Sanctum

This place was amazingly grand & absolutely gorgeous. I fell in love the second I opened the doors. The atmosphere was amazing, service was superior, bagels were homemade piping hot, and service was superior. I couldn't believe a place like this was in the heart of Downtown Oxford. The barista Sam was awesome, he welcomed everyone that walked in and chatted with everyone at the counter. I asked him about a cortado, he explained perfectly what type of coffee it was & stated if I like strong coffee it's the one for me. He even made a heart on top of the cortado, it was absolutely amazingly delicious. This place is an absolute gem & I look forward to going back often.

Attention coffee fans! This may just be not just one of the best coffee shops in the RDU area but that I have ever visited. The local roasted coffee and tea was superb. The espresso machine is adjusted daily for the most optimal flavor. The staff are attentive and kind. The owner is a NC native and was very friendly and inviting—it felt like we were being invited into her own home. The ambiance and the decor of the old cathedral was soothing and respectful of the original building. If you are thinking about visiting, just go, you will not be disappointed.

Sanctum said “first brunch” and Chef AJ said “watch this.” I ordered the shrimp and grits and immediately forgot how to act in public. Full eye contact with the plate. No blinking. No talking. Just respect. Halfway through I realized two things: 1. This was the best shrimp and grits I’ve ever had. 2. I was not emotionally prepared for it to end. So naturally, instead of making responsible adult decisions, I panic-ordered lamb lollies to go like I was stocking up for winter. I didn’t need them. But spiritually? Critically? Life-affirmingly? I did. Chef AJ absolutely crushed it. If this is how Sanctum starts brunch, I fear for my bank account, my self-control, and gut.

Sanctum Girl’s Day Out, Too Much Fun❣️Space is stunning, staff so friendly, charcuterie, coffee, and desserts delicious! Anna, Sam, Adam, Daniel took great care of us. We laughed too loud, ate too much and are heading back asap!

Sanctum is such a unique and beautifully designed space. The original stained glass windows are so special and the coffee and homemade bagels are delicious! Every little touch that the owners put thought into was well executed, down to the handmade plates and mugs by the owner herself. Seeing this place be repurposed into something great for the community has been awesome. ❤️