After relocating to Georgia recently, I decided to visit local coffee shops to find our new favorite spot. My husband is a GC, so we rarely have mornings to spend together, making these visits a small, special tradition for us. Our first visit here was decent: the coffee was about an 8/10 and the sandwiches were good. Today was different. My sandwich was very thin, with only one barely visible slice of ham, and my coffee was not good--quite awful, actually. We ordered the Nutella and Caramel macchiato. The barista was very nice and explained things clearly. However, when we received our coffees, they tasted the same--very strong coffee flavor, which we enjoy, but there was no discernible flavor or distinction between the two. We couldn't tell which was which, and we both agreed they were not good. I approached the counter and explained that I didn't like either of the coffees and would prefer two large regular coffees instead. I was asked what was wrong with them, but that's difficult to articulate without tasting. I was told refunds weren't offered, but they could remake the drinks. I agreed to two regular coffees with three pumps of liquid sugar. I was charged for those coffees, which I found odd after spending about $30 on the first order (two lattes and two sandwiches) plus a tip. I was later informed that they would only charge for one, and I accepted and left another tip. The two remade coffees arrived a bit later, and the barista said I had added a splash of cream "for you." We don't use dairy; we only consume alternative milk, and the only dairy we eat is cheese. When we tasted the remade drinks, they were still very strong--good in strength, but once again they were not enjoyable and now had cream in them. We decided to finish our sandwiches, dump the coffees, and leave. Despite the nice view, we won't be returning. As a small business owner who previously ran a family restaurant, I know the little things count. Losing a customer who spends $30+ on coffee and a small sandwich adds up in today's economy. This is how businesses fail. Consider creating consistent drink recipes and having baristas demonstrate that they can make the drinks correctly. There are many alternatives in this market, so daily effort matters. read more

This is a true hidden gem I have been back to many times! The lake view is stunning. With both outside and indoor seating (indoor seating is limited), this is a great place to have a quiet place while overlooking a lake! They have drinks and sandwiches that are very yummy! I go for the BLT typically and have had pretty average interactions with the staff. read more

Finally checked out this place that's been on my list forever and it's literally just down the street from me. Came here with my mom for the first time today. I got two avocado toasts and a chai latte, and she had a vanilla latte with a ham and cheese croissant. To me, this place is a bit on the pricey side. With tip, I spent about $50. The food and drinks were really good though, but not sure if it's worth that much. The shop itself is cute, clean, and has good vibe. I came around 2pm on a Monday and it was nice and quiet. The view is beautiful too. I'd definitely come back just for the coffee and scenery. Such a good spot for a solo date. read more

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This is a fantastic coffee shop, with a beautiful lake view! The owner is super friendly and very efficient. Great tasting house brew coffee and delicious food too! I will definitely visit again, the next time I come to Atlanta. read more

Enjoyed the treats and coffee! Its on a lake so we sat outside watching the water. But there is room inside. The staff was helpful and kind w my toddlers. read more

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Great atmosphere the way a coffee shop ought to be. Unwind with your significant other with a great latte or cappuccino overlooking the lake. You can thank me later. read more

Amazing neighborhood coffee shop located on Lake Lucerne. Alcove has been a consistent and awesome place to come grab coffee and a quick bite for years. The location makes it so much nicer than other area coffee shops and there's always a really calm environment to catch up or get some work done here. The chai is provided by chai box and they brew fantastic coffee and tea. Would highly recommend for their incredible service and memorable location . read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - View from inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

"Super size" coffee cost $2 extra on top of $7 price tag and $.75 non-dairy milk up charge..... hardly worth $10 for a smaller than venti caramel latte that hardly tastes better than homemade This used to be my favorite place to visit, but the prices are absurd after covid and aren't listed (I didn't realize I was paying $20 for 2 coffees until after swiping) read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - "Super size" coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

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I've been dying to come here for years. Today I decided to drop in. I was so presently surprised to see a view of this man-made lake through the window. The music is nice I love all the chotskies on the wall. It has such a peaceful vibe. So instead of taking my coffee to go I decided to sit in a corner and breathe. Service was quick and very chilled. I ordered their specialty coffee with a splash of soy. I can actually taste the flavor of the coffee. I think I will buy a bag. I just found out that they make their own lavender syrup!!!Small plates of food. I was eyeing their grits and shrimps maybe on my next visit I will definitely be back. read more

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*NEGATIVE EXP AS A BLACK WOMAN PLS READ* Now, it's taken me a moment to write this down because I have really loved this place for years and my experience really shocked me. I came to alcove a couple weeks ago and expected a nice, serene couple hours. I came in and sat down by the window. I was wearing over the ear headphones as I was on the phone with the doctor (it was an urgent call). Not even 5 minutes into sitting down, a lady who I recognized as the owner was waving me down in the corner of my eye, so I move a headphone to say I'm on the phone but from across the cafe she goes "WERE OVER WHEN YOURE READY TO BUY SOMETHING". A little shocked, a little embarrassed, and beginning to get overstimulated I say okay and that I am speaking with my doctor (pointed to my phone as well). I was very polite considering I'd just been reprimanded from across the cafe while having a personal medical call. I notice my phone is about to die so I move to a table with an outlet. I sit to charge my phone for a moment and again, not even 5 minutes into sitting down down (I know this because the call has the time going), the owner comes back and exclaims how I am taking up too much space. There were roughly three other people in the opposite corners of me, it was a weekday, and no one had come in to sit since I walked in. Additionally there were 10+ open seats. She goes " We can't have you sitting at multiple tables it's not a good look for us, and you have to buy something if you want to stay". At this point, I open my mouth to speak but I am so confused and I feel my face getting warm. The black man closest to me, behind her, even looks up surprised. I only moved because I needed to charge my phone quickly and there are no outlets on a window??? I am a black, immigrant woman. I have never been treated this way in any single cafe or restaurant I've been in, even when I've come in, worked for a little bit, then ordered something. Is that how you speak with all your customers? Or did you not care to have or keep *me* as a customer. I have never had this experience with her staff. And they've been lovely no matter when I ordered or where I moved in the restaurant. Nonetheless, it literally should not matter- but to be reprimanded TWICE in TEN minutes?? I know for a fact I would not have been interrupted and threatened if I was a white woman. It is so extremely disrespectful to treat and talk to someone that way. Even when I've said I'm in an important call for my health! Still no respect for me as a person! I was dumbfounded that that had just happened, I packed up my bags and went to Cuckoo's cafe. Unless there's a full addressing of this situation I will never ever ever be back. UPDATE TO REPLY IN PHOTOS read more

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This was our second time stopping in at Alcove. The first time was a nice experience and we were hoping for the same this time around. Unfortunately, they closed the kitchen an hour and a half before their actual closing time. There was a gentleman at the counter ordering food when we arrived, but we were told we couldn't. (Last time we came an hour before closing and had no issues ordering.) They color code their cups which is nice (yellow for caramel, purple for matcha). I had the iced caramel macchiato with almond milk. It was okay. Super watered down but I could still taste the coffee. We'll probably stop by again at some point to give it another shot. I guess it's hit or miss depending on the day. read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - Iced Caramel Macchiato - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

This place was great when it was Starbucks years ago. There were many regulars that this owner ran off by not being very kind. She closed all of the outlets so people couldn't stay as long, as if there's a line around the corner to get in. I can't believe it has lasted this long... read more

This is an awesome go-to spot on the edge of Lake Lucerne! You can think you are in the country side next to the lake, sipping a lovely latte and pondering life! The service is always kind and the owner pours her heart into the spot! Really enjoy the vibe! read more

I came here for a little pick me up and got a hot white mocha. It was tasty and you could definitely taste the chocolate. This little shop is right on the lake so it has beautiful views. They even have seating outside to view the lake as well as big windows inside with seating. The lady who helped me was friendly and nice and had a smile on her face the whole time. Great experience! read more

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Super cute cafe with a beautiful view! It's so nice to be able to look outside and see the lake while getting some work done. It's a very nice aesthetic. They even have some seating outside on a little patio and some wooden chairs as well to view the lake, I thought that was nice. There are some tables for seating, when I came in it was slightly busy but still not too hard to find a table. I just wish they had the AC or some fans on. I did notice they had an AC on but it wasn't blowing enough air to reach the entire seating area. It was very warm and toasty inside and felt uncomfortable. It actually felt better outside in 77 degree weather. If it hadn't been for that I would probably give this place 4 or 5 stars. But if you run cold then this is the place for you! I might return in the fall or winter time when hopefully it's more comfortable. They also serve food which is nice. The coffee was good and the service was great too! read more

This is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and take a little time to enjoy the view. This cute shop is hard to just swing into since there is no drive through but worth the visit if you get the chance and have the time to step inside. It was so nice to sit down with my coffee beverage on one of their Adirondack chairs near the water and take a breath. The water looks like a lake that goes on forever but I had my bubble burst with the truth behind the body of water - it is really just a big pond and not attached to the Yellow River or bigger body of water. Also, the pontoons are for private use only. If I were still in college, this would definitely be my spot to study. It's quaint and peaceful. Looking forward to finding a few more moments to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee instead of grabbing and go . read more

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Beautiful coffee shop perfect for a study date or a quiet alone time with a book. The staff is amazing! Food was great as well. I enjoyed my chai tea latte with oat milk! read more

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Visiting family in GA, I wanted to find a coffee shop I could work from. Alcove is a cute coffee shop next to a lake. its small inside but has a good amount of outdoor seating. If youre able to snag a table inside, its a cute coffee shop to work from. They have good wifi. The coffee was good and I ordered a filled croissant. very very filling. if you want to heat up your food or coffee they have a microwave and toaster oven you can use. very happy to have stumbled upon it read more

Love this place! Great for spending the morning working- the views are peaceful, the location is convenient if you're in snellville or Lilburn, WiFi is reliable, and the coffee/tea selection is varied & inexpensive, also they have some great vegan pastries and bakery options. They offer a selection of 6 or so sandwiches, mostly blt qnd grilled cheese type of things, but they're always hot and fresh and tasty and served with a side of chips. The noise level is a hit or miss. Inside only seats 12 or so, so if there's a particularly loud patron inside, you will be affected. But with some noise cancelling headphones you could definitely work in peace for hours. read more

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I was so enthusiastic to stumble upon this coffee shop. It's situated on a lake in the heart of Lilburn. The inside is beyond charming, an ideal spot for reading and getting some work done on your laptop. They have a good selection of pastries. Best of all, in my opinion, they offer Batdorf & Bronson coffee, some of the best coffee roasters. Highly recommend! read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - a croissant and orange slices - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

This place is conveniently located by my apartment and I really wanted to love it. The overview of the lake is lovely, so is the decor, but the staff and quality of the drinks is just not it. This place identifies as "LGBTQIA+" friendly but months ago I overheard a conversation between one of the baristas and a customer regarding gender and how "there's only two". Then a few days ago, attempting to give this place a second chance during my very stressful finals week, I paid nearly $9 for an ube matcha that tasted bland and like plain milk. I wanted to let them know so they could do better in the future. I was NOT asking for a remake. The owner came in mid conversation and the barista and owner were seemingly trying to dumb it down for me, making me feel like an idiot, while I was trying to kindly tell them that the drink sucked and was not worth my money. It got to a point where I just walked about because the owner could not be wrong about the topic. I will not be returning. read more

Loved this spot! Super cute seating outside by the lake, and tables inside with a lake view and huge windows. We've been here a few times and the food and coffee are always good! Staff is very friendly as well. Would recommend this spot for getting work/homework done, wifi is solid and there is a big table if you need some room. read more

Stipped by for coffee. Great location and vibes! You have to dodge the barrage of acorns falling from the trees outside during fall. No worries there, just wear a hat! read more

Great coffee and fast service. I passed by this place for years. But have I been missing out. It's quiet and backs up to a lake. Imagine sitting sipping coffee and looking out over the water. They even have a couple of outdoor spots to enjoy the atmosphere. read more

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First off I'm not a coffee drinker. I'm always searching for a great place for tea--jackpot! This place is delightful what a special place. The water, ambiance and good wifi. The customers are so respectful in this place--it's as though they know it's special and refuse to upset the balance. This is one of those hidden gems if you are unfamiliar with Lilburn. The tea selection will leave you pondering and conducting yourself in a non-tea drinker fashion--drinking it fast just to try another type. Yummy croissants. The staff is soooo kind! read more

Over the past two years I have driven past Alcove Coffee at least a hundred times and never really gave much thought of it as we love driving to Decatur and drinking at Dancing Goats, which is owned by Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters, who is from Washington, but roasts here locally as well. Today we were actually going to drive to dancing goats, and as we were driving past Alcove Coffee I decided to turn around and just give them a try. Surprising, they actually serve Batdorf & Bronson coffee and also sell it. The barista at the counter was friendly and my wife was very happy with her coconut latte that she ordered, saying it was one of the best she ever had and we drink a lot of coffee. We make lattes at home almost daily. I had their Mocha latte and it was very good. The prices here are competitive with what you would find in Decatur and less than that at Starbucks. The location is perfect, there is a beautiful view of the lake and the coffee shop is very artsy and cool. Throughout the coffee shop is awesome retro art and even the bathroom is clean. I just checked out their website and it is dead, the domain is registered, but they do not seem to be hosting it and their facebook page is not updated often. As a recommendation, it might be something they want to work on, or just not have one. We will definitely be back to try out their food. So far, I would give them a solid four stars. If you sit outside on their patio, definitely sit under the umbrella as there is a gigantic oak tree that throughout our fifteen minutes here today dropped countless dozens of acorns that pounded the table and sounded like thunder. One oddly enough bounced off the table and hit my wife in the eye, but luckily she was wearing her sunglasses. [Review #501] (86th Review of 2017) read more

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Focusing on the drink quality in this review and rating -- I've been coming here since it took over the a large/mainstream coffeeshop, so that must have been...11ish years? Love that it's a local, small shop because we DON'T need a subpar Starbies here. But the coffee here is always a hit or miss - the drinks are never consistent... This place has me coming back for the views and it's nice to meet here with friends. But for good coffee... not it. Espresso drinks taste like they're watered down often...gotta be something about the way it's pulled. A neutral 3/5 stars for the drinks. For everything else, 4/5 stars. read more

Sooooo cute! Love the large windows overlooking the water, the kids devoured the BLT sandwiches and the chips, I enjoyed the dragon pearl jasmine latte while sitting outside with a breeze and a view. read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

Nice quaint coffee shop on a little lake right off of Lawrenceville Highway. And they serve Dancing Goats coffee.

Delicious coffee and pastries (recommend the cherry danish if they have it in stock), cute interior, and great views of the lake: both from indoor seating and outdoor seating options. What's not to like? read more

Used to be great place to work and drink coffee. Dine in has been closed due to COVID and they have just a few tables scattered awkwardly outside. Of course no outlets, poor wifi, etc. Service also took a big hit. Sucks to see this place close down... :( read more

I first discovered Alcove years ago when it was on Lavista Road and was sad to find out they had moved, UNTIL I went to their new location on Hwy 78. I've read a lot of complaints about this place, but I've never had a problem with service. I typically order the spicy turkey sandwich, which is delicious, and whatever warm beverage I'm in the mood for, usually a chai tea or Cafe latte. I've had better versions of both at other places, but I've learned as a regular of several different independent coffee houses, that everyone makes it different. I really come here for the view of the lake and a cozy place to work or at least look like I'm working. And it's not an overcrowded Starbucks. Two things I always make sure I do before I head to Alcove: 1. Bring headphones/ear buds and 2. make sure my laptop is charged up. It's not loud, however, I like to tune others coversations out so I bring ear buds. And for whatever reason...I think they only have like 2 outlets in the seating area, perhaps to make sure people don't stay there forever working and taking up space. So I make sure I'm all charged up. read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - Chai latte...pardon the cinnamon on the foam design. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

This place sits on a lake and gives of zen hippy vibes. It's a cool spot to study, meet up with friends, or chill. Everyone I've taken there is pleasantly surprised.. it's an unexpected gem with a nice selection of teas/coffees/snacks. read more

This place is a complete a vibe and just so relaxing. Its right by the lake and no seating spot is a bad one. The ambiance and energy is great everyone is to themselves. And the employees are so sweet. Try the food as well read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - Turkey Avocado Sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

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Extremely relaxing atmosphere. The baristas were all super friendly and made great recommendations. 10/10 coffee is great. read more

Alcove Coffeehouse - Iced Caramel Macchiato - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Lilburn, Georgia

Found this gem of location because of yelp! Getting into the parking area is a challenge fit to the one direction street. Friendly staff...warm comfortable seating..atmosphere makes you want to pull up a chair and stay awhile. Community information is posted and free books for those that want to swap. The chia teas had just the right temperature and spice. Large oversized cinnamon roll quenched my sweet need! Obviously a local hangout with the number of people on laptops and the conversations! read more

This place is possibly the cutest, sweetest and coziest place ever! It has the coolest view of this lake and I can only imagine what it's like during the fall time. I can't wait to visit again read more

I love a local coffee shop where you can work and enjoy the scenery. Lake views are beautiful.

The coffee and food are good. The staff is friendly. But what sets this place apart is the view of Lake Lucerne

The bf found this place after a group archery lesson with friends. We wanted/needed an energy boost I suppose. lol. The scenery here was superb. It is right beside a huge lake, and it is so romantic. There are seats on this dock like area extending over the water so you can gaze at the setting sun. It's quite nice. Even the inside has these massive windows where you can look beyond the water. The bf observed that there weren't many outlets here so don't stay plugged into technology here. I had the white mocha frappe. It was yummy. The bf had the green tea latte, and it was good as well. Some of their pastries are huge too, big as the size of my palm for the bear claw. They also sell King of Pops here as well. Parking was pretty plentiful. read more

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