The Optimist Raleigh

I’m not one to usually write reviews, but I just absolutely LOVED this cute spot! Service was wonderful and lots of unique twists on the typical coffee drinks... overall if I could give 10 stars I definitely would.

Met a friend to catch up. Had a coffee. Friend had cappuccino and a small bite. We both enjoyed what we got and the atmosphere. Next time weather permitting- want to sit outback in enclosed patio space.

In my final hours in Raleigh on a Monday afternoon I found myself reading a book in this coffee shop. I had come to town for a wedding, and had extended my stay to leave Monday evening, forgetting Monday often is a day where businesses take a rest.

This coffee shop, draped in plants, dim lighting and bluish green walls with a singer songwriter playlist is the perfect place to get lost in a book, or to study, or listen to gen zers complain about the 9-5 workplace they are destined to enter.

If the indoor lounge feel is not your vibe, enjoy an outdoor space hidden in the back away from the street.

Take your time, enjoy a pour over, and get lost in this jungle lounge coffee shop with a skeleton hanging to the case of their merchandise, hopefully he was an optimist.

This has become my go-to coffee shop since moving to the SE Ral area. Great atmosphere, indoor and outdoor seating, seasonal menu with baked goods and fresh items from the kitchen. You can dine-in right now, but if you're not comfortable with that (or if you're walking your dog from the dog park) they have a walk-up order window. Also they serve Black & White Coffee, which is not only delicious (The Natural is probably the best black coffee I've ever had), but it's a local, Black-owned company. Highly recommend!

Good food and coffee. Nice local vibe. Laid back.

One of my favorite coffee shops in Raleigh!

I've been coming here about 1-3 times a month for the past couple years. It's my absolute favorite coffee shop in the Raleigh area, I always tell people to check it out!! I've not found a spot that I enjoy as much for my journaling, reading, crafting, and gaming. I love the Hulk Smash and many of their beverages. The only downside is because they're so great it gets full very quick. They do have back patio seating and outdoor seating in the front.

they keep it so cold for some reason. 68 is their set temperature and it feels like a walking fridge for real. Most of the times I avoid this place because of that. If you are sitting and working then you will start feeling really cold because the air is blowing directly on you

Great atmosphere. Good coffee. Friendly staff. And a solid menu for breakfast and snacks.

Really nice and friendly coffee spot with a parking lot in a little shopping area/center. There are seasonal and monthly items on the menu and plenty of different matcha flavors to try! My purple matcha was a perfect level of sweet! I would definitely come back again to meet with a friend as there's a good number of seats/tables (with outside tables too).