The Queen City is known for many things; chili, Oktoberfest and Fiona to name a few, but one of the best local treasures is the thriving coffee community nestled in the royal charm. This is evident by the yearly Cincinnati Coffee Festival, but since COVID has postponed yet another event, we wanted to put together a guide to some of the most unique and community-oriented shops in the area. Besides, we always love to brag about our friends that help Cincinnati drink coffee that matters.
In The City
Redtree Art Gallery and Coffee Shop
Oakley
3210 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209
@redtreegallery
Whether you're running errands or looking for a place to study, Redtree Art Gallery and Coffee Shop is the solution to all your needs. Their baristas are some of the best in the city, and know how to make you feel welcome. The seasonal Harvest Latte is a fan favorite and something you do not want to miss out on during the chilly months. While the coffee is phenomenal and the service is fantastic it is all beautifully set in a space that is full of character and charm. The art is always changing (probably because it sells fast) so you can always look forward to something new. Be careful, if you frequent often enough the t-shirts, key-chains or other local maker’s pieces will eventually win you over.
Hyde Perk
Hyde Park
3664-B Edwards Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45208
@hydeperk
Looking for a late-night study session? Hyde Perk has the seating, the outlets and the caffeine to support you until the sun goes down. If you're lucky enough to not be subject to long hours staring at textbooks they offer exquisite wine & chocolate pairings that sell themselves. So what we are saying is they have coffee, wine, chocolate, tea, breakfast, a drive-thru, and sometimes chalk drawings of honey badgers with a whipped cream nose. If you need more you are impossible to please.
Heading North
The Fringe Coffee House
Hamilton
918 High St, Hamilton, OH 45011
@thefringecoffeehouse
We all love classic coffee shops, but we understand that sometimes you’re looking for something extraordinary. The Fringe exceeds all expectations. The vibe captures you and their mission keeps you coming back. You can find it on their website, “The Fringe Coffee House exists to empower inmates, ex-felons and those on the fringes of society to live healthy, whole lives.” They do this by going into local correction centers to provide a music therapy program and their 1-year job training program in the shop. They are a testament to the life-change that can be facilitated through coffee and we love partnering with them to further extend our mission right into our local community. Besides, if nothing else the inside is dope.
Kala Coffeehouse
Mason
4503 US-42, Mason, OH 45040
@kalacoffeehouse
Partnering with mission-driven companies is something that we have always been passionate about. Kala is a perfect example of this, their mission to Drink Good. Do Good. is evident in their ingredients, purpose, and atmosphere. They have an awesome space built for community and have the industrial design down to an art. And, if you are looking for a treat on Wednesdays make sure you stop by for Waffle Wednesdays. Every week there is a savory and sweet option. Looks like this month the seasonal is buckeye, you won’t want to miss it!
Heading South
Velocity Bike & Bean
Florence
7560 Burlington Pike, Florence, KY 41042
@velocity_bikeandbean
Understand when we tell you that Velocity’s monthly specials are next level. They specially curate coffee and fun seasonal flavors to create drinks that not only photograph well but satisfy your soul. Their team is amazing and the service always leaves you with a smile. They repair and sell bikes too! Which is super dope. Be sure to visit next time you’re on your way south, they ease the stress of taking i75. (They also dropped new merch recently, Yield approved).
We are honored to be able to partner with all of these shops that bring something unique and special to the Cincinnati community. Each one has their own purpose for serving their customers, but all help us to make our mission of spreading relational coffee and creating sustainable development a reality. Every time you visit one of our friends you are drinking coffee that matters.
And that’s the best kind.