Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe - A Hip and Casual Coffee Shop with Creative Drinks
Local Expert's Rating:
4.5 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe is a small place with a variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, and smoothies. Whether you're looking for a specialty latte, a fruity blend, or even a scoop of ice cream, the menu has something for everyone. Stop by for pastries, Italian sodas, or frappés, and enjoy the fast and friendly service in an inviting atmosphere. 

- The SmokyMountains.com Local Expert Team

Located next to Appalachian State University, Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe caters to a diverse customer base. While some customers come in for the pure black coffee, others love the specialty drinks, snacks, and desserts. The fresh beans, pastries, and breakfast fare are enough to get people excited for the morning again. 

Whether you come in to wake up for a mid-afternoon boost, you can typically find something for everyone. There are plenty of sweet options for those who crave a little chocolate or fruit with their coffee, alongside more straightforward roasts. You’ll see tourists come in to linger or college students studying for their next big test. Of course, you’ll probably see just as many college students rushing to make it to their next class!

Cute and cozy with enough tables and chairs for a small crowd, you may have to make contingency plans if you stop by on a busy day. The employees are polite and fast, making it easy to get in and out if you’re on a tight timeline for your next destination. Plus, the staff often switches up the menu, giving customers more reasons to stop by and see what’s new.

Higher Grounds specializes in the following menu items:

London Fog 
London Fogs are made with Earl Grey Tea and milk, and they’re one of the most comforting drinks you can have if you’re not a devoted coffee lover. Even if you are a big fan of coffee, you might just find that the addition of lavender or vanilla pairs well with the drink’s citrus flavor. 

Ghirardelli Mocha
When coffee is combined with chocolate, the results are too good to resist. Ghirardelli is a fan favorite for a reason. Since 1852, the company has managed to expand from a small chocolate company to one of the most famous names in the world. When you take a sip of this mocha, you’ll notice the flavor elevation immediately. 

Cookies and Cream Frappe 
A cookies and cream frappe is an especially memorable drink on warm days, and Higher Grounds happens to make one of the better versions in the area. The classic cookie crumble and rich cream blend perfectly with the coffee flavors. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up, any of the shoppe’s frappes would be a great choice. 

Affogato 
The quality ice cream and two shots of espresso make some very bold flavors, regardless of when you order this classic Italian treat. The bitterness of the espresso swimming in the sweet ice cream will perk you up immediately. Customers rave over the ice cream here, making it a good choice just on its own. 

Banana Strawberry Smoothie 
Higher Grounds calls their smoothies ‘stupid good’ for a reason — they manage to take the fan favorite to a new level. When strawberries and bananas are already so beloved together, this smoothie is a great way to get more fruit into your diet while still having a satisfying breakfast. 

Coffee shops are more than just convenient places to wake up in the morning. They often help people develop and stick with a comforting routine that becomes a central part of their day. At Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe, you’ll find a menu and staff that cater to families, couples, professionals, and college students alike.

Insider Tips:
-The shop offers free Wi-Fi.
-Check the shoppe’s Instagram page for new menu announcements.
-Pastry selections vary so get there early for the pick of the litter.