Beat the Heat: Chapel Hill's Coolest Summer Sips & Spots

With summer approaching fast, Chapel Hill's coffee scene is heating up with refreshing cold brews, creative iced concoctions, and perfect patio spots to beat the Carolina heat! From sparkling cold brews to artisanal gelato cafes, here are the must-visit destinations for your summer caffeine fix and chill-out sessions.

Caffé Driade

This award-winning espresso bar continues to enchant visitors with its magical woodland setting along the Bolin Creek Trail. Their signature sparkling cold brew is the perfect summer refresher, and the shaded garden patios offer a cool escape from the heat. Pro tip: grab an iced tea blend and explore the nearby trail for the ultimate nature-coffee combo experience.

Coco Bistro & Bar

Your plant-based paradise just got even better for summer! Coco's specialty iced lattes and refreshing Italian sodas are perfect for warm days. Still sourcing from local Carrboro Coffee Roasters, their 100% plant-based menu offers guilt-free indulgence. The Glen Lennox location provides a perfect neighborhood spot to cool down with friends.

La Vita Dolce

Located in Southern Village, this gelato and coffee gem is launching exciting summer specials! Their Blueberry Cobbler Iced Latte and Iced Strawberry Matcha are Instagram-worthy and delicious. Plus, with 10-18 gelato flavors available daily (including unique options like wildberry lavender and lime + basil), it's your one-stop shop for caffeinated and frozen treats.

The Grounds

Chapel Hill's newest coffee hotspot inside The Pitch is making waves with their creative Cookie Chillers and signature cold drinks. Their reading nook with people-watching views makes it the perfect spot to sip an iced chai while watching summer strollers pass by. Don't miss their churros paired with a cold brew!

Perennial

This Franklin Street favorite is elevating summer drinks with cocktail-inspired techniques. While their Spicy Mocha Latte might sound too warm for summer, try it iced for a unique blend of citrus, caramel, and chocolate that's surprisingly refreshing. Their craft approach to cold beverages sets them apart from typical coffee shops.

Carolina Coffee Shop & 1922

The Chapel Hill institution since 1922 isn't just for winter anymore! Their expanded cold drink menu and extensive food options make it perfect for summer hangouts. The 1922 extension offers a modern twist on classic iced coffees, and their iced lavender lattes are becoming a local favorite.

Tea & Boba Bonus Spots

Summer calls for more than just coffee! Tea Hill (formerly Cha House) offers authentic Taiwanese bubble teas with fresh ingredients, while Möge Tea serves up colorful, Instagram-worthy boba drinks. Yaya Tea combines bubble tea with handmade onigiri for the perfect light summer meal.

Perfect Summer Pairings

• Morning trail walk + Caffé Driade sparkling cold brew
• Farmers market visit + Three Waters Cafe iced coffee truck
• Study session + Tea Hill mango boba
• Date night + La Vita Dolce gelato and iced latte
• Friends hangout + Coco's Italian soda and plant-based treats

Ready to explore Chapel Hill's coolest spots this summer? I'd love to meet up and discover new favorites together! Text me at 919-414-0337 and let's plan a summer coffee crawl through our amazing local scene. Durham's iced drink destinations are on my list next – send me your recommendations!

Stay cool, Chapel Hill!