The Grounds Espresso Bar
The Grounds Espresso Bar — photo 2
The Grounds Espresso Bar — photo 3
The Grounds Espresso Bar — photo 4
The Grounds Espresso Bar — photo 5

The Grounds Espresso Bar

462 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC

★★★★★4.5(11 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This upscale Chapel Hill spot run by UNC grads brings a sophisticated speakeasy vibe to Franklin Street, where espresso drinks get the craft cocktail treatment—think perfectly balanced espresso martinis and creative offerings like their "death by chocolate" drink-dessert hybrid. The sleek, cool interior makes it ideal for lingering over a thoughtfully made peppermint mocha latte or settling in with your laptop, all backed by bartenders who clearly care about consistency and execution. It's pricier than your typical coffee shop, but regulars agree the quality of the drinks and the pleasant atmosphere make it worth the splurge.

What to expect

Traditional drinksSlow sitLaptop friendlySignature drinksMeetingsEspresso focusedSpecialty drinks

Google Reviews

Isha G
★★★★★4 months ago

I tried their espresso martini and it was absolutely delicious with perfect balance of bittersweet with just the right kick of alcohol, finished beautifully with coffee beans on top. They also offer several different martini varieties, which is great if you’re a martini lover. The place itself is cozy with a really good vibe, perfect for spending quality time and relaxing.

Emily Rose
★★★★★7 months ago

Fantastic drinks! Tried the classic espresso martini and the old fashioned and both were excellent. The bartender was pretty new but still gave excellent service. A bit pricey, but worth it for the consistent, specialty cocktails. Will be visiting again.

Phyllis Hobson
★★★★★a year ago

I stopped in here for some coffee before going to Cat Tales Cat Cafe (across the street). The peppermint mocha latte I got was wonderful, and it was a pleasant atmosphere to spend a little bit of time in.

Ciera Rankin
★★★★2 years ago

The drinks were really good and I loved the death by chocolate as a drink and dessert in one. This is definitely more of your “upscale” college speak easy vibe due to consistency of the drinks/service. Ordering was a bit all over the place as the bartenders were very busy and kind of lacking decorum. But for a college town drink this place does the job.

tate huff
★★★★★2 years ago

Came to the soft opening and really enjoyed this spot!! It’s ran by UNC grads and has an awesome location right on Franklin Street! The interior is sleek and cool. The pricing was excellent for a premium latte - Mine was right around $4 (40% less than Starbucks). The coffee itself was delicious and I will definitely be back again. Excited to see the further development of this spot! Go support this small business!

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