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Best Coffee Shops in Durham
Are you looking for the best coffee shops in Durham, NC? Here are ten great coffee shops in Durham!
Durham is located in Durham County and is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Carolina. As part of the Research Triangle Region, Durham is known for its technology companies and higher education opportunities.
This progressive city, home to Duke University, has cultivated an exceptional coffee scene that rivals much larger metropolitan areas. From cozy neighborhood spots to European-inspired cafés, Durham's coffee shops offer caffeine, workspaces, and a welcoming community.
As you settle into your new Durham home, discovering your favorite local coffee shop is an essential step in becoming a resident. Each establishment brings its own personality, from artisan roasting operations to bookstore-café hybrids and everything in between.
The coffee shops featured in this guide represent the best that Durham has to offer, showcasing the city's commitment to quality, community, and authentic experiences.
Check out these coffee shops in Durham
1. The Oak House
Address: 126 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701
Located in the heart of downtown Durham at One City Center, The Oak House offers a unique concept that seamlessly transitions from morning coffee shop to evening wine and beer bar.
This versatile space serves high-quality coffee roasted by Durham-based Caballo Rojo alongside an impressive selection of craft beverages, including 15 beers on tap, curated wines, and whiskey flights.
The Oak House is Durham's only late-night coffee shop, staying open well past the typical café closing time. This makes it perfect for night owls who need a caffeine fix or want to transition from an afternoon latte to an evening glass of wine without changing venues.
Their Americano and matcha lattes receive consistent praise, and the apple bourbon cake is a must-order. The seasonal offerings, like the pumpkin spice martini, add festive flair throughout the year.
2. Bean Traders
Address: 105 W NC 54 Hwy, 249, Durham, NC 27713
A South Durham institution since 2000, Bean Traders has been serving the Homestead Market area near Southpoint Mall for over two decades. This local roastery and coffee shop maintains its charm with mismatched mugs, plates, and cutlery while consistently delivering high-quality, freshly roasted coffee.
Bean Traders roasts their own beans on-site, ensuring exceptional freshness. They use local dairy farmers for their milk products and carry retail items from local artisans. The shop has maintained its commitment to excellence and community for over 20 years without wavering.
Popular menu items at Bean Traders include drip coffee, americano, espresso soda, flat white, and flavored lattes. The chocolate habanero coffee offers an adventurous flavor profile for those who enjoy a little spice.
Additionally, they serve muffins, bagels, croissants, waffles, pies, and other magnificent food items. Their vegan and gluten-free waffles impress customers, and the freshly baked pastries are consistently praised.
3. Cloche Coffee
Address: 721 Broad St STE 116, Durham, NC 27705
Located in the Ninth Street District near Duke's East Campus, Cloche Coffee arrived in Durham in 2019 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite. The beautiful, plant-filled interior brings a West Coast vibe to the Bull City, creating a zen garden atmosphere perfect for work or relaxation.
Cloche serves organic, ethically sourced, fair-trade coffee from Larry's Coffee, whose founder personally verifies that every farm provides living wages and healthcare to its workers. The commitment to ethical sourcing pairs beautifully with the shop's mission to provide good energy and foster community growth.
One of the most popular menu items is the salted honey latte, which offers a perfect balance of sweetness and espresso. The chocolate almond scone, which is buttery, crumbly, and studded with rich chocolate and crunchy almonds, is also a favorite.
This coffee shop is the ideal place to hang out for Duke students, remote workers, and anyone seeking a peaceful environment with plenty of natural light. The spacious patio offers dog-friendly outdoor seating.
4. Guglhupf Restaurant
Address: 2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707
Guglhupf brings authentic German culinary traditions to Durham while incorporating local and seasonal North Carolina ingredients. Located on Durham Chapel Hill Boulevard, this establishment is a vibrant cafe that serves seasonal German fare, baked goods, and delicious drinks in an airy atmosphere.
More than just a coffee shop, the architecturally striking building and garden patio create a unique atmosphere that transitions from daytime café to evening biergarten. The attached bakery produces exquisite German and French breads, pastries, and cakes using traditional European techniques and only natural ingredients.
The danishes are magnificent, and the maple cheesecake is excellent. For savory options, the schnitzel is a traditional favorite. Coffee-wise, their Dirty Chai and specialty lattes stand out. This is a must-visit coffee shop in Durham.
5. Press Coffee, Crepes, and Cocktails
Address: American Tobacco Campus, 359 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701
Situated in Durham's historic American Tobacco Campus, Press Coffee, Crepes, and Cocktails brings a European-inspired coffeehouse experience to the Bull City. This location features an open kitchen, separate espresso and cocktail bars, and a seated crepe bar.
Press is one of the few spots in Durham where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, coffee, and cocktails all in one beautifully designed space. The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients with a global twist, and they offer gluten-free crepe options for those with dietary restrictions.
The salted pistachio mocha is a customer favorite, and the crepes are the stars of the show. Popular choices include the Down Home breakfast crepe, the Chicken Florentine, and the strawberry cheesecake crepe. The Turkey Havarti Panini paired with rosemary herbed tots makes for a perfect lunch.
6. Yonder Coffee
Address: 108 E Main St, Suite 101, Durham, NC 27701
Nestled inside The Daily Beer Bar on East Main Street, Yonder Coffee brings a global perspective to Durham's coffee scene. What started as an innovative subscription service introducing customers to roasters from different countries each month has evolved into a beloved downtown café.
Yonder features a rotating international roaster each month while consistently serving coffee from acclaimed roasters like The Barn, Parlor, Passenger, Hex, Regalia, and Luminous. This commitment to variety means every visit can be a new tasting experience.
The "Flights of Filter" showcases three gravity-brewed filtered coffees from different roasters. Their espresso drinks and seasonal specials receive high marks, and the cortado is particularly praised for its silky, bold flavor.
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7. Narrative Coffee Company
Address: 300 Morris St Ste 101, Durham, NC 27701
After building a loyal following as a mobile coffee cart and trailer throughout the Triangle, Narrative Coffee Company opened its first brick-and-mortar location in Durham's Innovation District in 2025. This specialty coffee shop emphasizes connection, community, and creating meaningful moments through coffee.
Narrative's coffee program features carefully curated beans and specialty drinks, many inspired by diverse cultural traditions. All of their syrups are house-made, demonstrating their commitment to quality and craft. The Saturday Morning seasonal latte has developed a devoted following.
The shop provides a welcoming space, whether you're grabbing a quick cup on your way to work or settling in for a longer visit. The staff's genuine warmth and passion shine through in every interaction.
8. Daughters Coffee and Books
Address: 5410 NC-55 AF, Durham, NC 27713
Opening in South Durham's Greenwood Commons in April 2025, Daughters Coffee & Books fills an important niche as an independent bookstore-café combo in an area previously underserved by such establishments. Owner Nicole Grinnell named the shop after her close relationship with her mother and sister.
The family-friendly children's corner features picture books, building blocks, and even a toy espresso machine, making it especially welcoming for parents. This top-rated bookstore actively supports local authors and hosts community events.
The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore Brew is a permanent menu favorite, while seasonal literary-themed drinks keep the offerings fresh and interesting. The coffee is sourced from Carrboro Coffee Roasters, and pastries come from Ninth Street Bakery, including exceptional muffins and croissants.
9. Nomadas Coffee
Address: 1105 S Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27707
Sharing space with Delafia Wine Bar, Nomadas Coffee offers a curated coffee experience that reflects owner Andrea Dukon's decade-plus of barista expertise and Latin American roots. What began as a pop-up has evolved into a beloved permanent fixture.
Nomadas imports their own beans and partners with local roasters. All syrups are house-made without processed sugars, demonstrating a commitment to natural, quality ingredients. Menu favorites at this coffee shop include the honey cardamom latte and sesame honey bun.
Nomadas Coffee is easy to walk to and offers an incredible atmosphere for anyone looking for a hidden gem with authentic charm. The outdoor patio offers additional seating.
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10. Omie's Coffee Shop and Roastery
Address: 2300 N Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704
Omie's Coffee Shop and Roastery is located in North Durham. Opened in 2022 as a woman-owned coffee shop and microroastery. Named after owner Addison's beloved grandmother, the shop embodies warmth, kindness, and community connection.
Omie's roasts their coffee in-house, with the roaster visible in the space, allowing customers to watch the process. The shop includes a side room with a play mat, toys, and books for children, demonstrating thoughtful attention to families.
Seasonal specialties like the iced brown butter pumpkin latte and salted maple latte showcase creative and delicious combinations. The locally sourced baked goods, including exceptional cinnamon rolls from Strong Arm bakery, complement the coffee perfectly.
Roastery by day and bottle shop by night, Omie's Coffee Shop and Roastery also serves local beer, wine, and THC beverages in the evening. With limited parking in front (and overflow parking at the neighboring King's Red and White Grocery), it's a true community hub that has filled a long-standing need in the area.
Methodology
Factors such as location, menu items, atmosphere, ratings, and reviews were considered when determining the best coffee shops in Durham.
FAQs
What is Durham, NC, known for?
Durham, North Carolina, is referred to as "Bull City" and is best known for its tobacco industry history, home of Duke University, and as a key part of Research Triangle Park.
What is the nicest part of Durham, NC?
Trinity Park is considered one of the nicest neighborhoods and places to live in Durham. This neighborhood is located between Duke University and downtown Durham.
What is the number one coffee shop in the United States?
Starbucks is the largest coffee shop chain in the United States, purely based on the number of locations. With over 15,000 locations throughout the country, Starbucks is the most widespread coffee brand.
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The Best Coffee Shops in Durham, NC - Final Thoughts
Durham, NC, is known for many great things, from great restaurants to family-friendly entertainment. When visiting the coffee shops in Durham, you can expect relaxing and welcoming atmospheres with safe spaces for work and meetings.
Whether you prefer the European elegance of Guglhupf or the neighborhood warmth of Omie's, you'll find a coffee shop that feels like home. When moving to Durham, make sure to visit all ten of these coffee shops to find your favorite.
If you are ready to find your dream home in one of Durham's best neighborhoods, contact Raleigh Realty to discover all this vibrant city has to offer. Our team of local experts can help you find the perfect home near your new favorite coffee shop.
