When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Morning Times
Why Morning Times is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Morning Times is a popular café located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, ideal for meeting up with friends for a casual and enjoyable breakfast or coffee outing. With its spacious indoor seating and inviting outdoor tables, the café provides a comfortable atmosphere, whether you're looking to relax indoors or enjoy the fresh air outside. Morning Times offers a good variety of breakfast foods known for their quality and consistency, making it a great spot to start your day or take a midday break. The café is well-liked for its friendly and approachable staff, fast service despite busy hours, and a bustling environment that attracts locals and visitors alike. Located centrally, it fits perfectly into a day of exploring downtown Raleigh or a convenient stop during routine errands.
Here's what people think of Morning Times
As of recent, Morning Times holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1860 reviews.
Customer reviews of Morning Times consistently emphasize the quality of the food, particularly breakfast items, and the café’s friendly atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight the spacious seating, both indoors and outdoors, the prompt service even during peak times, and the café’s location as a major draw for visitors. Many patrons appreciate the vibrant downtown setting and consider it a reliable spot for a good meal and coffee. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention early closing hours and average coffee quality, suggesting that while the food stands out, the coffee may not always meet every customer's expectations. Additionally, occasional comments point out minor inconveniences such as the need to sign receipts instead of using contactless payments. Overall, the largely favorable reviews underscore Morning Times as a welcoming and enjoyable café with excellent breakfast options and a lively but comfortable setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ridin’ Dirty Outdoors
So this place has a cool aesthetic and a low key type of vibe. The food and coffee aren’t really the best. It’s decent enough that you won’t leave hungry but nothing to say “wow that was good”. The food comes out visually appealing but my meal and wife’s burrito just fell flat on actual flavor.
Grace Bowen
Stopped here this morning on our way out of Raleigh and it was a great start to our morning! Got the Chai latte and tuna melt and they were fabulous. I get nervous about ordering Chais at smaller coffee shops because they differ in taste so much but they nailed it here. The tuna melt was perfect and the tots were crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. The service was fast and there was a clear sense of community at the establishment. Would definitely come back again.
Reema Bhattacharya
It was an unplanned visit this morning. But I was pleasantly impressed with the place. When I see a coffee shop have lines out the door it makes me happy (when I m not in a rush of course) - showing it’s a good place for coffee!! And it most definitely didn’t disappoint. I went upstairs, opened my laptop and ordered my food online - just to skip the crazy lines. Picked it up a few minutes later and enjoyed the chicken biscuit with a warm cup of coffee!! No fancy plates for me but that did no difference to the taste! Will definitely go again.
Lauren Ann
We came and here and they were very accommodating. We ordered a parfait for our baby and he’s under one so we asked them not to add the honey. The biscuit and omelet were fantastic and much larger than expected. The coffee and hot chocolate was the perfect temperature. I love that they steamed the milk for the hot chocolate and it wasn’t a powder mix with hot water. We can’t wait to visit again.
Jonathan Herbin
Good place for breakfast, coffee, and lunch. The space in front of the register can be a little tight when busy but the lines moves pretty quickly. Order your food at the register. If you're eating in, they give you a table marker with an Uno Card for a server to bring you your food. We a ordered the Ruben sandwich, chips, corn beef and hash. The food was pretty good. The honey sriacha sauce that comes with the cornbeef and hash was delicious. There was plenty of seating upstairs and outside. We will return.
How to reach Morning Times
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Why Morning Times may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Morning Times with your friends?
Meeting friends for a casual and memorable gathering is both an art and a pleasure when you choose the right venue, and Morning Times in downtown Raleigh is an outstanding choice for this. Boasting a solid 4.5-star rating from over 1800 reviews, this coffee shop and gallery offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that fits perfectly with socializing and catching up. The location’s charm lies in its blend of excellent local coffee, tasty food offerings, and a unique artistic touch in the upstairs gallery space, creating a well-rounded experience for diverse groups. Whether you’re early risers craving an energizing breakfast or evening seekers wanting a quiet place for wine and dessert, Morning Times adapts to the time of day with warmth and style. It is more than just a coffee shop; it encourages community connection through good food, beverage, and art. Its prime downtown Raleigh location makes it accessible and an ideal first stop or destination point for groups looking to enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant social experience in an inviting urban setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Morning Times?
Morning Times offers a range of activities that cater to friends and family looking for a versatile meetup spot. First and foremost, the coffee shop is renowned for its excellent menu that covers breakfast staples like loaded grits, bagels, biscuit sandwiches, muffins, and scones—all perfect for sharing in a group setting. These food options are complemented by high-quality Counter Culture coffee, famously brewed by a skilled barista team, ensuring refreshing and energizing beverages for all tastes. During lunch hours, groups can enjoy savory items like the famous tuna salad or apple and brie sandwiches, which provide tasty and convenient meals whether you dine indoors or al fresco at the sidewalk tables. The outdoor tables also make for a lively yet comfortable environment for chatting and unwinding amidst downtown Raleigh’s bustle. Later in the day, Morning Times transforms with offerings of wine and dessert, ideal for more intimate or relaxed evening gatherings, allowing groups to linger and enjoy a calming ambiance.
Why is Morning Times perfect for a group meetup?
Morning Times excels as a social hub mainly because of its spacious seating arrangements and the versatile layout that accommodates small and larger groups with ease. The upstairs gallery space adds an artistic dimension to your meetup by showcasing monthly featured artists, giving attendees a cultural experience alongside their meal or coffee—this adds unique conversation starters and an engaging environment unlike typical coffee shops. The capacity and flow of the space make it easy for groups to settle in without feeling cramped, ensuring everyone can be part of the conversation comfortably. Its prime location in downtown Raleigh adds to its convenience, with easy accessibility by foot, car, or public transit. The friendly but not overly boisterous staff create a welcoming atmosphere that balances professionalism with casual camaraderie, enhancing the overall experience for group visitors. In addition, the mix of morning, daytime, and evening availability allows meetups to happen at any part of the day, catering to different schedules and moods.
What makes the food and beverages at Morning Times stand out?
The food and beverage quality at Morning Times is a top reason why it ranks highly as a meetup spot. Their breakfast offerings, especially the loaded grits and biscuit sandwiches, are praised for their generous portions and authentic Southern flavors that appeal to a wide palette. Pastries like muffins and scones provide sweet, fresh-baked options that are great for sharing or for those craving a lighter bite. Coupled with expertly prepared local Counter Culture coffee, every sip complements the meal, making the café a preferred choice for true coffee lovers. Lunchtime items, such as their well-known tuna salad and apple and brie sandwiches, offer a balanced and flavorful alternative to heavier meals, suitable for daytime catch-ups or business-style meetups. For evening visitors, the availability of wine and dessert broadens the appeal, transforming the café into a cozy spot for winding down. The consistency and quality of the menu contribute to the establishment’s strong reputation and keep customers returning.
How does the ambiance and setting enhance group experiences at Morning Times?
The ambiance at Morning Times is carefully curated to promote relaxation, interaction, and enjoyment, making it ideal for group socializing. The setting combines the energy of downtown Raleigh with a calm, artisanal vibe inside the coffee shop and gallery. The spacious interior with large windows fills the space with natural light by day, while soft lighting creates warmth in the evenings. Seating ranges from communal tables to quieter spots, allowing groups to choose their preferred level of intimacy or social buzz. The presence of art in the upstairs gallery provides a sophisticated backdrop that stimulates conversation and cultural appreciation among visitors. Outdoor sidewalk seating invites guests to enjoy the cityscape while engaging with friends in a more casual and dynamic environment. Staff members maintain a professional yet friendly service style, ensuring efficient service without disrupting the calm, allowing groups to focus on their time together.
What practical considerations make Morning Times convenient for hosting meetups?
Morning Times benefits from its strategic downtown location at 10 E. Hargett St., making it highly accessible for locals and visitors alike. The café opens early, catering to morning commuters as well as later crowds, with extended hours until 10 PM on most days, except for a slightly later start on weekends. This flexibility makes planning meetups easier around work schedules and personal commitments. The establishment’s capacity and layout reduce the usual hustle and wait times experienced in busy urban cafés by offering seating both indoors and outdoors, as well as a spacious upstairs area. Although it experiences consistent traffic, the service is known to be quick, minimizing disruptions during busy times. For those concerned about payment convenience, Morning Times offers standard payment options, facilitating a smooth transaction experience for groups. The combination of seating, parking access nearby, and responsive staff enhances the convenience for any group's planned or spontaneous gatherings.
How does Morning Times support community and cultural engagement?
Morning Times is more than a coffee shop; it serves as a local cultural hub, demonstrated through its gallery that features rotating monthly exhibitions by artists from the Raleigh area. This commitment to supporting local art and culture provides visitors with a unique atmosphere where social interaction is enriched with creativity and visual engagement. This setting encourages communities to come together not only over food and drink but also shared cultural experiences. The café hosts visitors at all times of the day, fostering a diverse clientele from early morning commuters to evening art appreciators, making it a melting pot of local culture and lifestyles. This community-oriented approach enhances the appeal for groups who value a venue that offers more than just a place to eat or drink but also a space to explore and celebrate local talent. It reinforces social bonds and stimulates meaningful conversations beyond the usual café chatter.
What customer feedback reveals about Morning Times’ strengths?
With a highly favorable rating averaging 4.5 stars from over 1800 reviews, customer feedback highlights several strengths that make Morning Times a standout destination. Patrons frequently praise the quality and taste of the food, especially the breakfast and lunch items, and commend the coffee for its rich and satisfying flavor. The ambiance consistently receives positive remarks, especially the spaciousness, both inside and outside, and the attractive gallery setting upstairs, which enriches the overall experience. Reviewers appreciate the professionalism and friendliness of the staff who manage to balance hospitable service without intrusiveness, contributing to a comfortable environment. The venue’s prime downtown location is often cited as a big plus for ease of access and the lively urban feeling it offers. Some reviews mention peak times can lead to short lines, but fast service usually mitigates long waits. Overall, the customer feedback clearly positions Morning Times as a reliable and enjoyable place for social gatherings.
How does Morning Times cater to different times of day?
Morning Times shines in its adaptability throughout the day, ensuring that any meetup can fit the group's desired vibe and timing. Early morning patrons can enjoy a hearty breakfast and expertly brewed coffee to start their day energized. Midday visitors have a selection of light, healthy, and flavorful lunch options suitable for quick bites or relaxed meals, perfect for groups looking to combine social time with a nutritious break. During afternoon hours, the café atmosphere remains inviting for casual coffee breaks or informal business meetings. As the day progresses to evening, the mood shifts slightly with the addition of wine and dessert options, providing a more intimate and leisurely environment. This full-day service offering caters well to varying preferences and schedules, making Morning Times a versatile choice for meetups any time from dawn till night.
What makes Morning Times a reliable choice over other local options?
Morning Times differentiates itself from other local meeting places by combining strong culinary offerings, a rich cultural context, and a comfortable, spacious environment. The consistent high ratings and positive reviews reflect reliable quality and service, building trust among patrons. Its proximity to downtown hubs, easy accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere mean groups do not have to compromise convenience for ambiance or vice versa. The artistic gallery element also adds a layer of uniqueness not commonly found in typical coffee shops or casual restaurants. Patrons repeatedly express satisfaction with the welcoming staff and efficient service, factors critical to the success of group meetups. This blend of quality, location, ambiance, and cultural integration delivers a full service experience that stands out amid Raleigh's many options for gathering spots.
How can groups maximize their meetup experience at Morning Times?
To make the most of a gathering at Morning Times, groups should consider timing their visit during less busy hours, such as mid-mornings or late afternoons, to enjoy the spacious seating and attentive service more fully. Reserving space or arriving early for popular weekend breakfasts could circumvent waits, especially for larger parties. Exploring the art gallery upstairs as part of the visit adds a cultural enrichment to the social experience, providing diverse conversation topics. Sharing menu favorites like the loaded grits or apple and brie sandwiches encourages a communal dining style that enhances bonding and enjoyment. Taking advantage of outdoor seating in pleasant weather adds a lively, refreshing dimension to the meetup. Overall, thoughtful planning around these features will allow groups to enjoy Morning Times’ unique vibe to its fullest.