Downtown has an amazing variety of coffee shops to choose from and seasonal fall menus have already been popping up around town!
From creative concoctions, like Vessel’s Amaretto Pumpkin Cloud and Narrative Coffee’s S’mores Latte to cozy spaces, this blog breaks down the distinct vibe of every spot so you can find your ideal study haven or morning pit stop.
Vessel Coffee & Art Cafe
This oat-based cafe hosts everything from monthly jazz nights to events like Coffee & Consent and Sapphic Craft Night. Complete with a zine wall, outdoor seating, and a rotating seasonal menu. Don’t miss their must-try Granny Smith Apple Pie latte on the new fall menu.
Narrative Coffee Company
Nestled in the ground floor of the ID building, this cozy space is the perfect stop after a class at Virge Yoga next door, before strolling at the Saturday Farmer’s Market, or anytime you need a caffeine fix. They always offer a creative specialty menu, like the S’mores Latte pictured here.
Nectar
Tucked into the Geer House lobby, this bright cafe serves coffee, beer, wine, fresh juices, Lucette Grace pastries, and light bites. The honey, vanilla cold brew with cinnamon cold foam and plum iced tea are must-tries from their September specials menu! Grab a seat on the gorgeous outdoor patio to unwind.
Foster Street
Foster Street is the ideal spot for studying or catching up on work. Grab a quiet moment inside, or take your drink to-go for a stroll through nearby Central Park. Fuel up with pastries, sandwiches, chia pudding, and be sure to order their classic pumpkin spice latte. While you are there, don’t forget to grab a special treat for your pup, too!
Cocoa Cinnamon
With three locations, including one downtown, and award-winning beans roasted entirely in-house, Cocoa Cinnamon is a Durham staple. On warm days, their outdoor seating provides an excellent spot to work or catch up with friends. Make sure to try one of their unique signature drinks, like the Dr. Durham, featuring housemade vanilla syrup, maca, ginger, and a topping of black lava salt.
Montwood Cafe
Located in the heart of downtown, this bright, naturally lit cafe features stunning green tile accents and is run by a sweet, couple-owned team. Their warm and welcoming environment makes it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great cup of coffee. Don’t miss their signature Masala Chai & Rose Syrup Latte dusted with cardamom rose.
Soif
Tucked into the historic Snow Building, Soif is an intimate coffee shop by day and a cozy cocktail and wine bar by night. With its stunning vintage details and intentional lack of Wi-Fi, it’s an ideal analog space to log off, catch up with a friend, and enjoy an exceptional espresso drink. Their specials change weekly! This week we were able to grab an iced americano with corn syrup and salted cold foam!
Fare & Fellow
Located in the bottom of the iconic Mutual Aid building, this clean, bright space is perfect for a meeting and focusing on work. Be sure to try their pumpkin spice and toasted marshmallow lattes. Step outside to enjoy outdoor seating with a view into the city. While you’re there, take a moment to explore the building’s rich local history woven right into the space.
Yonder
Housed inside The Daily Beer Bar, Yonder is built on a spirit of travel, rotating a variety of global bean brands to offer a unique window into worldwide coffee roasters. It serves as a warm community hub where locals frequently gather to paint, play games, and browse a curated selection of retail goods like tinned fish.
Liturgy Beverage Company
Located on the top level of the Durham Food Hall, this vibrant coffee counter is an amazing way to start the day. They proudly feature a rotating variety of roasters, and you definitely won’t want to miss out on their hands-on home espresso classes.
Yonderlust Coffee
Connected to Yonderlust Adventure Outfitters and its curated stock of outdoor apparel, this cafe is a great place to fuel up and get outside amidst wooden seating, framed maps, and adventure photography. Don’t leave without trying their signature maple miso cappucino. It makes for the perfect post-treatment stop after a facial at The Retreat just a few doors down.
The Coffee Bar at The Durham
Featuring a stunning mid-century modern design that instantly transports you to another era, this boutique hotel lobby doubles as an incredible coworking space where you can settle in with a delicious Counter Culture coffee.
The Oak House
Situated in the heart of downtown on the ground floor of One City Center, The Oak House functions as a bright, spacious community hub by day and transitions into a vibrant craft beer and wine bar by night. With plenty of seating, fast Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere, it is a fantastic spot to lock in for a study session or catch up with friends over a specialty latte or local draft.
The Can Opener
Found right among the food trucks at the Can Opener, this coffee spot offers indoor, covered patio, and rooftop seating options. Serving as a true community hub, it frequently hosts events like latte art throwdowns and yoga classes, making it a lively gathering space.
Press
Housed in the heart of the American Tobacco Campus, Press is an open, airy all-day café that blends an Italian espresso bar with a Provençal bistro atmosphere, offering a true European café experience with a distinct Carolina twist.
New World Cafe
This traditional European-style cafe serves coffee, pour-overs, and espresso drinks with beans from local roasters, Counter Culture Coffee and Black and White Coffee Roasters. Pair your drink with one of their many menu items like acai bowls or avocado toast.
Aaktun Coffee Bar
Tucked away at the front of a Tulum and Tiki-inspired restaurant, this hidden gem boasts immaculate vibes and wonderful outdoor seating. They serve fantastic breakfast dishes that pair perfectly with their amazing signature staples, like the Brown Pantera Espresso and the Horchata Latte. Make sure to give the Apple Pie Chai on their fall menu a taste.
