The Triangle Guide: The best coffee shops in Chapel Hill and Durham

We asked our readers to tell us their favorite Triangle coffee shops. Here’s what they said.

Calling all bean lovers in the NC Triangle – if you’re on the hunt for the best coffee shop to get your caffeine fix, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best coffee shops in the area based on reader votes, so get ready to discover your new favorite spot to grab a cup of joe. From cozy cafes to trendy bistro lounges, the Triangle has a diverse coffee scene that is sure to satisfy every coffee connoisseur’s taste buds.

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4. Joe Van Gogh 

Sliding into our number four spot with the grace of a perfectly poured latte is Joe Van Gogh. This beloved chain has been caffeinating the Triangle with a dash of sustainability and a whole lot of love for its craft. At Joe Van Gogh, it’s clear that coffee is a whole lifestyle. Each of their locations, scattered generously across the Triangle, serves up ethically sourced beans grown with environmentally friendly practices. 

Looking for a cozy nook to while away the afternoon with a book? Or perhaps a lively spot to buzz through some emails? Joe Van Gogh offers the perfect backdrop for every occasion, with a side of exceptional coffee, of course. Their menu is a delightful playground for coffee enthusiasts, featuring everything from the tried-and-true espresso classics to inventive lattes. Whether you’re in the mood for the comfort of a warm, frothy cappuccino or the boldness of a perfectly brewed black coffee, Joe Van Gogh crafts each cup with an artistic twist.

But Joe Van Gogh isn’t just a haven for coffee purists. Their friendly baristas make everyone feel at home, whether you’re a coffee aficionado capable of debating the merits of different brewing methods or someone whose coffee order has historically been more sugar and cream than actual coffee. With an atmosphere that’s as inviting as their drinks, it’s easy to see why this spot has carved out a special place in the hearts (and caffeine routines) of Triangle residents.

Whether you’re on a quest for the perfect cup, a sustainable sip, or simply a friendly place to kick back and relax, Joe Van Gogh stands ready to exceed your expectations, proving once and for all that they are indeed more than just a cup of Joe.

3. Saturni Fusion Bistro & Coffee Lounge in Chapel Hill 

Landing the bronze medal in our lineup is Saturni Fusion Bistro & Coffee Lounge in Chapel Hill, a place where your coffee dreams and creative musings converge. This spot is where coffee meets a burst of creativity, giving you an experience that’s as flavorful and vibrant as their espresso shots. 

At Saturni, the beverage choices are nothing short of inspirational. Here, the delicious bistro food menu is just as much a star as the coffee selections. Both place traditional favorites side by side with innovative concoctions that challenge your taste buds. Saturni Fusion Bistro & Coffee Lounge prides itself on offering food and drinks that shake up your coffee routine.

Perfect for the eclectic coffee lover, the remote worker in search of an inspiring backdrop, or the group of friends craving a space that feeds their creative souls, Saturni Fusion Bistro & Coffee Lounge offers a refreshing break from the predictable. It’s a spot where you can unwind, refuel, and maybe even discover a new favorite drink that you can’t pronounce yet.

If your coffee routine is feeling a tad stale and you’re itching for something that stirs your artistic spirit and feeds your hunger as much as your soul, Saturni Fusion Bistro & Coffee Lounge in Chapel Hill awaits. Prepare to be delighted, surprised, and, above all, creatively caffeinated.

2. Bean Traders 

Percolating its way to the number two spot on our caffeine countdown is Bean Traders in Durham, a coffee shrine that has been winning over the hearts (and taste buds) of the NC Triangle’s most particular coffee enthusiasts. This place is a mecca for those who speak in terms of acidity levels, body, and mouthfeel. Bean Traders is a favorite stop for the coffee aficionado who can detect the subtle hints of blueberry in their Ethiopian Yirgacheffe or the earthy tones of their Sumatran blend.

Walking into Bean Traders, you’re greeted not just by the intoxicating aroma of freshly ground coffee but by an atmosphere that’s half hippie chic and half coffee snob. With walls adorned with bags of beans from around the globe and a food menu with affordable, palatable breakfasts and snacks, Bean Traders is where your coffee education meets comfort. Plus the beverage menu at Bean Traders is both diverse and approachable, catering to a wide range of palates. 

And at Bean Traders, it’s about savoring the moment and the drink in your hand. Whether you’re setting up shop with your laptop for the afternoon or grabbing a quick cup to go, Bean Traders offers a welcoming space for all. The community vibe is palpable, making it clear that this haven for coffee aficionados is also a haven for those looking to connect over a shared love for a quality brew.

1. The Oak House Durham

And there you have it, perched atop our list like the cream in a well-brewed Irish coffee is The Oak House Durham, rightfully earning its place as the shining star of the Triangle’s bustling coffee scene. This spot doesn’t just serve coffee, it also serves, wine, whiskey, and beer, making it the most diverse and well-rounded craft beverage joint in the Triangle. Come on down and celebrate every pour, stir, and sip.

With its modern décor and inviting lighting, The Oak House Durham sets the perfect stage for everything from introspective solitude to lively discussions over steaming mugs of the day’s blend. But what truly sets The Oak House Durham apart is its unwavering commitment to quality. Every bean is selected with the utmost care, ensuring that each cup you order is a hot cup of perfection. Their menu is all about the simple art of coffee making, featuring the best-made classic favorites from robust, full-bodied espressos to silky smooth cappuccinos and specialty lattes that are as delicious as they are unique.

In the end, what makes The Oak House Durham the crown jewel of Triangle coffee shops isn’t just its superb coffee or its elegant setting. It’s a place where coffee is fully appreciated, where every visit feels like a mini retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. No wonder it has captured the hearts and taste buds of the NC Triangle, setting a gold standard for what a coffee shop can and should be.

So, next time you’re in Durham and in need of a caffeine fix, make your way to The Oak House Durham. Whether you’re settling in for a study session, meeting up with friends, or just grabbing a cup to go, you’re in for a treat. After all, there’s a reason it’s been voted the best coffee shop in the Triangle.

READ MORE: Where to find the best wine in Durham