Kafe Kerouac (Facebook / IG: @kafekerouac)
2250 N. High St. (map it!)
Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-2672
Open Mon-Fri, 8a-1a; Sat, 10a-1a; Sun, 12p-12a
I’ll admit that “third wave” coffee shops are my usual coffee stops of choice, spots that treat coffee as an item to be experienced and explored much like wine or cheese or chocolate. But I first learned to love coffee at places like Kafe Kerouac, and I’m so glad spots like this are still around.
Kafe Kerouac is that hybrid space that’s mainly a coffee shop, but also a bookstore, a bar, and a small performance space. It’s close to campus so it draws a lot of students, and it also plays host to groups like Writers’ Block Poetry.
Their menu ranges from brewed coffee and sodas to espresso drinks to a roster of specialties named after famous authors.
If you’re not working at a table or relaxing on one of the couches, you can browse the selection of used books.
The second room holds more bookshelves, seating, and the small stage. Overall, the place is quiet and comfortable, with a good mix of seating, drinks and snacks, plus a small patio out along High Street.
