Established in 1999 | Locally Loved | Ethically Sourced Coffee
Overview
The Dripolator Coffeehouse in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is a beloved local café that has been serving the community for over two decades. Known for its ethically sourced, house-roasted coffee and welcoming environment, it’s more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub.
| Get Directions |
|---|
| Click Here to Get Directions |
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | Dripolator Coffeehouse |
| Address | 221 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA |
| Phone | +1 828-669-0999 |
| Website | Visit Dripolator Shop (confirm current link) |
| Hours | Typically open daily (confirm current hours via website) |
| Reservation Needed | No – walk-ins welcome |
| Wi-Fi | Free for customers |
| Outdoor Seating | Yes |
| Gift Cards | Available |
| Overall Vibe | Authentic, casual, and unfussy. Emphasis on quality, welcoming atmosphere. Can get busy. Feels locally owned and personal. |
| Wait Times | May require waiting during peak hours/weekends. Service is usually efficient. Going early is recommended. |
| Must-Try Items | Dumplings (XLB, Pan-Fried Pork, Spicy Wontons), Green Onion Pancake (crispy, thin), Dan Dan Noodles. (If applicable to food menu) |
| Food Nuances | Generally consistent quality. Occasional issues (e.g., missing condiments or mixed reviews on some dishes). |
| Vegetarian/Vegan? | Yes – clearly labeled vegetarian menu; includes tofu, garlic broccoli, and other vegetable-based options. |
| Drinks | Limited beverage options. No alcohol. BYOB implied but not confirmed. |
| Take-Home Options | Frozen dumplings available for cooking at home. (If applicable) |
| Ordering System | QR code-based online ordering via Toast Tab. Bring a phone with internet/data. |
| Service Style | Friendly but minimal. No traditional servers. May need to request condiments or extras. |
| Pricing | Affordable and fair – typically $10–$30 per person. |
| Payment Info | Accepts credit cards, cash, mobile payments. Note: A 3.25% credit card fee may apply and may not be posted up front. |
| Parking | Free parking available, typically in a nearby lot. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking. |
| Location Notes | Located in downtown Black Mountain, NC – often described as a cozy local favorite with a loyal following. |
What Makes Dripolator Special?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| In-House Roasted Coffee | Beans are ethically sourced and roasted off-site to perfection. |
| Signature Beverages | Unique drinks like the Salted Caramel Latte, Golden Milk Latte, and Cubano. |
| Baked Goods | Homemade pastries with gluten-free options. |
| Smoothies & Frappes | Fresh fruit smoothies and creamy frappes made to order. |
| Welcoming Atmosphere | A cozy, eclectic vibe blending retro, hippie, and modern elements. |
| Community-Oriented | Acts as a “third place” – a relaxed social space outside home and work. |
Owners
The Dripolator was founded by Amy Vermillion in 1999 and is currently co-owned by:
- Amy Vermillion (Founder)
- Joshua Valdes (Former barista turned co-owner)
- Chris Bolick (Contractor and expansion partner)
Full Menu & Prices
Coffee
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Espresso (Double Shot) | $2.50 |
| Americano | $2.50 |
| Drip Coffee (For Here) | |
| – 10oz | $2.00 |
| – 12oz | $2.65 |
| – 16oz | $2.75 |
| – 24oz | $3.75 |
| Drip Coffee (To Go) | |
| – 10oz | $1.65 |
| – 12oz | $1.00 (Refill) |
| – 16oz | $2.00 (Refill) |
| – 24oz | $3.00 (Refill) |
| Shot in the Dark | $3.50 |
| Cold Brew Coffee | $3.50 |
| Butter Coffee (16oz) | $5.00 |
Coffee & Milk
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Cortado | $3.25 |
| Cappuccino | $3.25 |
| Latte | $4.00 |
| Breve | $4.50 |
Signature Drinks
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Mocha | $4.50 |
| Carmelatto | $4.50 |
| Café Au Lait | $2.50 / $3.25 |
| Barista’s Choice | $4.25 |
| Stress Away Latte (CBD) | $5.75 |
| Hot Chocolate | $3.95 / $4.25 |
| Drinking Chocolate | $3.50 |
| Cubano | $4.25 |
| Hazed & Infused Mocha | $4.50 |
| Golden Milk Latte | $4.75 |
| Salted Caramel Latte | $4.50 |
| Mayan Mocha | $4.50 |
| Iced Killer Bee | $4.50 |
Teas
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Chai Latte | $4.00 / $4.50 |
| London Fog | $3.75 |
| Matcha Latte | $5.50 |
| Ceremonial Matcha | $5.00 |
| Asheville Tea Co. Teas | $2.95 |
| Maté | $2.95 |
Fruit Smoothies
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Berrylicious | $5.75 |
| Goodness Greens! | $5.75 |
| Love Me Ginger | $5.75 |
| Mango Tango | $5.75 |
Frappes
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Mocha Frappe | $4.50 |
| Vanilla Bean Frappe | $4.50 |
| Caramel Frappe | $4.50 |
| Funky Monkey | $4.75 |
Milk Options
- Local Whole Milk – Grass-fed, non-GMO from Mills River Creamery
- Oatly Barista Blend – Non-dairy oat milk alternative
Summary
Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist passing through the charming town of Black Mountain, The Dripolator Coffeehouse offers a perfect place to sip, relax, and connect. With its quality drinks, friendly service, and community-driven spirit, it stands as a model example of what a modern coffeehouse should be.
Customer Feedback
Cory McClain
Local Guide · 62 reviews · 270 photos
Visited: 3 weeks ago
Price Range: $1–10
Experience:
Tried the cinnamon bun and banana cream latte. The cinnamon bun was okay, though slightly on the dry side. The banana cream latte, however, was excellent—full of bold flavor and perfect for banana fans.
Despite the café being crowded, there was no wait time, and my order was ready in about five minutes. The space was tidy, tables were clean, and the seating was comfortable without feeling cramped.
Ratings:
- Food: 3/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
Additional Notes:
- Noise Level: Quiet, conversation-friendly
- Wait Time: None
- Parking: Ample free parking available
“Would definitely stop by again for coffee when passing through Black Mountain.”
Marie Jones
3 reviews · 1 photo
Visited: 2 weeks ago
Dining Option: Dine-In
Price Range: $1–10
Experience:
Visited from Asheville and made this my first stop. Enjoyed a wonderfully crafted cortado and iced coffee. The highlight was a large, fresh croissant—flaky and buttery.
Ratings:
- Food: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
“Great experience overall—definitely planning to return.”
Blake Roche
Local Guide · 139 reviews · 500 photos
Visited: 4 months ago
Dining Option: Dine-In | Breakfast
Price Range: $1–10
Experience:
Visited daily during a trip to downtown Black Mountain. Every latte was consistently excellent, and the service was warm and friendly each time. The atmosphere is cozy with comfy couches and big windows that fill the space with light. Daily specials added a nice touch.
Ratings:
- Food: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended Drink:
- Salted Caramel Latte
Final Thoughts
The Dripolator is a local favorite in Black Mountain, delivering consistently high-quality coffee, a cozy atmosphere, and quick, friendly service. From their standout croissants to specialty lattes, this café is a must-visit whether you’re a local or just passing through.
My favorite place in the world I come here about once a week!
first time last week loved it. great coffee!!!!
i was up there the other day delivering food from boxcar in clearmount to a doctors office, health care place just up the road, so i saw this coffee shop and went it , reminded me of seattle wa. brought back lots of good thoughts. anyway the coffee was great. i bought two bags of there expresso blend, glad i did. great place.. sal