The Triangle Guide: Where to get the best iced tea in Raleigh, Durham, & Chapel Hill

We asked our readers to tell us who makes the best iced tea in the NC Triangle. Here’s what they said.

Ah, iced tea — the lifeblood of the South. It’s the cool, sweet elixir that keeps us going through sweltering summers and long afternoons. The North Carolina Triangle area, known for its excellent food scene and rich culinary traditions, is home to some of the best iced tea around. But don’t just take our word for it; a recent readers’ poll has crowned the top spots for this beloved beverage. So, grab a glass, and let’s dive in and discover the winners.

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4. Smithfield’s Chicken N’ Bar-B-Q

Smithfield’s Chicken N’ Bar-B-Q is a local legend and a beloved institution in the Triangle. Smithfield’s is known for its delicious Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue. Founded in 1964, Smithfield’s has grown to multiple locations, each serving up the same great food and hospitality that has made it a staple in the community.

At Smithfield’s, iced tea is treated with the same care and attention as their barbecue. Brewed fresh daily using a special proprietary blend of tea, the tea is sweetened to achieve a perfect balance of flavor. Whether you prefer sweet tea or unsweetened, each glass is a refreshing delight that pairs perfectly with their signature barbecue dishes.

Smithfield’s Chicken N’ Bar-B-Q offers a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. With its fast yet casual dining experience, friendly staff, and mouthwatering menu, it’s a place where families and friends gather to enjoy good food and great company. And no meal is complete without a glass of their famous iced tea.

Readers praise Smithfield’s for its consistently excellent iced tea. Many highlight the fresh, clean taste and the perfect level of sweetness. It’s the kind of tea that keeps you coming back for more, and it’s a testament to the quality and tradition that Smithfield’s upholds.

3. Sam Jones BBQ

This is the second time Sam Jones BBQ has taken its rightful place as one of our readers’ favorites. They were ranked #2 in our best BBQ category for their traditional approach to whole hog BBQ. But it’s not just the smoked meats that have people talking — Sam Jones BBQ also serves some of the best iced tea in the Triangle.

At Sam Jones BBQ, the iced tea is brewed to perfection. Their tea is steeped slowly to develop a rich, full-bodied flavor. Sweetened just right, it’s the ideal complement to their smoky, savory barbecue. Served over ice in a mason jar, it’s a refreshing nod to Southern tradition.

The ambiance at Sam Jones BBQ is as inviting as the food. Rustic decor, friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re digging into a plate of pulled pork or enjoying some of their famous banana pudding, a glass of iced tea is the perfect pairing.

Readers love the authenticity of Sam Jones BBQ’s iced tea. Many describe it as the quintessential Southern tea — sweet, strong, and served with a smile. It’s the kind of drink that transports you to a porch swing on a hot summer day, savoring the simple pleasures of life.

2. Cafe Carolina

A hidden gem located in Raleigh, Cafe Carolina is a charming spot that has won the hearts of locals with its cozy atmosphere and delicious offerings. Known for its freshly baked bagels, sandwiches, and salads, Cafe Carolina is also celebrated for its refreshing iced tea.

At Cafe Carolina, iced tea is brewed with care and precision. The cafe uses high-quality tea leaves, steeped to extract maximum flavor. Their sweet tea is a hit, but they also offer unsweetened options for those who prefer a more traditional taste. Each glass is brewed fresh, ensuring a crisp and clean flavor that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Cafe Carolina is also a community hub. The friendly staff, cozy seating, and inviting ambiance make it a perfect spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a good book. And, of course, no visit is complete without a tall glass of their famous iced tea.

Readers can’t get enough of Cafe Carolina’s iced tea. Many highlight the quality and consistency of the brew, praising its refreshing taste and perfect level of sweetness. It’s the kind of tea that reminds you of home, whether you’re a local or just passing through.

1. Bojangles

It’s a Carolina classic, a sip of local history. Bojangles might be a popular fast-food chain, but it’s also a Southern institution. Founded in 1977 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Bojangles has grown to become a beloved staple across the Southeast. Known for its Cajun-seasoned fried chicken and made-from-scratch biscuits, Bojangles has also earned a reputation for serving some of the very best iced tea around. It’s no wonder our readers have voted Bojangles their favorite iced tea in the Triangle.

What sets Bojangles’ iced tea apart? It’s all about the brewing process. Bojangles uses a special blend of tea leaves, brewed fresh daily to ensure a robust flavor. The tea is then sweetened to perfection — just the right amount of sugar to complement the bold tea flavor without overwhelming it. Served over ice, it’s a refreshing treat that pairs perfectly with their spicy chicken and buttery biscuits.

Bojangles’ Carolina roots run deep. The chain’s commitment to Southern hospitality and quality ingredients has made it a favorite for iced tea lovers across the Triangle. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or catering a family gathering, Bojangles’ iced tea is a must-have.

Readers rave about Bojangles’ iced tea, citing its perfect balance of sweetness and strong tea flavor. Many say it’s their go-to drink for any meal, and some even make special trips just for a large cup of this Southern delight. It’s clear that Bojangles’ iced tea has a special place in the hearts — and taste buds — of North Carolinians.

READ MORE: The best coffee shops in Chapel Hill and Durham