Botanical Brews: Four Cafes For Plant Lovers In Raleigh & Durham, NC

The growing trend of combining plants with coffee, tea or spirits has captivated many – including me – and it’s easy to see why. Botanical cafes, where you can sip your favorite brew surrounded by lush greenery, offer a unique blend of relaxation and rejuvenation. Whenever I travel, I am always on the lookout for cafes for plant lovers.

These spaces provide a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing visitors to unwind in a tranquil, nature-inspired setting. The presence of plants in coffee shops not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a sense of well-being, making each visit a delightful, cozy experience.

In the greater Raleigh and Durham-area this trend has blossomed, with several coffee shops embracing the botanical cafe concept. These cozy havens for plant lovers offer more than just great coffee—they provide an escape to a green oasis where you can enjoy a peaceful moment with your favorite drink. From cascading vines to potted succulents, these coffee shops have mastered the art of integrating plants into their ambiance, creating perfect spots for relaxation and inspiration.

So, whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just beginning to explore the joys of greenery, these four coffee shops in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are must-visit destinations. They combine the best of both worlds, offering delicious brews in beautiful, plant-filled settings that are sure to enchant and inspire. Let’s dive into the local spots that have perfected the botanical brew experience.

When considering which cafes to include on this list, I took three things I personally look for in a plant-themed coffee shop:

One – May offer outdoor seating in a plant and woodland environment.

Two – Or, must have an overabundance of plants and or flowers inside the cafe. They may be used as decoration, could be for sell – or both.

Three – May have drink menus that reflect flowers, plants and herbal ingredients.

Most of these locations have amazing Instagram accounts full of beautiful plants and delicious coffee drinks. If you’re on socials, you may want to follow them for plant inspo. I’ll link their accounts below.

Durham

Cloche Coffee

Cloche Coffee is located across the street from Duke’s East Campus (in the ADF building). In many aspects, it’s the typical coffee shop. Cute and cozy inside, great coffee drinks and friendly staff. But, the owner goes beyond simply decorating with plants, one on a shelf here, one on a corner there.

If you’ve been inside, you know the space is overflowing with plants. Like you know the owner loves plants and wants you to love them too.

You’ll find all of the regular coffee and espresso drinks on the menu. But it’s the tea menu that really sings. With over 15 herbal tea blends to choose from, this makes this plants and coffee caffe a plant lovers dream.

They also have baked goods and liege waffles. I love liege waffles, so any coffee shop that serves them is ahead of the game.

Lastly, Cloche has a patio that stays busy with fun events like yoga, dog adoption events, live music and much more.

Cloche Coffee is located at 721 Broad St Durham, NC. They are open daily 7 am to 7 pm. Follow them on Instagram.

Chapel Hill

Caffe Driade

Caffe Driade is the only spot on our list that does not sell plants or flowers. But that’s okay, because they offer something even better. An amazing, rustic, magical ambience created by a true forest.

Founded by Scott Conary, a Certified World & National Coffee Competition Judge, consultant in the restaurant industry and owner of Carboro Coffee Roasters, this cafe offers coffee and espresso drinks, herbal tea and tisanes and wine along with locally baked goods.

Named after the mythological Dryads—nymphs associated with trees and nature—the cafe blends exceptional coffee and tea with the tranquility of its lush surroundings. Despite its humble appearance, Cafe Driade has been featured on the Food Network and worn numerous local best-of award.

In addition to the natural splendor of the surrounding forest, there are flowing water fountains, and the cafe is accessible by the Bolin Creek Trail so if you live near by you can walk.

The cafe is small with limited seated, but outdoor seating is plentiful. Bring bug spray for those humid, summer days and be prepared to be warmed by outside heaters in cooler months.

Cafe Driade is located at 1215A E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC. They are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 2 pm, and Saturday through Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm. Follow them on Instagram.

Raleigh

Garden Bar

Atlantic Gardening in Raleigh, NC, has blossomed into a beloved destination for plant lovers, known for its innovative Garden Bar experience. Originally established as Atlantic Avenue Garden Center in the 1980s and rebranded in 2016, Atlantic Gardening has set itself apart with its unique offerings.

Central to its charm is the Garden Bar, introduced in 2018 as the first of its kind within a garden center. Bar denote spirits – not coffee. But here, visitors can enjoy a refreshing selection of beer, cider, mimosas, and other beverages while exploring the nursery and greenhouse. The bar, adorned with antique garden tool taps, provides a relaxing spot to sip on local libations while shopping or sitting at nearby picnic-style tables.

Beyond beverages, Atlantic Gardening boasts an impressive array of orchids, houseplants, and landscape plants, earning accolades such as being named one of the Best Garden Centers in America by Southern Living. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their eco-friendly practices and locally sourced products, aimed at reducing environmental impact.

Garden Bar at Atlantic Gardening is located at 5217 Atlantic Ave, Raleigh, NC. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Friday through Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm and Sundays, 10 am to 5 pm. Follow them on Instagram.

Sweet Thyme Cafe

Over the years, Norwood has built a solid foundation with its expert landscape design services and comprehensive range of gardening essentials like sod, soil, and stone. But they’ve since expanded their offerings to include an occasional farmer’s market with locally sourced products such as honey and jams and a coffee shop called Sweet Thyme Cafe.

The coffee shop is located in a tiny, cozy hut with lots of outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery. Behind Norwood Garden is Anne Hall, a seasoned professional in interior design and landscape architecture. With a passion for creating functional yet beautiful outdoor spaces, Anne’s vision has transformed Norwood into a sanctuary where beauty meets practicality.

They regularly have seasonal drink specials, and include flower and herb syrups like rose and lavender on their daily menus.

Sweet Thyme Cafe is located at Norwoods Garden at 12825 Norwood Road Raleigh, NC. Their hours of operation are Friday through Saturday, 9 am to 2 pm. Follow them on Instagram.

Four cafes in the Triangle, all with different vibes but something for everyone.