinks and treats. It has spacious seating both indoors and out, making it perfect for work, meetings, or casual gatherings. Known for its fresh baked vegan options like muffins and donut muffs, customers appreciate the thoughtful vegetarian menu. Despite occasional service snags during peak hours, patrons find the slow pace makes up for good food and coffee quality, especially in a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of other beloved cafes.

Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Known for its diverse menu including sandwiches, salads, and pastries, the establishment attracts both locals and visitors alike who appreciate its friendly staff, creative drinks, and thoughtful gluten-free options. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast or lunch, Waveriders provides an enjoyable experience that supports small businesses in a cozy yet accommodating setting.

7 Brew Coffee stands out with its warm and inviting atmosphere. Known for its friendly baristas who offer personalized service, customers appreciate the chance to customize their drinks according to taste preferences. The coffee flavors are described as rich and flavorful, making it a standout choice compared to some other local establishments. Despite occasional frustrations like long wait times or being ignored, 7 Brew consistently provides quality beverages that have solidified its reputation among regulars.

Sola Coffee Café appears to be a highly regarded coffee spot in Raleigh, noted for its friendly service and quick turnaround despite often being crowded. The wide range of beverages including unique flavors like iced lavender latte with oat milk stands out, alongside standout offerings such as the egg breakfast sandwich. Its charming interior featuring a wall of merchandise adds to the overall delightful experience, making it a go-to destination for both coffee lovers and those seeking a casual meal option.

The Giddy Goat Coffee Roasters offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere both inside and out under tree-shaded patios. Guests appreciate the quality of their freshly baked goods, including pastries that showcase personal twists by a pastry chef from Central America. The coffee selection provides a wide range to suit various tastes with its roasted beans sourced locally. Patrons often return for standout treats like the Patagonia empanada and sauce, dulce de leche croissant, and delightful vanilla latte, which enhance their overall experience at this charming establishment.

Ashley’s Espresso Parlour & All-Time Roasting Co. offers an inviting atmosphere with perfect coffee and treats that make mornings worth waking up to. The staff greet visitors warmly, while the ample seating areas provide comfortable spots for enjoying the charming decor featuring local artwork. Whether stopping in for a latte or indulging in breakfast dishes, Ashley’s proves to be a standout spot for all-time enjoyment of caffeine and casual dining.

Common Grounds Coffee House & Desserts offers an inviting atmosphere with delightful coffee concoctions and scrumptious pastries and desserts. Whether stopping by for work or leisure, the friendly staff ensures satisfaction, making it a standout spot in downtown Apex. Its cool ambiance adds to its appeal, complemented by the vibrant charm of the area around Common Grounds. For those visiting from afar like from Delaware, it’s not just another stop; it's a delightful addition to their visit.

Cocoa Cinnamon offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with communal tables along with individual seating options. Known for its homey charm, the space has succulents and small plants adding to its character. Guests appreciate the freshly made churros, which come in various flavors like cinnamon sugar and cardamom, complemented by hot chocolates ranging from classic sweet milk chocolate to rich dark varieties. Despite occasional staff attentiveness issues reported, Cocoa Cinnamon remains a favorite spot for both students and seniors alike.

Blue Moose Coffee Lodge offers a delightful experience with its friendly service and consistently delicious coffee. Whether one stops by for a quick sip or enjoys sitting outside enjoying pastries and beverages, the atmosphere is inviting and welcoming. Despite the slightly higher prices, patrons appreciate the variety of options available and enjoy their visits, making it clear why Blue Moose remains a favorite among many customers.

Appalachian Java offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with exposed brick walls and wooden tables upstairs. Despite some recent operational changes due to storm damage, the place retains its charming charm. Guests appreciate both the quality of food and coffee served, though there are occasional wait times during peak hours when the kitchen handles a busy crowd efficiently yet surely.

Sir Walter Coffee stands out with its inviting ambiance and cozy seating area in downtown Raleigh. The star is undoubtedly the caramel macchiato, perfectly balanced between espresso and creamy caramel. Staff offers an attentive yet laid-back service, enhancing the overall experience. Regardless of the time or purpose, Sir Walter Coffee provides a delightful spot for relaxation or casual meet-ups.

Ultra Coffeebar stands out with its inviting aroma and friendly staff serving up a delightful array of coffee drinks and breakfast sandwiches in a cozy yet accommodating setting. Whether sitting inside or enjoying the outdoors, patrons can find plenty of seating options. The menu offers something for everyone, from those who prefer traditional meals to those looking for lighter fare. It’s clear Ultra Coffeebar is more than just another café; it's a hidden gem in Asheville's River Arts District, warmly welcoming visitors and locals alike.

Muddy Waters Coffeehouse offers a comforting atmosphere with soft music playing in the background. Known for its excellent coffee and specialty drinks, guests appreciate the friendly service and comfortable setting, which includes high-end decor and outdoor seating under umbrellas. The pastries are fresh and delicious, complementing their array of smoothies and blended beverages, all served with free WiFi for an hour.