Forte Legato Coffee

Description: Specialty coffee shop focused on providing insight into the farmers, their lives, and the education of coffee WITHOUT JUDGEMENT. From savory breakfast sandwiches to our in-house bakes scones, enjoy a cup in the co-working space at 742 North and chillax to our smooth playlists.

Comments: So, I don't actually drink coffee, despite running a website that aims to have just about every coffee shop in the greater Charlotte area on it. I’m a tea guy, and this place takes tea seriously. They make their own herbal blends, and they’re incredible. The Blue Bellini is one of my favorites, but they’ve also got Hibiscus Berry, Masala Chai, Rosemary Bramble, and more. There’s even a dedicated tea menu that lists all the herbs in each blend. The respect for tea lovers here is a solid 10 out of 10. And uh, I'm sure the coffee is great too.

The space is shared with a few other businesses, including a podcast studio and a co-working area. That gives it a creative, laid-back energy. There are places to sit and work scattered throughout. I’m not totally sure where the coffee shop seating ends and the co-working space begins, but the vibe is friendly enough that I figure someone would politely point it out if you accidentally wandered into the wrong spot.

The staff is warm and genuine. It’s not the usual trendy barista scene with cool tattoos, nose rings, perfectly tousled hair, and the silent judgment of your drink order. No shade to those folks, but this crew feels different. They seem like they’re from Rock Hill, and that local, grounded energy stands out in a region packed with transplants.