Higher Grounds by Manolo's

Description: We serve non-profit Colombian coffee, delicious pastries, artisan gelato, and grab & go food. Our focus is on outreach and serving the community.

Comments: Calming, serene, clean vibes. Plenty of seating, and it’s spread out nicely. It doesn’t feel cramped at all. They make excellent use of what is a pretty large space for a coffee shop. Most of the seating is against a wall, so you’ve got something solid on one side to anchor you. There’s probably some kind of psychology behind how sitting with a wall nearby makes you feel safer, cozier, more nestled in. It’s newer and spotless as a result. Immaculate, really.

It’s inside Myers Park United Methodist Church, but it’s its own thing. Manolo’s is a Latin bakery in Charlotte, and this is their expansion into the coffee shop world. It’s their space, but it's clearly faith friendly and loved by the church.

Top tier spot to get some work done. They close in the early afternoon though, so plan accordingly. Seating is placed smartly with good access to outlets. There's artwork everywhere, and you’ll find outlets in most corners if you look. There’s also a long table down a hallway for group work and even a bookable conference room. Fast and free Wi-Fi. Gelato, pastries, coffee, and what makes me happiest, loose leaf herbal teas. Not bagged. Properly steeped. The Cherry Green is my favorite.

Parking can get tight during peak hours since it shares space with the church, but there’s overflow parking across the street. And a bonus, the Harris Teeter near here is two levels and has a huge patio on the second floor. It runs the length of the building and has plenty of seating and a wine bar. It’s popular with Myers Park soccer moms and book clubs, but I’ve posted up there solo to read a few times. A hidden gem.