Coffee Houses in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio loves its independent businesses and coffee houses are no exception. The independent coffee shops in Columbus are the home of business meetings, studying students and hanging out with great coffee and espresso drinks. While the drive-thru and grocery-store kiosk coffee chains are everywhere, Columbus' hometown coffee purveyors continue to thrive.

Stauf's Coffee Roasters - 1277 Grandview Avenue, Columbus

Technically located in the heart of Grandview Heights, Stauf's is more than just a coffee house. Roasting their own blends and for other local independent coffee shops, Stauf's also has a huge retail selection available in-house and online.

Stauf's is absolutely my favorite Columbus coffee shop. When I lived in Grandview Heights, it was easy to smell the roasting days on a drive-by. The staff undergoes an intensive training and yes, they might be considered coffee snobs. However, I've always gotten excellent service with my take-home bean purchases. I regularly keep my kitchen stocked with Stauf's Americano Espresso blend for my cappuccino machine.

Stauf's walls are graced with local artwork, the music level is "just right" and the Wi-Fi is free. During decent weather, east-facing sidewalk seating is available for early morning warmth and street-watching in charming Grandview Heights.

Stauf's kitchen is open for lunch 11 - 3 PM Monday through Friday and also offers breakfast on the weekends.

Cup O' Joe Lounge - Bexley, Easton, Lennox, German Village, Short North and Clintonville

Cup O' Joe is Stauf's coffee lounge. A relaxed atmosphere in some of the most eclectic Columbus neighborhoods, Cup O' Joe is the "neighborhood bar" for coffee lovers. Featuring made to order egg sandwiches, Cup O' Joe also highlights pastries and other baked goods from local shops. The Short North location at 600 North High Street has sidewalk seating perfect for a break during the monthly Gallery Hop.

Visitors flying into Port Columbus International Airport (CMH) can taste Columbus as soon as they land. Cup O' Joe coffee shop is located at the head of the main concourse and offers fast service and of course, great Stauf's coffee!

Café Brioso - 14 East Gay Street, Columbus

Tucked away in a corner of downtown, Café Brioso is gaining a huge fan base for not only their in-house roasted coffee but their made from scratch menu.

Scones, muffins and a variety of artisan breads are the base of the food offerings, but lunch is definitely not to be missed. Fresh soups, sandwiches and salads are made to order and the prices are more than "downtown" friendly. Café Brioso also offers box lunches and meeting trays.

Honorable Mention: Crimson Cup Coffee

While Crimson Cup does have its own coffee shop at 4541 North High Street in Clintonville, Crimson Cup is the roaster and supplier for independent coffee houses throughout the United States. Located in Bexley, Crimson Cup makes it possible for entrepreneurs in 28 states to have their own independent coffee shop.

Source: My own coffee addiction!