The Patio

Update: So, now I'm a bit addicted to Acai bowls, haha. And I've tried them at 2 other places (Everbowl and Playa Bowls) and Purple Bowl is the best!! Original Review: Ok, I will admit this was my first Acai Bowl (How I got this far in life without one is a mystery...). It was an incredibly delicious and layered taste explosion. The creamy iciness of the base (Acai with Hemp protein and hemp milk) layered with crispy granola, sweet berries and bananas, chocolate chips, coconut and honey. Oh my! I thought they did a fabulous job. All of the ingredients were fresh, creamy and crunchy, not overly sweet. A huge plus was the ability to BYO, so I could maneuver around my dietary intolerances/allergies. I actually have not had an Acai Bowl prior to this because there were not enough base options, with nuts in too many places. The hemp milk and protein were a game changer for me. I would have liked sunflower butter, which would have made it perfect (only nut butters). I also had a lavender latte which was delicious; rich and creamy, and not too sweet. The espresso was rich, oatmilk creamy, and the lavendar syrup was floral and not at all artificial tasting. The only suggestion I would have is to make sure to ask for extra hot, as mine was more luke warm. The atmosphere is fine, seating is comfortable. I prefer a cozier atmosphere. The acoustics weren't great either with high ceilings and cement floors. But it was fine. But sure I'd go here to curl up with a good book though All in all, this was a positive experience and I would come neck when I am in the area.

I'll start with the fact that I came here looking for a place to study, and found too busy and loud for my ADHD self; it is on Franklin and on campus so I should have known better. I was planning to sit outside, but today was a bit cool for that. The staff was very friendly, the service was good, and the cafe appears to be nice and clean. The WiFi (called Purple Bowl) is good too. My lavender latte was good - nothing to write home about. It was not too sweet and their espresso is pretty nice. The milk was nicely textured, but it would be since they use a super automatic Eversys Cameo to make espresso drinks. The latte came quickly, but was already kind of cold. I hesitated to take a star away for that because they do use the Cameo. As a former technician who has worked on many of these machines I know how quickly the milk system can develop problems with all sorts of things, including heating milk to the specified temperature. I'll keep my star for their poor taste in equipment lol.

If you're on Franklin St, The Patio is a place you wouldn't want to miss. If your family is in town or wanting to catch up with friends or even get work done, this is the perfect place to do it. Great seating, live music, atmosphere, food, and coffee.

Cute spot attached to purple bowl. Outdoor and indoor seating. Iced dirty chai 16oz is $7.53. It’s super watery and the chai is artificial. Did not taste the espresso. Service is super confusing b/c you order at purple bowl but the make the coffee on the other side of the room. No clear place to stand and wait! This is picky, but there is no coffee smell or atmospheric vibe. It’s a bit sterile. Unfortunately did not feel very friendly either. Monolithic customer base if you know what I mean. Great location. Would love to see something flourish here.

Amazing atmosphere with incredible staff! Food and coffee is the best in Chapel Hill. Love coming here