In life, I’ve found where there is a great independent coffee house, there is usually a great neighborhood and great homes. Independent coffee houses are indicators of value to come. Why? They are usually run by folks who have a limited start-up budget, so they have to get the most bang for their buck; they need a great location, which usually leads them to an area that is not yet fully realized. Or, they just know the neighborhood appreciates independent thinkers and entrepreneurs. Take Charlotte as an example: While we do have our fair share of coffee chains, we’ve also got great locally-owned shops to satisfy your need for a jolt.
Smelly Cat
Located in NoDa, this spot has it all – brewed coffee, espresso drinks, loose teas, hot chocolate, apple cider and more. They even have wine if you’ve had an especially rough day! And they’re ready for you 6:30am to 8:00pm every day except Friday, when they stay open until 10:00pm.
Amelie’s
Villa Heights is home to this perennial Charlotte favorite. Outside of coffee, Amelie’s is also known for its baked goods and its round-the-clock service. Yes, that’s right – a coffee house that’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
Okra
This is one of Charlotte’s newer hot spots, located in Plaza Midwood. The coffee and tea lounge is open 8:00am to 2:00pm and 4:00pm to 7:00pm Monday through Friday and 9:00am to 7:00pm on weekends. Okra also offers yoga classes and massage therapy, so this is the perfect place to spend the afternoon – or the day – relaxing and re-energizing.
Central Coffee
If you’re looking for a place to hang out in Elizabeth, this is it! Though it seems unlikely, the atmosphere somehow works for business meetings, studying and/or chatting with friends.
Dilworth Coffee House
This is a local chain, with stores all around town. The original Dilworth Coffee, though, is on East Blvd in Kenilworth Commons. They are billed as Charlotte’s Original Specialty Coffee, and one sip of any of their amazing drinks tells you they know their stuff!
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