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The Best Coffee Shops around Raleigh, NC | The Raleighwood Inbox

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This is a list for folks living in, visiting, or just scoping out some of the best Coffee Spots in Raleigh. These suggestions come from years of experience as a local, everything here is a quality spot to grab a latte. Check out our newsletter for more things to do in Raleigh!
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Raleigh Downtown

The best coffee spots in and around Downtown Raleigh.

 
Mason C.B. | The Raleighwood Inbox profile picture
Best Coffee in Raleigh, we go here weekly!
Jubala Coffee | Near NC State Memorial Belltower
 
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Park on the street or in the nearby park if parking is crowded and  take a walk around the Oakwood area neighborhoods with your local coffee!
The Optimist Raleigh | Specialty Coffee House and Local Haunt
 
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Walk-up to the counter, grab a seat outside, grab it to-go or sit upstairs and co-work!
Morning Times | Downtown Raleigh

North Raleigh

More great coffee spots around North Hills in Raleigh.

 
Mason C.B. | The Raleighwood Inbox profile picture
A great spot, usually quite busy but plenty of parking, if you can try to have a friend snag a table while you wait in line.
Sola Coffee Cafe | North Raleigh
 
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Voted the Best Local Coffee Shop in Wake County in 2025 and for good reason!
NoRa Cafe | Visit their Library!
 
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Started as a Coffee Cart, launched into a Coffee Shop back in 2024!
Quarter Note Coffee | A Tad South, but North of Downtown

Other Raleigh Spots

Great West Raleigh coffee pit-stops if you're on you're way towards the fairgrounds!

 
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Shop their trinkets, grab a coffee, and some allergen friendly snacks! Great spot to work on the weekends and open mic every other Monday night.
Lucky Tree | Baked Goods, Live Music!
 
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It's almost in Downtown to be fair, but it's been around since 1991. Great spot, right near campus, with a vibe you just can't find anywhere else. It'll feel a bit chaotic walking in but that is part of the charm.
Cup A Joe | Classic Spot for NC State Students
 
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321 Coffee has a partnership with NC State to help employ folks with developmental disabilities, it just so happens that their coffee is the best you can get physically on campus.
321 Coffee | NC State Centennial's Newest Staple

Bonus: Cary Coffee!

Let's talk about our coffee neighbors over in Cary, NC!

 
Mason C.B. | The Raleighwood Inbox profile picture
We come here for a nice crepe and the specialty coffee, with the Vincent Latte being one of my personal favorites. Allergen friendly options as well!
Starry Night Coffee & Crepes
 
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My favorite spot downtown to stop when vising the new Downtown Cary Park, really great folks there and supporting a great cause over a cup of joe.
Esteamed Coffee | Nonprofit Offering Local Opportunities
 
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One of the better spots for grabbing something to eat along with your morning caffeine. Can get a tad busy so plan ahead!
Chanticleer Cafe & Bakery | Sit Down & Stay a While!