Historic Venue Overview

Coffee Underground is a beloved Greenville institution that has been serving the community since 1995. Located just 14 steps down from Main Street at the corner of Coffee and Main this underground cafe has become a cultural landmark in downtown Greenville. The venue combines the ambiance of a cozy coffee house with a thriving performance space.

Poetry and Performance Programming

Coffee Underground is home to Wits End Poetry the longest-running poetry open mic in the Upstate and throughout South Carolina celebrating over 20 years of poetry programming. Say What Open Mic takes place every Sunday at 7:30 PM (doors at 7 PM) featuring a full night of open mic slots for local poets on a first-come first-serve basis. The venue has become nationally recognized with the Greenville Slam Team ranked 8th in the nation. Beyond poetry the theater room hosts weekly stand-up comedy improv sketch performances and features from local songwriters. The venue also presents TedX Salons independent film screenings and touring comics from around the world.

Cafe Experience

Specializing in homemade desserts and delicious coffees using beans roasted on premises Coffee Underground serves an all-day breakfast and lunch menu. The cafe offers specialty coffee drinks frozen espresso drinks teas and a full menu of breakfast items sandwiches salads and decadent desserts. Sunday brunch is a popular tradition. The cafe also serves beer wine and cocktails creating a complete dining and entertainment experience.

Atmosphere and Culture

The underground location creates an intimate bohemian atmosphere with eclectic seating including cozy couches tables and chairs. The venue attracts a diverse crowd from laptop users and book readers to families and performers. Local art adorns the walls and the space has a unique character that sets it apart from typical coffee shops. Coffee Underground has established itself as a true cultural hotspot where creativity community and quality refreshments come together.