My friends and I were looking for a coffee shop and the ones we usually go to were closed, so we decided to give this place a try. If possible, come here and try their ice vanilla latte. It litterally tastes like the milk left after you eat the cereal. Its smooth, very delicious, and goes down easy. It was so good that after I finished my medium latte, I went back inside and order another large! And because it was so good I decided to get one of their T-shirts! Yes its that good.
Kafe Kerouac is a gem hidden in the city.Its understated facade makes it easy to miss. But dont miss out on a chance to go there at least once.Its a great place to sit and work for a few hours, to take your SO out for a coffee date or just go with a friend group for some games.The place is divided into 2 areas; the main areas with the actual coffee bar, music, books and tables to sit and drink and play the games. And the adjoining area is the silent study zone, with no music, bookshelves and tables to sit and work.They offer a series of specialty coffees named after authors. And even spiked coffees for the fun evenings. Whilst coffee connoisseurs might pick them apart, for the prices and occasions, I think they work pretty well.Cant recommend anything in particular, would say just try each one out with every visit.The staff are unfortunately a mixed batch. Ive had great staff whove been happy to have a conversation and keep the place open just a little over time for us. And Ive also had staff be unfriendly, unhelpful and somewhat rude about sitting as a group if everyone hasnt purchased something. So its just a bit of luck then.
Great little place. Amazing coffee. Great atmosphere. This is a good place to study or take someone on a coffee date.
Really unique place with coffee, books, boardgames, and original pieces of artwork. Accommodating staff and cozy atmosphere
Loved this place! They had shelves filled with books all around and vinyls. People were playing chess and it was super chill. The iced latte I got was delicious, and as a bonus, they even serve beer. 10/10 would come back
This has quickly become my favorite cafés near campus. Its a great place to study, and they have a nice selection of coffee, alcoholic drinks, and small bites. I like looking at their record selection and books while Im in the shop as well, and its an especially nice environment when they have live music! I highly recommend it all around!
Coffee spots that are open late are sadly rare in the US. They should be ubiquitous. I had a fairy to pretty good Mocha while I was here recently and hey, they have comic books. I recommend that you and I and all our friends patronize as many of these late night coffee spots as possible. They are fantastic, especially with comic books.
The coffee and atmosphere are great. I had a Mark Twain, which is a latte with chocolate and peanut butter. Great idea. I cant rate the place highly, though. The pandemic is nowhere near over and numbers are going up because of an especially bad variant but nobody had any protection. I was the only one there with a mask. Even the workers were entirely unprotected. No masks or gloves. I look forward to going back but thats not going to happen until it is safe.
Interesting vibe and good coffee. I got their orange and I think raspberry latte and it was good not amazing. Mostly the flavor not the preparation. Overall enjoyable experience.
Comfy, not too busy or loud, decent selection of books at around $9.50 each for the larger ones & $2 for the small ones near the front entrance. Ive never had issues with parking & the coffee selection is super cool.
The hipsterist of hipster coffee bars. Youll know of youll love it in the first 30 seconds. I sure do.
It was busy today with OSU in session. I really like the summer and the breaks when there are open tables. But you can usually find a seat at the bar or in a comfortable chair. I grabbed a Dubliner (Coffee, Irish creme, Whiskey) at the bar, it was great.If you are Covid cautious its probably not for you as its low ceilings and people can be close together.There is seating outside but there isnt shade to speak of... Would be a *great* addition to the place to have some sort of sun/rain shade option for the outside area (hint hint). Only on the area to the right of the front door (looking from outside).
Very low-key Bookish Hipster vibe. Good place to study and on occasion see live music and improv (Slumberjacks Ramshackle comedy) great coffee and alcohol
Interesting dynamic, and they have live improv and stand up comedy one a month on a Friday, keep an eye out for that!
Great prices! And a lovely book collection. But its a bit too dusty, and musty inside with lackluster customer service. The way the utensils/condiments are set out and the overly soapy taste of the glasses are unsatisfying.
It was nice to visit this Cafe, it is quite bohemian, and cafes like this are only rarely encountered in america. It is also a bookstore, it has local independent poetry offerings, the clientele and staff are quite unconventional and you can tell it is a closeness scene. But I did not feel unwelcome as an outsider. As a cafe it is wonderful, as a bookstore it is only so so but overall the combination works quite well.
Love the coffee and vibes. Great place to study and read.
There is always something happening at Kerouac, be it music, poetry, or drunk PowerPoint presentations. On top of the plethora of events to partake in it is also a great and affordable coffee shop, bar, bookstore and record shop. Stop by sometime, you never know what you might find.
Two coffees and a bagel for $8... take that big name coffee shops. Quaint little coffee shop on campus. The books, comics, and vinyl albums are a nice touch.
Catholic is a little coffee shop that is on the side of North high Street theres a little place where you can congregate and have some coffee you can read you can have study time Bible time most college students go there they have live shows they have open mic night it happens I think every Tuesday like around 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. so yeah if you want to chill out relax have yourself a nice little beer and quiet time to yourself I will check out Cafe Kerouac
Have been going to Kafe Kerouac throughout all of my undergrad and I don’t see myself going to another coffee shop, even after graduating. Absolutely love the atmosphere. Not only is it a cozy, welcoming place to study and hang out with friends, I love the events that Kerouac hosts for example poetry night, drunken PowerPoint, chess tournaments etc etc.
College coffee shop/bar atmosphere. Good espresso drinks and affordable prices.
Cool local coffee shop tailored for studying, games, coffee/drinks and college prices
Ill be honest, its not the most amazing coffee Ive ever had, but theres a reason Kafe Kerouac is such a staple of the OSU campus area. Its always a great place to go study or hang out at. The people there (both workers and patrons) are very friendly too! I also really appreciate that theyre open so late - Id recommend going later as its usually slower and more chill by then as it can get busy in the daytime. Lastly, the atmosphere is just really cool! Theres books, records, etc for sale in addition to drinks. Its more gritty than your average hipster coffee shop, but also much more comfy and home-y feeling than most coffee shops. Their coffee itself isnt quite what youd get from some other specialty coffee shops, but its much more affordable, and theres a lot of really good drinks they can make - I recommend the Anne Rice! Id definitely recommend checking out Kafe Kerouac!
A solid 9 out of 10 (4.5 out of 5, rounded up because half stars arent a thing) ; A gem of a spot nestled in (longish) walking distance from OSUs Ohio Hall / Wexner Center for the Arts / et al, this little coffee/tea/beer/book/record shop is the sort of establishment that could only exist in a college neighborhood or the fever brain of a 90s-era film director. Interestingly, this strength is also its greatest flaw -- with wall art celebrating guys like Hemmingway and Kerouac, and many grumpy-faced patrons and barkeeps/baristas fully owning the vibe, it was like returning to a favorite 90 s film only to realize it didnt age QUITE as well as you expected, and as much as its still mostly great there are a couple of real cringe moments. Its a space where you can readily expect some unpublished writer to pontificate on their authenticness for not selling out, etc. STILL -- and this is important -- thats a lasting undercurrent, but its certainly not anywhere near the entire experience. The atmosphere is, in part, what you make it, and this is definitely one of those old school / Portland-esque cafes in which walking in to see a mohawked punk playing chess against a cardigan-wearing PhD while someone plays a banjolele over in the corner would be just another Tuesday. In other words, like any spot that caters to Lit nerds (like me and, hopefully, you), if you can discourage toxic pretension (from others or self), youre left with a magical unicorn of a fading scene, with great drink choices, plenty of books/games, and a hit-or-miss-but-always-changing record stock.
Quiet place thats prime for studying, reading, and having quality time alone or with others. I love the library and the general cozy vibe the place exudes.
I’m really sad today because this is a cozy spot to get work and I’ve been coming here for 6 years and this man comes out of the blue after an hour saying if I’m not buying anything I need to get out. Sorry sir, nobody was at the counter and I’ve spent hundreds of dollars over the years here, don’t you remember me? This was the gentleman who on a previous visit didn’t believe me when I said I was vaccinated, so I remember you! I liked this place because it feels really welcoming, but I’m just a quiet, awkward white guy with Aspergers so I’m not to be trusted. I’m not cool enough for Kafe Kerouac, the place where everybody’s cool and outgoing and everyone knows everyone. I would always tell people Kafe Kerouac was the one place I’ll miss most about Columbus but now I just feel a little heartbroken. I’m just a stupid loser who can’t do anything right.
Cozy coffee shop also selling records and books. Quaint drinks named after famous novelists. Laid back atmosphere with interesting art on display.
I love the setup & staff, and the drinks are super fun!
Good service excellent espresso.
Nice little coffee shop with friendly staff. They have a study room with every wall covered in filled book shelves. You can browse and buy books and some old vintage vinyls. Theres couches, tables, and bar stools inside for seating as well as tables and benches on the patio. Their selection of coffee is awesome, and they also sell bagels, cookies and muffins. I highly recommend the jalapeno cheddar bagel
Absolutely the best Cafe in Columbus. I personally love the outside seats in the summer. You can enjoy all sort of interesting events throughout the week such as poetry nights, wine/drink tasting nights, open mics and so on... . Whether you want a lovely place to work, or hang out with your friends you should check out this place. I don’t understand why people should even consider places like Starbucks when there are local cafes like this one
Nice environment and great vibes. Just could be cleaner.
Best spot on the block for a coffee, a beer, a book, a show, poetry, boardgames with the homies etc.
Great place. Live music.
Masks were worn where they were supposed to be but its a small spot so I would have ordered curbside if possible. Very nice spot to be and in a diverse area and a really nice selection of coffee drinks. Loved my visit and the energy of the barista!
Kafe Kerouac has carried the torch for all the previous, independently owned OSU campus hangouts that are long since gone. In addition to a fancy coffee or alcoholic drink, you can also buy used books, local art and LPs at a great price. The place offers a variety of live entertainment during non-Covid times.
Great coffee, nice people. I like the chill vibe. No super modern perfect furniture and decor like some coffee shops where you feel like youre in a real estate ad. Easy to focus. Baristas are always down to earth, helpful, and nice. A little bit over priced, and a little hipster.
Fantastic spot, tasty coffee, friendly staff A+
Latte was pretty sad for this being a coffee shop
Aptly named coffee house that also serves alcohol, congenial staff, thematically organized book collection that one can pull off the shelf and peruse, a piano that is played impromptu by very talented customers, etc. In summary, a great place to hang out, drink coffee, read and have a few belts of adult liquids.
Just went for the first time and that man made me the best iced coffee i’ve ever had. my new go to!!
Very fun hidden gem. Cafe, bar, book store, record shop, etc. Staff were friendly and helpful. They offer vegan options (non-dairy milk, Pattycake cookies, VEGAN RICE KRISPIE TREATS). Free wifi, comfy seating, great place to hang out and work on your computer. Not loud like other cafes I have visited.
The drink names are fun, staff is nice, environment is cozy, and theres beer for when you get bored with coffee. Love it here.
Probably my favorite place in Columbus. Ive come here every day this week to study for my boards and it has a very chill vibe. You also cant beat being able to immediately switch from coffee to beer when youre done working
Its was nice to meet friendly people there !!
Great coffee and a chill place for students (or anybody) to sit and relax whilst reading a book or whatever. Seen people sit around and play board games here before. Its really pretty nice.
Very cool place! Definitely going back! And if you love chai like I do, theres is great!
The environment and people here are interesting.
Neat atmosphere, very comfortable spot if your looking for a place to grab a cup of coffee and read or talk. They had a decent selection of books, they could be priced a bit better for the condition of most of them but none the less not bad. Great for night owls !
Lots of books and really good drinks, alcoholic and otherwise. Really nice vibes, certainly different from most other coffeeshops
I love this place. Its a super safe and inclusive environment. Lots of options for coffee and alcoholic beverages. Lots of books to read if you fancy. Comfortable, homey seating.
Got a tasty cup of existentialism with the Franz Kafka. Add bourbon to ward of dread.
I thought everyone here was very nice. The coffee was also very pleasant. They have books for sale, so it has that going for it as well. The only thing worth pointing out is that it really does have a hipster vibe which might not be for everyone.
Great trendy place! Great coffee great staff
Looking forward to going back again. It has a cool interior.
Nice Energy, Lovely people.
Good coffee but the people make it great!
This is one of my favorite local coffee shops. The drinks are creative, cozy environment, and there are board games, comics, and records. Also the zucchini bread is bomb 👌
Went there with our daughter. She has spoken highly of this coffee house. We were pleasantly surprised...great coffee, great energy, great prices. What a gem of a place right near OSUs campus. Enjoy!
I went for a horror reading which was excellent. I didnt buy anything though. They seem to serve coffee and sell books. Neat! I didnt check out the bathroom either. There was a little patio out front. There are meters on the side road, perpendicular to High St.
My favorite thing about this place is the names of their drinks, usually flavors you cant find other places. This is a great study spot, and hangout spot. There are also board games and books galore, and theyre open later than most coffee spots.
This place came in handy for a getaway study location. Coffee was mediocre. My biggest complaint is the bathroom. It was disgusting. Not it was a long day without routine checkups but they never sweep, mop, and disinfect. I’d be surprised if the toilet was cleaned daily. Even eclectic people like a sanitary restroom. There are 3 parking spaces. I was fortunate to get one. Doesn’t seem like there’s any close street parking. It was quiet so I was able to accomplish a lot. I like the books for sell.
Go for the coffee. Stay for the nice atmosphere and the selection of books. I happen to walk by a lot, so it became a beloved spot for coffee, though I would happily go out of my way for the drinks here. Also, some nice alcohol in my coffee never hurt, even at 8:15 a.m.
Cute little spot! Wonderful and fun drinks! Not too expensive! Very kind and down to earth staff! Great study spot! Only downside is parking, but thats not the shops fault! :)
Cappuccino, chai tea, and coffee are all delicious. Really nice chill place 👍
I attended a poetry slam here and it was incredible. The environment was warm and welcoming, not pretentious. The staff was friendly and had a great selection of beverages and small baked goods to choose from. I will definitely be back often. I saw they have a wine Wednesday with a special on wine by the glass and I cant wait to come back and try it out.
Really nice atmosphere and they have a bunch of different options. The staff was also very friendly and theres plenty of room to find a seat and hang out for a while. Theres also some fun board games to play there and different events.
Certainly a hipster watering hole however, it is one of the few places you can get some studying done, grab a beer or a drink, and then see a show all in one night.It has a certain charm to it that just has to be experienced in person. So dont be afraid to start an impromptu game if chess with a stranger.
Lovely little spot with a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We came for poetry night, and had a great time! The cafe/bar side has a variety of both coffee drinks and alcoholic beverages, as well as pastries and tea. The walls are lined with art and bookshelves. Its just an all around great hole in the wall little cafe - we will definitely be back!
Always an amazing place. Its a great eclectic place - not just for studying, but also for socialising and finding out whats going on in your local community. I find it ti be a nerdy introverted paradise between the books lining the walls, the board games, study space, and the touch if home with the mismatched mugs they serve the coffee in.It has a little bit if my heart and i love going.
A cozy, little coffee shop that provides me with an inspirational setting to get any writing project I’m working on finished through its charm. It’s super cute that all the beverages are named after authors. I would highly recommend taking the time to have your coffee there because they have a marvellous, random assortment of ceramic mugs to craft your coffee into. Best time to go is a little bit before sunsets, as you’ll be able to get your coffee and face the exterior windows to watch the sunset and its light shine through the cafe.
Good coffee, and a chill place to hang out or study
Really great coffee!!!
Kafe is kind of like your best friend from middle school and even though you havent seen them in months they still give you the best hugs and advice. Kafe is kind of like your mom on her good days and your grandma on holidays. Kafe is home. Thanks for existing
Love this place. Super chill atmosphere. Full of interesting people, great spot to do homework or get a few boozy drinks. Sitting at the bar and just chatting with the bartender is a great time too. Really good coffee drinks as well.
Wonderful staff. Very accepting environment.
Very filling. Fast and courteous service.
Love Kafe Kerouac!!! Very chill environment with lots of fun events going on throughout the week, from open mics to songwriting sessions to poetry readings to stand up/improv gigs. Good coffee with fun names based on famous authors. Lots of books to read, including some very obscure stuff! There are also board games to play. A great place to meet up with people or to go hang out by yourself. Hit up Kafe Kerouac Night at the end of each month!
Definitely an iconic coffee shop. The lattes are good and are named after writers! Also named after a writer, Kerouac. Its definitely a book lovers places and would be a great place to read a book or write a paper. Many people come and go so you could potentially interact and socialize with them. It gets a bit busy and crowded after 6 pm since its a bar as well, so studying might be a bit hard then. Prices are great too!
This cafe/bar was super cool. I went there with my friends on a Friday night and it was crowded, but cozy. The prices are cheap for the coffee and the portions are pretty large. I was happy with the taste and the environment. Only thing that could be improved is parking.
Sick spot. Really cool place that hosts local music, poetry jams, and comedy shows. Friendly, welcoming staff and crowd. Cheap coffee & snacks + some really interesting retro books and vinyls for sale.
I love the fact that you can locate a local coffee shop near home. But do we have to battle the cigarette smoke trying to come into your establishment.
This funky book shop and Cafe is just what the soul ordered on a Sunday morning. With an eclectic view of literature and a small coffee bar its well worth the stop if you are in the area. Its first appearances on entering can be a bit much as its a very unique space, but the clientele, excellent coffee offerings and small food stuffs make it well worth it.
Interesting and laid back coffee house offering alcoholic beverages and some food options. If youre above 40...youd consider it a hippie place. Great background music, cool range of albums and books available for purchase, and live music in the evenings.
Love this place. Drinks are fun and delicious, and named after famous authors. Music is on spot. Books and music are available to browse while you enjoy your drink. Theyre like one of very few coffee places in cbus that are open late on a sunday evening.
Cool atmosphere. Split into 2 rooms: a main room with the counter and sitting area and a secondary room with a stage that doubles as a used bookstore / study room during the day (very quiet, the sound isolation from the main room is impressive). Free refills on black coffee are a nice bonus.
Great place to grab a coffee (or beer after class), study with friends or make new ones. Always great tunes pumping from the multi-room stereo. Retro video and board games always satisfy for those evenings you cant help close the text books!
Friendly staff, cozy environment, and often entertainment. There are also board games available to play with a friend or someone you meet. Customers also tend to be friendly and willing to start a conversation. My go to drink is the dairy free hot chocolate. It is also good with mint. In my opinion, its worth the experience! Favorite cofee shop on campus so far!
This place is awesome, such a cool atmosphere, with lots of decorations, books, and records throughout the store. Ample seating area. Beverages are extremely delicious and come in big sizes
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