Durham's Best Coffee Shops
Boldness is brewed fresh at Durham's best coffee shops. Find your new favorite cafe for a pick-me-up, a quiet place to work or a spot to socialize.
In a city filled with college students, entrepreneurs, innovative employers and tech companies, having a wealth of coffee shops and cafes is no surprise. With so many places for coffee tucked away in Durham's most populated streets, we polled locals on social media for suggestions on their favorite places to caffeinate, socialize, work and meet.
Downtown Durham
Regardless of where you find yourself in downtown Durham, you'll always be close to an awesome coffee shop. With so many options to choose from, we guarantee there's at least one spot downtown that will fit the mold of your ideal cafe. Check out this map of downtown Durham to get the lay of the land.
Aaktun Coffee & Bar
704 Ramseur St.
Choose your dining adventure at Aaktun, where the coffee bar in the front entrance gives way to a stylish, Tulum-inspired restaurant and bar in the back. Stop in for a quick coffee and pastry to go or grab a table for all-day eats, drinks, music and more.
Baryo Bar & Coffee
506 Ramseur St.
Baryo aims to be "exactly the kind of place you've been looking for." Tucked away on the eastern edge of downtown, this bar and coffee shop gives off a welcoming vibe where newcomers and regulars alike can feel at home. This is a great place to get some work done with a side of caffeine or to have a chat with a friend over a latte. Check the events schedule for meetings, celebrations and gatherings of all kinds, and wind down after work hours with a cocktail from the bar.
Vessel Coffee House and Art Cafe
506 N. Mangum St., #102
If you love that tasty, slightly sweet, cereal milk at the bottom of your cereal bowl, head to Vessel Coffee House and Art Cafe. With creative menu items like the Fruity Pebbles latte or Cinnamon Toast Crunch latte, your tastebuds will never be bored. Oat based and dog friendly, Vessel aims to provide a safe space with great coffee for everyone to enjoy, and they serve a variety of treats from local bakeries, including JP's Pastry and Junie B's Cookies.
Fare&Fellow Coffee + Table
411 W. Chapel Hill St.
Fare&Fellow's new Downtown Durham location, housed in the NC Mutual building, offers delicious specialty drinks paired with a full menu of bowls, sandwiches and salads. This shop sources its tea and coffee from nearby roaster, Jubala. Stop by to order a latte or a drink off their seasonal menu. If you're not in a rush, you can also sit down and enjoy a meal or get some work done.
Foster Street Coffee
530 Foster St., Ste #2
Snag a coveted seat for an expertly crafted brew among scores of coffee dates and telecommuters at this Central Park gathering spot. Need a little privacy? The public, first-come, first-served meeting room offers AV, a whiteboard and seating for 8. Snacks and light lunch fare keep you fueled for a productive day, and they’ll even validate your parking in the Liberty Warehouse garage.
Gojo by Goorsha
823 W. Morgan St.
Guess what panini, tea and coffee fans? There’s a cafe in town brought to you by the wonderful people at Goorsha, bringing Ethiopian coffee and a lunch menu with bowls, salads and sandwiches for lunch.
Liturgy Beverage Company
530 Foster St., Ste. 1
Located in the Durham Food Hall, Liturgy Beverage Company is a specialty coffee shop focused on connecting farmers' work with the habits and rituals of their community in Durham. They specialize in single-origin tea, coffee and chocolate beverages designed to highlight the unique flavors of their regions. Grab a coffee and check out the food options at the Durham Food Hall.
Narrative Coffee Co.
300 Morris St., Suite 325
The highly mobile, highly tasty Narrative Coffee Co. has graduated to its first brick-and-mortar shop in the Durham ID district. At the shop, narrative provides customers with quality coffee goods and seasonal drinks. Taking "seed to cup" seriously, their coffee is brewed with "100% Arabica specialty coffee beans obtained from collaborating vendors locally."
Nectar Café
620 Foster St.
Opened by the owners of Foster Street Coffee, Nectar Café provides customers with cozy vibes, tasty macarons, amazing coffee and more. You can find this coffee shop on the ground floor of Geerhouse apartments, complete with comfortable indoor seating and a beautiful outdoor patio. In addition to coffee drinks, you can order matcha lattes, lemonades, wine by the glass, beer and pastries.
New World Cafe
701 W. Main St., Ste 130
At this European-style cafe, you can get a top-notch cup of coffee along with sandwiches, acai bowls and pastries. They brew their coffee with locally sourced beans from both Black & White Roasters and Counter Culture Coffee.
Nomadas Coffee
1103 S. Roxboro St.
Sharing space with Delafia Wine bar on the edge of Hayti, Nomadas Coffee offers guests a curated coffee experience that is every bit as intentional as it is delicious. This coffee shop imports their own beans, partners with local roasters and even makes their own syrups, free of processed sugars. Originally founded as a pop-up by Andrea Dukon, this coffee shop's permanent location is a welcome addition to the Bull City.
Oak House Durham
126 W. Main St.
The original location of The Oak House in Elon, NC was such a success that its owners decided to expand. Their craft coffee/wine bar concept is now in the heart of downtown Durham on the ground floor of One City Center. Grab a cup of coffee during the day, and at night, cozy up at the bar or table with a great glass of wine. Oak House prides itself on having the best of both worlds.
Parker and Otis
324 Blackwell St., Bay 4
Gifts. Goods. Grub... and it's all great. Jennings Brody has created an oasis of delightful food with fresh, local ingredients and wares that are perfect for any occasion. Parker and Otis is open seven days a week, serving breakfast and lunch with an amazing array of gifts, gourmet food, cheese, wine and candy to accompany that cup of coffee. The iced coffee is legendary in Durham, so take it from the locals and stop in for a cup.
Press Coffee, Crepes & Cocktails
359 Blackwell St.
If you want to visit France without planning an entire vacation, we can help. Press is a European-inspired coffeehouse offering quality coffee and a variety of sweet and savory crepes in the American Tobacco Campus. Grab a coffee from their beverage menu and enjoy a crepe outside on their covered outdoor patio.
The Durham Hotel
315 E. Chapel Hill St.
Since its 2015 opening downtown, The Durham's lobby coffee shop has welcomed locals and visitors to enjoy its expansive mid-century modern lobby all day, and its coffee bar's creative drinks are some of the best in town. Try the addictive, innovative coffee soda or the velvety shaken iced latte – both of which have gained attention in national press.
So/if
331 W. Main St.
This tiny spot packs design and Italian coffee shop and aperitif bar culture into just over 500 square feet. Tucked inside the art deco lobby of the historic Snow Building on Main Street. Owner Jesse Gerstl grew up in Italy and opened this all-day cafe with a desire to share Italian coffee culture in Durham. That means encouraging people to stay for a conversation, not just camp out with laptops. Coffees served to stay unless directed otherwise. Newspapers displayed on the counter. Well-priced drinks (everything on the menu is $5 and under) encourage customers to stop in multiple times a day. And low- and no-abv spritzes and full-strength cocktails keep the energy going in the space in the afternoon and evening.
Yonderlust Café
109 N. Gregson St.
If you need a spot to plan your next camping trip, Brightleaf's Yonderlust Café has you covered. Enjoy great coffee made with Joe Van Gogh beans along with juices, smoothies, pastries and lunch items as you relax in the café seating area or shop for your next adventure in the space's outdoor outfitter shop.
Yonder Coffee at The Daily Beer Bar
108 E. Main St.
Head to The Daily on Main Street for some of the best coffee from around the world. Yonder specializes in hand picking growers and roasters from around the world for their subscription based coffee service. They built their business off of years of traveling and, you guessed it, spending time both in coffee shops and with the people who bring us coffee. Now, they have set up their own coffee bar inside The Daily Beer Bar. Sip on a latte while you wait for your sandwich or grab a drip if you're on the go.
Duke & 9th Street
Just northwest of downtown, the area around Duke and 9th Street boasts a lovely collection of shops, restaurants and, of course, coffee shops. Students, Durham residents and visitors can find and ideal purveyor of caffeinated beverages here.
Cloche Coffee
721 Broad St.
Cloche Coffee arrived in the Ninth Street District across from Duke East Campus in 2019. The beautiful, plant-filled interior is the perfect place to work, catch up with friends or recharge. They serve organic, ethically sourced, fair-trade coffee from Larry’s Coffee and locally-made pastries.
Joe Van Gogh
1104 Broad St., B. & 4711 Hope Valley Rd.
As indicated by their name, Joe Van Gogh takes pride in the art and craft of everything they do – seed to service and concept to cup. Whether you're looking for study vibes, beverages, warmth, or sweet sips, you'll find it at one of their Durham locations on Broad Street and Woodcroft.
Hops & Flower
2014 Hillsborough Rd.
Born from the dream of opening a bottle shop and dispensary, Hops & Flower has blossomed into so much more. Complete with a full kitchen, this establishment is equal parts deli, market, coffee shop, dispensary and hang spot. Order a latte and sit down for a serious work session or get an iced coffee on the go to enjoy during warm weather. Brought to you by the same folks behind Luna, Remy's Lounge and Rubies on Five Points, it's easy to predict this corner store will become a neighborhood staple in no time.
Mad Hatter's Cafe and Bakeshop
1802 W. Main St.
Mad Hatter's Cafe and Bakeshop invites you to stop and smell the coffee and eye-catching baked goods. Morning, noon and night are all beautiful times to "clear your mind, indulge your senses and treat yourself." Their house-made cookies, pastries and brownies pair perfectly with their hand-crafted beverages.
Mid Bloom Coffee
1821 Green St.
Found within Durham's Common Market, Mid Bloom boasts great coffee, yummy pastries and specialty drinks near 9th Street. They also offer barista classes to help you get the most out of your homebrew experience.
15-501
If you find yourself needing a little pick-me-up while you're shopping or walking among the murals at UHills, check out these spots. Take a closer look at the 15-501 corridor; you might just discover your new favorite shop or restaurant.
The Bean Flower
4015 University Dr., J.
Visit the Bean Flower for connection, coziness, and comforting drinks. Serving a wide variety of teas, milk tea, Vietnamese coffee and more, The Bean Flower brings the flavor. In the warmer months, get your drink on ice or order up a lychee ginger fizz or a Thai calamansi.
Namu
5420 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd.
There is much, much more to be discovered betwixt the bamboo shoots and long grasses in this private oasis off 15-501. Namu's coffee game is on point, and it's the perfect spot for delicious coffee, intimate conversation and solo relaxation.
Saladelia
201 Science Dr., 2424 Erwin Rd., Ste #303 & 3604 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd.
Gourmet coffee all day, folks — from a place that's been catering in and around the Triangle since 1988. In addition to coffee, they offer a diverse and delicious menu. You can find them at several locations around Durham.
Triangle Coffee House
3109 Shannon Rd., Bdlg. 3, Ste. 101
Triangle Coffee House at UHill Walls recently opened and is ready to serve you a variety of creative and decadent coffee recipes.
Whisk and Rye
3401 University Dr., Ste. 5
When Andy needed a break from his hectic schedule in the medical field, the idea of serving the community Shelby’s pastries with coffee led the couple to purchase a trailer and start Whisk & Rye. Their rotating menu brings fresh ideas daily, with memorable staples like cinnamon rolls, vegan chocolate croissants, gluten-free ginger cookies and, of course, coffee.
Zephyr Coffee
3515 Witherspoon Blvd., Ste 103
Zephyr coffee doesn't just serve up delicious, quality coffee. They deliver an experience. Their small team pays attention to the details, working hard to ensure consistency in every espresso pull and each latte poured. Head to Zephyr to slow down, relax and recharge with a great beverage.
Lakewood & Rockwood
Southwest of downtown, Lakewood and Rockwood feature quiet, semi-suburban settings with an equally peaceful coffee scene. Check out our guide to Lakewood and Rockwood if you'd like to know more about the community these cafes are nestled within.
Cocoa Cinnamon
2013 Chapel Hill Rd., Ste. A.
When Areli Barrera de Grodski and Leon Grodski de Barrera opened their third Cocoa Cinnamon location in Lakewood (featuring delicious homemade churros and drinking chocolate), they intentionally hired locals to craft their bold beverages and continue their commitment to the Durham community by encouraging those who can to donate toward community coffee for those who can't afford it. Order a churro or two and check out the original bike they outfitted to grind and serve coffee around town when they opened a decade ago on display.
South Durham
Grab a coffee at one of these amazing shops as you explore South Durham. You're sure to find plenty to suite your fancy in this growing area of town.
Baekho Coffee and Ice Cream
900 Park Offices Dr.
Head to Boxyard RTP for craft coffee drinks and delicious ice cream from Baekho. Brought to you by the folks behind Namu, Bulkogi and The Can Opener, this coffee shop brings the same familiar quality and bold flavors as its sister establishments. Grab a latte to recharge midday or order a refreshing signature tea drink to spruce up your afternoon.
Bean Traders
105 W. Nc 54 Hwy, 249
Flannel, Birkenstocks, mismatched mugs, plates and cutlery ... it's all a part of the charm of this South Durham gem where high-grade, delicious coffee is brewed with lots of study space and house-made treats to enjoy.
Daughters Coffee and Books
5410 NC-55, AF
Spend a relaxing weekend afternoon sipping a coffee while you peruse the carefully curated collection of books at Daughters Coffee and Books. Once you've picked out your new book, you can curl up in a comfy chairs and enjoy your coffee while you dive into a story. This coffee shop is committed to providing guests with a space to appreciate the coziness of coffee and the wonders of literature at the same time. It's also a great space to get some work done or connect with friends.
Drift Coffee RTP
3151 Elion Dr., Suite C
Drift Coffee's newest location at Hub RTP is a prime spot to grab a coffee and get some work done or kick back with a good book or friends. What began as a single store in Ocean Isle Beach has now expanded to stores all across the state. Here, you will find excellent coffee brewed with Black and White coffee beans as well as nutritious breakfast and lunch items. Order a classic black coffee to accompany your avocado toast or spice it up a bit with a latte and their Bodega Breakfast Sandwich.
Dulce Cafe
5826 Fayetteville Rd., #106
Sweet doesn't even scratch the surface. Drink your warm beverage with a side of dessert at this hidden gem. Located in South Durham at Sutton Station, this delectable spot earned this Yelp review: "Oh. My. God. So delicious. Why did I wait so long??"
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co.
2500 Meridian Pkwy., Suite 132
Qamaria began as the quest of two Yemeni entrepreneurs to build a supply chain that could source Yemeni coffee. Fast forward to the current day, and these entrepreneurs now have a franchise of coffee shops serving drinks made with excellent beans. Come here for caffeinated beverages and tasty treats like walnut baklawa, sabaya and basboosa.
People's Coffee
7830 NC-751., Ste. 120
Mmmmhmmm — coffee for the people. People's Coffee has proudly served Black & White Coffee near the Southpoint area since 2018. You'll never get bored with their rotating menu offering a variety of house-made specialty drinks that will keep you coming back for more.
North Durham
These coffee shops offer a great space to sit down and recharge as you visit North Durham's enticing destinations.
Esmeralda's Cafe
15 15 N. Pointe Dr., #108
A hidden gem on North Pointe Drive, Esmeralda's Cafe offers a diverse selection of tea, coffee, fresh pastries and fresh fruit. This family-owned and operated location also has a full breakfast menu. “We are passionate about what we do because we have a love for food, drink, music and great service.”
Omie's Coffee Shop and Roastery
2300 N. Roxboro St.
You feel the warmth of Omie's Coffee Shop as soon as you walk through the doors. Named after the owner's beloved grandmother who exuded love and kindness, Omie's mission is to be a safe space within the community and serve the best coffee products around. With espresso drinks, drip coffee, cold brew, tea and local baked goods, it's the new place to be in North Durham.
Perfect Lovers
2823 N. Roxboro St.
At this intimate space for music, art, sound and coffee, you'll find artists and art lovers slowing down over a cup of coffee. The light-filled space and serene backyard are a welcoming setting for community events and fellowship.
Redstart TAKEAWAY
2825 N. Roxboro St.
Drop into Redstart TAKEAWAY for more than just ready to eat meals. If you're on the go and need a little pick-me-up while you're picking up dinner for later in the evening, grab a coffee or a cold brew. Looking for a slower morning? Sit down with a nice caffeinated beverage and order an English muffin sandwich, a pastry or some eggs and crispy potatoes.
East Durham
Grab a latte or an iced coffee and walk under the old willow oaks that line the streets of East Durham's neighborhoods. With everything to see in East Durham, you'll want to make sure you're fully charged up.
Counter Culture
812 Mallard Ave.
Counter Culture is brewing beauty from beans, and folks are taking notice. There certainly is a distinct culture to their coffee. Although their brick and mortar is only open to the public at their training room on Fridays at 10 a.m., this Durham-based coffee roasting company has training locations throughout the country and delivers blends directly to your doorstep.
Bonus Round: Coffee and More
In addition to the coffee shops we've already mentioned, Durham hosts plenty of other places to get not only a solid cup of coffee but also a treat or even a full meal. If you want a tasty bagel sandwich to go along with your coffee, check out Isaac's Bagels. Got a sweet tooth? Stop by Guglhupf for a cozy German bakery experience. For a full list, check out our guide to the best brunch spots in Durham. If you're late for brunch, don't worry. You can find more places to eat in our Durham essential restaurants guide.
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