Higher Grounds, located in the New Market Center, stands apart from the modern, sleek coffee shops found throughout downtown Boone. This coffee shop evokes a classic "Global Village Coffee House" vibe that is increasingly rare. I love this place primarily because it feels very down-to-earth and has a local, welcoming atmosphere. You're greeted with a warm hello and presented with a large handwritten chalkboard menu that invites you to explore your drink options. During my visit, I was unsure about what to order until I asked the barista for a recommendation. She suggested the Pistachio Latte, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. It tasted amazing! While they don't roast their coffee beans in-house and source them from Georgia, I don't think that affects the overall experience or the reasonable prices at this café. In the end, I feel that this coffee shop fulfills its purpose of creating a hometown feel while providing a sense of relaxation and nostalgia. It has definitely become my go-to place! read more

Central Perky! Very nice customer service. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. The atmosphere very inviting and quiet. Makes a great place for App Students to come study. I ordered a latte with vanilla. Very distinct flavor coffee bean was served. As a lover of strong coffee this hit the spot as a real eye opener. Highly recommend if you're in the area read more

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I found this place to just be -meh- I didn't need up drinking even 1/3 of if the creme brûlée iced coffee. I just didn't enjoy the taste of the espresso and struggled to find the flavors described in the drink. We were out of town on vacation up from Florida and stopped here on the way to a park we were visiting. There was only one person making the coffee and it took forever for her to finish the customer in front of us and then to make ours. I think we waited nearly 30 minutes which is obscene. Husband liked his coffee though. I would never suggest going back here but it may be for you. read more

By far my favorite coffee shop in all of Boone! The baristas are all extremely friendly and I will say that Sam is my absolute favorite! They make my coffee so good every time! I can feel the love put into it. Boone has a lot of great coffee places but higher grounds is by far my #1. I'm sad I no longer live in Boone but always try to stop there when I'm in town. read more

This local shop for sure has my heart!! The owners are a lovely couple who are quick to remember your favorite go to drink!!

This shop is amazing. Best coffee around. Chill vibe and a great staff. Only wish they had one in Raleigh. read more

My visit to Higher Grounds wasn't "bad," but it was a little disappointing compared to other coffee shops (Hatchet, Local Lion, Talia's) I've been to in Boone. When you walk in it feels a bit dark and cave-like, lots of dark wood, kind of an 80s/90s vibe. Coffee shops can smell so good but I didn't care for the strong odor of flavored coffee upon entering. Barista was pleasant and friendly. Planned to get some sort of baked treat but there was not much to choose from, skipped it. Iced latte was ok. I appreciated them being open early evening hours. read more

I've only gone here twice, but both times were delightful experiences. It has a very warm environment, with courteous staff and delicious coffee. I don't go out for coffee enough to have warranted experiments with what I like, but the staff was kind enough to explain one of the drinks I wanted to try so I could make a better choice. They didn't have to, and I appreciate that. read more

If you want to enter a time warp to the '90's, go to this coffeeshop. There is some charm to this place, but it wears off quickly once you sip your tepid coffee while seated on a dingy chair at a wobbly table. Larry David would most definitely not tolerate their table wobbles. A cup of hot tea costs almost $4. So here we have left the '90's and gone to the future. Staff are nice, and it's certainly conveniently located in a busy plaza. But that's not enough to make me go out of my way to return. read more

I love it! I even bought my largest, most-beautiful coffee mug there. Flawless Red-eyes. I get them plain because I am vegan+don't do cream.

We were visiting Boone and drove by the shop multiple times without realizing what it was (the main sign could improve - we didn't know it was a coffee/food shop until we noticed the flags, as cars cover the window markings when they're parked in front). Anyway, we stopped in for coffee and breakfast with our young kids. Our latte and matcha latte were absolutely delicious. We got crepes and a waffle, and there are so many toppings you can add to personalize it. There are a variety of sweet and savory crepes, and all our food was fantastic. Everything was made fresh to order, and the staff were very friendly. I wish I lived closer, because this would for sure be my go-to coffee shop for the delicious beverages and chill ambiance. I could even do computer work from one of the tables. Also, my kiddos loved the turtle terrarium. Definitely worth the stop! read more

This is a nice hidden gem in Boone. We came here while waiting for a movie to begin. There was a wait to get a coffee since one person was working the counter. but the apple cider chai was delicious. worth the wait. plenty of seating inside and outside too. I could see myself coming back here. read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Visited mid morning on a Saturday. Service and coffee were both excellent! Will definitely stop there again.

Came in today, I always just get a black ice coffee but nonetheless, Simple fast and delicious! I also asked for something special for my little sister cause she likes sweet coffee and THEY DELIVERED. Love the vibes here You can also add a scoop of ice cream into your espresso?! Yes please. Check it out y'all read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - a hand holding a cup of coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Good coffee! Great service lots of select. We will be back again when in Boone!!!!!

The reviews for higher ground coffee shop were outstanding and I had to try it for myself. The coffee shop had really great vibes to it. It was very inviting and cozy with a lot of space too. There was a lot of cool treats, like cookies, rice Krispy treats, and more. If I hadn't already eaten I would've been very tempted. The server was very nice and was kind enough to explain a couple of menu items to me. I really liked the fact that they explain their process of putting extra espresso shot in the different latte sizes. This was something I could very much appreciate. Unfortunately what I got was a latte that was just really too sweet. I'm not sure if I just didn't care for the syrup or what, but the drink was just poorly made. It was far too sweet and I couldn't even taste the coffee. I have never had this experience before in other coffee shops so I'm not exactly sure what the cause of it was. The best reason I have was just too much syrup was added which basically ruined the latte. Besides the unfortunate drink, everything else was nice about this place. Decent prices, very comfortable, lots of great snacks, and good service. Just didn't like the drink that was made for me. I did end up cutting the latte with a bunch of milk and it was somewhat drinkable. If I'm ever in the area, I would probably give them another try just to see if my visit was a one off. But unfortunately my visit didn't really reflect most of the reviews on here. read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Caramel iced latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

My favorite local coffee shop! Anytime I'm in town I try to stop by. I love supporting local and this shop goes over and beyond. If you're looking for quality beans they're great - personal favorite Creme Brûlée. I'm a big cold coffee/frappe drinker and there's are the best! I get a mix of Java Chip/White Chocolate with almond milk (pic attached). Price is comparable to other coffee shops. For a cold day or if you prefer hot coffee I recommend German Chocolate Cake or Cinnamon Bun. Also, if you're a regular don't forget to ask for a lunch card! 10 drinks get one free!! read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Java Chip/White Chocolate Frappe - amazing! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Probably the worst coffee shop I've ever been to. Coffee quality similar to QT gas station (though this may be an insult to QT). Purchased regular coffee, it was cold. Barista asked if we wanted her to steam it. Brewed fresh coffee and it tasted like Folgers. read more

Favorite coffee in Boone! The baristas are always very nice and efficient. Even if there is a line, it's worth the wait. All tables are appropriately distanced in response to COVID restrictions. You can take to go or enjoy your coffee and muffin at one of many seating options. They also have a punch card! Support local business and get your tasty coffee fix here! read more

Was looking for a quiet spot away from all of the crazy college students. Found this place in a shopping center, it was a great find. Great coffee, very friendly staff, and lots of local flavor. Sat outside, a was able to chill for a while. read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Really cute local coffee shop with lots of different options for coffee and pastries. I got a cinnamon latte with almond milk + a gingerbread cookie on the side. Comparable prices to other coffee shops. Plenty of space for work, study, or just hanging with friends. read more

When we walked in, the aroma was amazing. I read their coffee was the best but I found my latte to be far too sweet , so much so that I had to toss about 1/2. My husband thought the same and had a different drink. They need to tone down the sweater drastically. Sadly, it was the closest to our cabin but least favorite. I will say, they were my son's favorite! They had options for him that weren't just the norm, water and milk. He had a yummy superman icecream cup. They also had little little snack options in the counter. He was stoked to see fruit snacks as a choice! read more

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Sadly, not impressed. The espresso shots were dead, they were sitting on top of the espresso machine before we came in. Was expecting much better with such great reviews. I'll give it another shot with a different working barista. read more

I absolutely LOVE this coffee place and we hit it every time we are in town. They have non-dairy milk options, specifically oat milk. I am not able to have dairy or soy and almond milk doesn't do it for me - it takes away the coffee flavor. I also really like that they have whole beans available and sample bag of coffee to brew at home! read more

For today's edition of Excited about Eating we're switching gears and reviewing our favorite coffee shop in Boone, Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe. Tucked in the corner of New Market Shopping Center, Higher Grounds is easy to get to and plenty of parking, although you might not snag a close spot especially when Capone's Pizza finally opens. (CANNOT wait for Capone's to move in here!!) Ernie: Now we are talking about a great place to eat! Capone's is the BEST pizza in Boone. We've been coming to Higher Grounds for years, so we knew we couldn't go wrong reviewing here. lol. Ample seating. Eclectic and comfortable. Relatively quiet. And always awesome coffee and service. Ernie: Not sure I would use the term "for years", but for sure the last couple of years. I have tried a few different coffees and liked all of them, but my favorite beverage is the Iced Chai Latte. And, miracle of miracles, they are the only place I know that carries it in DECAF, people! Maybe they just tell me it's decaf, but it works for me. lol. See all those dark crystals on the bottom of the cup? Yummies, and they are heavenly! Warm at first, but then the ice kicks in, and the perfect strength. It's probably loaded with sugar, but I don't care. Ernie: I chose the same this time and it was equally good. What about you? What's your favorite coffee or tea? Do you have a go-to coffee shop? ~Ernie & Dora Hiers, Fiction Faith & Foodies Blog http://bit.ly/2t64gkE read more

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Always love coming to this coffee shop. The atmosphere is calming and a great place to get some work done. The staff has been friendly every time I have come here. If you're looking for some good coffee this is your place! Today I got an iced vanilla latte and it is truly delicious read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Higher Grounds, in my opinion, is one of the best coffee shops ever. They have a lot of options, good service, and such good coffee!! My favorite part about it is the atmosphere. As a college student Higher Grounds is one of the best places to go study! Sometimes it's really busy & you can't find a seat which is annoying if you want to study, but other than that it's my favorite coffee shop in Boone. read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - A lavender London Fog! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

I met my wedding planner here about a month ago and have been back about 3 times. They have some amazing Frappes. I had the Heath, and cookies and cream both very delicious. It's way better than Starbucks less of a wait and way better taste and price. They even have a punch card to eventually get a free drink. I'm halfway there. read more

Nice place. Coffee was good. Didn't see a lot of cleaning equipment for when people leave their tables. Noticed they use torani syrups.

* good coffee * nice worker * cute decor/look * one thing I thought was very cool was that they had an extremely large selection of coffee beans that were for sale (a lot of different flavors, some where very unique) * the only thing I could really say that I would change would be the fact that there was only one worker and it got pretty busy while I was there... however that's not necessarily a bad thing read more

If you want the best local coffee shop in the High Country, then this coffee shop is your choice!They have a genuine coffee blends and also cheaper price than any other brand named coffee shop. read more

How did i not know this place was here!? :) Lucky find for a much needed afternoon caffeine rush. The boyfriend and I shared "The Salty Caramel Thing" and boy it was sooOoooOo goood!!!! The two ladies behind the counter today were rocking it, slinging yummy beverages at the speed of light! Will definitely return to try more from their menu :) read more

Drove from Banner Elk because they were open until 8:30. Just got here and they are closed. . Will try again tomorrow.

"Man, that's some good coffee" -Mr. David Kennedy (my dad) Order: Cinnabun Mocha Latte He insisted I post this review. He was very impressed but his limited skills with technology kept him from posting it himself. Example of his skills: of you write the word "tweet" at the end of a text message then you are using Twitter. read more

best coffee place in boone!!! I came in not knowing what I should get and he worked with me to get the best drink ever!!! very great service and the coffee tastes amazing! you can tell they really care about making sure they create a drink that you will love compared to some places who just want your money. I definitely recommend coming here for coffee!!!! read more

This place was clean , the staff was helpful. The coffee was good. The cost is average. I looked down and it was gone. It must have been good. read more

chai latte with an expresso shot is the way to go!!! Super fresh tasting beans and amazing flavor. Staff is super kind and the atmosphere is always comfy! read more

This place. This one single, solitary, morsel of the town of Boone holds fast as an anchor to past memories as the area around it explodes into the future. Perhaps that's a bit too dramatic for the opening of a coffee shop review - then again, perhaps you haven't been here yet. Tucked away in the back corner of the Lowe's Foods parking lot sits a small and unassuming glass-fronted coffee shop. When the weather is nice you'll probably find the door propped open, welcoming you quietly. Once inside you'll find a well-appointed interior which quite frankly, feels the same to me today as it did several years ago when I resided in Boone. That's where the magic starts for me - for those that frequent or live in the area, you know that the current theme of Boone is change. At Higher Grounds, things seems to stay fairly consistent and I like that quality. Something else that never changes is the ridiculously good java. The menu reads like a traditional who's who of coffee houses with a few fun twists here and there. No matter who your barrista turns out to be, they'll know their game. Many times it's one of the owners... who still remember me on my infrequent visits. Grab your cup of Joe, a scoop of ice cream, or even a few pieces of chocolate and plop down on the couch, chairs, or at any one of several tables. The atmosphere is lively yet quiet enough to get some studying accomplished off campus... and close enough to still feel connected to town and ASU. There are A LOT of coffee choices in town (seemingly more every time I visit), and to be honest, they're almost all good. However, if you want a consistent brew, amazing service (and I mean amazing), and a great slice of Boone's best atmosphere go here. You'll come back for more just like I have for quite some time! read more

Great espresso! I loved it, definitely the best I've tried in Boone. I absolutely love this place; they have super-creative specials and no matter who is working, the drinks are just impressively delicious and consistent. I like to switch it up but I usually get a hot salted caramel latte. They steam milk like coffee bosses. It's summer and I get hot drinks here- that's how good they are! If I'm feeling it, I'll get 3 shots over ice with some of their simple syrup and cream. BOLD. That's what you'll taste; sweet, creamy boldness. I love it. Also, they have the best ice cream ever. I've only tried it once but you might want to save room for some, or a mango smoothie. This is a nice place to meet up with friends, homework, whatever you have in mind. Your kids will find something good here so don't worry about that. They do frapps and all that jazz of course. Also, come here if you're looking for whole beans. The selection is phenomenal! I haven't bought any but judging by the taste of their drip coffee, you won't regret the investment. You can also grind them on site, so no sweat if you don't have a grinder. Best coffee shop in Boone in my opinion. read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

This place has great coffee and is in an excellent location off the highway. A bit pricey for the area, but they've got quality beans and a good atmosphere. I'll definitely stop by next time I come to Boone! read more

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - coffee machines and tables - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boone, North Carolina