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Welcome to Gray Owl Coffee

At Gray Owl Coffee, community and sustainability blend seamlessly with exceptional flavor. Located in Norman, OK, this worker-owned coffee shop emphasizes inclusivity, offering a range of vegan options and eco-friendly practices, including compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. Patrons can savor expertly crafted lattes and pastries while enjoying the welcoming ambiance, perfect for studying or socializing. With facilities like outdoor seating and accessibility options, Gray Owl fosters a sense of belonging. The delicious beverages and warm, community-oriented vibe make every visit a comforting experience, truly making this coffee haven a local gem.

Gray Owl Coffee: Reviews & Ratings

Stephanie T.
Stephanie T.

I really like that they are worker owned and that makes me happy that I can support that when I visit. They always seem super busy with a line when I stop by. I love the huge table they have at the front- it's perfect for crafting. The coffee itself- I liked the blueberry syrup however my drink had this thick weird layer on top (I think maybe it was the soy milk curdling from the high temp?) I'll have to try it with oat milk next time. The vegan muffin was okay, not the worst but also not the best vegan baked good I've had.

Mary D.
Mary D.

This is my favorite coffee shop in Norman. It's got a few different seating areas, a bar you can sit at, and huge tables with study lamps and outlets nearby for studying or working. It's usually a bit dark inside, but as someone who gets frequent headaches, I find it preferable. The staff is always friendly, but never in an annoying, disingenuous way. They have really good pasties and muffins, most of which are vegan, if that's your thing. They offer lots of types of plant based milks including soy (I prefer soy due to its higher protein content and I have scoured for peer reviewed research and there isn't anything out there saying soy is bad for anyone). You can't order anything bad here. I love their lattes, they know how to make a cappuccino with foam and their drip coffee is usually excellent and not over roasted like a lot of the chains in the area.

Sutton F.
Sutton F.

Perfect place to study for finals! It's a bit crowded this week but that's expected. Next time I go I'm going to get their rosemary bagel!

Melissa B.
Melissa B.

Cute little hidden gem. Loved our drinks. Photos included. Iced matcha Iced vanilla chai latte Yum!

Lauren B.
Lauren B.

Imagine a warm hug in a coffee - that's anything from Gray Owl! This place is wonderful and really feels like a community-focused coffee shop. They offer a discount for bringing your own glass, board games, and $1 day-old pastries for a discount! I got a hot latte with maple syrup and wow, it was fantastic. Sweet and comforting, I thought it was perfect for a rainy day. I also got an apple muffin with real baked apples inside. This was amazing. Service was great, and the drink was prepared quickly! There are so many seating options, making it great for meeting with friends and socializing. There are many great coffee shops in Norman, but I highly recommend this one! One heads up is that parking can be a bit difficult or paid (during the week) in the lot across the street, so I would park on Main and walk if possible!

Adilene B.
Adilene B.

We wanted to study at a coffee shop for a bit and decided to come here, the atmosphere was super relaxing and the coffee was great! They have a nice selection of pastries and tables to study at!

Lauren T.
Lauren T.

Eclectic, intimate coffee shop with house made syrups and baked goods! A handful of customers come here to study and also chat with friends. It's inviting to those who want to sit alone and complete light work with some background noises. Despite the mountain of orders, my 12 oz iced matcha with oat milk (additional cost) was made promptly. I would like to point out that this iced matcha comes sweetened, which was unexpected. Since I usually lean towards a more bitter matcha, this was sweeter for my taste. And if you prefer the same as I do, you can clarify with the baristas. But overall, I definitely recommend others to explore their unique menu.

Tana F.
Tana F.

My go to coffee spot in Norman. They care about their beans and serving the best cup of coffee: they do French roasted coffee--NOT many places do this! Other places instead opt for the drip coffee process, which is much faster but you lose taste and quality. To my knowledge they do not serve dark roast coffee. Dark roast coffee beans are burnt beans meant to cover up defects in the beans (making it an inferior cup of coffee for the same price). This underscores they care about the beans and serving the great cup of coffee. On top of all of this, they serve in house baked goods. The smells make you feel right at home!

Wenchuan T.
Wenchuan T.

I love sitting in this coffee shop! It's very chill with an amazing service and friendly staff. You get your drink quickly, and the coffee is incredibly aromatic. I also love their lavender lemonade! It has subtle hints of lavender and just a touch of sugar, making it refreshingly delightful.

Abigail C.
Abigail C.

Gray Owl is an absolute staple. I love their baked goods. I love their coffee (especially since they now use Clarity beans). I love the different seating options even though it can get kind of tough during peak study times to find a seat. I'm quite fond of the weird old circle couch in the back or the extra long bar if I don't have any homework I need to work on. The back patio is cool too. I think they make an almost perfectly balanced iced latte (just less milk than most places haha). The autumn spice flavoring they've had the past few months has been lovely. Also, I rarely take advantage of it, but it's really fun to get a pot of tea if you plan to sit for a while. Their music selection is reliably interesting. I will reminisce forever on the summer of 2018 when they played Mitski's Be the Cowboy front to back one day while I was sitting there... iconic. It's the way a college town coffee shop is supposed to be. Also, I appreciate the little sign by the register that requests cash instead of card.

Location

Discovering Gray Owl Coffee: A Hidden Gem in Norman

Nestled in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, at 223 E Gray St, Gray Owl Coffee is not just another coffee shop; it’s a community hub that invites you to relax, connect, and indulge in delightful flavors. With a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, this worker-owned café focuses on providing not only exceptional coffee but also a welcoming atmosphere for all.

What You Can Expect:

  • Diverse Drink Menu: Gray Owl Coffee boasts an impressive drink selection, catering to all tastes. From brewed coffee, latte, and mocha to vegan options like the mate latte and cafe au lait, there’s something for everyone. Prices are reasonable, ranging from $1.85 to $3.75, ensuring quality doesn't break the bank.
  • Vegan-Friendly Offerings: With a menu that features numerous vegan pastries and plant-based milk options, Gray Owl prioritizes inclusivity in its culinary offerings. Expect delightful vegan muffins and treats, perfect for those following a plant-based diet.
  • Comfortable Ambiance: The café features cozy seating arrangements, including large tables for crafting or studying. Dim lighting sets a relaxed tone, while free Wi-Fi and ample outlets make it a haven for students and remote workers alike. Customers appreciate the friendly service, adding to the inviting atmosphere.
  • Sustainable Practices: Gray Owl values sustainability, offering discounts for guests who bring their own containers and using compostable packaging. This commitment resonates with patrons who appreciate a business that prioritizes environmental responsibility.

Customer Impressions:

Gray Owl Coffee has garnered rave reviews from its patrons. Stephanie T. shares her enthusiasm for the community-focused environment, highlighting the bustling energy along with the challenges of finding the perfect drink customization. Meanwhile, Mary D. praises the café’s seating options, thoughtful staff, and their standout pastries, especially for vegan lovers.

Lauren B.'s experience perfectly encapsulates what makes Gray Owl special. She describes her hot latte with maple syrup as "a warm hug in a coffee"—a poetic reflection of the comfort this establishment provides on rainy days. Coupled with delicious baked goods, like their apple muffin, patrons leave not only satisfied but eager to return.

For those looking for a place to enjoy a quality cup of coffee while fostering connections, Gray Owl Coffee is the ideal spot. Whether you're seeking caffeine inspiration for your workday or simply a cozy nook to unwind, this café delivers on all fronts.

Final Thoughts:

With its welcoming vibe, delicious offerings, and commitment to sustainability, Gray Owl Coffee stands out as a quintessential gathering place within the community. Be sure to stop by, whether you're grabbing takeout or settling in for an afternoon of creativity or study.

Contact them at (405) 701-2929 for more information, and prepare for a delightful experience!