COFFEE EMPORIUM Big Dog
They’ve got name recognition, spectacular shops, and—let’s face it—some of the best coffee around. The humble shop that first opened in an East Hyde Park Victorian in 1973 (long before the massive OTR location) has cemented itself as a local coffee cornerstone, boasting an impressive selection and an ambiance that’s uniquely Cincinnati. Multiple locations, coffee-emporium. com
WYOMING COMMUNITY COFFEE A Gathering Space
Sara Aschliman may not have had experience in the restaurant industry before opening Wyoming Community Coffee (colloquially called WyCoCo) but she is an architect, and she knew her community needed a gathering space. That’s why she gave WyCoCo to Wyoming. “The shop is intended to feel like the neighborhood’s living room,” she says. “It is bright and open but filled with warm tones and textures.” 434 Springfield Pike, Wyoming, (513) 510-4765, wyomingcom munitycoffee.com
I AM COFFEE
DRIP COFFEE LOUNGE New on the Scene
Add some jazz to your joe. Drip features the usual suspects, like lattes and macchiatos, but espresso-based cocktails take over about half the menu. They pair well with Drip’s weekly live music performances and community events. Try the Jebena Brew—served in an Ethiopian coffee pot—with a friend for something special. 2927 Colerain Ave., Camp Washington, (513) 813-3009, dripcoffeelounge.com
P H OTO G R A P H S BY D E V Y N G L I STA
Giving Back
St. Bernard’s only coffee shop is also one of its mightiest philanthropic players. I AM Coffee owners Ron and Carolyn Spears have launched a variety of community initiatives, including a “lunch box” program that provides local kids and teens in need with filling meals for free. Keep an eye on the café’s social media pages to stay up-to-date with its charitable ventures, which include everything from fund-raisers and school supply drives to pay-it-forward coffee programs. 4728 Vine St., St. Bernard, (513) 429-4975
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