Winston-Salem is a city with a rich coffee culture. You’ll find many great spots to grab a cup of joe, from cozy neighborhood cafes to trendy downtown hangouts. These coffee shops offer more than just caffeine – they’re places to relax, work, or catch up with friends.
The best coffee shops in Winston-Salem provide high-quality drinks, tasty food, and welcoming atmospheres. You’ll discover locally-owned gems as well as popular chains.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning pick-me-up or a leisurely weekend brunch, Winston-Salem’s coffee scene has something for everyone.
1. Camel City Coffee
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Camel City Coffee in Winston-Salem. This local gem serves up fantastic coffee and treats in a welcoming space.
The shop is open daily, giving you plenty of chances to stop by. During the week, you can grab your morning brew from 8am to 5pm. On weekends, they open a bit later but still offer great hours.
Camel City Coffee takes pride in their coffee. They roast their own beans, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup every time. You’ll find a variety of drink options to suit your taste.
Don’t forget to sign up for their newsletter to stay in the loop about new offerings and events. It’s a great way to keep up with what’s brewing at this Winston-Salem favorite.
Rating: 4.8 (195 reviews)
Location: 110 Oakwood Dr suite f, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Contact: (336) 955-2246
Website: Visit Website
2. Krankies
You’ll find Krankies Coffee in the heart of Winston-Salem. This cozy spot has been waking up the city since 2003. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or settle in for a relaxing coffee break.
Krankies is known for its amazing biscuits. You can try their classic chicken biscuit with Texas Pete and honey. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Nashville Hot or the Dirty South biscuit. They even have a Hangover Helper for those rough mornings.
Coffee lovers will appreciate Krankies’ expertly roasted beans. They take pride in sourcing their coffee thoughtfully. You can also grab some Krankies gear or a gift card for your coffee-loving friends.
The cafe has a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. It’s open daily, with slightly shorter hours on weekends. Keep in mind they close on the first Monday of each month.
Rating: 4.4 (1900 reviews)
Location: 211 3rd St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: (336) 955-5993
Website: Visit Website
3. Anchor Coffee Co.
You’ll find a welcoming space at Anchor Coffee Co. in Winston-Salem. Since 2014, they’ve been serving specialty coffee and creating a comfortable atmosphere for the community.
Anchor Coffee Co. has two locations where you can enjoy their brews. They also partner with local businesses to offer their coffee at other spots around town.
Music lovers will appreciate the curated Spotify playlists put together by staff and friends. It adds to the cozy vibe as you sip your coffee and relax.
For coffee enthusiasts, Anchor Coffee Co. offers a subscription service. You can join their Barista Choice Society and get fresh coffee delivered right to your door.
Rating: 4.5 (119 reviews)
Location: 486 Patterson Ave STE 135, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: (336) 265-7458
Website: Visit Website
4. Melrose Coffee & Wine Lounge
Melrose Coffee & Wine Lounge brings a taste of California to Winston-Salem. This charming spot offers a unique blend of coffee and wine experiences.
You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew or enjoying a glass of wine. The lounge’s California-inspired vibe sets it apart from other local coffee shops.
Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or an evening wind-down, Melrose has you covered. Their menu features a variety of coffee drinks and wine selections to suit your mood.
Located in the heart of Winston-Salem, Melrose is a great place to meet friends or enjoy some quiet time alone. The friendly staff and welcoming environment make it a local favorite.
Rating: 4.8 (274 reviews)
Location: 1608 S Stratford Rd Suite C, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Contact: (336) 448-0116
Website: Visit Website
5. BYGood Coffee
You’ll love the cozy vibe at BYGood Coffee in Winston-Salem. This charming spot offers a warm welcome and top-notch brews to brighten your day.
The skilled baristas craft each cup with care, using high-quality beans. You can taste the difference in every sip of their smooth, flavorful coffee.
BYGood Coffee isn’t just about drinks. They also serve tasty snacks to go with your coffee. It’s a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done.
The shop’s modern yet inviting design makes you feel right at home. With comfy seating and friendly staff, you’ll want to stay and relax for a while.
Rating: 4.9 (300 reviews)
Location: 301 Brookstown Ave Ste 300, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: (336) 842-5339
Website: Visit Website
6. Ardmore Coffee
Ardmore Coffee is a cozy spot that will make you feel right at home. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming environment for your coffee break.
You’ll find a great selection of coffee drinks here. From classic drip coffee to fancy lattes, there’s something for every taste. The baristas take pride in crafting each drink with care.
Don’t miss out on their tasty baked goods. Fresh pastries and cookies make the perfect sidekick to your coffee. They’re baked in-house daily, so you know you’re getting quality treats.
If you need a quiet place to work or study, Ardmore Coffee has you covered. There’s plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to settle in and get things done while enjoying your favorite brew.
Rating: 4.7 (425 reviews)
Location: 1316 S Hawthorne Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Website: Visit Website
7. Sayso Coffee
Sayso Coffee is a hidden gem in Winston-Salem that you’ll want to check out. This cozy spot on Brookstown Avenue serves up some of the best coffee in town. You’ll love the warm, inviting atmosphere as soon as you step inside.
The baristas at Sayso are true coffee experts. They take pride in crafting the perfect cup for each customer. You can watch them work their magic as they brew your drink with care and precision.
Sayso offers a great selection of coffee drinks to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic latte or something more unique, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to try one of their tasty pastries to go with your coffee!
The cafe has plenty of seating, making it a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. You’ll appreciate the free Wi-Fi and comfortable chairs that let you stay as long as you like.
Rating: 4.7 (149 reviews)
Location: 15 Brookstown Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
8. DeBeen Espresso
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at DeBeen Espresso in Winston-Salem. This local gem serves up fantastic coffee made from locally roasted beans. The friendly baristas are always ready with a smile.
DeBeen takes pride in offering organic, fair-trade coffees and teas. You can get your specialty drink hot, iced, or frozen. The menu lets you get creative with your perfect cup.
Don’t miss the tasty vegan treats from their in-house bakery. They use top-quality ingredients in their sweet and savory items. For a cool treat, try their homemade vegan gelato or sorbet.
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, DeBeen has you covered. You can enjoy kombucha on tap or grab a cold can to go. With free Wi-Fi, it’s a great spot to relax or get some work done.
Rating: 4.5 (170 reviews)
Location: 231 E 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: (336) 989-8098
Website: Visit Website)
9. Coffee Park Drive Thru
Coffee Park Drive Thru is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in Winston-Salem. This unique drive-thru coffee shop offers a quick and convenient way to get your caffeine fix.
You’ll be impressed by their outstanding service and top-notch beverages. The friendly staff works hard to make sure you get your order fast, without sacrificing quality.
Coffee Park Drive Thru has gained national recognition too. It won 1st Place in the 2023 USAToday 10Best Readers Choice Awards for Drive-Thru Coffee Joints. This award shows just how much customers love their drinks and service.
Whether you’re in a rush or just prefer the ease of drive-thru, Coffee Park is a great choice. You can enjoy tasty coffee and other drinks without even leaving your car.
Rating: 4.9 (204 reviews)
Location: 1208 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
Contact: (336) 310-9063
Website: Visit Website
10. Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
You’ll find a unique and heartwarming experience at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee in Winston-Salem. This coffee shop employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, giving them opportunities to shine.
When you visit, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are excited to serve you. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, making it a great spot to relax or catch up with friends.
Their menu offers a variety of coffee drinks and treats. You can enjoy your favorite latte or try one of their specialty beverages. The quality of their coffee is top-notch, ensuring you get a delicious cup every time.
Bitty & Beau’s isn’t just about great coffee. It’s a place that changes perceptions and creates a positive impact in the community. By supporting this shop, you’re helping to make a difference in people’s lives.
Rating: 4.9 (218 reviews)
Location: 411 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: (336) 553-7688
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem loves coffee. The city has a thriving scene with many unique shops and roasters. Coffee plays a big role in bringing people together and fueling creativity.
History and Influence
Coffee has deep roots in Winston-Salem. In the early 1900s, local cigarette makers started adding coffee to their product lines. This helped grow coffee’s popularity in the area.
By the 1950s, coffee was a big part of daily life here. Diners and cafes became gathering spots for locals to chat over a cup of joe.
In recent years, specialty coffee shops have popped up all over town. Places like Krankies and Camino Bakery helped kick off the craft coffee trend. Now you can find great beans and expert baristas in every neighborhood.
Local Coffee Trends
Winston-Salem coffee lovers are always trying new things. Cold brew is huge, especially in the hot summer months. Many shops make their own house blends you can’t get anywhere else.
Latte art is also popular. Baristas create beautiful designs in milk foam, from hearts to flowers.
Plant-based milk options are on the rise too. Almost every cafe now offers oat, almond, and soy milk.
Coffee education is big here. You can take classes to learn about brewing methods and bean types. Some roasters even offer public “cuppings” where you can taste test different coffees.
Sourcing Local and Sustainable Coffee
Coffee shops in Winston-Salem care about where their beans come from. Many focus on buying from local roasters and sustainable farms. This helps support the local economy and protects the environment.
Importance of Sustainability
Sustainable coffee farming protects the land and helps farmers earn fair wages. When you buy sustainable coffee, you’re helping to:
• Reduce pesticide use
• Conserve water
• Protect wildlife habitats
• Support fair labor practices
Coffee shops that use sustainable beans often share info about their sources. You can ask baristas about where the coffee comes from and how it’s grown.
Popular Local Suppliers
Winston-Salem has several local coffee roasters that supply many shops in the area. Some popular ones include:
• Krankies Coffee: Roasts beans in small batches
• Twin City Hive: Focuses on single-origin coffees
• Footnote Coffee: Partners with farms in Central and South America
These local roasters work directly with coffee farms. This lets them ensure quality and ethical practices. Many coffee shops in Winston-Salem proudly serve these local brands.
You can often buy beans from these roasters to brew at home too. This way, you support local businesses even when you’re not out for coffee.
Tips for Enjoying Your Coffee Experience
Enhance your Winston-Salem coffee shop visits with these simple ideas. Try new flavors and create a cozy atmosphere to make the most of your coffee time.
Pairing Coffee with Pastries
Pick treats that match your coffee’s taste. Sweet pastries go well with dark roasts. Try a chocolate croissant with your espresso. Fruit-filled danishes pair nicely with lighter roasts. Ask the staff for their favorite combos. They often know secret pairings not on the menu.
Many Winston-Salem coffee shops make fresh pastries daily. Get there early for the best selection. Some places offer vegan and gluten-free options too.
Creating a Relaxing Ambiance
Choose a spot that fits your mood. Window seats are great for people-watching. Cozy corners work well for reading or quiet chats.
Bring headphones if you like your own music. Many shops play soft tunes to set a calm mood.
Turn off your phone notifications to avoid distractions. This helps you enjoy your coffee break fully.
Consider bringing a book or journal. Writing or reading can make your coffee time more enjoyable. Some shops have books you can borrow while you sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Winston-Salem has a great coffee scene with options for every taste. Here are answers to some common questions about the city’s top cafes and coffee shops.
What are some popular coffee spots locals love in Winston-Salem?
Camel City Coffee is a local favorite. It has a warm vibe and serves tasty drinks. Krankies is another spot Winston-Salem folks enjoy. It offers good coffee in a cool old building.
Can you recommend a cozy cafe for studying or working in Winston-Salem?
Anchor Coffee Co. is perfect for getting work done. It’s quiet with comfy seating and free Wi-Fi. Melrose Coffee & Wine Lounge is also nice for studying. The calm atmosphere helps you focus.
Where can I find the best artisanal coffee in Winston-Salem?
BYGood Coffee roasts their own beans. They make high-quality, unique drinks. Krankies also serves craft coffee. Their skilled baristas create amazing cups.
Which cafes in Winston-Salem offer the most unique atmosphere?
Krankies has a one-of-a-kind feel. It’s in an old warehouse with lots of character. Anchor Coffee Co. is also special. Its nautical theme sets it apart from other cafes.
Are there any historic coffee houses in Winston-Salem that I should visit?
Krankies is in a historic building. It gives you a taste of old Winston-Salem. Camel City Coffee nods to the city’s past with its name and decor.
Do any Winston-Salem coffee shops serve food that pairs well with their brews?
Melrose Coffee & Wine Lounge offers tasty snacks and light meals. They go great with coffee.
Krankies serves a full menu. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with your drink.