The Smelly Cat has woven itself into the fabric of the NoDa community, embracing a people-centric ethos that sets it apart from the sterile franchises that dot the coffee landscape. The Smelly Cat exudes character, inviting patrons into a warm, cozy interior adorned with local art and bathed in the aroma of freshly roasted beans. Every day my Smelly Cat experience is truly extraordinary Chilling on the porch during the summer, cooled by gentle fans, or chatting in the shaded seating area surrounded by blooming flowers – the attention to detail in creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment is evident. And yes, there's even parking, a rarity in this bustling neighborhood. Now, let's talk about the in-house baked goods – a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Crafted with love and attention, these treats complement the coffee offerings perfectly. The Irish coffee, a signature drink, is an embodiment of indulgence, with crunchy sugar crystals atop cold foam, creating a delightful contrast to the richness of the roasted beans. But what truly elevates Smelly Cat is its family-owned and operated ethos. This isn't just a coffee shop; it's a community hub where you're not a customer but a cherished member of the Smelly Cat family. The staff, with their genuine warmth, welcome you by name, creating an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The owner's presence is felt in every corner, ensuring that every order is not just fulfilled but crafted with love and precision. The Smelly Cat Coffeehouse & Roastery isn't just a coffee shop; it's an experience, a celebration of community, culture, and the simple joy found in a cup of expertly crafted coffee. If you're in Charlotte, seeking more than just a caffeine fix, Smelly Cat is the destination where the aroma of authenticity and the spirit of NoDa...
Read moreSmelly Cat Coffeehouse & Roastery is a celestial coffee haven in the heart of NoDa that deserves more than just five stars—it deserves a constellation. The aroma of freshly roasted beans welcomes you to a quirky, brick-walled space that's not just a coffee shop but my personal escape into caffeinated bliss. The neighborhood charm is undeniable, with local art adorning the walls, creating an artsy and warm ambiance. The name "Smelly Cat" itself is a nod to the place's commitment to standing out, inspired by the iconic song from "Friends." As a coffee enthusiast, Smelly Cat is my playground. Since 2012, they've been roasting their specialty coffee, and each sip is a journey through Charlotte's rich coffee culture. From single-origin pour-overs to nitrogen-infused cold brews, the menu is a testament to their dedication to quality. The details at Smelly Cat are what make it extraordinary. Picture yourself on the porch in the summer, cooled by gentle fans, or finding solace in a shaded seating area surrounded by blooming flowers – every nook and cranny is designed for comfort. And, a coffee shop with parking in NoDa? That's a rare gem. The in-house baked goods are a culinary masterpiece, perfectly complementing the coffee offerings. But what truly sets Smelly Cat apart is the family-owned and operated atmosphere. The staff greets you by name, and the owner's presence is felt, creating a warm and inviting space. The Smelly Cat Coffeehouse & Roastery isn't just a coffee shop; it's a celestial experience. If you're in Charlotte and crave more than just a caffeine fix, Smelly Cat is the place to "Smell the Cat" – an olfactory journey through the finest coffee in the city. It's not just five stars; it's a constellation of stellar coffee...
Read moreI have been here at least 20 times because I live nearby but I think today was my last visit. This place has always been incredibly slow (if you order a latte be prepared to wait at least 15-20 mins). It’s not exactly clear why it takes so long, because I tend to go when it’s not as busy (maybe 2 or 3 other people waiting for their orders).
Today I placed an online order. I knew it would take a while so I did not even arrive until about 10 mins after I placed the order. I went up to the window to let them know I had arrived. The person working the window did not even acknowledge me for several minutes while I was standing there — not because they were busy working on other orders — she was standing there having a conversation and laughing with her coworkers. Not a great look when you have 3 people waiting around the window for their drinks….
After telling them my order name I sat down as my drink was not ready. I waited another 10 minutes or so — eventually I was one of 2 people waiting on an order, so I went back to check if it was ready. There was a different person working the window at this point, and when I gave them my name, turns out my drink had been sitting there ready on the shelf for who knows how long. My name was never called.
There are other amazing coffee options in NoDa — I always went here due to its convenient location, but going forward I’ll be walking just a couple blocks further for more competent service from...
Read more