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Cocoa Cinnamon
2627 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC 27705, United States
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Cocoa Cinnamon
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Me
Review №1

I have been branching out lately to try new coffee spots and saw this place so I decided to stop in and give it a try. To start, I think the automatic 20% tip is ridiculous. The coffee itself wasnt terrible, but I have absolutely had better. I understand the vibe is a bit rustic on the outside, but it was just dirty. I think there are other places you can go to for some coffee.

To
Review №2

Great coffee and service. Worth every penny. Also, if youre not ready to pay 20% gratuity or wait a little extra for great coffee, stay home and make your own coffee. I used to live in Durham and would frequent this spot. Now I live in Pittsboro where I only have one coffee shop I can count on. Thank goodness. Support great businesses like these.

Ca
Review №3

A big disappointed. First off its a bit pretentious to add 20% tip to every order. Ive been a server many years and you must earn your tip not just claim it. I probably wouldnt have continued the order but I didnt notice this until I was paying. The coffee flavor was pretty good. The temperature was close to room temperature. I dont know Im sure its a great place I just find it to be a pretentious and not sure why it is. However, $3.50 is way too much for a 12 oz cup of coffee that was lukewarm.Im looking forward to when theres a tip jar for the cashiers at grocery stores and such that bag our groceries. They definitely earn their tip.

vi
Review №4

Really disappointing. There are so many better coffee shops in the area that are cheaper and of higher quality. Don’t waste your time or money. Seriously.

Ch
Review №5

The coffee is excellent, but if you’re in a rush probably go somewhere else. I thought ordering ahead would be fine, and I got there 2 minutes after my drink was supposed to be ready but still had to wait in a long line to pick it up which took forever. Most coffee places nearby have online orders much more streamlined.

Ma
Review №6

Great coffee shop. High end coffee drinks made to order. Best in Durham. They could use some more parking, but otherwise can’t beat this shop.

Yu
Review №7

If you automatically add 20% tips to all orders you should at least offer to bring coffee to customers at table and not make them wait for it near the counter.My last time in this coffeeshop.

RA
Review №8

Two stars because the iced coffee I got was good and the barista was very friendly. As other reviewers stated, however, they have started charging a 20% tip automatically. They claim this allows them to give their employees a living wage. Im all for people getting paid a fair wage but I am not okay with this backhand way of doing it. To make things worse, the dining room wasnt even open so the amount of customer interaction is minimized. Finally, after ringing of the order, I was asked if I want to add an additional tip on top of the 20%. Keep in mind, this is a coffee shop where you order and pick up your drink at the counter.If you, as an owner, cant afford to pay your employees a fair wage, raise the prices on the menu! The only reason you wouldnt do this is to conceal the price increase from your costumers which is incredibly dishonest. I will not be returning to Cocoa Cinnamon after this experience.

PK
Review №9

I found this cafe on google map while driving to Durham, and decided to give it a try. This is the cutest coffee shop i have seen in a long time. Apparently, it is a working spot for a lot of people who like to come here for work or study. Coffee here is really good! I have tried the Dr. Durham. One thing that would be an improvement is the parking space, it is so small.

YC
Review №10

Great coffee with atmosphere. Loved the outdoors and late spring with flowers and cool weather! Lacking a little in food variety but made up from the coffee selections and quality..!

Mo
Review №11

One of the friendliest coffee shop in town. Team members were very polite and friendly, they made me feel very welcome, they even took their time to show me where to park to avoid towing, you guys Rocks . Thank you

Ma
Review №12

This place has pretty much become a coffee kiosk. Not so good of an experience at this location. Drinks taste perfectly fine and there are a few seats outside that are pleasantly covered by umbrellas. None of the seating inside is available still, which is frustrating. Despite having no state-mandated mask policy anymore, you have to wear it outside when you walk up to the window to purchase. The wifi is disconnected, so if you were planning on getting some work done, youd have to hotspot. The real kicker is that even though you are getting no real service (walking up to order, picking it up yourself, and cant use any of the facilities inside) they automatically add gratuity in your purchase.

Is
Review №13

Cortadito was absolutely divine. Blueberry muffin was nothing to write home about. Outdoor seating was closed.

Da
Review №14

Nice coffee shop! Ordered in person and it was fast and easy. Their amuleto latte and chocolate croissant was great! Much better than starbucks!

As
Review №15

I was disappointed today to find out that for a 12oz non-dairy Latte I was asked to pay over $7. When I asked about it the employee said that theres an extra pay for the milk + a 20% (!) gratitude!I asked him to remove the tip money, as a principal, and his response was - were not supposed to do that (although he ended up removing it). I think its completely out of line to include such a high tip on a take-out only order, really ridiculous.In addition, I think that in 2021 charging extra (a lot extra) for a non dairy milk is just excessive and not necessary.Aside from that, great coffee. Too bad the visit left a bad taste

林培
Review №16

Everytime when I dont know where to hang out on weekends,I will go to Cocoa.There are three chained shops located in Durham.Love its coffee and chorrus so much!

An
Review №17

Very cute place❤ chill and relaxed. LOTS of options, although they dont make you feel rushed when looking over everything.Tight parking, but even if you have to park down the street, its worth it. 🌟

Ha
Review №18

The coffee was ok but not really worth of $7 to spend on 12oz coffee. Just remember they automatically put 20% Gratuity so they can pay their employees during covid(which I don’t really get it bc the covid restrictions got loosened and they can have dine in customers if they choose to do so?)I just took it as the owner wants the customers to pay his/her employees’ check.I won’t really visit this place again since there are so many other cute cafe with reasonable price and nice service.I guess I will recommend to go this place if you accidentally bought a meal to someone you hate and the person offered to buy you a coffee after the meal. Don’t forget to grab some not really good desserts that will add up some more money in that recipe ;)

Ja
Review №19

Much more spacious than the branch on Geer street. Great vibes and decoration

Ga
Review №20

My favorite coffee place ever!

An
Review №21

Delicious first time experience! Thoughts:What is great:-Drink ordered the Al Mokha, was beautiful and delicious with banging fresh chocolate-Music playlist was groovy and fresh-Positive, colorful, and vibrant atmosphere for working-WiFi-Free used Coffee ground bags for your home garden to compost! So cool I took a bag.Why you might not come here:-If you need a quiet space to work, music was moderately loud and there were lots of conversations from other patrons. But no different from any other coffee shop.-That’s it! Loved itI offer my highest recommendation.

Em
Review №22

Affogato was phenomenal.The barista was knowledgeable and passionate.Got some whole bean and also recommendations to lookout for in the future based on my preferences.Will certainly be back!

Me
Review №23

Asked for 2 vanilla coffees and they gave me amarettos which neither my mom or like. This isn’t the first time this has happened I have friends that said to give themA second chance but this was definitely the last.

Dr
Review №24

Delightful coffee shop.

Ra
Review №25

Delicious coffee and friendly staff

Cl
Review №26

Great Arty atmosphere. Very quiet place to sit and read or chat.

Ch
Review №27

Went in to get a cofee. Order one, give a $1 tip into the jar, after paying for it the lady working tells me that a 20% gratuity is already included, poor business but I wasnt too bothered. $6 for a 12 oz. sub par coffee is a little steep. But.. what COFFEE SHOP HAS NO CUSTOMER WIFI! Of course I find this out after ordering.. Oh and the EDM club music they play is terrible. I wont be returning.

An
Review №28

12 Oz ice coffee and a piece of cake paid $15. 20% Gratuity included without any warnings. Will not be back. Ridiculous.

Em
Review №29

We picked up after ordering online. The order took about twenty minutes, which was a bit inconvenient because we were already there and waiting but if you ordered before you got there, it would have been more ideal. Kind staff, delicious food. A bit pricey, especially because my iced drink had weird warm spots. But delicious and I felt very safe ordering.

Za
Review №30

Just received what I am pretty sure can only be considered the elixir of life in the form of a cappuccino. Absolutely amazing, with oat milk and I could still taste the fruity notes within the beans used. Great way to start a day.Side note I have had Cocoa Cinnamon many a time and they were well past due a review. I am yet to have a drink that is not enjoyable or service that is not impeccable. Thank you for all you do including in our community.

Ca
Review №31

Longtime regular of CC - first at their original location, now at this one closer to home. Wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable staff serving unique and traditional drinks. This is my fave! If you’re not a coffee drinker, you should still go for the hot chocolate - they have a whole menu of options. I can’t say enough good things about CC!

Ga
Review №32

Great coffee, great covid protocols. Theyre really protecting their staff.

Se
Review №33

This is one of the best roasters I have been to. The guisela bustama jibaja made and amazing fruity espresso. This time I got the amor prohibido. This is a solid espresso with a slight dynamic flavor of orange but with traditional notes.

To
Review №34

Everytime I tried to order vanilla lattes they changed it amaretto. And defiantly tell me the two are the same. Idk why almond flavor is vanilla flavor to them? They did this 3 times in a row once when my mother was with me. I recommend Esmeraldas Cafe near Costco.

Re
Review №35

Great lattes, nice customer service. Cant wait until you can go inside

Ts
Review №36

Service was great!! The only thing was that some of the customers were not nice.

Je
Review №37

Wonderful little place! We were in Durham and my thirteen year old wanted hot chocolate. It’s the best hot chocolate we’ve ever tasted! I got the pumpkin latte. Spicy but good! They’ve got cookies and pastries. We enjoyed it very much and will be back.

RA
Review №38

Delicious coffee. Great covid safety procedure in place

Ta
Review №39

Best churros I have ever had!

Ni
Review №40

Grrrrreat coffee amd others to enjoy.

Sh
Review №41

Great consistent coffee

Ha
Review №42

Solid place to work, WiFi was great. Could have more seating. Water cups are child sized.

Je
Review №43

First time here. Had iced tea (forget the name), but it was of a peppermint variety. Was very good. The atmosphere is great. Parking is tight, but I found a spot. The staff was very friendly and helpful. I’d come back in the mornings while I’m here in Durham if it opened earlier. What coffee shop doesn’t open until 7:00 AM?! I guess this is a university town and I am getting old.Nonetheless, it was very good. Would come back.

Ab
Review №44

Strong Arm Baking items available here!(Croissants, pop tarts, cookies and more) Locally made and sourced ingredients. This couple makes THE Best croissants that rival any bakery in France! Delicious coffee in a cozy space. This shop strives for zero waste and offers free compost takeaway

e
Review №45

Very cute and cozy! I great place to meet up or do some work. The table space is a bit limited but there’s plenty of seating and outlets.

An
Review №46

Was very satisfied with my first visit. Got a Dr.Durham to support the family from the gas explosion. I was happy to be able to support and had a wonderful drink. Parking is good, behind the building. People are very sweet and the atmosphere is very welcoming. Glad to have been able to try and sit down.

ma
Review №47

Delicious snacks!

Be
Review №48

First time at this establishment and was very pleased at how nice the staff were and helpful as I know very little about coffee. The coffee was delicious and I enjoyed the outdoor seating area. If youre looking to support local business instead of a popular chain of coffee shops (aka Starbucks) this is a great place to go!

Le
Review №49

The coffee is unique and delicious. Parking is not great, but it worth the minor inconvenience.

Da
Review №50

Cocoa Cinnamon is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee. Quieter than most local restaurants and with some nice seating out front. Their medium a light roast coffees are excellent.

Sa
Review №51

Wonderful coffee and ambient! Decorations are gorgeous. Polite and helpful staff. Would definitely recommend if looking for a quiet place to get work done. Walking distance from places to get oil change.

Vi
Review №52

Great coffee and atmosphere and good service. Lots of good options

Ju
Review №53

This was my first time at this location, and like the original location in Greer it did not disappoint. The staff was great, very helpful and didnt make me feel rushed as I was trying to order to-go drinks for family at home. Love their new beans that theyre roasting themselves (never liked Counter Culture Coffee). Drinks were of course delicious. The dangerous part for me is that its so close to work! Will definitely be back.

Ka
Review №54

Ive only been there once...so far. I got a dark sipping chocolate with caramel drizzle. It was insanely good and my life is changed forever. Definitely a drink for special occasions! The place was cute and staff friendly too!

jo
Review №55

So, I visited 3 locations by accident to meet a friend who only thought there was one location and for whatever reason even with clicking the direct address it took me to the wrong location Waze maps was acting up.The environment is a bit relaxed but has more of a student/professional vibe for more of lounging and getting work done. Not really my scene but I enjoyed the staff and coffee.

Ke
Review №56

Best coffee in Durham. Wonderful coffee educated staff that serve a great variety of drinks.

Ri
Review №57

Im going to be one of the few dissenters for this establishment. Yes it is supporting local. I also think the coffee, while good, was overpriced for what it is and the place seemed more pretentious than hip. Or it might be an age thing with me leaving the hip category a decade ago. This place is still worth a try though.

pi
Review №58

Great find for my cousin and her friend they like it here. Went to duke garden and was looking for a coffee nearby cause we didnt have much time and found this. The coffee is good.

An
Review №59

Still great.

Li
Review №60

I am so glad I found this place!The atmosphere is one of the first things I notice about new places and this one definitely did not disappoint. Everything from the light fixtures to the little tables and benches gave off really chill vibes. Great for relaxing with a book and sipping some coffee.I had an iced mocha and it was delicious! I also really liked that they gave the option of getting your coffee in a glass or a plastic cup. As someone passionate about environmental sustainability, that gave this place some bonus points in my book!

An
Review №61

I love the hot chocolate here! This location is smaller and more crowded in my opinion compared to the other locations. While its a great place to enjoy a hot mug, and the decor is unique, I prefer the less crowded location on Chapel Hill St, with more proper tables and chairs.

Je
Review №62

Cocoa Cinnamon is our must visit coffee shop in Durham! Delicious coffee/pastries and great neighborhood vibe. Espresso drinks are on point and drip coffee is excellent as well.

Je
Review №63

I very quickly became a regular here! They have incredible hot chocolate. The coffee is great too. The baristas can always give you a good recommendation. I really like the atmosphere at this location. The only negative is that it could use a few more power outlets for customers who bring in computers to sit and work.

Ma
Review №64

Im hoping this is a temporary review and that Ill see improvements, in which case Ill glad leave a better one.Ive gone twice now. Yesterday, the woman behind the counter was really struggling with the register and tried to charge me $15 for Big Spoon Nut Butter Bar that turned out to be really stale (I eat them frequently and know the desired consistency). I had to insist that it couldnt be that much and she did get help and corrected it. The total, with a 12-oz soy latte came to 8 dollars and change, which I expected.When I went this morning, she had less difficulty, but charged me $9.14 for the same order. Despite trying a different flavor, the Big Spoon Nut Butter Bar was again really stale.There isnt the wait that there is at the Geer Street location which prevents me from going there, but they definitely need more time to get it together. It may be en vogue in the downtown area to wait for up to ~30 minutes for a coffee, but Ill gladly hang with the less in crowd and go to a more efficient, albeit less tasty venue, in which Ill wait for up to half the time.I know the name is well established and the downtown location is super popular, and theres no denying their coffee is amazing, but I hope my experiences arent a sign of complacency on their part. If so, they just might struggle to get this location off the ground. I, for one, will wait some months before trying it again.

Ju
Review №65

Fun and quirky coffee shop putting out a variety of drinks, not just coffee. They also have pastries, too. I also believe they are women owned!

Er
Review №66

Yummy drinking chocolates and delicious churros! Thanks for offering vegan options!! Atmosphere is casual and fun. Love it!

Ca
Review №67

Cocoa Cinnamon is my favorite cafe in the triangle! I just wish it was in Raleigh! By far the best drinks you can find in our area, with a rotating eclectic seasonal menu. Love the locally sourced pastries as well.

Mi
Review №68

Well crafted drinks, with attention to detail, love how the drinks allude to historical events and spice origins. Amazing hand pours and friendly crew. Good atmosphere, music and blind date or study spot

Ja
Review №69

Had my first macchiato here, and, as a fan of straight espresso, I wasnt sure what Id think of it. It was delicious (and pretty).The spicy drinking chocolate was a godsend on a cold November morning. This place was the perfect start to my day.

pi
Review №70

I used to love this place but my last visit stopped me from going there. I ordered a cacao drink with macadamia milk but tasted sort of sour. I informed the lady there but she gave me an attitude and saying you asked for macadamia milk. Just like that.

Me
Review №71

Great pastries and wide variety of coffee and hot cocoa. Staff super nice!

Be
Review №72

Very nice, funky coffee shop. For true coffee lovers.

Am
Review №73

I absolutely love this place, although I dont drink coffee Ive heard from my dad and uncle that the coffee isnt exactly top notch, and the music is a bit loud but honestly this is such an amazing coffee shop, the workers and the owner are all super nice, if you ever happen to run into the owner you should have a conversation with him you wont be disappointed.

Am
Review №74

Delicious coffee and treats-pastries and cakes and such. They always offer vegan items and go beyond your typical coffee house drinks. Awesome decor and atmosphere for studying, working, or catching up with friends and wonderful staff!

No
Review №75

What a great little local coffee/tea shop. This is not a Starbucks and if you think you are going to get that here... well you arent. They are doing things no one else is doing. Go there and be adventurous.

Pr
Review №76

Very nice ambience, clean and friendly staff! Enjoyed the chai latte sitting outside along with my little boys. Best coffee shop to get in if you are near Duke Gardens...

An
Review №77

I love the atmosphere but not enough outlets for everyone to hook up laptops. Not enough parking either.

Co
Review №78

Unique treats as well as well-done classics. Nice open-air seating if the weather is good. One of currently three locations. This one did not have fresh churros.

Br
Review №79

Great coffee in a cute little neighborhood. Outside the bustle of downtown and better parking than at their other location. Not a ton of tables for working, but lots of great outdoor seating to sit and chat

Ni
Review №80

I am extremely disappointed with the service provided at this location. The first time I came here I was given my hot chocolate in a ceramic cup with no handle. This time I came I mistakenly ordered a drink with espresso and did not remember to ask for it without espresso. My mistake, completely. When I went to ask the barista if I could have my drink made without it because I don’t drink coffee and I didn’t realize that it came with it she picked up a bottle of Izzie and said “so you want this? It’s literally just this..” why shame me? If that is what the drink is without it then yes! For the price of the drink and it apparently just being a soda y’all made a great profit so just give me my $5 soda then! They also forgot my husbands order and after 20 minutes he went up and had to tell them what he ordered. I am very disappointed in my experience here and I will only go to the other locations because I get a whole other world of service there. Sad because I live closest to this one.

Je
Review №81

Good coffee, friendly staff. Loved the art and design of the place. Only bad thing were the flies, they were all over inside.

Da
Review №82

I like the beverages here and their quality is worth the price. My only issue is with the size and accessibility. It can get very noisy and cramped because it’s a small space, and the parking area is very narrow and small.

Th
Review №83

Still requiring masks.

M
Review №84

Don’t know how I feel about this place. The decor is very cute and homey but right when I walked in, there’s a bunch of college students On their phones/laptops who all looked up and gave my toddler son a dirty look even though he was being quiet/calm. Seems Like kids aren’t welcomed. I thought that was weird lol. I ordered the Dr. Durham iced coffee and it tasted really strong like nothing sweet was added. The last part of it was really salty, don’t know why there was so much salt at the end. The employees don’t greet you at the register, they don’t say hi or anything. It wasn’t the most welcoming visit, the drink was just okay, the pastries are pretty good.

Ca
Review №85

This was our first time here, friendly staff, and really interesting options. We werent too adventurous this time, we had a mocha-ish latte and caramel-ish latte, both were bery good.

Mi
Review №86

Nice stop for a great hit of caffeine! Lots of flavor choices and options for beans, iced or hot - Espresso to drip or pour over coffee...

Br
Review №87

Maybe my least favorite of the three cocoa cinnamons just because of the lack of couches. I respect the aesthetic of this location, just not a great sit-down-and-relax venue. As always, coffee is un(matcha)ed.

Sa
Review №88

Had a Chai latte, was delicious. Very cozy atmosphere. I highly recommend this place, you will not regret stopping.

Ti
Review №89

The beat coffee I have ever tasted.

eg
Review №90

Great drinks and great people!

Mi
Review №91

Great neighborhood coffee shop in a new and beautiful location. Coffee always tastes great and the staff does a fantastic job of handling orders and making you feel welcome. I love their chai latte with an espresso shot

Ju
Review №92

What an awesome coffeeshop. I love their seating and deco. My latte was great as well.

Al
Review №93

I have been a regular here for over a year and have nothing but great things to say about this place. The coffee and sipping chocolate are amazing. The atmosphere is cozy. The staff is great. Always friendly and knowledgeable despite having to deal with massive crowds. Be advised this place is very very popular and at peak times getting parking or seating can be a challenge. Its a small building that draws a big crowd. If you have a group of three or more, chances are you will have to sit on the picnic tables outside.

Ke
Review №94

Great place but parking is tough 😁

Ry
Review №95

One of the best coffee shops in have been to on the East Coast. Absolutely amazing drinking chocolate.

Eb
Review №96

This place is def a vibe!! Great authentic coffee!

Jo
Review №97

The service was nice but SO slow. Our drinks were incorrect and not very tasty.

An
Review №98

A great local coffee shop! The tea drinks are tasty, and the prices are exactly where is expect them. DEFINITELY worth checking out!

Ma
Review №99

Quaint interior, doesnt look terribly comfortable, unless you really like to be close to other people; but I got my beverage to go.But the important part, the coffee, very tasty!

Ke
Review №100

SO yummy -- the word magical was definately used while eating the churros!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:2627 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC 27705, United States
  • Site:https://cocoacinnamon.com/
Categories
  • Coffee shop
Working hours
  • Monday:7AM–6PM
  • Tuesday:7AM–6PM
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:8AM–7:30PM
  • Friday:8AM–6PM
  • Saturday:8AM–6PM
  • Sunday:7AM–6PM
From the business
  • Identifies as women-led:Yes
Service options
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • Takeout:Yes
  • Delivery:No
  • Dine-in:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great coffee:Yes
  • Great tea selection:Yes
Popular for
  • Solo dining:Yes
  • Good for working on laptop:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot:Yes
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom:Yes
  • Wheelchair accessible seating:Yes
Offerings
  • Coffee:Yes
  • Organic dishes:Yes
  • Prepared foods:Yes
Dining options
  • Breakfast:Yes
  • Dessert:Yes
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restroom:Yes
  • Wi-Fi:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Cozy:Yes
Crowd
  • College students:Yes
  • Family-friendly:Yes
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
Planning
  • LGBTQ friendly:Yes
Payments
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
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