Newland has a new hot spot in town where live music, pastries, soup, sandwiches, and coffee all collide.

The Ugly Mug became the High Country’s newest coffee shop when owner Cary Dominguez opened its doors in November.

Dominguez said there are several things that separate the Ugly Mug from other area coffee shops.

Dominguez explained, “A lot of the coffee shops around here stick mainly to just the coffees and we offer a full lunch.  We’re open a lot later than most coffee shops around here.  Most coffee shops close about 5:00, whereas we close at 9:00.”

Dominguez said she also plans on opening the back deck along the river walk in the spring and have live concerts outside.

The Ugly Mug is located directly across from Carolina Barbecue in Newland.