The Optimist Raleigh

This coffee shop is the definition of cozy. Tucked next to Historic Oakwood, the exterior let's you know exactly what you'll be getting. A calm, relaxing space with moody paint and amazing design. If you're a plant lover, welcome to paradise.

I got a standard cold brew and it was robust but not bitter. My wife got the seasonal herb garden and it was an eye opening experience. I never would have imagined using rosemary in coffee, but it worked perfectly. The food was nothing to knock either. It was out fast, the staff was just as welcoming as the design, and made you feel like a regular even if you've never been.

This is probably one of my favorite places and I'll definitely be returning time and time again.

Not only amazing coffees and hot chocolate but great breakfast foods and delicious muffins. We love the outdoor seating both in front and the patio area in back. Prices are good and the service fast and friendly. Will be a regular spot.

Delicious cortado and latte. Friendly folks. Delicious goat meal. I recommend my neighborhood gem.

Barista was knowledgeable and kind. Great coffee. On a nice day, enjoy the outdoor seating out back.

The Optimist sponsored one of my scavenger hunts. Their contribution to the gift baskets was very generous. In addition, they were easy to work with and very responsive. Plus this place has skeletons and a chill atmosphere, perfect for getting some work done.

The Optimist Raleigh is definitely a favorite and so worth the visit! Their coffee and tea selections and unique drink twists are so delicious and keep us coming back for more! The walk up window, especially during this time, is super cute and convenient. The owners are super friendly and on top of great customer service! Great decor inside and out! Tucked away hidden neighborhood gem!

Lovely local coffee shop with beautiful interior and great patio seating. The owners are very nice and they have many friendly employees. It’s busy most mornings and I’ve noticed people get impatient. It’s not a Starbucks so I don’t expect my coffee out in 30 seconds flat. I enjoy sitting and taking in the decor (they pose the skeletons in funny ways) and wait for a delicious latte. They have great breakfast items. The Michael’s English muffins are perfect and I like their pastries too. Come check it out.

Love this cozy atmosphere. Relaxed, laidback, easy.
I love my Chai and this place has the spiciest! Yummy and warm, hot or cold.

Such a cute place! It’s a lot bigger place than you’d think. There’s a huge patio area in the back. The inside is decently sized but when I went was packed. I’d like to go back and try something different, since I didn’t love my coffee, but I tend to be picky with coffee. My husband liked his and even drank mine. Again, there was nothing wrong with it, I’m just particular. I will definitely be going back and exploring the menu!

The best coffee shop in town! I love, love, love this place! The decor, the owners, the peeps.. and of course the coffee!!!!! So smooth... And definitely the most delicious coffee around!