Coffee is one of the most beloved drinks out there-- mornings just aren’t the same without it! If you need to fuel up before you can start your day, you will definitely agree that not all coffee is on the same taste level. Most of the time the cup of java from a large corporate chain just doesn’t compare to the flavor and aroma at a smaller mom and pop cafe. Which is one reason why you can find these family restaurants all over Ohio. There’s just something welcoming about a small, local shop that the bigger chains can’t seem to match. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 places to grave a cup of joe, and support a family business in the process!

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Alreddy Cafe

11083 Reading Rd.

Cincinnati, OH 45241

513-563-4550

If you’re in the Cincinnati area, make sure to stop into the Alreddy Cafe for a cup of delicious coffee-- and perhaps a bite to eat. They offer some delicious options for breakfast such as egg sandwiches and multigrain pancakes-- which can also be made gluten-free!

Their cafe sandwiches are also quite popular-- and only made with the freshest ingredients available. Don’t forget to stop and try their full espresso bar-- sure to get you up and on your way in the morning.

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Six Shooter Coffee

16021 Waterloo Rd.

Cleveland, OH 44110

216-762-1180

Six Shooter Coffee is located in the Waterloo district of Cleveland-- and is quickly growing into one of the most popular cafes around. The coffee at this place is all roasted in small batches to ensure the freshest taste possible. Their beans are all carefully sourced to provide customers with an exceptional coffee drinking experience.

This mom and pop coffee shop also has some amazing baked goods, vegan treats, and some fantastic bagels. In the warmer weather make sure you take advantage of the outdoor patio!

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Awakenings Coffee and Wine

2734 Erie Ave.

Cincinnati, OH 45208

513-321-2525

Awakenings Coffee and Wine aims to be a vital part of the Cincinnati coffee scene-- they ensure that all their coffee is expertly sourced to provide the best flavor possible. They also work with a variety of importers who only get their beans from organic, responsible growers around the world.

In addition to amazing coffee, this spot also sells wine as well. You can sit and enjoy your bottle in store-- with no corking fee-- or feel free to take it home and enjoy it. And don’t forget to try some of their homemade pastries as well-- most of which can be made to vegan specifications.

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Hyde Perk

3664-B Edwards Rd.

Cincinnati, OH 45208

513-871-5111

Hyde Perk Coffee is one of the only locally owned drive through coffee restaurants in the area-- the rest are corporate chains that are seen at every mini-mall. This cafe takes pride in the fact that they serve locally sourced artisan coffee to their customers, as well as teas, wine, and beer.

Everyone knows how good chocolate and wine are together-- which is why Hyde Perk used the science behind taste to create an extensive list of wine and chocolate pairings for you to choose from. The next time you’re in the store be sure to try a few!

Lot No. 1 Coffee

9 East Main St.

Lebanon, OH 45036

513-228-0811

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend some time in the Dayton area, consider checking out Lot No. 1 Coffee. Owned by a mother-daughter team, this local shop is a favorite for people to gather and spend some time catching up.

This cafe ensures that all their coffee is organic and sourced for impeccable taste and flavor. They also offer some amazing pastries to go with any of their popular coffee drinks-- so make sure you save some room for dessert!

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Curious Styles and Coffee Shop

16 S. Main St.

Miamisburg, OH 45342

937-247-5674

If your in a curious mood, stop into Curious Styles and Coffee Shop the next time you’re looking for an eclectic shop-- with some delicious coffee as well. This family owned business sources their unique blend from 5 different African coffee beans-- talk about an interesting and unique way to make a great cup of java!

After you order your drink stop over at the boutique, and take some time to peruse the selection of clothes, housewares, and jewelry-- most of them made by local Ohio artists.

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Dino’s Cappuccinos and Coffee

225 Xenia Ave.

Yellow Springs, OH 45387

937-767-3466

If you’re looking for a local coffee shop to get some work or studying done in-- check out Dino’s Cappuccinos and Coffee. This place has some of the best baristas in Ohio making all your favorite coffee drinks. They specialize in cappuccinos, so make sure you try one of those first! If you just can’t seem to make a decision, the staff can help you out-- they are friendly and knowledgeable as well.

Grab a coffee and one of their delicious pastries and just relax for a while in the comfortable atmosphere at this cafe.

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Civilization

2366 W. 11th St.
Cleveland, OH 44113

216-621-3838

This popular coffee shop is located in a historic 19th century building that looks right out onto the Tremont green space. It’s a great, walkable location that anyone in the area can easily access. Civilization has all your favorite coffee drinks on the menu-- and some very friendly and knowledgeable staff to serve them up. Take a cup to go and enjoy a walk in the area on a warm day-- or just stay in the cozy cafe when the weather is too cold or it’s a rainy day.

If you’re feeling hungry, they also offer some delicious pastries and healthy sandwiches-- most of which can be made gluten-free or vegan.

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Erie Island Coffee

19300 Detroit Rd.

Rocky River, OH 44116

Erie Island Coffee is a great choice if you’re looking for a family owned business who knows how to deliver fantastic coffee options. They offer everything from a dark espresso-style roast to their original single origin roast. The proprietors always wanted to open a coffee shop that was committed to serving amazing coffee with friendly service. As thousands of happy customers would agree-- we think they achieved their goal!

All the coffee at this place is sourced responsibly and ensures that from grower to table-- there are responsible coffee practices in place. This is an important distinction that many mom and pop coffee shops like to make about their business practices-- and one that many large corporations neglect to make at all. Make sure you check out their smoothie options as well-- they’re the perfect treat when the hot weather hits!

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Sabor Miami Cafe and Gallery

4848 Broadview Rd.

Cleveland, OH 44109

440-714-0202

If you’re looking for a little something different that the usual coffee shop, check out the Sabor Miami Cafe and Gallery in Cleveland. This place is like a little bit of Cuba, right in the heart of Cleveland. The owner has turned her coffee shop into a bright and airy place-- where people feel comfortable hanging out with friends, getting some work done, or listening to the latest in Cuban music.

All your favorite Cuban sandwiches and appetizers are available-- in addition to the coffee drinks. The walls of this cafe are covered in local artwork and contribute to the happy, bright vibe that this cafe puts out. They also offer some amazing juices and smoothies to try as well!

No matter where you live in Ohio, you’re sure to be close by to a fantastic coffee shop. The cafes on this list are all family owned and operated-- there’s no room for big chains here! Stop in to any of them for a delicious taste of your favorite brew. What’s your absolute favorite coffee shop? Let us know in the comments!