Local Lion

Always a local favortie of mine that I am reluctant to share for the fear that they will get too popular! The coffee is good, I recommend getting the pour over if you have time. The donuts are too die for, the kids absolutely love the Bavarian Cream ones. A favorite trick of mine is to quickly dip the cinnamon sugar cake ones into your coffee it's a bit of heaven on earth.

Been coming here for years since the earlies! Josiah has done wonders with the place and very consistent. Smokey Mountain Bakers family recommended this place a long time ago, and it doesn't disappoint. Also, I want to give Gabby or is it Gabbie?! An awesome shout out! She was super sweet, and had great conversation with her!

Set out to try as many local Cafe as I can while in the area and Local Lion did not disappoint. Had the Blueverry Jasmine donut and Local Lotus with my Cortado. Because why not? 😎😁 The​ donut was soool yummy and the Jasmine scent really came through, yet in a sweet suttle way. The lotus was like... Imagine a donut and a cinnamon roll had a baby. Not too overly sweet. Friend staff. Quick service. Lots of seating available. Outside seating area is nice too.

I graduated AppState in 2021 and came back for a visit. The Local Lion never disappoints! The staff is always wonderful, helpful, and knowledgeable. I recommend the Bee Balm, Queen Anne's Lace, and the Turtle coffees. The Maple donuts are awesome, but the Sugar and Cinnamon donuts are the best! Very fluffy and filling! The Local Lion has a very chill atmosphere, inside and out. Completely stress free. With plenty of seating and tables, it's a calm place to work and talk. The mugs are made by an Appalachian State University allumni who graduated in 2016, who was a barista here. Very impressive craftsmanship.

The best coffee you’ll ever taste in the mountains! They roast their own beans and grind them right there for you. Plus, they whip up fresh donuts every day, and the service is top-notch. You’ve got to check out this coffee shop!