Asheville’s vibrant coffee scene is a reflection of the city itself—creative, welcoming, and fueled by passion. From cozy neighborhood cafés to sleek, modern roasteries, there’s no shortage of incredible spots to grab a cup of expertly brewed coffee. But beyond just great drinks, Asheville’s coffee shops are community hubs, supporting local farmers, artists, and makers. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, these beloved businesses need our support more than ever. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting, stopping by one of these fantastic coffee shops is a great way to experience Asheville’s rich coffee culture while giving back to the community.
Our Favorite Coffee Shops in Asheville
There is no shortage of incredible cafés to visit in Asheville, especially if you’re looking for a great cup of coffee. Here are just a few of our favorite spots in this scenic city.
- Farewell
- Rowan Coffee
- Cooperative Coffee Roasters
- Bad Manners
- VISUALS Rooftop Bar
- Rite Rite
- Pollen AVL
- Summit Coffee - Grove Arcade
- OWL Bakery
9 Best Coffee Shops in Asheville and What to Order
Whether you’re heading up to Asheville for the day or enjoying a weekend vacation, be sure to check out at least one of the following incredible coffee shops.
1. Farewell
Farewell Coffee, Asheville // Used with permission.
Nestled in the vibrant South Slope neighborhood of Asheville, Farewell welcomes patrons with its warm ambiance, thoughtfully crafted drinks, and inclusive atmosphere.
From the moment you step inside, Farewell Coffee greets you with an inviting, plant-filled space bathed in natural light. Minimalist yet cozy, Farewell is the perfect spot to sip, savor, and stay awhile. If you’re looking for a spot to catch up with friends, get lost in a good book, or spark creativity while working remotely, this is the spot.
Farewell’s dedication to quality is evident in every sip. Their expertly brewed coffee and espresso drinks showcase rich, nuanced flavors that appeal to a wide variety of palates. Whether you prefer a simple black coffee, a velvety cortado, or a latte infused with house-made syrups like lavender or honey rose, each drink is a testament to the baristas’ craft.
2. Rowan Coffee
Rowan Coffee believes that balance is key–not just in roasting the perfect coffee beans, but in running a business that is welcoming, sustainable, and forward-thinking. Their roasting philosophy honors the hard work of coffee producers, focusing on fresh, complex flavors that showcase the true essence of each bean. As the final step in the supply chain, they take pride in delivering a coffee experience that reflects the dedication and craftsmanship behind every cup.
Step inside Rowan Coffee and you’ll be welcomed by an elegant and cozy ambiance. Dark wood accents, gleaming gold finishes, and an air of sophisticated charm create a space that feels both intimate and inspiring.
Every cup is a testament to their commitment to craftsmanship. They offer meticulously prepared pour-overs, classic espresso drinks, and innovative seasonal specialties. No matter what beverage you order from Rowan, their in-house roasted beans ensure that each sip is rich with depth and character. Since their offerings are so varied and nuanced from day to day, ask the barista what they suggest!
3. Cooperative Coffee Roasters
Rooted in the belief that great coffee starts at the source, Cooperative Coffee Roasters is committed to ethical sourcing, meticulous roasting, and fostering a sense of community through every cup. Their guiding principles? Roasting coffee that is sweet, bright, and clean every time.
Just as the best coffee is a balance of flavors, Cooperative Coffee Roasters believes a successful business should also be in harmony with its people, practices, and values. They work to create an inclusive, welcoming space where both guests and employees feel at home, while also driving the industry forward through responsible sourcing, transparency, and sustainable business operations.
Cooperative Coffee Roasters approaches roasting as a way to highlight the hard work and dedication of coffee producers. They carefully source fresh, vibrant, and complex beans, roasting them with precision to bring out their unique flavors and characteristics. Their goal is to provide clarity in every sip, so that each coffee tells the story of its origins and the people behind it.
4. Bad Manners
In a world of predictable coffee shops, Bad Manners Coffee breaks the mold with an unapologetically bold approach to craft coffee. Located in West Asheville, this coffee spot is all about top-quality beans, fearless flavors, and a refreshingly rebellious attitude that invites coffee lovers to ditch the pretension and simply enjoy a damn good cup.
Bad Manners Coffee embraces a no-frills, high-quality approach in everything from its atmosphere to its service. The vibe is energetic yet welcoming, with an aesthetic that blends industrial grit with warm hospitality. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick caffeine fix or lingering over conversation, this is a space where good coffee meets good company.
Beyond serving up exceptional coffee, Bad Manners Coffee is all about building a community of coffee lovers who appreciate authenticity. They partner with ethical producers, support sustainable practices, and create a space where people can gather, connect, and fuel their day with a genuinely delicious cup of coffee.
5. VISUALS Rooftop Bar
You might be wondering how a bar made it on our list of favorite coffee shops. Though it’s primarily recognized as a perfect fair-weather spot for beer, wine, and small bites, VISUALS Rooftop Bar by Burial Beer also serves amazing coffee.
Known for pushing boundaries with innovative beers that balance complexity and drinkability, Burial has carved out a unique space in Asheville’s thriving craft beer scene. They bring the same philosophy to the way they prepare coffee, resulting in an impressive selection of roasts that lend themselves to incredible espresso drinks, cold brews, and tonics.
Beyond the brews, Burial offers a distinctive atmosphere where industrial aesthetics meet artistic expression. If you’re looking for a cool spot to relax while exploring Asheville, the VISUALS Rooftop Bar is the perfect place.
6. Rite Rite
Rite Rite Coffee, Asheville // Used with permission
Tucked away in Asheville’s vibrant culinary scene, Rite Rite is a gathering space for those who appreciate exceptional coffee, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that encourages connection. Married couple Essy and Logan both represent expertise in coffee and wine respectfully, making Rite Rite a warm and inviting space to experience the best of both worlds.
Rite Rite sources high-quality beans and takes a mindful approach to roasting, ensuring that every sip highlights the natural complexity and character of the coffee. With its minimalist design, natural light, and an inviting energy, it’s the perfect spot to settle in with a book, catch up with a friend, or take a quiet moment to yourself. The team behind Rite Rite has cultivated an environment where everyone—whether a coffee aficionado or a casual sipper—feels at home.
7. Pollen AVL
As a dual wedding florist and cafe, Pollen turns the idea of a traditional coffee shop on its head. Lush greenery and vibrant bouquets of flowers bloom on almost every surface, making the space feel more like a garden than a cafe. But don’t be fooled—the baristas here have more than just a green thumb. The Pollen team carefully sources their coffee from specialty roasters and thoughtfully brews them using the method that brings out all the right tasting notes.
The next time you’re in Asheville, swing by Pollen and ask the barista what’s on drip. Then, sit back and enjoy your speciality cup of coffee among the flowers with a good book or an even better friend and enjoy the bright, welcoming ambiance that Pollen has to offer.
8. Summit Coffee
With roots dating back to 1998, Summit Coffee has built a reputation with their dedication to sustainability, community, and quality. As a certified organic coffee roaster, Summit takes pride in sourcing the finest beans, roasting them in small batches, and delivering an exceptional experience in every sip.
Nestled within the historic Grove Arcade, Summit’s downtown Asheville location is a warm and inviting retreat for coffee lovers. The café’s charming setting pairs perfectly with the rich aromas of freshly brewed coffee, offering a space where locals and visitors alike can enjoy expertly crafted beverages alongside a selection of delicious pastries and breakfast bites.
At its core, Summit Coffee is about more than what’s in the cup—it’s about fostering a community that values great coffee, meaningful connections, and responsible business practices. Whether you're stopping in for a morning espresso, meeting up with friends, or simply looking for a place to enjoy a quiet moment, Summit Coffee in Asheville offers an experience that’s as rich and rewarding as the coffee itself.
9. Old World Levain Bakery
OWL Bakery, Asheville // Used with permission
At OWL Bakery, European-inspired pastries meet carefully crafted coffee. With a commitment to quality, tradition, and locally sourced ingredients, OWL Bakery has become a go-to spot for those seeking a warm and welcoming atmosphere paired with exquisite baked goods and expertly brewed coffee.
Every pastry tells a story of craftsmanship and care. From buttery, flaky croissants to delicate tarts and naturally leavened breads, the bakery’s offerings are a testament to time-honored techniques and the finest ingredients. Complementing its world-class pastries, OWL Bakery serves coffee with the same level of dedication and artistry. Sourcing high-quality beans from renowned roasters, their baristas craft espresso drinks and pour-overs that enhance the natural flavors of the coffee.
Read more: Master the Art of Coffee and Food Pairings
Asheville’s coffee shops are the heart of the city’s creative and communal spirit. Each visit to a local café is a chance to support passionate roasters, talented baristas, and small businesses. So, whether you’re in search of the perfect espresso, a cozy spot to unwind, or simply a way to help Asheville rebuild, consider making a stop at one of these exceptional coffee spots.
While you’re in the south, should your visit bring you to beautiful Greenville, SC, stop by one of our coffee shops in town. We’ve got plenty of options for both coffee novices and aficionados. Can’t make it? Don’t worry! You can also enjoy Methodical with our fast and convenient coffee subscription box.
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