8 Most Popular Coffee Shops In Charlotte NC

Last updated on January 15th, 2024 at 06:25 pm

In Charlotte, North Carolina, a vibrant coffee culture thrives, captivating locals and visitors alike. There are so many popular coffee shops in Charlotte NC.

From cozy neighborhood cafes to chic urban hotspots, the city offers a diverse range of coffee shops that have become community hubs.

These establishments provide spaces for gathering, connecting, and savoring the rich flavors of carefully crafted brews.

Charlotte’s coffee shops are known for their dedication to quality and craftsmanship, sourcing the finest beans and employing skilled baristas who create artful and innovative drinks. 

Beyond coffee, these establishments showcase the city’s dynamic culture, hosting local artists, live performances, and cultural events. They foster a sense of community, attracting diverse crowds who appreciate both exceptional coffee and the arts.

Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or seeking a cozy spot to relax, Charlotte’s coffee shops offer an inviting and enriching experience.

Step into these establishments, inhale the aroma of freshly ground beans, and immerse yourself in the warm embrace of the city’s thriving coffee culture.

Here is the list of the most popular coffee shops in Charlotte NC:

8 Popular Coffee Shops in Charlotte NC:

Popular Coffee Shops In Charlotte NC:

Known for its high-quality coffee and cozy atmosphere, this local favorite coffee shop chain offers a range of espresso drinks and pour-over options. Not Just Coffee has gained a loyal following of coffee enthusiasts and regulars.

Not Just Coffee serves exceptional coffee. They carefully source their beans, ensuring that only the finest and ethically sourced varieties make it into their blends.

Whether you’re a fan of espresso drinks or prefer the art of pour-over coffee, this coffee local chain shop has you covered.

The skilled baristas expertly craft each cup, paying attention to every detail to bring out the best flavors in the beans.

Screenshot of "Not Just Coffee" website home page, which shows a white to-go coffee cup with a black diamond shape company's logo with matching black cup lid. The cup is sitting on a white rounded corner counter edge. The background is out of focus. "Not Just Coffee" is one of the most popular coffee shops in charlotte nc.
Screenshot of "Not Just Coffee" Website Home Page

The atmosphere at Not Just Coffee shops is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to relax, work, or catch up with friends.

The interior features comfortable seating arrangements, inviting decor, and natural lighting that creates a serene and cozy ambiance.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience, providing exceptional service and making you feel right at home.

Whether you’re a coffee lover or simply enjoy a good cup of joe, Not Just Coffee offers a delightful coffee experience.

From the moment you step through the door, you’ll be greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a commitment to excellence in every sip.

A specialty coffee shop with a minimalist design, Hex Coffee, Kitchen & Natural Wines focuses on ethically sourced beans and offers a variety of brewing methods.

Nestled in a trendy neighborhood, Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines attracts coffee connoisseurs and those seeking a unique coffee experience.

The shop’s minimalist design creates a clean and modern atmosphere, with a focus on simplicity and functionality.

This aesthetic allows the coffee to take center stage, highlighting the craftsmanship and quality of each cup.

The interior features clean lines, minimalistic furnishings, and ample natural light, creating a serene environment for customers to enjoy their coffee.

Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines takes pride in sourcing its beans from ethical and sustainable producers around the world.

They prioritize relationships with farmers and cooperatives who share their commitment to fair trade practices and environmental stewardship.

This ensures that every cup of coffee at Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines is not only delicious but also supports a responsible and ethical supply chain.

Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wine Store Front. The brick building is painted over with dark gray with a few external walls are strategically bare, without the paint, exposing the original brick texture with fading reddish orange color. It is one of the most popular coffee shops in Charlotte NC.
Screenshot of Hex Coffee, Kitchen & Natural Wines Store Front Entrance From Google Map

What makes Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines truly stand out is its dedication to offering a variety of brewing methods.

From traditional espresso drinks to pour-overs, cold brew, and alternative brewing techniques, customers can explore and appreciate the unique flavors and nuances of different brewing methods.

The knowledgeable baristas at Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines are always ready to guide and educate customers on the various options available.

For those seeking a specialty coffee experience in a minimalist and contemporary setting, Hex Coffee Kitchen & Natural Wines is the place to be. With its ethically sourced beans and diverse brewing methods, this coffee shop offers a captivating journey through the world of coffee.

Smelly Cat Coffeehouse, located in the vibrant NoDa neighborhood of Charlotte, NC, is a charming and quirky coffeehouse known for its relaxed vibe and welcoming atmosphere.

As soon as you step into Smelly Cat, you’ll be greeted by a unique and artistic ambiance that sets it apart from traditional coffee shops.

The coffee menu at Smelly Cat is extensive, offering a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences.

From classic espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos to specialty creations, they have something for everyone.

Additionally, tea lovers can enjoy a selection of teas ranging from soothing herbal blends to energizing black teas.

One of the highlights of Smelly Cat Coffeehouse is its commitment to providing vegan-friendly options. They offer plant-based milk alternatives, vegan pastries, and other treats, ensuring that everyone can find something delightful to enjoy.

SmellyCatCoffee - Copy
Store Front View Of Smelly Cat Coffeehouse. Photo Credit to CitySeeker.com

What truly sets Smelly Cat apart is its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The cozy seating areas, eclectic decor, and friendly staff create a comfortable space where visitors can unwind, socialize, or work on their laptops.

It’s a place where creativity thrives, with local artists often displaying their artwork on the walls, adding to the overall charm of the coffeehouse.

For those seeking a unique and offbeat coffeehouse experience, Smelly Cat Coffeehouse in NoDa is a must-visit.

With its relaxed vibe, diverse menu, and commitment to offering vegan-friendly options, this coffeehouse is a haven for coffee lovers and those looking for a one-of-a-kind spot to enjoy their favorite brew.

Central Coffee Co. is a beloved coffee shop in Charlotte, NC, with two locations in the city. Renowned for its smooth coffee and friendly staff, this local favorite has earned a dedicated following from coffee enthusiasts.

At Central Coffee Co., the focus is on delivering a consistently excellent cup of coffee.

From perfectly balanced espressos to expertly brewed drip coffees, the baristas take pride in their craft and strive to provide a memorable coffee experience for every customer.

The coffee is known for its smoothness and rich flavors, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a satisfying caffeine fix.

In addition to its exceptional coffee, Central Coffee Co. also offers a delectable selection of pastries.

From flaky croissants to indulgent muffins and cakes, there’s something to please every sweet tooth.

The combination of delicious baked goods and quality coffee creates a winning combination that keeps customers coming back for more.

This photo shows the front entrance of Central Coffee Co, which is one of the most popular coffee shops in charlotte nc.
Central Coffee Co. Store Front, A Very Low Key Profile. Photo Credit To Andrew Morrell

What truly sets Central Coffee Co. apart is its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The staff members are known for their warm hospitality and genuine love for coffee.

Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you can expect to be greeted with a smile and receive personalized recommendations and service.

Whether you’re in need of a morning pick-me-up or a cozy spot to unwind, Central Coffee Co. is a must-visit coffee shop in Charlotte.

With its smooth coffee, delectable pastries, and friendly staff, it offers a delightful experience that keeps customers coming back time and time again.

Coco and the Director is a trendy coffee shop in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, NC. Situated in a bustling area, this popular coffee spot stands out for its spacious layout, specialty coffee offerings, and creative atmosphere.

The coffee shop’s interior boasts a modern and open design, with ample seating and plenty of natural light.

The spacious layout creates a comfortable and inviting environment, making it an ideal spot for both individuals and groups to relax, work, or engage in lively conversations.

The shop’s creative and artistic decor further enhances the ambiance, which adds a unique touch to the overall experience.

Coco and the Director is renowned for its specialty coffee offerings. From expertly crafted espresso drinks to pour-overs and unique brewing methods, they cater to the discerning coffee palate.

The baristas showcase their expertise in every cup, ensuring that the flavors are well-balanced and the coffee is of the highest quality.

Interior photo shot of a corner of Coco and the Director. Part of the entrance glass door is visible on the far right side of the photo where cash registers are located. In the middle of the picture is a row of three display shelves with bright lighting highlights the coffee, coffee mugs and other merchandises. Coco and the Director is one of the most popular coffee shops in charlotte nc.
Interior of Coco and the Director, Photo Credit to Gadi Yekutiel

Beyond their coffee, Coco and the Director also offers a range of delectable treats and light bites. Whether it’s freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, or artisanal snacks, there are options to satisfy every craving.

The creative atmosphere at Coco and the Director sets it apart from other coffee shops in the area.

From carefully curated art displays to the occasional live performances or art workshops, this coffee shop fosters an environment that celebrates creativity and inspires its customers.

For coffee enthusiasts looking for a trendy and creative coffee shop experience, Coco and the Director is a must-visit destination in Uptown Charlotte.

With its spacious layout, specialty coffee offerings, and artistic ambiance, it offers a unique and engaging experience that goes beyond the average cup of joe.

Undercurrent Coffee is a charming coffee shop that provides a cozy ambiance and an impressive array of coffee options. This local gem has become a favorite among residents and visitors alike.

As you step into Undercurrent Coffee, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cozy interior, adorned with rustic accents and comfortable seating, creates a welcoming space that encourages relaxation and connection.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful corner to work or a cozy spot to catch up with friends, Undercurrent Coffee provides the perfect setting.

One of the standout features of Undercurrent Coffee is its diverse range of coffee options.

Coffee enthusiasts can choose from classic favorites like espresso drinks and drip coffee, as well as more specialized offerings such as pour-overs and nitro cold brew.

The baristas at Undercurrent Coffee are skilled in their craft, ensuring that each cup of coffee is meticulously prepared to perfection, with attention to detail and a focus on flavor.

The serving counter inside Undercurrent Coffee. This photo was shot at an angle, a male barista in the foreground waring a green long sleeve button shirt without button it up showing the white t-shirt underneath. He is preparing two pink drinks with green tops, they might be some kind of green tea drinks. A black woman next to him looks at the man's hands. The interior design of this shop is very modern and sleek with hard sharp edge counter with with white and dark grey counter tops at different level, gives a pleasant visual contrast while you are looking at the counter.
Interior of Undercurrent Coffee Shop. Photo Credit to Tim Esh

In addition to its exceptional coffee, Undercurrent Coffee also offers a selection of pastries and snacks to complement your beverage of choice.

Whether you’re in the mood for a flaky croissant, a savory quiche, or a sweet treat, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

Undercurrent Coffee is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers in Charlotte.

With its cozy ambiance, a wide range of coffee options, and delectable food offerings, this neighborhood coffee shop provides a delightful and comforting experience that keeps customers coming back time and time again.

Pure Intentions Coffee is a local roaster in Charlotte, NC. This coffee destination is known for its commitment to providing customers with freshly roasted beans and a menu of delicious coffee drinks.

With a focus on quality and sustainability, Pure Intentions Coffee has garnered a loyal following of coffee enthusiasts.

At Pure Intentions Coffee, the star of the show is their freshly roasted beans. The roastery takes great care in sourcing ethically and sustainably grown coffee beans from around the world.

Their expert roasters meticulously roast the beans in small batches to bring out the unique flavors and aromas inherent in each variety.

A 5 lb Espresso Blend Coffee by Pure Intentions Coffee, which is one of the most popular coffee shops in charlotte nc.
A 5 lb Espresso Blend Coffee Bag by Pure Intentions Coffee

In the coffee shop, customers can savor the fruits of Pure Intentions’ labor by indulging in a diverse menu of coffee drinks.

From smooth and velvety lattes to robust pour-overs and invigorating cold brews, there’s something to satisfy every coffee preference.

Each drink is carefully crafted by knowledgeable baristas who take pride in delivering a memorable coffee experience.

In addition to its exceptional coffee offerings, Pure Intentions Coffee also provides a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

The coffee shop is designed to create a comfortable and cozy space for customers to enjoy their beverages.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot to read a book or a place to catch up with friends, Pure Intentions Coffee offers a relaxed environment that fosters connection and enjoyment.

For those in search of freshly roasted beans and a delightful coffee experience, Pure Intentions Coffee is a must-visit destination in Charlotte.

With their dedication to quality, sustainability, and a menu of delicious coffee drinks, this local roastery and coffee shop is sure to leave a lasting impression on coffee lovers.

Enderly Coffee Co. is a renowned coffee company in Charlotte, NC, celebrated for its community-focused approach and dedication to serving specialty coffee.

With a warm and inviting environment, this coffee destination has established itself as more than just a place to grab a cup of joe—it’s a hub for connection, support, and making a positive impact.

At Enderly Coffee Co., the focus goes beyond serving exceptional coffee. This company is deeply committed to fostering a sense of community and supporting local causes.

From sourcing their beans directly from farmers around the world to participating in fair trade practices, Enderly Coffee Co. ensures that their coffee not only tastes great but also supports a sustainable and ethical supply chain.

The coffee shop itself radiates a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, inviting customers to relax and enjoy their coffee in a comfortable setting.

Whether it’s the aroma of freshly roasted beans or the friendly conversations with staff and fellow customers, Enderly Coffee Co. offers a space where people can gather, connect, and feel a sense of belonging.

Front Door of Enderly Coffee Co, which is one of the most popular coffee shops in charlotte nc. The photo show a yellow four leg metal round coffee table with two matching color metal chairs; they are to the right of the front glass door in front of a large shop window. A large painted black overhanging over the shop front provides some weather covering for people like to sit outside the coffee shop to enjoy their cup of joe.
Enderly Coffee Co Front Door. Photo Credit to Johny Walker

What sets Enderly Coffee Co. apart is its deep-rooted commitment to local causes.

They actively engage with their community through initiatives such as partnering with local nonprofits, supporting neighborhood events, and donating a portion of their profits to meaningful causes.

This community-focused approach creates a sense of purpose and makes every cup of coffee at Enderly Coffee Co. more meaningful.

If you’re looking for more than just a coffee shop experience, Enderly Coffee Co. is the place to be.

With its specialty coffee, warm environment, and dedication to supporting local causes, this coffee company exemplifies the power of coffee to bring people together and make a positive impact in the community.

BirdsEyeViewOfCharlotte - Copy
Bird's Eye View of Downtown Charlotte NC

Charlotte, NC, is home to a vibrant coffee scene with a variety of cafes offering unique experiences.

Not Just Coffee stands out with its high-quality coffee and cozy atmosphere, offering a range of espresso drinks and pour-over options.

Hex Coffee, Kitchen & Natural Wines takes pride in ethically sourced beans and minimalist design, providing a variety of brewing methods.

In NoDa, Smelly Cat Coffeehouse exudes a relaxed vibe, offering a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and vegan-friendly options.

Central Coffee Co., with multiple locations, is renowned for its smooth coffee, friendly staff, and delicious pastries.

Located in Uptown, Coco and the Director is a trendy coffee shop with a spacious layout, specialty coffee, and a creative atmosphere.

In Plaza Midwood, Undercurrent Coffee creates a cozy ambiance and offers a range of coffee options, including pour-overs and nitro cold brew.

Pure Intentions Coffee, a local roastery with a coffee shop, delights customers with freshly roasted beans and a menu of delicious coffee drinks.

Enderly Coffee Co. stands apart with its community-focused approach, offering specialty coffee, a warm environment, and supporting local causes.

With such diverse offerings, coffee enthusiasts in Charlotte can explore these cafes and find their perfect cup of coffee in a setting that matches their preferences and values.

Please note that the popularity and rankings of coffee shops can vary, and these are just some of the highly regarded options in Charlotte.

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