Durham, North Carolina, is a lively university town brimming with interesting places to explore and activities to enjoy. Formerly known for its tobacco industry, the city has evolved into a hotspot for breweries, bars, restaurants, BBQ joints, and cafes. I recently spent three months in Durham and absolutely loved it – it’s a fantastic place to visit in the USA.
If you’re a digital nomad like me who appreciates a good cup of coffee, Durham offers a variety of cafes that cater to different moods and preferences. Whether you need a quick caffeine boost, a serene spot to read a book, or a workspace with reliable WiFi and affordable refills, this city has you covered. Here are 15 of the best cafes I visited during my stay.
321 Coffee
Starting as a small team selling coffee on folding tables in 2017, 321 Coffee has thrived and now boasts three permanent locations, including one in Durham. The cafe is known not just for its excellent brews but also for its inclusive mission, employing over 50 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Durham location is conveniently situated between downtown and the city center. The WiFi is solid, the coffee is reasonably priced, and the air-conditioning is a blessing during hot afternoons.
– Address: 300 Morris St Ste 101, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Nitro Cold Brew, Dark Hot Chocolate, daily pastry specials
– Average Cost: $3-$5.75 for coffees and teas, $4-$6 for pastries and snacks
Cocoa Cinnamon
Located on Geer Street, Cocoa Cinnamon is part of the Little Waves Coffee Roasters family. It’s a welcoming and independent spot that’s making waves in Durham with its award-winning coffee and unique blends. Their menu includes intriguing pour-over specials and daily drip brews with flavors like blueberry, lemonade, and peach. If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, this is the place for you.
– Address: 420 W Geer St, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Daily changing pour-over coffee and batch brews
– Average Cost: $4-$6 for coffees, teas, and snacks
Joe Van Gogh
If you’re near 9th Street or Duke East Campus, swing by Joe Van Gogh for a relaxed atmosphere and excellent coffee. This community-driven, art-inspired cafe is ideal for both quick espresso shots and lazy afternoons with a book. Locals rave about their vanilla lattes and savory tarts.
– Address: 1104 Broad St B, Durham, NC 27705
– Must-Try Items: Vanilla Latte, Savory Tart
– Average Cost: $2.25-$4.50 for coffee, $4-$6 for snacks and cookies
Monuts
Monuts started as a donut stand and has grown into a beloved cafe and bakery. Known for its positive atmosphere and delicious food, Monuts offers straightforward coffee options and a standout menu. The bacon and guac burrito and build-your-own bagels are particularly popular.
– Address: 1002 9th St, Durham, NC 27705
– Must-Try Items: Bacon and Guac Burrito, build-your-own bagel
– Average Cost: $3-$5 per coffee, $2.25 and up for bagels, $7-$14 for larger plates
The Durham Hotel Coffee Bar
Inside The Durham Hotel, this elegant coffee bar offers top-notch coffee from Counter Coffee Culture roasters. A must-try here is the unique Markola Coffee Soda, a concoction of organic cold brew coffee, organic cane sugar, and vanilla, served with club soda or milk. They also have delicious in-house pastries and a ‘Cookie Hour’ from 1-2 pm on weekdays.
– Address: 315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Durham Coffee Soda, Cookie Hour
– Average Cost: $3.25-$4.25 for regular coffees, $4.25-$5.50 for specialty drinks
Beyu Caffè
Situated on Main Street, Beyu Caffè combines coffee, breakfast, and lunch with a mellow vibe. It’s a versatile spot where you can work, relax with a book, meet friends, or even enjoy live music. Their Supreme Breakfast Burrito and branded Beyu coffee are highly recommended.
– Address: A341 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Supreme Breakfast Burrito, Beyu House Coffee
– Average Cost: $3-$5 for coffees, $9.50-$15 for breakfast and lunch dishes
Elmo’s Diner
Elmo’s is more of a diner than a cafe, but it’s a staple in Durham. The food and coffee here are excellent, and they offer free refills. Elmo’s is known for its hearty menu, which includes everything from basic breakfasts to dinner plates.
– Address: 776 9th St, Durham, NC 27705
– Must-Try Items: California Omelet, Southwest Chicken Salad
– Average Cost: $2.50 for coffee with refills, $7-$14 for meals
Panera Bread
A nationwide chain, Panera is included for its great pricing, free refills, ample seating, and reliable WiFi. Their Unlimited Sip Club is a particularly good deal for coffee enthusiasts.
– Address: 737 9th St 200, Durham, NC 27705
– Must-Try Items: Fresh Brew Coffee, Unlimited Sip Club
– Average Cost: $2.89-$4.50 for coffees and teas, $4-$14 for food items
EverLou Coffee Co.
For a small, independent cafe with a cozy vibe, try EverLou Coffee Co. Known for their Toffee Oat Latte, this dog-friendly spot even offers ‘Puppaccinos’ for your pets. Their menu features seasonal and weekend specials, along with fresh pastries.
– Address: 506 N Mangum St 102, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Toffee Oat Latte, Puppaccino
– Average Cost: $3-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $4-$6 for snacks
Foster Street Coffee
Located in the Central Park District, Foster Street Coffee is a popular choice for remote workers. They offer excellent WiFi, free refills, and even a rentable conference room. Unique coffee options include strawberry oat milk lattes and cold brews with lavender syrup.
– Address: 530 Foster St 2, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Foster Street Brew Coffee with free refills, Cold Brew with Lavender Syrup
– Average Cost: $3.25-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $9-$15 for food items
The Oak House
Combining coffee with beer, wine, and whiskey, The Oak House, established in 2019, supports local businesses by sourcing products locally. They host trivia nights and live music events, making it a great place for both coffee and evening drinks. Their monthly Coffee Card is a steal for frequent visitors.
– Address: 126 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: 4-cup French press, Thursday night trivia
– Average Cost: $3.25-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $5-$7 for beers
Whisk & Rye
A unique coffee trailer that also operates a bakery, Whisk & Rye offers a fantastic mix of quality coffee and baked goods, including vegan options. Their mobile trailer can be found at Northgate Park several times a week.
– Store Address: 3401 University Dr. Suite 5, Durham, NC 27707
– Must-Try Items: Baked goods and vegan counterparts
– Average Cost: $2.50-$4.50 for coffees and teas, $4-$8 for bakery items
Bull and Bean
A bit outside the city center, Bull and Bean offers a neighborhood feel and delicious food. Their coffee is excellent, and specialty drinks like green and chai teas and gourmet hot chocolates are also worth trying.
– Address: 3710 Shannon Rd 100, Durham, NC 27707
– Must-Try Items: Perfect Big Bull Breakfast, Chapel Hill Pecan and Dark Chocolate Toffee
– Average Cost: $3-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $7-$14 for breakfast plates
New World Cafe
Conveniently located near the Warehouse District, New World Cafe offers a concise menu of acai bowls, smoothies, sandwiches, and consistently great coffee. The outdoor seating area is a great spot to relax.
– Address: 701 W Main St Suite 130, Durham, NC 27701
– Must-Try Items: Turkey Baconator Sandwich, BLT Strikes Back
– Average Cost: $2.50-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $6.50-$14.50 for food items
The Mad Hatter
A longstanding institution, The Mad Hatter offers some of the best cakes in Durham, made onsite in their open bakery. The atmosphere is lively, and their all-day brunch menu is popular.
– Address: 1802 W Main St, Durham, NC 27705
– Must-Try Items: Vanilla Cupcake, Pecan Pie Bar
– Average Cost: $2.80-$5.50 for coffees and teas, $10-$14 for food items
Durham is a coffee lover’s dream with a variety of cafes to explore. Enjoy your caffeine adventures in this vibrant city!
