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| - Charlotte is now home to a few coffeeshops with grassroots character. I don't know that I'd call C&D grassroots, since it's heavily tied to the Marriott, but they show promise for sure. I certainly keep them in play on my coffeehouse rotation.
The biggest thing going for them is their location. You can't really beat the exposure offered from the Trade and Tryon intersection, and the space is massive for a coffeeshop. They made great use of natural light via floor to ceiling storefront windows. There is a second, loft-style, level with overlook seating, and of course, the infamous "stadium seating." The stadium seating is nothing more than stair stepped bench levels that offer a grand seating area with various coffeehouse-esk pillows and cushions strewn about. Works for me.
The menu is limited and offers no blended type beverages, so if you're looking for a frappuccino, step on around the corner to the nearby buck stop. They do offer some deli style sandwiches and such in their readymade cooler. In addition you'll find quirky snacks and a variety of bottled beverages.
There is a book swapping station. Take one, leave one if you will. There are also a few giftable items for purchase. If you wander around the corner towards the back of the bar area, there are larger tables for sharing that are a bit more private. Up front there's one large community table beneath the large, suspended projection television.
I don't think the coffee is the greatest in the world, but it's not horrible either. They offer a frequent punch card, and it's a great mobile working spot. The Wi-Fi is one and the same as that of the Marriott, but it is free. The backside of the space opens up directly into the Marriott lobby, and is the only outlet to a restroom, as the space does not have its own designated bathroom.
Each time I've visited, I've seen more and more people taking advantage of the space. It's definitely worth checking out.
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