The RDU Buzz

By Madeline Cook

Sola Coffee 

Within just a few months of moving to Raleigh, it became very clear that you could practically pick a different coffee shop every day for a year and still not have tried them all! This is a predicament that no coffee lovers have ever complained about! But, the abundance of options means that a cafe has to be really special to stand out such that its name is synonymous around town with “THE best coffee!”

I’d heard this no less than 10 times from 10 totally unrelated sources about Sola Coffee in North Raleigh before I finally decided to see what all the fuss was about! Even from the street, its curb appeal is impressive. Potted plants and Adirondack chairs set a casual and whimsy mood as regulars sip coffee and tea in the sunshine with a good book or visit with friends.

Inside, the atmosphere is friendly and organic, with the cutest merchandise shelves stocked with stickers, t-shirts, mugs and totes touting Sola’s endearing slogan, “I believe in Raleigh.” Making your way to the wood planked counter, you might be met with the smell of mini donuts or other fresh bites, as coffee’s not the only reason patrons flock to Sola! Consider a chicken and pesto sandwich piled with arugula, pepper jack and roasted red pepper. Or, the Veggie sandwich topped with pickled onions, hummus and avocado. With both a Morning and Day menu, there’s sure to be something to satisfy your appetite.

Though I do love coffee, it’s not often that the coffee itself feels like the Main Event to me. After all, we’re fortunate to have so many good options around The Triangle… what could surprise me at this point!? Just one sip of my iced latte had me saying “ohhh THAT is why Sola has such a wide fan following!”  The flavors were velvety smooth with no acidity whatsoever and a delicious finish! At Sola Coffee, the welcoming environment is just icing on the cake that is fantastic food, and coffee that’s gained a real reputation around Raleigh!

If you find yourself on Lead Mine Road just a couple miles North of Lynn Road, you’re too close not to stop in! Schedule your next coffee date, remote work session, or Book Club at Sola Coffee on 7705 Lead Mine Road from 7AM - 3PM Tuesday through Saturday.