Charlotte's Coffee Scene is H-O-T

Coffee houses are springing up across the city, offering caffeine junkies a jolt of premium flavor and top-shelf technique.

Not Just Coffee

The resident repository for NC-based Counter Culture Coffee beans has two Uptown cafes and one in South End. At 7th Street Public Market, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy some pretty swell latte art.

Sig perk: Latte (flavors range caramel to vanilla bean sugar)

Where: 224 E. 7th St.

Undercurrent Coffee

Head to Plaza Midwood for this late spring entree into Charlotte’s bean scene. Behind the whimsical menu is seasoned barista Diana Mnatsakanyan.

Sig perk: TBD

Where: 2012 Commonwealth Ave.

Waterbean

Savor your way through a hand-brewed coffee tasting flight at Waterbean’s new Uptown spot, or try a cuppa French press, AeroPress, Chemex pour-over or average drip-style.

Sig perk: Cold-brew iced coffee

Where: 616 N. Tryon St.

Rush Espresso

That hand-crafted specialty in your cup doesn't stop at coffee. Find a broad selection of wine and brews at this contemporary spot that keeps its cool vibes going with a chic interior and lots of live music. 

Sig Perk: Latte (for the unreal coffee art atop your foam)

Where: 14825 Ballantyne Village Way; 120 Brevard Court

Hex

An ode to espresso, Hex believes in serving the concentrated sips in their purest form, with a focus on quality and sustainability and consideration for brew ratio, grind size and filter material. 

Sig Perk: Espresso shot (rotating coffees with distinct flavor profiles) 

Where: 125 Remount Road

Coco & The Director

Hip factor earns this place a spot in the consciousness of Charlotte’s in-the-know crowd. Enjoy live music while you sip your cold brew from stadium seating.

Sig perk: Single-origin pour-over

Where: 100 W. Trade St.

Smelly Cat

This quirky spot in an old mill neighborhood has a loyal following thanks to its hipster charm and welcoming space—think brick walls, vintage roasters and friendly faces.

Sig Perk: Nitro cold brew

Where: 514 E. 36th St.

Sunflower Baking Co.

Fair-trade, organic coffees sit aside fresh pastries at this cafe and bakery. And the espresso is inspired by Central Italy's "sweet coffee" tradition, ensuring rich and delicious sips. 

Sig Perk: Dirty Mocha

Where: 2001 E. Seventh St.

Nova's Bakery

Artisan breads with Serbian roots are at the heart of this local bakery and pair perfectly with any of the 22 coffee bean varieties available. 

Sig Perk: Single-origin Colombia Supremo coffee

Where: 1515 South Blvd.

Mayobird

Its claim to fame may be chicken salad, but don't overlook the coffee bar featuring all the classics and some extra-special additions to the typical cup of joe. 

Sig Perk: Iced or hot coffee with a Coffee Spike: Bailey's, Kahlua, Frangelico, Amaretto or Butterscotch Schnapps

Where: 1531 East Blvd.