Cafes near Swannanoa

“Found this place by accident - I was dropping my son off for a music lesson at Warren Wilson College and asked his teacher for a good local coffee place. A student walking by said "The Owls Nest, it's in the basement of Sunderland (freshman dorm) but there's no sign." Never one to turn down an adventure, I headed the way he pointed. Easier to find than I thought (alas, no secret code words or knocks for entry). A lovely patio outside, nice baked goodies and moderate seating room inside. Wide variety of coffee choices (locally roasted from Dynamite Coffee Roasters), including some imaginative mixes with amusing names. Sandwich selections for lunch, though I had a very delightful scone with my cafe au lait. They gave a zero trash policy, all cups etc are compostable, as much food as possible is locally sourced, no GMO or HFC. Keep your cup and it's 50 cent refills on brewed coffee the rest of the day.“

“What an adorable hidden gem tucked off the street. Outdoor setting is dog friendly. Pups even got a treat. Owner is delightful. I had homemade vegetable beef soup and some mixed greens with a vinaigrette. My husband had a tuna melt sandwich. Highly recommend“

“I love this local coffee destination!! It has such personality and uniqueness! I love the specialty drinks that you can only find here AND they have gluten-free baked goods (I highly recommend the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffin). The chai latte is delish as well. I wish there were some more privacy seating for those who want to get some work done or those who want to meet a friend and chat … the seating is all in one open room, cozy feeling but open.Dietary restrictions: Gluten-free baked goods ??“

“Chill, Nice Social Atmosphere, Coffee Specials are Amaze.“

“I was very surprised with this place... The food was freshly prepared and served with a large portion... They do not have table service.. You order and pay at the counter.. Food items were moderately priced and service was fairly fast... We had thunder storms the day we visited and had to eat inside..but they have great outdoor seating with nice views of the gardens.“

“Great place! Highly recommend.Vegetarian options: Vegan patty, vegan chik’n, often vegan soup, oat milk ice cream, vegan cheese, vegan mayo, probably more.Wheelchair accessibility: Single/family, Wheelchair accessible restroom, which is also gender-free! ?“

“Great coffee, pleasant people working there“

“We loved this place. The owner ( although he said his wife was the owner, maybe he was joking) made the experience really fun. He was very funny and also helpful as we were new to the area. He really kept us entertained. (But it was encouraged, he was not overly intrusive at all) The food was delicious. Fresh beautifully arranged on the plate and at a very good price. I wish we lived closer I would go back for dinner. He was smoking ribs that afternoon and they smelled delicious. Overall great experience. Enjoyed sitting on the beautiful patio where many people had their pets with them.I would highly recommend this place.“

“We had a great cup of a PennyCup coffee at Biscuit Head on vacation last year . Now we drink it everyday. We order and grind . Love love love Debra WSNC“

“John F has single handedly saved my first experience at the GPI. My 2 kids and I have traveled across country from Wisconsin to Chapel Hill after packing up my childhood home for a month after my parents passed away. I was exhausted after a 9 hour drive to Asheville and decided to book a room here as a special treat. When we arrived it rained and despite accepting the pouring rain we didn't get any sympathy or help except for John who listened to me rant and bought me a glass of wine. Bottom Line - Thank You John“

“Terrific people Terrific coffee. Clouds Coffee Shop is located on the grounds of Ridgecrest Conference Center. You need a reservation or be a staying guest to enter the conference center property, but once you are staying here it is open to the public and staffed by some wonderful smiling faces.“