Best Coffee Shops in Charlotte
A curated guide to Charlotte’s thriving coffee scene + one unforgettable experience.
Charlotte Introduction
Charlotte’s coffee scene has exploded from just a handful of indie cafés to dozens of unique spots across South End, NoDa, and beyond. Locals expect top-quality beans, creative lattes, and vibrant café culture, and with 67% of Americans drinking coffee daily, the demand is real. Beyond coffee shops, there’s a rising interest in mobile experiences like our Turkish coffee cart for weddings, festivals, and events. Check out some of our favorite shops posted below and to book Zemra’s Coffee, please click the button below.
Population and Culture Explosion
There are ~ 100 people a day are moving to Charlotte. The Median Age is ~34.5. Over 67% of Americans drink coffee, and Charlotteans definitely do their part.
Fresh Experiences Win
Guests want more than caffeine. Our sand-brewed show is the story they’ll tell. Our mobile coffee cart brings the fresh aroma of coffee anywhere to create an unforgettable experience.
Coffee Capital
Charlotte loves coffee! From Dilworth, South End, NoDa, Plaza Midwood, Uptown, these are but a few of the great neighborhoods hosting delicious coffee shops in Charlotte.
1. Enderly Coffee
Enderly Coffee is more than a café — it’s a mission-driven roastery in West Charlotte focused on people-first business. As Zemra’s Coffee’s official roaster, Enderly provides the high-quality beans we brew fresh at every event. Their commitment to sourcing and roasting excellence makes every cup taste like home.
“When we say our coffee has heart, it’s because Enderly puts theirs into every roast.”
2. Coco and the Director
Coco and the Director is a vibrant coffeehouse located in Uptown Charlotte, offering a unique blend of locally roasted coffee, freshly baked breads, and pastries. The space doubles as a collaborative hub for local entrepreneurs, featuring stadium-style seating and a co-lab area that fosters creativity and connection. Their commitment to quality is evident in their single-origin coffees sourced from Forte Legato, ensuring each cup is strong and smooth. Beyond beverages, they offer a variety of lunch options and a welcoming atmosphere for all. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or a quality caffeine fix, Coco and the Director provides a dynamic environment to meet your needs.
3. Not Just Coffee
Not Just Coffee is a locally owned coffee shop that celebrates all things espresso, offering a full spectrum of brewing methods from pour-overs to finely executed espresso beverages. With multiple locations across Charlotte, they emphasize the craft of coffee through cuppings, classes, and interactive brewing sessions. Their baristas are dedicated to bringing the moving, breathing craft of coffee to customers in full color. Beyond coffee, they provide breakfast and lunch options, as well as non-coffee beverages, ensuring a comprehensive café experience. Their commitment to quality and community engagement has positioned Not Just Coffee as an industry leader in Charlotte.
4. Smelly Cat Coffeehouse & Roastery
Established in 2000, Smelly Cat Coffeehouse & Roastery is Charlotte’s longest-standing craft coffee venue, nestled in the heart of the NoDa neighborhood. They roast their own specialty coffee, offering a variety of single-origin coffees and rich full-body blends. The whimsical design and vibrant colors of the café create a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons. Beyond coffee, they provide a selection of baked goods and a cozy environment that reflects their people-centered approach. Smelly Cat is unashamedly dedicated to quality and community, making it a beloved staple in Charlotte’s coffee scene.
5. Undercurrent Coffee
Undercurrent Coffee, located in the heart of Plaza Midwood, is a café and coffee education lab that serves thoughtful, local, handcrafted goodness to the community. They offer a variety of unique and exceptional coffees roasted by Onyx Coffee Lab, emphasizing quality and sustainability. The café also features The Lab, a space dedicated to coffee education and community events. With a focus on connection and craftsmanship, Undercurrent Coffee provides an inviting space for both coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Their commitment to excellence and community engagement sets them apart in Charlotte’s coffee landscape.
6. HEX Coffee, Kitchen & Natural Wines
HEX Coffee began as a simple pop-up in Charlotte in 2015 with the goal of creating warm, inviting spaces and bringing bright, vibrant coffees to the community. Now located in Camp North End, HEX offers a minimalist Japanese-Hawaiian inspired menu, including items like avocado tartine and rice porridge, alongside thoughtfully sourced coffees and natural wines. They work with growers who produce some of the most unique, fruited, and delicious coffees available, aiming to illuminate the quality within each coffee so its provenance can shine through. The café’s sleek, artful space provides a perfect setting for enjoying their meticulously crafted offerings. HEX Coffee’s dedication to quality and innovation makes it a standout in Charlotte’s coffee scene.
7. Central Coffee Company
Central Coffee Company is a charming café located at 719 Louise Ave in Charlotte, NC, offering a cozy spot for coffee enthusiasts. They serve Joe Van Gogh coffee and handmade pastries, providing a delightful experience for patrons. Their menu includes a variety of baked goods like scones, muffins, and baklava, as well as savory treats like spanikopita and breakfast casseroles. Known for its friendly atmosphere and quality offerings, Central Coffee Company has become a beloved neighborhood spot. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a relaxing break, Central Coffee Company offers a warm and inviting environment.
Zemra’s Sand-Brewed Turk’ish Coffee
Our mobile cart setup is compact, indoor-friendly, and mess-free — ideal for events where you want a little flair.
Every cup is made to order in front of your guests, creating a memorable experience that blends culture, aroma, and heart.
In Albanian, “Zemra” means “heart” — we pour that into every cup.
Zemra’s Coffee brings the bold, rich taste of Turkish coffee to Charlotte — brewed live in hot sand for an unforgettable show and flavor.
PRODUCTS & MERCH
Yes! Our kits include a traditional xhezve, Zemra’s custom-ground coffee, and instructions to make your own at home.
Yes—you can order our coffee, kits, and more directly from our website. Visit Our Shop
We do. Our Turk’ish coffee kits and services make unforgettable gifts for clients, friends, or teams.