We’re back for round three, and we’ve brewed up something special just for you!
After hearing your recommendations, we knew we had to dive deeper into Blount County’s beloved coffee spots. Your favorites are becoming ours, and we can’t wait to share the latest lineup. So grab your cup, settle in, and let’s explore more of what makes our local coffee scene so special! Starting with…
Let’s face it—there’s just something about stepping into a coffee house that feels like coming home. And at Southern Grace Coffee Co., that feeling isn’t just a metaphor—it’s reality.
Housed in a charming, two-story home in the heart of Maryville, Southern Grace offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or working solo in one of their cozy, private rooms. Each space feels personal, inviting, and full of warmth. When I spoke with one of their baristas, she shared what truly makes Southern Grace special.
According to her, the café isn’t just about coffee; it’s about community. At Southern Grace, the focus is on creating a space where people can slow down, connect, and savor life’s simple moments, with their love for Jesus at the core of everything they do.
Of course, as a coffee enthusiast, I couldn’t leave without a few recommendations. Whether you go for the Southern Grace, their signature mocha, or the Dragon, a bold blend of maple, molasses, brown sugar, and cinnamon, you’re in for a treat that lives up to its name.
In my opinion, Southern Grace Coffee Co. embodies the very definition of a coffee house. When you imagine the perfect spot to sip coffee, gather with friends, and feel at peace, Southern Grace is exactly the place that comes to mind. They prioritize people first, with coffee as the perfect companion.
Next up on our coffee journey is Towns End Coffee Co. Tucked away in the scenic mountains of Townsend, Towns End Coffee Co. is more than just a coffee house—it’s a hidden gem. Offering espressos, cold brew, tea, and light brunch options, this cozy spot doubles as a gift shop, adding a little extra charm to your coffee run.
Curious about what makes Towns End stand out, I asked our friendly barista for the inside scoop. She explained, “Our owner is originally from Oklahoma, so we source our coffee from a roaster she knows out there. What really sets us apart is our wide variety of signature drinks. Some places only offer a couple of options, but here, you’ve got so many to choose from!”
And she wasn’t wrong. Their menu has something for everyone, and I got a taste of both a seasonal favorite and a year-round classic. My personal pick? The Oatmeal Cookie latte—so popular, they keep it on the menu all year. It’s a delicious mix of white chocolate, caramel, cinnamon, and honey. If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the Pumpkin Bread Latte, a fan-favorite seasonal delight that’s like autumn in a cup…And for my Gilmore Girls fans, the drink that truly stole my heart was the Stars Hollow—a cozy blend of salted caramel, toffee, and pumpkin that tastes like the essence of fall in every sip.
But that’s not all that makes Towns End Coffee special! They were even featured in the Hallmark movie Love in the Smoky Mountains. You can actually spot some of their real-life baristas in the background—how cool is that? My experience at Towns End Coffee Co. was nothing short of perfect. From the best breakfast sandwich I’ve ever had to their welcoming crew and mountain-cozy atmosphere, I can’t wait to come back!
Our next stop brings us to The Artistic Bean in Townsend, a vibrant coffee house with a unique blend of artistry, community, and quality. It’s clear from the moment you walk in that this place is more than just a coffee shop—it’s an experience. With an open layout, a stage for live performances, and a strong sense of community, The Artistic Bean is the perfect spot for a group gathering or a cozy space to work or unwind on a Friday night.
What really sets them apart? According to our barista, it’s their commitment to roasting all of their beans in-house. “Everything is freshly roasted, usually in the mornings,” she shared. “We’ve got our own roaster in the back, so nothing comes from other coffee shops. We import our beans from Colombia and roast them right here, which means our coffee is always as fresh as it gets.”
The dedication to quality doesn’t stop there. All of their coffee is made with organic, fair-trade beans, roasted in small batches to ensure the best flavor. If that doesn’t convince you, their menu will. When I asked for recommendations, the Brown Sugar Vanilla latte came highly recommended by the staff. According to the barista, it brings out the signature flavor of their coffee, giving you that perfect cup you dream about. And for the fall season? The Maple Butter Pecan latte is an absolute must-try, made with real maple syrup for a rich, authentic taste.
For food lovers, The Artistic Bean has some standout options as well. One barista raved about their Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich, which can be served as a wrap or sandwich depending on your preference. It’s become a fan favorite, and after trying it, I can see why!
Another local favorite is the Mountain Man, a buttery blend of caramel, vanilla, and butterbeer syrup. It’s the kind of drink that feels like a treat with every sip.
My experience at The Artistic Bean was exactly what the name suggests—art meets coffee in a space that feels both creative and welcoming. Whether you’re catching a live show on their stage or just relaxing with a good book, this coffee house has something for everyone. It’s not just about the drinks and food here; it’s about the community, creativity, and connection that you feel as soon as you walk in the door.
Our final stop on this coffee journey is The Dancing Bean, located at the Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend. This coffee shop offers a unique blend of eco-conscious brewing, cozy atmosphere, and something most coffee houses can’t—spiked coffee!
When I spoke with their General Manager about what sets The Dancing Bean apart, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that they offer a full spiked coffee menu. Since they’re part of Dancing Bear Lodge, they’re able to serve alcoholic coffee drinks, giving them a unique edge in the local coffee scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a boozy brunch or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up with a twist, this feature alone sets The Dancing Bean apart from your usual coffee spots.
But that’s not all. Their eco-friendly practices also shine through. “What also helps us stand out,” the GM explained, “is our Bellwether Coffee Roaster. It’s eco-friendly, and we roast in small six-pound batches. We’re mindful of where we source our coffee—everything is sustainably sourced—and we even use the coffee by-products in our garden as compost. With our location so close to the Smoky Mountain entrance, it’s important that we’re mindful of our carbon footprint.”
And it gets better! The coffee house has recently completed renovations, expanding their interior to accommodate more guests and creating the perfect environment for those who want to work, hang out, or just enjoy a quiet morning. They’ve added some interactive features, like a bar top that overlooks the roasting room, giving guests a firsthand look at the roasting process.
During my visit, I couldn’t resist asking the team for their top menu picks. They recommended the Tom Cycling Fuel, a white chocolate raspberry drink named after a local cyclist who’s a regular at The Dancing Bean. Another fan favorite is the Black Walnut Mocha, a rich blend of praline, Ghirardelli mocha, espresso, and milk that’s perfect for anyone who loves a decadent coffee treat.
My experience at The Dancing Bean was nothing short of delightful. From their warm and welcoming staff to their unique offerings, it’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience coffee with a twist. Whether you’re stopping in for a spiked coffee or simply to enjoy the cozy mountain vibe, The Dancing Bean is the perfect way to cap off your coffee adventure.