Recess Coffee and Baked Goods is a locally-owned, beloved coffee shop nestled by the railroad tracks in downtown Black Mountain, North Carolina. It’s just minutes from Montreat and about 15-20 minutes from Asheville and known not just for its coffee menu but specialty pastries and bread and unique school-theme.
The first time I visited this Black Mountain coffee shop was to meet up with a friend and coworker who was in town visiting family in Montreat. She asked if I had been to Recess, and when I said no, insisted that we check it out (this friend also introduced me to Robert Lake Park, she’s a real one).
What a fun surprise it was to see that the coffee shop is school-themed! As a former teacher and someone who still works closely with school workers, I am a big fan of school. My kids were with me and they immediately locked eyes with the bleachers and started climbing up and down. Every time I go, I notice something new (psst…check out what the pastry case is sitting on).
Unique Drinks and Fresh Baked Goods
Recess Coffee and Baked Goods goes well beyond the typical light pastries found in most coffee shops and offers delicious and artistic creations. The croissants and eclairs and breads are often seasonal – so you’ve got to snag one before they’re gone. The same goes for the Recess coffee menu – a strong base menu that has a rotation of specialty drinks.
@rundainwnc I definitely recommend making a longer itinerary if you’re going to Recess for coffee, there are so many fun shops and galleries in downtown Black Mountain! #blackmountain #asheville #828isgreat #westernnorthcarolina #coffee ♬ original sound – Runda in WNC
That first experience was so bright – I remember sitting in the warm sun on the patio catching up with my friend while the kids drew on the concrete with sidewalk chalk. The patio door opened and what surprise and delight I felt at the giant croissant with gold flakes!
Parking at Recess Coffee in Black Mountain
There are a few spots beside Recess to park and street parking. However, if you’re like me and find street parking anxiety-inducing, I recommend trying to snag a spot on Sutton Avenue either in front of the old rail car or the small lot across from the train tracks and then walking over.
Patio Seating, Kids, and Dog-Friendly Space
Recess Coffee and Baked Goods has an outdoor patio with seating and a small patch of grass. There’s usually a water bowl for dogs, too. My kids love to run around out there and draw with chalk. Inside, there’s a shelf of games and the big star for the kids – bleachers!
What’s your favorite treat or drink from Recess? Let me know in the comments!
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