Welcome to the Small Surprise Spotlight, presented by Alamance County Visitors Bureau. We’re uncovering hidden gems in Alamance County that might be closer than you think!

This month’s feature is Filament Coffee, a delightful coffee shop in downtown Mebane. Adalyn Whittaker, owner of Filament, recently shared more about her business in the Small Surprise Spotlight on 97.9 The Hill:

 

1. How did you get started as a business owner? What made you want to open Filament Coffee?

I worked in coffee shops all through high school and college. I fell in love with how coffee brings people together. My favorite memories are of catching up with old friends over a coffee or over a hot cup of tea. Filament is named after the part of a lightbulb that forces it to give off light. I wanted filament to be a light in our community. I wanted Filament to be a place for people to connect and be encouraged.

2. Why was Alamance County the best location when you decided to open your business?

I couldn’t imagine being anywhere other than Mebane. I grew up here, I went to school here and I love this community. The charm of Mebane is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been. It’s truly southern hospitality at its greatest. In Mebane, everyone cares for everyone, which has made for the best community that is supportive and welcoming.

3. What do you think is the most unique thing about your business? What makes you different?

Our staff cares about everyone that walks in the doors. Our goal is to remember faces, names, and stories. We just love how our employees become such good friends with all the customers and how we get to celebrate their lives with them! Our team is also filled with creative minds that all help come up with some crazy drinks, like adding house made flavors like pear and ginger to lattes!

4. If someone was taking a day trip to Alamance County, other than stopping by for coffee at Filament, what would you recommend they do?

Mebane has some awesome parks! Lake Michael is one of my favorites. You can rent a paddle boat for a few dollars and take a fishing pole. There are also so many amazing small businesses downtown from locally made ice cream to antiques, clothing, home décor and restaurants. The Mebane antique auction is another favorite of mine. You can see some amazing pieces of local history and

5. What’s something about Alamance County that most people don’t know?

Alamance county is perfectly nestled between big cities, but we have so much here as well! From walking trails at local parks to historic downtowns, Alamance is a hidden gem. Something that I love learning about is the Native Americans from this area. Many of our city names pay tribute to local tribes. Supposedly, the name “Alamance” is derived from a native word meaning “blue clay” from the Alamance creek.

6. What is your favorite thing on the Filament Coffee menu?

I have so many favorite drinks but I think my ultimate go to is our house latte called “The Filament”. It’s lightly sweetened with honey and then spiced with cinnamon, ginger, clove and nutmeg. It serves well with our scones!

7. How do you hope to see your business grow?

I hope that we continue to be able to serve our community by offering a place for people to come and rest. Continue to build relationships with the community and have a positive impact.

For more on Filament Coffee, visit their website or follow them on Instagram! The next time you’re visiting Alamance County, be sure to grab a coffee or tea from Filament Coffee in the heart of downtown Mebane to sip while you shop & stroll.

The Small Surprise Spotlight is made possible by Alamance Counties Visitors Bureau. The towns and villages of Alamance County are full of small surprises – amazing restaurants, beautiful green spaces, unique art, and much more. Which hidden gem will you uncover first?

Hear October’s Small Surprise Spotlight below.

 

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