Columbus coffee culture: the best spots from a caffeine addict
By: Raphaella Monroy
I’ll be honest, I run on caffeine. Whether it’s before class, during a study session or after a long day, a good cup of coffee keeps me going. Columbus makes that pretty easy, with more local cafe options than I can count and each one offering something a little different. After trying a few too many lattes, here are some of my favorite spots around the city that every caffeine addict should check out.
Bada Bean Bada Booze — Quarry Trails
A favorite for early mornings and late nights. Bada Bean Bada Booze is fun, lively and always buzzing with energy. Their newest location in Quarry Trails has a beautiful overlook, making it a great place to grab a drink and go for a walk after. It has plenty of seating inside and outside and lots of outlets when you need to plug in for a while. You can start your day with a latte or come back later for one of their espresso martinis. My go-to order is the Iced Saturday Morning Latte, a Fruity Pebble infused drink that somehow tastes like childhood and caffeine at the same time. The baristas are friendly, the drinks are high quality and they often host fun events like bingo nights, live jazz, trivia and watch parties for popular shows. It is the kind of place where you can stay for hours and never run out of things to enjoy.
Coastline Coffee Co. — Worthington
Coastline Coffee Co. feels like a small beach getaway tucked into Columbus. The space is bright and relaxing with coastal touches that make it feel warm and welcoming. It is a great spot to study, meet a friend or take a quiet break. The drinks are smooth and flavorful, matching the laid-back atmosphere. The cafe also hosts open mic nights and other community events that give it a friendly, local feel and make it a place worth returning to.
Stauf’s Coffee Roasters — Victorian Village
Stauf’s Coffee Roasters is a Columbus classic and a go-to spot for anyone who takes their coffee seriously. The Victorian Village location on Neil Avenue is set inside an old church, which has a warm and unique atmosphere that feels both historic and inviting. The smell of freshly roasted beans fills the air as soon as you walk in, and the calm energy makes it easy to stay for hours. It is a great place to study or catch up with friends since there is plenty of seating. The drinks are smooth and consistent, especially their drip coffee and seasonal lattes. With a mix of students, locals and regulars, Stauf’s always feels like a comfortable part of the Columbus coffee scene.
Maudine’s — Franklinton, The Junto Hotel
Maudine’s is one of the newest and most popular additions to Columbus’s coffee scene. Located inside The Junto Hotel in Franklinton, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. Named after Maudine Ormsby, Ohio State’s legendary Homecoming cow from 1926, the cafe blends Buckeye spirit with a clean and modern design. The space feels bright and peaceful, which makes it a great place to study, work from home, meet friends or enjoy a slow weekend morning. The drinks are creative and thoughtfully made, and the food menu includes breakfast sandwiches and pastries that pair perfectly with coffee. The staff is welcoming, the music is calm and the overall vibe makes Maudine’s an enjoyable stop for any coffee lover.
Pistacia Vera — German Village
Pistacia Vera is a staple in German Village and a must visit for anyone who loves pairing coffee with something sweet. The cafe has a calm and elegant atmosphere inspired by European patisseries, with glass cases full of beautifully crafted desserts. Their espresso drinks are rich and flavorful. The pastries are what truly make this place special, from buttery croissants to colorful macarons that look almost too good to eat. The space stays quiet and relaxed, with a steady flow of people enjoying their pastries and coffee without the usual rush. Located close to The Book Loft, it is the perfect spot to start your morning, grab a pastry and then wander through the nearby shops. Pistacia Vera is a peaceful place to slow down, sip and enjoy the charm of German Village.
Final Sip
Each of these cafes shows a different side of Columbus coffee culture. Some are lively and social, while others are quiet and calm, but they all share the same passion for great drinks and welcoming spaces. Whether you are studying, meeting friends or exploring a new neighborhood, there is always a cafe that fits your mood. Columbus has a coffee scene that is creative, community-driven and full of personality, making it the perfect city for any caffeine lover.
