By Angela Feng
Most Chapel Hill locals have probably heard of Carolina Coffee Shop. As the oldest restaurant in North Carolina, it has been a Chapel Hill staple for decades.
The owners of Carolina Coffee Shop have recently unveiled 1922, a new cafe right next door. The cafe was named in celebration of the restaurant’s centennial year, referring to the year Carolina Coffee Shop was opened.
Patrons can enjoy a selection of locally sourced coffee drinks and tea, as well as pastries from Ninth Street Bakery in Durham.
“For people who haven’t been to Carolina Coffee Shop before,” manager Zachary Brown said, “it can be a little confusing when they walk in and it’s more of a restaurant.”
Therefore, with all the success Carolina Coffee Shop has had in recent years, the owners decided to open a new space as a dedicated coffee shop. They wanted a place where students can grab a latte before class or enjoy a pastry while studying.
Like any other small business, 1922 faced its share of struggles in the beginning. The cafe had a prolonged opening, and the owners had some difficulty in getting the place running the way they envisioned.
“Ultimately, it’s just something that takes some time,” Brown said.
Despite the slow start, he and the other 1922 employees are excited for what’s to come.
1922 is actively working with other local businesses to expand their food menu. Supporting the local economy is at the core of their business values, and they believe in the importance of sticking to small, local suppliers.
“There are many local businesses that are very central to the culture of Chapel Hill,” Brown said, “so we want to do our part to embolden those businesses.”
The cafe sources its coffee from Carrboro Coffee Roasters. The company was chosen for their high quality products, as well as their emphasis on having a direct relationship with the people who grow their coffee.
Carrboro Coffee Roasters has both local and international farms making sure to support all of their farmers on a personal level — a value shared by the owners of 1922.
One goal of 1922 also is to support artists based in Chapel Hill and the surrounding area. The cafe plans on showcasing local artwork and photography around the shop, as well as adding a bulletin board to promote shows and performances.
Next time you’re looking to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee or a fresh pastry, be sure to check out 1922.
To visit 1922, head to 140 E Franklin Street, next door to Carolina Coffee Shop. You can also keep up with the cafe on Instagram.
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