Muddy Waters Coffee Bar

Coffee shop · Charleston

Muddy Waters Coffee Bar

Coffee shop · Charleston

2

1739 Maybank Hwy, Charleston, SC 29412

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Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by Muddy Waters
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar by null

Highlights

Lattes, cold brew, hot chocolate & pastries. Art, WiFi & patio.  

Featured in Eater
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1739 Maybank Hwy, Charleston, SC 29412 Get directions

muddywaterscoffee.com
@muddywaterscoffee

$1–10

Information

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1739 Maybank Hwy, Charleston, SC 29412 Get directions

+1 843 795 0848
muddywaterscoffee.com
@muddywaterscoffee

$1–10

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Last updated

Aug 17, 2025

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@eater

Find the Best Coffee Shops in Charleston | Eater Carolinas

"Muddy Waters is an old-school coffee shop on James Island. Around since 2001, it’s a reliable spot for a latte, a macaron, and a quiet place to sit and read a book." - Erin Perkins

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-coffee-in-charleston-free-wifi-charleston
View Postcard for Muddy Waters Coffee Bar
@eater

Best Charleston Coffee Shops With Free Wi-Fi | Eater Carolinas

"Located on James Island, Muddy Waters is a quirky little coffee bar full of art and caffeine. The Wi-Fi — and parking — are plenty. The cafe stocks bagels and pastries if hunger strikes." - Erin Perkins

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-charleston-wifi-cafe-coffee-free
View Postcard for Muddy Waters Coffee Bar

Chris Trethewey

Google
I was heading out to the Angel Oak tree with my family. And we decided to stop and check out Muddy Waters Coffee Bar. This warm and inviting place has very friendly service. I ordered a black Americano, which was perfectly made. My family enjoyed their drinks as well. There is a spacious patio when the weather is good. I highly recommend Muddy Waters Coffee Bar!

Taylor Merrell

Google
Just went for the first time after years of coming to this town. Wish I started going earlier. Smells great and the inside is well kept. Probably one of the better caramel coffees I've ever had. Younger dude that served me was cool and very friendly. Looking forward to my next coffee

Stephanie Aucello

Google
Best chai tea latte I’ve had in the greater Charleston area. Staff is amazing, knows their regulars and treats newcomers like they’ve known them forever. Atmosphere is maximalist yet cozy and welcoming. Definitely give them a try!

Kellie Reese

Google
Of all the coffee places we've tried, Muddy Waters is top notch. Great atmosphere and fast service would recommend the Americano, vanilla cinnamon latte, and chai. There is plenty of parking as well. 10 out of 10.

Katherine Wolfe

Google
We all ordered a variety of different lattes and teas. The coffee was smooth and not bitter. Seasonal lattes were a touch too sweet but still good. It is a cute little cafe with some seating.

Robert Garfield

Google
Fresh and delicious coffee in a causal and welcoming local coffee shop.

Liz Ward

Google
My new favorite coffee spot! Always quick, delicious (organic!) coffee and amazing pastries and treats. Staff is always friendly and attentive. They also support small businesses by having an area you can shop local goods. Best coffee spot on JI!

B.D. Olsen

Google
I picked up a large black fresh brewed coffee & my wife enjoyed something with pumpkin spice.
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Katie F.

Yelp
The lavender honey latte was the best I've had. Not over-powering, smooth and delicious. Got my husband a black coffee (if you're into that kind of thing, haha) and he said it was great as well. Tried a little protein bar (pb & choc) they had by the register and enjoyed it. Not overly sweet. Inside is tight seating with lots of people in and out. Outside seating available for nice days.
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Jordan B.

Yelp
We loved this spot for a coffee on the outdoor patio. The store has some incredible local art and cozy seating. The baristas are kind and talented. Our Lattes were delicious!

Madison M.

Yelp
We ordered an Iced Cuban, and oat milk vanilla latte and a mocha hot coffee, they turned out AMAZING. The barista Scott was super kind and friendly. It made my trip to Charleston something to write home about also a wonderful and calm atmosphere $17 for 3 coffees
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Emily S.

Yelp
Looove Muddy Waters! Such a great spot to meet a friend for a coffee, with seating inside and out on the covered patio. Highly recommend the Vanilla Cinnamon Latte or the Honey Lavender Latte! I've also tried some of the baked goods and everything is always fresh and yummy! Super fast service for specialty coffee drinks, and always a friendly environment. I also love the selection of local artists, etc. throughout. Can't go wrong here!
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Monica T.

Yelp
A cute little neighborood coffee shop on James Island! From the couple times I've been, it's been a chill atmosphere, delicious coffee, and friendly service. I'm looking forward to trying their baked goods!
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Mark S.

Yelp
We popped into this little coffee shop in the same strip mall with a Harris Teeter that has a Starbucks in it. Normally I'd be concerned about a local shop surviving, but they make an excellent breve. It is reasonably clean inside with space for 20 customers including a big community table. Soothing music and a friendly staff made this a great coffee experience. We sat for a while and a steady stream of customers came through. They use beans from a North Carolina roaster. I would have liked to see them supporting a local roaster.
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Melissa F.

Yelp
Solid coffee spot! Small and concise menu and small space with one guy behind the counter. In a great location if you're running errands in that shopping complex to grab some coffee. My favorite thing about this shop is they sell local vendors in the front of their store - candles, jewelry, etc. I love their promotion of local biz!
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Jules I.

Yelp
Excellent wonderful coffee drinks and snacks. Quick unhurried service. Warm environment
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Averrell H.

Yelp
Got a regular lavender honey latte .it was pretty good . She was very fast and friendly. Love the wifi area and it was very comfortable.

Chucktown A.

Yelp
The coffee and the ambiance here are both amazing! I love the honey lavender latte and my kids love the hot chocolate. Don't skip on the chocolate chip cookies!

Tayla V.

Yelp
best dirty chai I've ever had, consistent and great classic coffee shop vibes. Good selection of pastries, coffee and tea!
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Nicole M.

Yelp
Great little coffee shop! Conveniently located outside of CVS/Harris Teeter - so easy to run and grab a coffee while running errands! Large parking lot makes parking easy, but it's a busy lot so be careful! Super friendly and consistent staff that remember my order, always making me feel welcome and special! One of the best lattes in all of Charleston - the caramel latte is my personal fav!
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Jessi S.

Yelp
Muddy Waters is my FAVORITE coffee bar in the Charleston area. Every trip I take down to the Charleston area I make sure to stop at Muddy Waters multiple times during my vacation. They make the best cinnamon vanilla latte and it tastes great both hot and iced. I always make sure to bring home a bag (or two or three) of the counter culture beans they use at the shop. My favorite flavor is the Fast Forward beans. They are so delicious! The customer service is ALWAYS spot on every time I go. They are super friendly and make each coffee drink with a smile and some lovely chit chat. Thank you Muddy Waters for always being there for me when I visit Charleston. I wish you had a store up here in Jersey! You are such a wonderful highlight to my South Carolina trips!

Maggie H.

Yelp
This is a cool place! Not a huge menu but the muddy waters iced coffee was delicious!

Lena S.

Yelp
Cozy, non-chain, nice baked goods, indoor and outdoor seating, large parking lot. Good enough that I bought my son a gift card to try it out.
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Grace P.

Yelp
I know that this place is well loved, but the drinks I've tried here have let me down a little. I tried a few different drinks, but each time the espresso tasted a little burnt or off in some way. The drinks taste similar to what I can make myself at home. The space itself is adorable and the baristas are so kind. Parking is plentiful and it is in an awesome location. I will continue to try to love this place, but for now, it isn't my cup of tea.
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Haley S.

Yelp
We came here for some caffeine after a reggae concert/campout. It was so easy to get to and there was no line at 8:30am on a sunday. Quick, kind, competent baristas served hs. Both of our iced lattes were great. They had a ton of awesome beans for sale with interesting names and delicious flavor profiles. Seems like they are running low on supplies (we drank iced coffee out of to go cups for a hot coffee). But that really didn't ruin the experience at all. Will be going back next time I'm in the area.
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Andrew J.

Yelp
Love this place and always get a consistently well pulled espresso when ordering my drinks. Cute little shop too with some decent pastry options and local art on the wall. There are tables outside as well that have umbrellas if you prefer to sit out.
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Sarah-Grace H.

Yelp
best iced caramel macchiato i've had in town! Parking is right but coffee was good, lots of outside seating too!
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Jay J.

Yelp
Muddy Waters is a great little coffee shop. The service is quick and friendly, and the coffee has really good flavor. We have tried hot lattes and coffees, cold brews, and cold coffee drinks. All have been good. I highly recommend Muddy Waters. 9/10 rating for me.

Isabella H.

Yelp
This is BY FAR the best coffee in Charleston! I got an iced white mocha and an iced black and white mocha. Both were amazing. Such a cute little cafe.
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James D.

Yelp
Located in a strip shopping mall, there's tons of parking. This is a locals hangout, definitely. Not a ton of seating and it's pretty small inside, so it definitely gave me a cramped feeling. It's not roomy enough for me to want to hang out too long. People are all close by and you'll definitely be listening to the conversations of others. I'm guessing, but seating maybe for say 20 or so, but yeah, it would be cramped if all seats are filled. I tried the Muddy Mocha, sized medium, for $4.45 and it was quite sizable, had cool artwork at its top, but most importantly, tasted quite good. It wasn't too sweet and I always appreciate that. I'd get it again. My wife got a lavender honey latte that I also tried and I really liked that too, maybe even more than the Muddy Mocha I had. I love mochas though, so yeah. They do have free WiFi, but you have to ask for the password and the girl at the counter hits a button on this router thingy and that kicks out a number. She writes the number down for you and then you input the number into their network as the password. Every user gets a different number. Strange to me...never seen that before. It did work however. Use all lower case letters btw. Prices are totally reasonable in my opinion. Check out the photo I posted of their menu board for additional specificity. You're welcome bizzle.
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Kelly C.

Yelp
I was recently in the Charleston area and tried Muddy Waters. It was an awesome coffee shop. I am a total coffee snob and I must say there coffee was amazing. I tried it on one of the first days of my vacation and I am so glad I did. I went back every day. I can't wait to return to the Charleston area just to have another latte at Muddy Waters.
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Opal D.

Yelp
Eh. Their muffins aren't made fresh in the morning (it was colder than room temperature, so likely previously frozen or at the very least refrigerated). The coffee was good but the pastries are an important part of the coffee shop experience for me.
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Sue-Anne K.

Yelp
Had the most yummy iced white chocolate mocha that I can't stop thinking about. If this wasn't a 45 minute drive for me I'd probably be there daily.
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Amanda M.

Yelp
Was sadly disappointed in the overall taste of this coffee. I asked for a white chocolate peppermint mocha and I did not taste any peppermint. The beans they used were also not too my liking, but they did well on steaming the milk and pulling the overall shot so that it was not bitter or sour.
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Britni C.

Yelp
I love going to Muddy Waters once I'm ready to start my day. I usually get an iced caramel macchiato with almond milk and it always tastes the same! They have a great patio to sit on so I like to sit there and sip my coffee while I read.
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Timothy A.

Yelp
Lavender / Honey Latte. I came in knowing that I needed caffeine, but I had no idea that I needed this magical beverage until it was passing by my lips and heading down to my belly. Oh my. I wish that I lived closer, 'cause I love those Muddy Waters. I was working in the area and knew from friends that this was the local place to go. I walked in and there was a line to the door, but no joke, I was at the register and served in about five minutes flat. I didn't order any food, but those chocolate muffin's looked amazing. I can't wait for the next time that I get to volunteer to work near this coffee bar. It might even be worth the 30 minute drive to go out of my way for a great cup of coffee.
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Lindsey P.

Yelp
Lovely coffee shop with lots of boutique items for sale too. Limited bakery items that they bring in from a nearby bakery. I ordered the honey and lavender coffee which was about $5 and my daughter got a coffee with an extra shot of espresso and oat milk bringing the total to $13. Seemed a bit pricey. Nice spot to sit outdoors and lobby limit for ordering is 3 people
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Julie H.

Yelp
I've always loved this friendly neighborhood coffee bar and even more so during Covid-19. The shop is open and it was super easy to walk in and order a latte to go. They are taking great safety measures and I felt comfortable ordering my drink. The latte was perfectly created and so flavorful and frothy What a treat!
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Whitney E.

Yelp
Good coffee, convenient location and yummy mocha and latte flavors. Picture from this morning of my muddy mocha complete with artwork.
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Sam F.

Yelp
I've been to this spot on James Island several times. Parking is always super convenient, wait times usually aren't long, they have indoor and outdoor seating, and you never feel rushed there. The coffee for me is always sub par. I always get a black coffee. I suspect if I got a late or one of their other drinks with syrups, etc, it would be much better. I know a lot of people really love the coffee here, so I think my lukewarm feelings towards it are a personal preference. Despite the coffee not being my favorite, the staff is always super kind and I really like supporting a local coffee shop. The inside gives off a very boho, chill, neighborhood feel, which is a great change from the typical chain coffee spots. There is a ton of natural light inside the shop, so it would be a great spot to get some work done. The outdoor seating is right next to a busy road (Maybank), which makes it kind of hard to hear if you're sitting outside trying to talk to someone.
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Veronica M.

Yelp
Officially a coffee lovers choice! I am so excited to have found this spot. I ordered a lavender honey latte. A delish! I can taste the quality of the espresso. Totally recommend this spot. Although it's a bit if a distance from me, it is worth the drive. Plus it's a very nice town.
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Morganne M.

Yelp
This is my new coffee spot in James Island. First of all, the location is good and convenient. The parking availability is awesome. I had the Muddy Mocha, which was orders a lot while I was there, and it was freaking delicious. This spot isn't really big, but they have free WiFi, delicious coffee, outdoor seating, and it's quiet. If you're looking for a place to do work or study, this is the place in JI. The staff is super cool and everything is pretty natural. I stayed for 2 hours and was unbothered. When I got up to leave, I got ANOTHER muddy mocha. This place is awesome. I'll definitely be back.
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Foggy O.

Yelp
This is the best coffee I've had in the area! The beans are freshly ground, they grind then almost right before your coffee is made. The service is nice, and they make your coffee quickly. The shop was cranking out drinks, with only one barista! The seating area is clean and organized with plenty of seating. I really love Muddy Waters, I'll be back soon!
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Nate H.

Yelp
I would say that Muddy Waters Coffee Bar is a 3.5. I rounded up instead of down though because the service was friendly and the coffee was good. Muddy Waters Coffee Bar is on James Island in a shopping center with Harris Teeter. It seems to be one of the only local coffee shops on James Island. There is plenty of parking, as it is a shopping center, and enough seating inside. One of my complaints is that there isn't a lot of comfortable seating. I like coffee shops to be cozy and have some soft chairs to sit in. This place just does not have that feel. The service on my visit was very friendly and efficient. The only problem is that they only had one person working. I ended up having to wait 10-15 mins just to order a black coffee. This is not the fault of the person working, but it is something that ownership may want to keep in mind. The coffee itself is very good and affordable. They serve Counter Culture Coffee, which I was excited to see because I am from North Carolina and Counter Culture is based in Durham, NC. The great thing about this place is they support a lot of regional businesses. I also noticed that they had tea from Charleston Tea Plantation. If you are on James Island support your local coffee shop and come get some Counter Culture Coffee. Place would be great if properly staffed and made to feel a little cozier.
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Joan M.

Yelp
What a nice surprise to have this place recommended and then to try it out while over in this area of town and to find it awesome. I got a non fat latte with an extra shot (The extra shot) 4 total was free. How about that. The coffee is good. It has a nice kick to it, just what's needed at this time of the morning. Also, note they have two little benches outside near the door for either your pooch or a smoke. Whatever takes your fancy. It's located near Harris Teeter and where the previous "Cure" restaurant was. Lots & lots of parking, basically outside the door. This coffee shop will definitely be my go to when I am in this fife of town. The staff are friendly & super helpful to a newbie like me. I also noticed that they have bagels and some pastries to further the drive that's needed in am. I didn't partake this time though!!
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Amylynne F.

Yelp
My dirty chai was great. My gf's muddy mocha tasted like "muddy water." She said it had no flavor. Bummer bc I enjoyed mine despite being shocked at the $12 tab for 2 coffees. In fairness, though, I never get coffee out so I'm sure that is standard pricing. The place is cute inside, and it's in a shopping center so there is plenty of parking.

Abby R.

Yelp
Excellent coffee/lattes. Quick and friendly service. Cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Our favorite coffee shop in all of Charleston and surrounding area (and we've tried them all)! Highly recommend!
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Rachel F.

Yelp
Family owned business and great hidden gem! Recommend this for your pre beach coffee stop.
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Glenn V.

Yelp
A pillar of stregnth and consistency for many years, serving the early morning caffeine needing commuters. Unfortunately not structurally built for a drive thru, but finding fast parking is a cinch. As I approached, a landscaper was wacking, trimming and bagging the grounds from, making the outdoor seating look that much more appealing. Inside feels right, coffee house calm -- a tap on a keyboard the flip of a page all within the surrounding rich jazz notes of Miles Davis. The coffee comes quick to the counter, quicker from Counter Culture as roasted coffee beans life span lasts about one week. I loved my triple shot espresso from the Italian made La Marzocco machine, it had the perfect tamp pressure, the first sip to the final left me fully encompassed in the moment. That moment of the morning before the world attacks.
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Jessah W.

Yelp
Really loved this little shop! Very quick service and great drinks. Plus if you get 3 shots of espresso you get your 4th free so either bring a friend or save for when you need to go into maximum overdrive. Their signature Muddy Mocha was delicious. It was also very evident that they have lots of regulars and the barista knew the orders, which just seems really nice. It's always fun going to a place where you feel like you matter.
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Mary D.

Yelp
Enjoy visiting Muddy Waters when I'm on this side of town. The coffee is great, service is fast, and parking is easy. My only wish is when I am sitting down to enjoy a latte inside, it would be nice to have a real mug or cup rather than paper.
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Aly G.

Yelp
Best espresso I've found in Charleston! Locally owned, the ambience is relaxing to sit and do work. The workers are all super nice!
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Graham R.

Yelp
Recently moved to the area and was searching for local coffee spots and stumbled upon here. Very cool staff as well as excellent coffee. The matcha was one of my favorites I've ever had. It seems like there's a solid amount of regulars and it really feels homey and like everyone enjoys seeing each other getting their morning coffee. Love it

Mallory W.

Yelp
We were visiting from out of town and found this place after realizing how absolutely horrific the coffee was in our hotel. I'll trust any place that seems to be a staple for the locals, and we were not disappointed. It's a great spot to grab a coffee and go, or sit and enjoy while planning your day. We found ourselves starting every day of our trip here, and missed it terribly once we were back home. Personal recommendation- the lavender honey latte. Incredible.
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Evan G.

Yelp
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar on Maybank Highway in James Island is a great place to stop for quality coffee, drinks, and breakfast. This place is super fast and convienent if you are in a hurry, but also a really good place to sit back and enjoy yourself if you have a little more time to do so. This is also a great place to have a business meeting or get some work done if you need a good spot to do that. The staff here is very friendly and works hard to get you everything that you need. I have been impressed every time I have been in here.

Jessika Z.

Yelp
Great iced latte, macarons were heavenly, and atmosphere was a good vibe. Service was also very friendly and patient as my young kids struggled to choose what they wanted.
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Maddie P.

Yelp
Great espresso - smooth and creamy, not too bitter! Oat milk and lots of alternative milk / mylk options. The barista was super friendly and made me feel very welcomed. Cool spot with local art work in the cafe as well. It is at a shopping plaza with Harris Teeter, so not the best outdoor area vibe but good for take out.