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Best Coffee Shops in Raleigh
Are you looking for the best coffee shops in Raleigh, NC? Discover these ten great coffee shops in Raleigh!
When you are settling into a new home in Raleigh or simply exploring what makes this city so special, finding the perfect coffee shop is essential. Raleigh is a growing city with plenty of things to do, and its coffee is worth recognizing.
Raleigh's coffee scene has evolved into a diverse collection of independent cafes where every shop reflects the unique character of its neighborhood. Whether you are searching for a quiet corner to work remotely or simply the city's best latte, Raleigh's coffee culture offers something special for residents.
From historic downtown locations to neighborhood gems tucked into shopping centers, we have curated this guide to help you discover the ten best coffee shops that make Raleigh the thriving, welcoming city it is today. Each of these establishments brings something unique to the table and is part of what makes Raleigh a great place to call home.
Check out these coffee shops in Raleigh
1. Sir Walter Coffee
Address: 555 Fayetteville St, Suite 110, Raleigh, NC 27601, and 145 E Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Sir Walter Coffee has become synonymous with downtown Raleigh's creative energy. Named after the city's namesake, this hip hangout is where coffee meets craft cocktails in an unexpected fusion that works brilliantly. The atmosphere is both modern and inviting, with plenty of seating and eclectic artwork.
What sets Sir Walter apart is their innovative approach to beverages. Sit Walter baristas specialize in coffee and tea cocktails available with or without alcohol, alongside traditional coffeehouse classics. Their signature drinks rotate seasonally, offering creative concoctions that you won't find anywhere else.
With a focus on "Coffee, Craft, and Comfort," Sir Walter Coffee has established itself as a downtown Raleigh destination. Breakfast favorites, including breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and burritos, are also available.
2. BREW Coffee Bar
Address: 2310 Bale St #106, Raleigh, NC 27608
It wouldn't be an article on Raleigh's best coffee shops without BREW Coffee Bar. BREW is a local Raleigh coffee shop with other locations throughout the Triangle area. This beloved coffee shop focuses on superior quality and excellent customer service.
As a locally-owned shop, BREW stands out for its rotating selection of coffees from various roasters, giving customers the opportunity to explore different flavor profiles and brewing styles without leaving their neighborhood.
BREW's menu includes everything from traditional espresso drinks to innovative nitrogen-infused cold brew, all prepared with precision by knowledgeable baristas. The shop partners with local vendors for fresh breakfast options and baked goods.
One of the best parts of the Brew coffee shop is the mix of a relaxed, cozy atmosphere, while also being a great place to conduct business or get work done. BREW Coffee Shop is a perfect destination for a morning coffee, making it the perfect gathering spot for the community.
3. Jubala Coffee
Address: 2100 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607, 8450 Honeycutt Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615, and 200 Park at N Hills St, Suite 140, Raleigh, NC 27609
When it comes to the best coffee shops in Raleigh, Jubala Coffee makes the list. Founded in 2000 by Andrew Cash, Jubala Coffee has deep roots in the Raleigh community and has three locations in the city.
After years of working alongside notable roasters, Jubala began roasting its own coffee at its North Hills location, allowing it to maintain its commitment to transparent and sustainable coffee culture.
All employees are trained to meet the standards of Jubala and have mastered the techniques of creating espresso beverages. Their signature Jubala Mocha has earned a devoted following, with customers describing it as having the perfect balance of roasted, full-bodied coffee with an aromatic finish.
The cafes feature both bar seating and larger communal tables that encourage conversation, embodying their philosophy of creating a space where the community can relax, connect, and engage.
All of the food items at Jubala, along with syrups and jams, are made in-house using ingredients local to the triangle area! This Raleigh coffee shop serves biscuits and biscuit sandwiches that are among the best in Raleigh.
4. The Morning Times
Address: 10 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Since 2006, The Morning Times has been fueling downtown Raleigh from its unique space in a historic building. The exposed-brick interior creates a unique atmosphere that's beloved by locals and visitors alike.
As the first stop in the morning for many Raleigh residents, The Morning Times is one of the best coffee shops in Raleigh. What makes this cafe special is its upstairs art gallery, transforming a simple coffee stop into a cultural experience where you can sip your latte while surrounded by works from local artists.
The Morning Times prides itself on using locally roasted coffee and creating unique menu items with local ingredients. Their house-made bagels have become a morning staple for downtown workers, while their thoughtfully crafted breakfast and lunch offerings draw crowds throughout the day.
The cafe occasionally hosts "Morning Times After Dark" events, extending its community impact beyond traditional coffee shop hours. With its commitment to quality ingredients and supporting the local community, The Morning Times has earned its place as a favorite downtown Raleigh institution.
5. Sola Coffee Cafe
Address: 7705 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615
Sola Coffee Cafe is a family-owned coffee shop in Raleigh delivering a full menu of artisan foods, craft beer, and handcrafted coffee drinks. Sola serves Counter Culture Coffee alongside Neapolitan flatbreads, salads, and their "soon to be famous" hot mini donuts. The cafe is home to the "I Believe in Raleigh" mural on the back of the building, symbolizing their deep roots in the community.
Sola Coffee occupies a renovated old bank building in North Raleigh, complete with the original vault still intact. The space is filled with recycled materials, barn wood veneers, vintage typewriters, phones, and bicycles, creating a unique atmosphere that celebrates both sustainability and nostalgia.
6. 42 & Lawrence
Address: 134 E Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601
42 & Lawrence is a coffee shop in Raleigh that is truly one-of-a-kind. This coffee shop first opened in 2016 and is located across the street from the historic Moore Square, City Market, and many of the best downtown Raleigh restaurants.
The modern, industrial-chic space features unique seating arrangements, abundant plants, and an atmosphere that balances style with approachability. 42 & Lawrence has gained a reputation for their inventive drink menu, including unique offerings like the Lavender Rose Vanilla Latte, the Taj Mahal Latte, and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
7. 321 Coffee
Address: 615 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603, 930 Main Campus Dr #151, Raleigh, NC 27606, and 1209 Farmers Market Dr Slot 48, Raleigh, NC 27603
321 Coffee was founded in 2017 by NC State students Lindsay Wrege and Michael Evans. What makes this coffee shop so special is that it employs over 50 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing meaningful employment opportunities in an industry where they can truly shine.
The name 321 itself references Down syndrome, caused by a third copy of chromosome 21, though they employ people with various disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, and DiGeorge syndrome.
What began as a pop-up with folding tables has grown into a beloved local brand with multiple locations in Raleigh, including one at the state farmers' market, and an inclusive roasting facility designed with accessible features.
321 Coffee roasts its own beans weekly, ensuring fresh, high-quality coffee at every location. Their menu features creative seasonal drinks, delicious cinnamon rolls, and specialty beverages that keep customers coming back.
Beyond the excellent coffee, visitors consistently praise the warm, upbeat atmosphere and the genuinely friendly service. 321 Coffee has recently landed major retail and corporate partnerships, and every cup purchased supports their mission of inclusive employment and community building.
8. Little Native Coffee Co.
Address: 426 S Person St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Little Native Coffee Co. opened in 2024 and was created by the same team behind Durham's Cloche Coffee. This cute coffee shop occupies a historic downtown Raleigh building, and the tiny space is filled with lush plants and comfortable seating areas that create a cozy atmosphere.
Little Native uses Larry's Coffee and leans toward floral, herbal, and plant-based flavors that match the aesthetic. Their lavender lattes and butterscotch caramel iced drinks have quickly gained a following.
Inside this coffee shop, you will also find The Littlest Tea Room, offering an enchanting tea experience and locally made gifts. Open daily from 7 am to 5 pm, Little Native has rapidly become a cherished downtown destination.
9. Blackbird Books and Coffee
Address: 323 Blake St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Blackbird Books and Coffee is located in the heart of historic City Market and brings coffee and books together. Opened in 2023 by sisters-in-law Hannah and Bre Brunswick, Blackbird focuses on books by female, BIPOC, indigenous, and queer authors, creating a welcoming space where literature comes to life and everyone feels seen and accepted.
The cafe uses beans roasted by Raleigh's Black & White Coffee to craft their espresso drinks and seasonal specialty beverages. The cozy atmosphere encourages visitors to settle in with a book and a latte, and free WiFi makes it an ideal remote work spot.
Blackbird is one of the best bookstores in Raleigh and regularly hosts events, including poetry slams, book clubs, and bring-your-own-craft nights, fostering creativity and community connection. The shop also carries artisan-made jewelry, notebooks, and other gifts.
10. NoRa Cafe
Address: 12333 Strickland Rd, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27613
NoRa Cafe (short for North Raleigh Cafe) has established itself as the neighborhood's favorite gathering spot, earning recognition as the 2025 Best Local Coffee Shop of Wake County. What began in 2014 has evolved into a warm, comfortable destination featuring Carrboro Coffee Roasters' beans, fresh-made Liege waffles infused with pearl sugar, and an extensive menu of breakfast and lunch items.
The cafe is known for its signature "Bee" drinks, which incorporate dark chocolate and local honey from The Pleasant Bee apiary. The space includes "The Library," a cozy room filled with hundreds of used books available for just $3 each, where visitors can browse while enjoying their drinks.
NoRa's WiFi networks are cleverly named after North Raleigh neighborhoods, and the cafe regularly hosts family-oriented events including game nights, trivia, and author events. The friendly baristas know many regulars by name, creating the kind of community atmosphere where everyone feels at home.
Methodology
Factors such as menu offerings, atmosphere, reviews, and ratings were considered when determining the best coffee shops in Raleigh, NC.
FAQs
What are the top five popular coffees?
The five most popular coffee drinks are cappuccino, espresso, black coffee, americano, and mocha.
What coffee shops in Raleigh, NC, are known for their cold brews?
The best coffee shops in Raleigh, NC, specifically for cold brew, are Black and White Coffee Shop, BREW Coffee Bar, NoRa Cafe, and Full Bloom Coffee Roasters.
Final thoughts on the best coffee shops in Raleigh
From mission-driven businesses creating employment opportunities to innovative roasters pushing creative boundaries, each of these ten coffee shops contributes something unique to the Raleigh coffee community.
Whether you recently moved to Raleigh and are searching for your neighborhood spot, or you are a longtime resident looking to explore beyond your usual favorites, these coffee shops offer more than just excellent beverages.
These coffee shops are part of what makes Raleigh neighborhoods so livable and lovable. So if you are looking for your perfect home near Raleigh's best coffee shops, contact the experts at Raleigh Realty.
