The Optimist Raleigh

The Optimist Raleigh

1000 Brookside Dr STE 109, Raleigh, NC

★★★★★4.3(462 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

“This Raleigh spot crafts exceptionally smooth, aromatic espresso drinks that linger in the best way, with creative seasonal offerings like their famous Rosemary's Baby that prove their baristas aren't afraid to take flavor risks. The thoughtfully designed interior and commitment to serving for-here drinks in ceramic mugs create a genuinely welcoming space for lingering work sessions, though fair warning—the pricing skews premium and portions can feel modest. It's the kind of place where the consistency in quality and genuine warmth from the team keeps people coming back, even if the experience doesn't always feel like an everyday coffee run.”

What to expect

Espresso-focused, with creative signature drinks. A slow-sit spot, laptop-friendly.

Signature drinksLaptop friendlyCraft espressoSpecialty drinksTraditional drinksSlow sit

Google Reviews

Allan Robison
★★★★★3 months ago

I gave this coffee shop three stars because three stars is average and this coffee shop's coffee is average and I felt their food was below average. However, i will say, the coffee shop had most tables full and a line at the register, so the locals must like their local coffee…

Madison
★★★★★5 months ago

It was $14 for a small coffee and a small parfait that contained 3 strawberries and all blueberries, lol. The interior is very nice but they were playing lots of country music and it was clashing with the vibes of the place. It seemed like it couldn’t pick an aesthetic or vibe.…

Deniz Ender
★★★★★6 months ago

I was glad to stop by again at Optimist Cafe when I was in town. The. I knew what I had missed. Same great quality coffee. very aromatic coffee, no after taste and very smooth. The barista was very kind to made an extra hot latte!

Sarah Leon
★★★★★6 months ago

This was our first time here and we will be back! Service was fast and so welcoming and friendly! I got a seasonal coffee, Rosemary's Baby-- Rosemary and brown sugar had no business being as amazing together as they were... it was awesome!!! I got a breakfast sandwich on…

Andie B
★★★★★6 months ago

Love visiting this café for a latte and some work time. I really appreciate that they serve drinks in ceramic mugs when you order "for here". The Stacey is my favorite drink! The baristas are friendly, the ambiance is great, and they even have live music on Saturdays.

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