A WEEKEND IN RALEIGH: COFFEE SHOPS

If you’re a coffee lover, then you’ve come to the right place! We’ve created the ultimate guide for our favorite coffee shops in Raleigh and we are so excited to share them with you! Whether you need a little pick-me-up mid-afternoon or you’re more interested in some delicious sweet treats, our list covers just about every craving you could have! Who knows… maybe we will run into you there!


Known for its cool atmosphere and amazing drink and food menu, Jubala Coffee is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to hangout while enjoying a warm cup of coffee or sweet treat! Oh... and don't even get us started about their biscuits! From a classic bacon, egg and cheese all the way to a wildflower honey biscuit... you'll wish your breakfast looked this good every morning!

One of Raleigh’s newer coffee shops, Idle Hour Coffee is a boutique coffee shop with delicious coffee and treats. Enjoy a slow morning with your friends on their lounge furniture or get some work done while enjoying a hot drink at one of their tables! And yes... this is the place that you will find the delicious Tepuy donuts! With a variety of flavors, their handcrafted sourdough donuts are unlike anything out there so you might want to make this one a first on your list of stops so you can grab one before they're sold out!

The Optimist Raleigh is one of the city's most unique coffee shops and they are living for it! Opening a coffee shop has been a dream since this husband and wife duo met and a pandemic wasn't about to stop them. The neighborhood coffee shop opened in 2020 and their dreams quickly became a reality when the coffee house became everyone's new favorite spot. Serving local Black & White Coffee, Darlin Designs Cookies, and Layered Croissanterie Croissants, we really do see why everyone loves this place and we are sure that you will too!

Loved by every local, Yellow Dog Bread Co. is a must on the list of places to eat and grab coffee while you’re here! If you're looking for the perfect little corner shop to fill up a box of pastries or enjoy a slow morning with a loved one before the weekend festivities get crazy, then this is your place! From cinnamon buns to chocolate scones, we can confidently say that they have perfected every item on their menu and created the perfect bite to enjoy no matter what time of day! Who knows... you may even run into us while you’re there :)

We would like to introduce to you the best coffee shop on Glenwood South! A trendy coffee shop and cafe, Iris Coffee Lab is a great spot to stop and grab a bite to eat while touring Raleigh! While a staple for your basic cup of coffee, this place has also mastered a menu of unique drinks such as a blue matcha latte, London fog and Rosemary latte that is are all must-try drinks when stopping by! So... step outside your comfort zone with a flavorful drink and enjoy their relaxing atmosphere before heading to the next spot on your list!

The buzziest coffee shop around! Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this spot is walking distance from so many things and is a popular one among the locals! Sir Walter Coffee offers barista bar crafts, coffeehouse classics, teas and food with a cool indoor/outdoor atmosphere for you to enjoy all afternoon!

Right across the street from Raleigh’s train station and around the corner from several restaurants and hotels, Heirloom Coffee Roasters is a coffee and tea shop that has become a popular spot for a nice drink or a bite to eat! While exploring their menu you will find what makes them the most unique ~ Sake. This alcoholic beverage of Japanese origin is rich with flavor and spices and will have you wanting to come back for more before the weekend ends!

Another common spot among the locals, BREW Coffee Bar is a great place to grab a cup of coffee or a delicious treat! Known for their fascinating seasonal menus, join the excitement as we enjoy the last few weeks of their summer menu and begin anticipating all the fall options to come!

Next to one of Raleigh’s most loved restaurants, Raleigh Times, The Morning Times is a must if you’re walking around the city! Our favorite thing about this place... they keep things simple! Good coffee. Good food. Good people. It'll just take one quick look at their instagram to see that they've really created a community around this place and we absolutely love having them right down the street from us! So... head on over and join the fun while enjoying one of their breakfast classics or refreshing iced beverages!

Lucettegrace is a chic coffee shop, french-inspired cafe and bakery in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Led by one of Raleigh's most talented pastry chefs, Daniel Benjamin, Lucettegrace's menu is a collection of traditional French vienoisserie, signature creations and treats that are all inspired by Daniel's childhood. If that personal touch isn't already convincing enough, then you'll just need one quick look at their pastry menu before you find yourself grabbing your keys and hurrying out the door!

Known as “Raleigh’s best kept secret”, 42nd & Lawrence is a must if you’re needing the perfect cup of coffee! Overlooking a beautiful park in Downtown Raleigh, this spot will allow you to get a big taste of Raleigh and all its fun if you don't have much time! So... add a cool view to a delicious cup of coffee and we should have you sold just! like! that! But if you need a little bit more convincing, then just check out their seasonal and signature drinks here!


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