My Favorite Coffee in Charlotte, NC

By Luciana Solano

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring different coffee shops in Charlotte — not just to grab a coffee, but to find the perfect place to write, study, and simply be. Over time, I discovered a few that truly inspire me, each with its own charm and energy.

Going to a café has become my peaceful moment after work — that space where I disconnect from the noise of the day, sit down with my laptop or notebook, and reconnect with myself between the aroma of coffee and the gentle hum of the place.

Here are my four favorites — all wonderful in their own way, but I’ve listed them from the one I love the most to the one I visit less often (though still a gem).

#1. Qahwah House

This place feels like a journey. It was there that I learned more about Yemen, the land of coffee and the heart behind this café. The atmosphere is authentic and calm, filled with the aroma of spices and freshly brewed coffee. The Arabic music in the background makes me want to dance — it transports me far away and fills me with energy and warmth. It’s a sensory experience that makes me feel connected and inspired every time I go.

My favorite drink here is the Pistachio Latte — smooth, nutty, and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of coffee that turns an ordinary afternoon into a small celebration.

#2. Haraz Coffee House

Haraz has a similar kind of magic. Its vibe is warm and cultural — there’s something about the music, the people, and the design that invites you to slow down. I used to come here to work and write, with my laptop, while the atmosphere wrapped me in calm and focus. It’s one of those places that quietly recharge your creativity.

My favorite drink here is the Lavender Matcha. I love it because it’s pure, strong, and deeply concentrated — real matcha, not the watered-down version you find elsewhere. On days when I needed an extra boost of afternoon energy but didn’t want to drink coffee (because I wouldn’t be able to fall asleep early), I’d order my favorite matcha to go and take it with me to my yoga classes.

#3. Vavela Coffee

Varela has a Turkish soul. Its décor, its music, and the way they prepare the coffee make me feel as if I were in Turkey. Sometimes, when I go, people stand up and dance in a circle, and the place fills with a beautiful, almost magical energy. It’s one of those cafés that transport you, that make you forget for a moment which city you’re in.

Maşallah — for the beauty of simplicity and the magic of sharing a coffee.

#4. Innescas

Inessca’s always makes me feel like I’m walking into a little sweet refuge. The first thing that catches your attention is their desserts — truly, there isn’t a single “normal” one there. Each one is so pretty and so original that you almost feel bad eating it… but once you do, you understand why it’s worth it. They’re the kind of desserts that win you over on the outside and completely convince you on the inside, making you want to come back.

And if you go, I also recommend the tiramisu coffee. It’s so creamy and smooth that it feels like another dessert. And the lemon dessert, too.

#4. Amélie’s

A Charlotte classic. I love its French-inspired decor and the cozy chaos of people chatting, reading, or working. I used to come here often to study yoga — it became my little ritual between classes, surrounded by the smell of coffee and the quiet murmur of conversations. It’s vibrant and comforting at the same time — a place where you can spend hours without realizing how much time has passed.