Summit Coffee Birkdale Landing — Restaurant in Huntersville

I really didn't want to write this review.

I've been to Summit plenty of times over the past several years - probably since their inception - in fact, we used to buy Summit coffee in bulk for events years ago, and despite the poor quality of that coffee, this review will only pertain to this coffeeshop in Huntersville.

Summit coffee has consistently provided boring, bland, and awful tasting coffee throughout every visit I've had to this coffeeshop. The espresso is overextracted and violently bitter, while the filter coffee is weak, tasting more of commodity-grade coffee with unsweetened cherry flavor added to it. I have never had a good cup of coffee from Summit.

I get it though, the vibes are nice, it's a good place to hang out or study or work, I suppose. But I can do that many other places and enjoy much better coffee while doing so.

Staff is generally friendly enough, but baristas and hosts rarely have a deep knowledge or understanding of the roasts they are serving. Summit seems more like Starbucks for people who hate corporatism than a real specialty coffeeshop.

Summit straddles the line between being that interesting-looking coffeeshop families who don't know any better go to as a treat, and being a cultural brand that also tries to make and serve its own coffee.

And I think that's where the issue lies: Summit is more concerned about upholding and presenting its brand, culture, and image than upholding standards and presenting a beautiful cup of coffee.

Go somewhere else, or if you absolutely have to go to...

I came here specifically because the outdoor seating, hoping to enjoy a coffee with my dog. The moment I stepped inside just to place my order — planning to sit outside — I was immediately told I needed to leave because my dog, even though their establishment is open and connected to the patio. I asked if I could just place my order and she said no, I had to leave my dog outside if I wanted to order, this interaction took longer than just placing my order.

I wanted a matcha with no sugar, found out they use store-bought, pre-sweetened concentrate. Same thing with the Chai. I asked about their tea options, and after they provided me with the list, I chose the one they “didn’t” have.

The girl was rude, unhelpful, and seemed more annoyed than anything else. Not a real coffee shop. Definitely...

Update: Surprised to see the place relatively empty on a Friday night, on a Valentine's day weekend too. The place have a live music going on, it's a great place to end a date night but the lack of patrons always baffles me. We always enjoy going here though. Have been waiting for this location to open. We love going to their Davidson location but glad that this one's finally open. This location is modern and have a more eclectic design but the same quality offering that Summit is known for. Staff is nice. Service is good. Love the outdoor seating and the live music. A great way to end Friday. Fall drinks are also now available. For non-pumpkin latte lover, try their Orange, spice and everything...