- Attraction: Orchard Coffee
- Location: 39 Depot St, Waynesville, NC 28786
- Industry: Coffee Shop
- Website: https://orchardcoffee.com
Stepping into a realm where coffee artistry transcends the ordinary, you’ll discover a hidden gem that transforms your average caffeine ritual into something extraordinary.
Award-winning latte artist Cabell Tice, a three-time World Latte Art Champion, opened Orchard Coffee in 2019 with his wife and family after searching the country for a beautiful, under-served city that would be a good place to raise a family.
This exceptional café serves locally-roasted coffee from its sister company Steamline Coffee, nestled in the Smoky Mountains just off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Visitors consistently rave about this being “easily the best coffee shop I have ever been to” and “by far the best coffee I’ve ever had” from travelers who have experienced coffee shops around the world.
What sets Orchard apart is that it’s an all-too-rare glimpse of what’s possible when a skilled barista becomes the owner/operator of their own café, with bar-flow that is ruthlessly efficient and coffee that is meticulously dialed-in.
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Keep Exploring →Coffee Excellence & Signature Drinks
World-Class Espresso: You’ll taste espresso with a unique flavor profile that’s complex, smooth, and allows you to taste the coffee cherry’s contribution to the cup. The coffee achieves perfection in temperature, crema, and foam for cappuccinos, with baristas who are experienced and skilled. Even during busy times with lines out the door, the owner manages to provide coffee flights featuring espresso, cappuccino, and memorable pour-overs.
Specialty Lattes & Creative Options: The lavender mocha and latte feature adorable latte art that makes each drink visually stunning. The strawberry matcha comes highly recommended for those seeking something beyond traditional coffee. They offer both caffeinated and decaf options, plus alternative milk choices like oat milk that holds up exceptionally well for espresso drinks.
Pour-Over Perfection: You can enjoy delightfully brewed pour-over, espresso, and latte brews, with the shop serving locally roasted coffee in various forms. The pour-over selection includes memorable Indonesian coffee that showcases the roaster’s expertise.
Scratch-Made Baked Goods & Food
Legendary Blueberry Muffins: The blueberry muffins are described as “to die for” by visitors who have traveled extensively. You’ll find them served fresh and hot each morning, with guests choosing between savory scones and these beloved muffins.
Gourmet Breakfast Sandwiches: The egg and sausage sandwich receives excellent reviews for quality and flavor. The breakfast sandwich with sausage and arugula is considered a fantastic choice that goes above and beyond expectations. Even their avocado toast impresses visitors who feel their kids have “never had such decadent food.”
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Discover MoreArtisan Pastries & Seasonal Treats: The savory scones featuring cheddar and peppers are placed steaming hot on the counter. You’ll discover fresh-made pastries, brioche cinnamon rolls, and scratch-made pop tarts. Seasonal offerings include pumpkin spice walnut scones that stand out for their quality.
Hidden Culinary Gem: They create homemade hot sauce that’s so exceptional, visitors buy it to take home to Atlanta, making it a unique souvenir from your visit.
Atmosphere & Design
Modern Mountain Aesthetic: Upon stepping inside, you’ll appreciate a bright and modern yet cozy vibe with ample plant life, natural woodwork, and bright pops of color in the chairs and drinkware that makes you feel right at home. The homely atmosphere and decor create a space where you can relax after a hard working day.
Spacious & Work-Friendly: This spacious and stylish coffee shop provides a perfect spot for remote work with ample seating and a pleasant atmosphere. Former residents describe spending every Friday working from Orchard as “one of the highlights of my week” thanks to the warm and happy environment.
Community Gathering Space: You’ll notice the same customers each morning, creating a sense of community where regulars gather. Located in downtown Waynesville, it serves as a community gathering place in this idyllic mountain town. The location sits just across from the courthouse, making it easily accessible in the heart of downtown.
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Keep Exploring →Other Considerations
Pricing & Value: Prices are reported to be average for a specialty coffee shop. Some specialty drinks like the strawberry matcha are noted as pricey, but visitors still find them worth the cost. Holiday specials can be a bit pricey, but they’re worth it for the quality caffeine boost you receive.
Operating Schedule: They’re open 7am-5pm and closed Wednesdays. Some visitors wish they opened at 7:00 am instead of 8:00 am, but agree it’s worth the wait. The owner demonstrates exceptional customer service, even opening during closed hours when he sees disappointed customers at the door.
Family-Friendly Environment: Families find the atmosphere welcoming, with kids receiving excellent hot cocoa complete with frothy designs on top. The shop accommodates special dietary needs and creates custom-made dishes when requested.
Tourist Appeal: Waynesville attracts many tourists visiting Smoky Mountain National Park, and the café stays busy even with lines out the door during peak times. Both locals and tourists consistently praise this as a must-visit destination that creates lasting relationships with patrons.
Orchard Coffee
📍 39 Depot St, Waynesville, NC 28786
