Upper Cup Coffee
79 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH, 43215
Upper Cup Coffee Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Columbus for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
79 Parsons Ave
Columbus, OH, 43215 - Phone (614) 220-0206
- Website https://www.theuppercup.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 7:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Good for Working : Yes
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Celina N.
As a former barista, I am always on the lookout for local coffee shops that roast on premises and make excellent coffee. This is one such place. Being a five minute walk from my apartment, i find it hard to resist coming to Upper Cup every day. The owners are kind and SUPER talented, and the baristas all have their own unique charms. The first few times, the seemingly flippant attitude from the barista put me off, but the coffee kept me coming back. Their espresso is perfect--not too acidic, not burned to a crisp, and delicious over ice (though i wish they would pull the shots right into my cup to preserve the crema). My advice: become a regular, bring treats, and relish the local art, local people, and off-the-cuff vibe of this place over a cup of delicious coffee.
(5)Phoebe D.
This is my new favorite place! It's so hidden, but worth it to go. It's about 3 minutes away from CCAD and CSCC. I come here for lunch between classes. It is so affordable. Simple menu: $6 for most sandwiches and just $3.50 for grilled cheese and an incredible egg sandwich. I had the egg sandwich. It had a friend egg, spinach, munster cheese, tomato, and a little bit of jalapeno. Their chai tea is so amazing that I have yet to even try their famous coffee! The atmosphere is comfy and quiet. I could sit in here for hours!
(5)Michael M.
I made a quick stop to grab some coffee before getting my haircut at Old Familiar Barbershop which is on the same block as this coffee shop. It was around 1:30pm and the shop was pretty slow. I'm sure that if you visit this shop regularly and get to know the employees there you might feel more comfortable and welcome. I entered and this shop made me think of the coffee shop cliches that most people used to formulate in their minds - tatted baristas, dreads, reggae playing on the radio, and the employees seemed somewhat aloof. I ordered something simple, a coffee over ice. While I prefer a coffee that is brewed cold I've had plenty of cold coffees that still taste great. This iced coffee tasted really watered down and I wasn't impressed with the quality of the coffee. I will definitely give this shop another try whenever I head that way to visit the barbershop but the shop made an quick impression very quickly and it wasn't a place I would go out of my way to visit.
(3)Autumn E.
I found this shop through an unlikely recommendation and am so glad I went! I stopped in to pickup an item left for me and then asked for something iced and vegan. The barista made me an iced vanilla latte with almond milk and I have to say it is one of the best cups of coffee I have had in a long time. The staff was friendly and the location is a nice balance of hipster and casual. The location has an open layout with plenty of seating yet it still manages to feel intimate too. You can hold a conversation without raising your voice. The decor is fun to look at and I am obsessed with the rainbow skull art on one of the coffee barrels near the wall. The vibe here is incredible and I am excited to have a reason to come back with my laptop and work over a cup of coffee with the sun streaming in.
(5)Aklilu A.
One of the many hidden gems in Columbus, Uppercup is a great spot for your caffeine fix. There is a parking lot and street parking so you don't have to worry about meters. The interior is uniquely designed, coffee barrels here, nice leather couch there and wooden tables by the windows. A friend and I arrived to try the place out. We got the iced chai and egg sandwiches with turkey. It was delicious, the drink had a nice mix of chai and milk. One of the best iced chais in the city, and I'm talking really good iced chais which is hard to find. Stop by, relax and enjoy the scene!
(5)Ryan K.
This review is following my first visit to Upper Cup. In fact, I'm sitting here by the window writing this. Today is a stereotypical overcast Ohio winter day, and I really had trouble shaking off the blanket of grogginess. I decided to walk to Upper Cup from my house in King-Lincoln; it took about 10 minutes. It was a great decision. I can handle ten minutes of brisk winds and a light drizzle for a hot cup of coffee. I ordered a latte and a muffin, and both are superior quality. That's the first thing (of many) that Upper Cup gets right. The interior is nice and open, which lets in a lot of natural light. If you sit in the back of the shop and have a short memory (like me), you'd almost forget that it's so dreary today. The "vibe" is very relaxed and casual. Excellent. I don't need pep and enthusiasm before I'm fully awake. The location is great, and so is the service. With some return visits, I could see myself bumping my review up to five stars. The product is certainly there. But for now, Upper Cup gets a solid four.
(4)Mike K.
Very good beans roasted on site. Absolutely love this place.
(5)Meg K.
I enjoy a good cup of coffee. In fact, I try to enjoy a good cup of coffee 2-4 times per day (NO SLEEP NO REGRETS). I was in the neighborhood and wanted a hot cup of energy, so I searched yelp for what was near me, and found Upper Cup. I like that it was easy to park (difficult parking situations give me flop sweats) and that the shop was busy but not mobbed. There were many tables of people working, chatting, reading, or just sitting with their drinks. There is art (some of it for sale) on the wall and shelves of board games in case your group gets bored. The staff seemed knowledgeable and appropriately disdainful and friendly simultaneously (it's very hip there), and most importantly they made a beautiful pour over. I didn't try any food nor did I linger, so my 5 star review is for a great cup of coffee, a cozy and inviting atmosphere, in house roasting, and ethical sourcing of beans. These are all enough to keep me coming back.
(5)Rami M.
Upper Cup is a nice gem in Old Town East. The place is welcoming and has a few window seats facing the street. They roast their own beans, but on this visit I had the iced chai. It was expertly crafted, and was definitely one of the best chais I've had. I also ordered the egg and turkey breakfast sandwich. It was good but nothing too exciting - I'll stick with the drinks. Their prices are so good - so I'm sure I'll stop by when I'm in the area looking for a cafe.
(4)Vin R.
I've sampled Upper Cup Coffee at the North Market Coffee Roast the last two years, but I've never had occasion to visit until this week. I took my kids to the Columbus Museum of Art (surprisingly fun with young kids) and found myself near the Near East Side on the wrong side of a caffeine crash. Out came my handy Yelp app and I realized I was a quarter mile from Upper Cup! The store space is pretty cozy and the store itself is located on what appears to be an up and coming/gentrifying street with several newer looking shops. About a quarter of the floor space is given over to beans for roasting and a really impressive looking roasting set up, which my kids were particularly interested in. Regarding the coffee, I went basic and got a mocha with a calorie splurge of whole milk. Fantastic stuff. There are lots of other options including iced coffee and the now ubiquitous pour over. Should I ever be back on this side of town, I know exactly where I'm going for my coffee.
(4)stephanie r.
First time visitor. I ordered an iced coffee. It was fresh, drip coffee and delicious. My only complaint is the room temperature is much warmer than somewhere I would want to sit for long periods of time. $2.50 for fresh coffee, is wonderful.
(4)Darian L.
Great location, cool design, nice owner. One problem: the whole thing was being ran by one guy who was making drinks, running around and also taking orders. The line was out the door. It was saturday so i get that. I never got to try any actual coffee from this shop. I'm sure it would've been great.
(2)Luke T.
Been going here on and off for years, probably time to write a review. It's super basic. Nothing fancy, no frills. They roast the beans on site - right in the middle of the cafe area. So sometimes it smells wicked awesome. Others have failed to note the lunch options. They are easily overlooked on the menu and I doubt they're anything fancy, but they do exist. The main perks of upper cup are proximity and price. It's uber cheap. But there's an extreme lack of decent seating and variety to the menu. Staff is great. Not overbearing and just let you do your thing. Hours could be better as well. The best thing about upper cup isn't even available at upper cup. It's the OTE Stout brewed with their beans by elevator brewing and served exclusively at carabar.
(3)Reuel K.
When I go for good cup of coffee in the mornings, I always want to have a good breakfast as well. And this is one of a few places that serve good coffee and good variety of sandwiches. I'd say the coffee was good and the sandwich is decent. I had the ham with habanero The barista seems knowledgeable and friendly and the girl that served our order was very nice too. The place was comfortably spacious although the seating and tables are few and small button they have couch if you want to relax with friends while enjoying coffee. I cannot believe that I have not been here before when my wife used to work close by.
(4)Serena H.
Oh, this is definitely your go to eccentric coffee shop. I stopped in before my meeting to grab a good cup of joe because apparently this place had great coffee. It wasn't very occupied when I walked in; there were plenty (small) tables and a couch that were free. I ordered a cup of just black coffee and was so surprised how cheap it was!!! I was even more stunned when I took a sip. Some damn good joe for such a run down looking place. I wouldn't come here to do some serious work because the tables were so small and outlets kinda sparse, but I can totally see myself stopping in or coffee on the go or just doing a short reading on a quiet, free afternoon. I mean, while I was sitting there typing away (okay really I was just people watching), I was surprised at how many people just stopped by. Quick in and outs despite the pouring rain outside. Definitely a good sign. When i rotate through the hospitals down here, I guess I'll get my fix here! Park out front; there are a couple spots out back too, but not too many. Cash or card. Don't bring a laptop; bring the paper or a book.
(4)Brooke M.
Upper Cup is such a cute coffee shop right on the edge of olde town east. My personal favorite is the Chai Tea. They have a couple sandwiches that are served warm and are nothing big but a nice bite to eat with your drink. There are protein bars, muffins, fruit, etc. also available for purchase. Sometimes when it is busy I have noticed only one person working so it took about 10 minutes for my drink to be ready but when your not in a rush it's not a big deal. A nice amount of seating inside (average coffee shop size) with really vintage decor. There is parking on the street and side streets and a few spaces on a side lot. I would reccommend the people in the area walk over there.
(4)Janice A.
The coffee is very good however the good energy is lacking. Staff isn't overly friendly, including the owner or manager. They don't have decaf coffee at times (this is a coffee shop). Even calling, their phone doesn't work, so I don't waste a trip. I live in the neighborhood and would love this to be my coffee spot... Guess I'll keep looking for independent coffee shop I can walk to. Until then have to go to Starbucks.
(3)Keri M.
In town visiting friends and we decided to try Upper Cup.... Great vibes, great music, great barista gal and great coffee! I had a skim latte which is quite frothy and delicious.... The espresso is a tad stronger than I'm normally used to but has a nice flavor to It, which is enhanced by the froth of the drink. Atmosphere-wise, it's a cool little coffee shop, morn upscale than my favorite in Cinti, but seems like a cool place to hang out with friends. And they have free WiFi...
(5)Matt H.
I got the mocha and it was delicious. I love local coffee shops like this. Worse thing about it is that it is too close to work and I might keep going back.
(5)David Z.
Upper Cup coffee is perfect for me. They roast their own beans, the coffee is delicious as are the espresso drinks. They have a few places to hang out, some board games and a really cool atmosphere. No hint of the "more punk than thou" attitude sometimes found at independent coffee shops. The staff has been very friendly and helpful anytime I have had a question. I really like this place, and am coming back for lunch (they have sandwiches) and will update the review. After 4-5 visits, they have been consistently great.
(5)Zeeshan S.
Upper Cup does a great job maintaining a chill vibe for a coffee shop. Cool space on the inside, neat artwork on the wall, plenty of comfy seating, and most of all they pour up a solid cup of coffee. With pour overs at $2, you really can't beat that for some delicious caffeine to stimulate the brain cells. The scene inside is very eclectic from the decor to the customers, and I'm a huge fan. This will be my coffee shop for when I'm around Old Town East!
(4)Bryant M.
I've recently become addicted to tea time. It's actually my favorite time of the day. I'm having it right now. I found myself this afternoon with about 20 minutes between meetings, and I needed a fix. I had Upper Cup bookmarked for about a year but never made it in... for whatever reason. I don't think I really knew where it was to be honest. But I hopped on the app and saw I was literally a two minute walk away. This is probably one of the coolest coffee shops around, and the folks in the neighborhood know it--it's been packed the whole time I've been here. The interior is gritty, and the people are very friendly... but not saccharin. My chai is delicious--with almond milk. And they were happy to making it scalding for me. I want my dranks as hot as humanly possible. The price? Like $2. There are a smattering of tables inside. It's great for sitting for a few minutes to chill, but I don't think I'd come work here for a day or anything. That's not what they're going for. I'll totally be back when I'm in the neighborhood and I find myself needing to feed my new habit.
(4)Laura W.
Upper Cup is one of my favorite coffee shops in Columbus! Upper Cup is a great place to go for a leisurely cup of coffee with a friend or to relax. The staff is always so nice which is really important for a small business. They have really stepped up their game with their food menu too. Although the kitchen area is small, it appears really clean and they have respect for healthy food prep. There have been times that I've stopped into Upper Cup in a slight rush to grab a coffee and go and I would not recommend stopping in if you are tight on time. If you have great time management, however, I would highly recommend stopping in to Upper Cup.
(5)Chris T.
Great coffee!.. My old lady loves this place this is a great business olde town east!
(5)Kent M.
Good coffee stop this morning and easy to find. Some good looking made food items here also though I did not sample. I would return.
(3)Brandon A.
I'll be honest, whenever I go to a coffee shop for the first time, I begin thinking, "will they get perfect extraction on the pour-over, do they weigh their beans, are thy concerned about the timing of their espresso?" All of these concerns went to the wayside when I entered this coffee shop because I experienced a place that oozed with community. Several locals openly dialoged with me about the neighborhood and it began to feel like I had been patronizing this place for years though it was only my first visit. The workers were very friendly. When one customer spilt a cup of coffee they swarmed with genuine concern and a reassuring replacement cup. The coffee was solid. They flavor profiles were not as complex as some other local shops but they were friendly and their patrons were welcoming. They roast in the middle of the store and you can watch the whole process. When the roasting is done, they sell their beans at a very good price. If you want a pretentious coffee roaster with a snobby staff, don't go here. But if you want a neighborhood shop that is warm and welcoming, this is the place for you.
(4)Kim K.
Really friendly baristas and funky/hipster vibe coffee shop. Really enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere and spent an hour or so getting work done. The coffee shop is located in a cute little area and I was able to find parking just a few blocks away. Can't comment on the coffee but their chai was pretty delicious. (:
(4)Victor N.
It's not your typical coffee shop. It's not really quiet enough for you to sit down and study, as I tried to yesterday. It's more of a community hang out place. While I was there I saw a lot of people chatting with each other, many just arriving and many going. Saw two friends who apparently hadn't seem each other in a while only to meet here. It's setting isn't really within a neighborhood as it's right by the highway and nationwide childrens hospital, yet it feels like a small neighborhood shop. It's got a fun vibe. The coffee doesn't seem anything particularly outstanding to me, coming from Seattle where coffee shops are a dime a dozen, but the place has a neat ambience. I could sit and spend an afternoon relaxing here. While I didn't try any sandwiches, they seemed reasonably priced at $6. A large vanilla latte ran me $4, pretty typically priced. Oh, one thing I didn't like though was that they only used disposable cups. I woulda thought they'd have coffee mugs for use in-house.
(4)Merry L.
I love this place. It is near my work and often walk over for a cappuccino or Americano. They only need to keep a supply of decaf for my afternoon coffee. Excellent coffee and buy it for my home. I started drinking coffee in New Orleans and these guys know how to make coffee. Very nice people!
(5)Josh B.
It's great to see stores in this area but it's a really ruff area so be careful !
(3)Matt G.
Best cup of drip coffee that I have had in quite some time. This is a nice hangout place with nice staff, local art, and a lot of cool masks hanging on the wall. Prices are pretty inexpensive and the parking (both street & lot) make it that much easier to get into and stay in this place. Great for a friendly meet-up or just a chillaxing day with a cup of good java. BTW, the ads that are posted on their bulletin board can be quite hysterical.
(4)Bigdaddy D.
Their service has been getting better and better from decorating foam on hot espresso drinks to promptly acknowledging customers. I appreciate their attention to the temperatures of their drinks, the intimate interactions and care put in to the product you order. If they are busy you may wait a little longer but this time is necessary to consistently produce the high quality drinks I love them for.
(5)Germaine W.
I was craving a good cup of coffee with a conscience and I found Uppercup. I was impressed with the laid back atmosphere and the availability of both soy and almond milk. The most surprising thing was that the entire cup, including plastic lid, were compostable! It's so nice to find a coffee shop with that type of commitment. Plus the coffee's great, organic and fair trade!
(5)Lane B.
I stopped in Upper Cup Friday morning because I wanted to try something new. I was back Saturday, Sunday and plan to go again Monday. This is easily the best coffee in Columbus; great flavor and wonderfully smooth. My friend who doesn't particularly like coffee even loved it. I don't think I'll ever go anywhere else.
(5)Wes C.
Excellent little shop. I like to judge these places not only by the coffee served but by the drink recommended. The barista recommended an Ethiopian pour-over that was excellent. The roast had an distinct and lasting aftertaste that reminded me of an earthier version of one left by a good Cabernet Sauvignon. Cool place. I'll be back.
(5)Laura I.
A true story about my first (but not last) trip to Upper Cup: A few weeks ago on the day of my birthday I was on that side of town and spotted Upper Cup. I stopped in and ordered an iced chai. I went for my wallet which had my brand spanking new bday drivers license in it and couldn't find it (what I didn't know at this point was that it was stolen earlier that morning). I quickly tell the baristas to actually not make that iced chai because I forgot my wallet at home and I promised to return on another day when I could actually PAY for my beverage. The baristas were so gracious and kindly insisted to still make me a chai. I resisted for a while, but soon gave into their act of sheer kindness. I did tell them it was my birthday as they were making it, even though I knew it sounded like a complete lie :) I couldn't keep from smiling as I left with my delicious chai in hand thinking how great the world is sometimes. Moral of this story: great beverages, wonderful baristas, amazing atmosphere. You will want to go back and hang out there.
(5)Benjamin W.
My friend won't go anywhere before stopping at this great coffee shop for a cup. I especially like the iced coffee. What makes it special is that they use a drip cup. This means my sugar can melt before its poured onto ice and then shaken with half and half.
(5)Cyle B.
Favorite coffee spot in Columbus. The staff is incredibly nice and they fix up the coffee in short order.
(5)Natalie H.
Very fun and colorful coffee shop with an interesting blend of clientele, saw everything from yuppie business people to cleaning ladies who just got off work. The vibe from the staff is super friendly and the music is nice. Drinks are yummy too! Not the best place to get work done though, there's a lot of chit chat going on at all times- but that makes for a nice community meeting spot
(4)Emily S.
I love Upper Cup! I live and work in the neighborhood, and this is above and beyond just a neighborhood coffee shop. I'm not a big coffee drinker, but the baristas make the best almond milk chai latte in the city. And I know that when I pick up something to go for my partner, they will decipher my confusion about coffee terms and make him something that will brighten his day -- in addition to seeing me, of course. The grilled PB&J is also great. I've been known to run in and grab one on my lunch break. Inexpensive and filling, it's perfect to get you through the rest of the day without breaking the bank.
(5)Daisy B.
This place is the bomb. The baristas are friendly and knowledgable, and really know their coffee. Of course the coffee is delicious, too. I work at a school nearby, and my coworkers LOVE their Panama and Indian roasts. Plus you can't beat the price--Upper Cup is about 30 cents cheaper on everything than most good Cols coffee shops. The ambience in the coffee shop is nice, with plenty of tables to work at. The best part? It's obvious that the owners really care about the neighborhood; they vocally support other local businesses and often have postcards out to advertise other community events. Highly recommended.
(5)Keith M.
I didn't know there was any room left for someplace new to open on this little stretch of Parsons, but I'm glad there was. Upper Cup is definitely in the upper echelon of C-bus coffee shops (have yet to make it to the Short North to try out more new contenders). The iced coffee had a nice depth of flavor to it, they roast beans on site, and know their way around a latte. There are high ceilings and big windows to give a spacious feel and you can't but help but notice the bike sitting over the door.
(4)Lauren A.
Bartender at a place down the street recommended Upper Cup when we asked for good coffee and he was right! Right when walking in the atmosphere and culture of the place catches your attention. It's really neat. Got a vanilla latte and it was delicious. My friend got a chai and it was all so good! The way they actually pour the water over the grounds themselves is original and felt so much more organic then just waiting in line at Starbucks for the barista to make a generic latte. Didn't order anything off the food menu but it was all very cheap and sounded good, like the grilled peanut butter and jelly. Would definitely stop in again next time I'm rolling trough Columbus.
(5)Mary Jo H.
Always my first choice for buying beans! And, never, have I been disappointed!
(5)Helen B.
Seriously this is THE BEST COFFEE SHOP in Columbus! If you haven't been, you are missing out! 1- They have coffee from around the world that the owners are well educated about and hand pick 2- They ROAST the coffee at the shop on a daily basis....You can smell the coffee being roasted the second you park your car! The fresh aroma alone gets me excited! 3- The staff is SO friendly! The service is THE BEST! 4- They have great healthy food options, especially the FUL which is vegan friendly :-) 5- The overall ambiance of this shop is perfect. Great vibe, nice relaxing music, beautiful art work and that fresh roasted coffee smell! yummmm yummmm check it out, trust me it will be your new hangout spot!
(5)Jey J.
The service and the coffee is always on point. A nice ambiance for a local coffee shop. It's an eclectic mix of clientele that frequents this place. Their blueberry muffins are killer.
(5)Susan H.
What a great little coffee house. And in OTE, right near my office. Great for meetings when my space is too crowded. Great coffee, nice baristas. The only downside is that the vegan selections food wise are limited. Good but not really super healthy. But they are relatively new and maybe the food menu will expand. Reasonable prices too. Definitely adding this place to my meet me at list.
(4)Sara B.
Baristas are friendly but not obnoxious-friendly (major difference!) Drinks are solid. Decor is great. A block from my work and my co-workers also love it.
(5)Betsy B.
Fabulous coffee and a great atmosphere. Monthly tribal brew by Sacred Shimmy just makes it that more awesome.
(5)Kelly R.
I tried the Iced Americano and it was fantastic! Great ambiance, friendly service.
(4)Aisha E.
Nice, quaint neighborhood coffee shop. Friendly owner. Delicious coffees and teas.
(5)David S.
Incredible service & incredible coffee! Make your way over to upper cup if you want one of the best pour overs in town.
(5)Christina C.
How did I miss their lunch menu last time!? OR how much they pay attention to detail on their pour overs. OR how much energy & light pour into the place!? Love the vibe of Upper Cup so much. An eclectic coffee shop in a maturing, happenin Columbus neighborhood.
(4)Makele M.
The best coffee shop in town, hands down! The baristas know their coffee! Very comfortable and very welcoming. UpperCup is everything you'd imagine about a neighborhood coffee shop...the artwork, the people and my favorite part is the roaster that sits right in the middle of the shop, always roasting fresh green coffee beans! You will NOT be disappointed if you haven't already been in to visit!
(5)Susan R.
When I visited Upper Cup, I was super excited. Small coffee shop in my neighborhood that roasts its own coffee?!?!?! Eff yeah, coffee shop! Sadly, it just wasn't as awesome as I anticipated. The service was got was, while not incredibly horrible, slow and kind of not-awesome. Let me take you through the experience, as I found it unusual. We arrive. We scope out the menu, wait patiently for someone to serve us. We put in our order. Rather, hubs puts in his order--an iced coffee. They get to work brewing his coffee, which requires them to freshly-grind the coffee and brew it right there on the spot. It takes roughly forever. At some point, they remember that I'm standing there, and take my order for a doppio con panna. After several minutes and what seemed to be a search for more espresso, my shots are pulled. (Having worked in a coffee shop for over three years, here's a benchmark for reference: espresso shots take 20 - 30 seconds to brew, so my whole order could have/should have been completed in less than a minute.) Oh, in all this time? They're still working on hubs' iced coffee. We finally get to pay for our order. In the meanwhile, we have been browsing just about everything in the immediate area (because, seriously, it probably took over ten minutes from the time we indicated we were ready until we had coffee in-hand); I pick up a packaged bag of coffee just to look at it, and I'm hurriedly told that's just display coffee. There's a whole shelf of packaged coffee in front of the bar, and it's all just for display. That is wicked confusing to me--why set up that many bags of coffee and put them on a shelf like they're for sale if they're not for sale? Weird. We finally get our coffee. I am not impressed by it. The espresso tasted quite bitter--overextracted or under-roasted, maybe. Meh. Now, you can imagine one of my primary gripes about this experience is the ridiculous amount of time that it took to make our order. I can dig their "each cup from scratch" philosophy, except that they don't seem to be at all streamlined enough so that this doesn't take forever. (I mean, really--really--you're a coffee shop and you have to go hunt down espresso beans??!) Also, for something like iced coffee, you actually might not get the best results if you hot brew it right before you serve it--in fact, you're almost certainly going to get not-so-good results, because it's hot and it's getting watered down when it melts the ice. So, as much as I admire their commitment to trying to make the best coffee, I feel that they might be missing the forest for the trees. At any rate, it boiled down to: it wasn't AWFUL, but we waited forever for coffee that just wasn't terribly impressive. The guys working honestly seemed like they were more concerned about the roasting side of the business than the serving side; maybe they should close the cafe portion and concentrate on roasting? Either that, or streamline it a LOT. (Edit: I have since been to One Line, which has a similar setup, but is way faster and more efficient--so I know it can be done.)
(3)Nicholas K.
This place is such a gem. Amazeballs. Cappuccinos are among the very best in the city, and it's quiet most of the time, if you want to get some work done. Decent food. Also, seems to be a central hub of the neat and energized community of stores and artistic stuff in the Olde Towne East area.
(5)Justin A.
Don't let the location bother you..these guys (and girls) know their coffee. Brewing is only half the job here for they roast their own beans which makes for an even better cup. And above all...u get an upper cup for a lower price!! Ha
(5)Stephanie P.
Smooth, never bitter coffee!I usually get the medium roast pour over with Caramel but their iced drinks and lattes are also great! Love the atmosphere of the shop and knowledgeable staff. The prices are also great, much cheaper than Starbucks! Bought one of their t-shirts too and it's the softest shirt I've ever owned. Love Upper Cup!
(5)Sagim T.
Excellent Coffee! Excellent People! Good vibes, in the heart Olde Towne East (a re-developing community). Pour overs are great. Vanilla Iced lattes are to die for. Try it for yourself.
(5)Darren H.
Great coffee. Awesome beans. The staff is very friendly. Wish there were more outlets and window shades to block the sun. I'll go back. I liked the sweet jamz the were playing. Least annoying coffee shop music ever. It gave me super chill vibes. And I like that. Most of the customers/ regulars seemed super cool/chills. There were comfy couches. Neat. It brings me comfort to know that this establishment exists.
(4)Katy C.
The tip jar at Upper Cup has a sign that says "A Yelp Review is the Best Tip," so I had to come write my first Yelp review for them. This place is for the true coffee lover--it's all about the brew. The test of delicious coffee for me is whether or not it needs sugar, or if it's fine as-is (most coffee is too bitter without some sugar for my taste). I have to say I added one sugar to my cafe au lait but it didn't need it. That coffee was *perfectly* roasted--no bitterness, light acidity. They even gave me two-thirds coffee, one-third milk--which I usually have to specifically request at other places. They roast it in house (the roaster is literally sitting front and center in the shop, which I think is quite appropriate), offer pour overs (so good if you have the time). These guys are serious about their coffee. It's a no frills place but it's warm and welcoming, lots of sunshine. They'd get a fifth star from me if they wandered over to The Angry Baker to get some pastries or scones in the shop. Nothing too compelling on the snack front. But like I said, it's all about the coffee.
(4)Brendan O.
I love this coffee shop. Amazing coffee! The price is awesome. The staff is very friendly. I usually go a couple times a week. I have had several of their pour-overs and they have all been really good. They have very high quality beans without being a coffee-snob kind of shop.
(5)Tom P.
A proper third-wave cofffehouse in a cool old high-ceilinged space with afternoon light streaming in. I got a correct espresso from a hand-pulled Ranclio machine. There's a little pour-over bar with Hario cones. It's a lucky neighborhood that calls Upper Cup its cafe.
(5)John A.
I miss this place. I'm a frequent coffee drinker who spent a lot of time in Columbus this fall. I actually found these guys through a recommendation from *another* Columbus coffee shop; I'd told the owner of another place that I was on an informal coffee survey of Columbus' finest brews, and he said "then you have to go to Upper Cup." This is a small, locally owned place. It's not Starbucks, and you should expect that it might take a little bit longer than Starbucks to get your brew Take a deep breath and remember that they call it a coffee *break*. Upper Cup has wi-fi and a few places to sit and chill, or work, but this is about the coffee. Rich, dark, smoky... full of flavor, and I'm damned if I know how I can never replicate it, even using the same beans. And, it's also about the people who run this place -- these Eritrean guys who are friendly, curious, and deserve to succeed. I turned on my co-workers to this place, and they came to know all of us and what each of us drank. They also serve food too, but I have limited knowledge on that: I like their muffins (made by someone else) and I had a good bean dish there once (foul mudammas, made by them). Really, this is worth the trip. These guys have been in business for a little more than a year and helping to anchor Old Town East. We all want to support local businesses that are run by good people who do good work. OK, here's your chance: go to Upper Cup.
(5)Geoff D.
Best pour over after Luck Brothers, and it's only $2. If you're downtown, skip Starbucks and spend an extra few minutes coming here. Great vibe, excellent coffee, and a good area to invest in.
(5)Birdy N.
World class coffee in a Columbus aesthetic. THE COFFEE I had the pour over...wow. Maybe the best coffee I've ever had. THE SERVICE Very friendly and knowledgeable. This guy is all about perfection, there was no cutting corners with him. I got my money's worth just watching him make the cup. THE ATMOSPHERE Unpretentious and urban hip. SUMMARY I love this place. My only ask, is if high quality china would be available as an option...this coffee certainly deserves it.
(5)Chris F.
Great coffee and great service! Their pour over coffee is delicious!
(5)David G.
Stopped by yesterday for a double espresso. Had a nice visit with Sam. The shot was beautiful and balanced with great acidity and a sweet lingering finish. The finish rode with me all the way back to work--in a good way.
(4)Daniel P.
I don't have many reviews on here - mostly becuase I haven't found much that wows me enough 'round town to write about it. I've started writing negative reviews, but realized I do not have any positive reviews out here yet - and I hit delete. I have my favorites places to go, sure, but this place completely WOWs me! I have told all of my friends, bought beans for them to try, and I look forward to my morning coffee! When I walked in and saw they roasted their own beans AND did pour overs, I was giddy with delight! I have ordered my coffee beans from other sources for years. I've tried many of the local roasters, but always go back to my mail-order finds. This place, however....I don't know what it is, but I've purchased all my beans here since I found the place! The only thing I wished I could change about this palce is that is was closer to my house that I could go here every day!
(5)Nicholas S.
After enjoying these folks coffee at Yellow Brick, I decided to stop in and give them a try. Not living in the Olde town area, I had not heard much about his shop. Upper Cup is a very small place with only about 5 tables in a couch. They do their own roasting in house, which always speaks to the quality you are going to get in a cup. Upper cup does not have 15 different blends, but rather a few fresh ever-changing flavors. You can get a drip, a pour over, or a French press. I had an Ethiopian Sidamo that was bright with a floral aroma and chocolate notes, and it was only $1.75 for a pour over! Having visited a lot of different shops in Columbus, this has to be the best value for the quality. If you are looking to get beans to take home, they have a fixed price of $6 for half pound and $12 for a full pound. Again, you are able to get whatever is fresh, and it will vary with each visit. I don't want to knock some of the other great spots, but I have found that some of the better shops in Columbus lack in cultural diversity. Much of this might be attributed to the location of the shops. The shop is owned by a kind Eritrean gentleman who has managed to inject some non-European ambiance into this place. While the Olde Town East area may not be the most aesthetically pleasing neighborhood, I applaud the communities' commitment to developing some very unique and excellent spots. Uppercut is one of those awesome businesses, and I will continue to visit here to ensure that this and other places in the community continue to thrive.
(5)Krista L.
This place is amazing. Their drip coffee tastes like the coffee I became accustomed to living in the Northwest, the space is open and attractive, and they have free wifi. I didn't get food, but it was priced incredibly well and I found myself writing down the name so that I could return to get some work done. Good service, good product, good environment, great prices.
(4)Megan B.
I spied this new shop while cutting through OTE one day and made it a point to go back! This place is not for grabbing a quick cup of coffee. They take their time and make every single cup fresh (from what I saw). I consider myself a serious coffee lover, but these people are REALLY serious about their coffee. They seem really educated on what they serve and how to serve it. I loved the space and staff. There are only a few munchie type things in the shop, so I'm thinking my next visit will include stopping at Angry Baker first and then getting my coffee :)
(4)Tyler A.
Great coffee, laid back atmosphere. Coffee ground to order and roasted on site.
(4)Bee S.
Simply fantastic coffee and staff! Very knowledgable about all things coffee! A hidden gem! Support local business
(5)Joshua H.
I only have a few reviews on here so far, and honestly, I've only taken time for 5 star experiences so far, but this review should carry no less, and perhaps more weight than any other thus far. When I started getting into coffee, it was about the taste, the smell, the body, that space-cadet glow of a fine cuppa. Along with it came that jazz and city feel, that combination of grit and beauty like a Beat poet bleeding his heart out to the audience in a warm dark corner of the enlightened world. I'd go and read great books, listen to authors, perform at open mics. Over the course of the years, that experience has slowly been replaced with the iTunes Song of the Day, 3 key strokes, a 2 minute wait and a slap on the ass to send me off to work. And *no one* talks any more. They're lost in their own digital microcosmos, oblivious, though they aren't missing anything in this cookie-cutter cappuccino hysteria either. What's the point you ask? I had given up, until I walked into Upper Cup. They choose, roast, grind, and brew every ounce of coffee that runs through the place. From the art on the walls, the great music, the lounge-like atmosphere, it is intimate, inviting, and full of life and conversation. It is the heart of my favorite local spots, pumping its hot, bold coffee goodness into the veins of Old Town East, stirring it awake from its broken down lethargy and opening its eyes for its bright future. This is not a chain, this is not fast food coffee with a flash frozen bagel and a packet of Smuckers, and I never walk in in a hurry. It would be like asking Michaelangelo to "just paint the damn ceiling". These two brothers have the kind of passion and dedication to quality, service, and satisfaction American business used to sport proudly, what made it worth a buck or two away from the chain to go to Aldrich''s garage, or Sister's Diner, when I grew up. This is what we all need to get back to, and just like we have for centuries, it all starts with a good cup of coffee. There are no automated buttons on this espresso machine, no weigh and drop built in grinder. They draw the hot water with a hand lever, they tamp by hand, they would probably grind by hand if it wouldn't take them forever and a day. Leave a couple minutes early, grab anything you see or are offered, and you will be happy. Take a minute to sit someplace, drink it, and enjoy it. Take the fuel factor out of it, and start enjoying one of life's pleasures again, with a cup from Upper cup.
(5)Pete S.
Excellent coffee and roaster. I haven't tried many of their other drinks or food, but stop in almost every morning for a cup on my way to work.
(5)Tara E.
Best coffee in Columbus! A definite must try for any coffee lover. Once you try their beans you won't be able to buy coffee beans from anywhere else
(5)C. R.
Happened to be driving by early in the morning after dropping a pet off at the vet. Have to admit I was thinking gas station coffee at the BP on Broad St. Glad I stopped here instead, I literally pulled in an alley to turn around and park. Guy working was chilling outside the door greeted me and welcomed me in. I asked for just a good dark roast which was delivered promptly also got a prepackaged muffin which I didn't mind (since I was already OK with gas station quality). Coffee was great would definitely stop by again hopefully they'll have local baked goods on my next visit.
(4)Cassy W.
I love this addition to Olde Towne East! You walk in and you are greeted by an uncluttered, open, bright shop. Interesting artwork complements the brick walls. An amazing sketch of a coffee pot, cup, and spoon is matted and framed behind the counter. I don't think it's for sale. I stare at it while I wait for my coffee. I covet it. I (almost) wish I could Mosby it like the blue French horn from How I Met Your Mother because I love it so much, but then I A.) would be a criminal and B.) wouldn't be able to visit Upper Cup ever again, so no way. :) Anyway. I have had the pleasure of meeting Micael, one of the owners, during my trips to the shop. Micael always has a genuine smile on his face, is cheerful, and makes small talk with you, but isn't one of those types who is overly chatty when all you want is your cup of coffee. I enjoy him. The counter setup is minimalist, clean, and efficient. The shop itself emits a comforting vibe that you only get with locally owned, locally nurtured businesses. I'm not a coffee expert and I won't pretend to be. I've been drinking coffee most of my life but I don't know how to dissect and describe the quality, so I'll simply say that it's excellent. I often find myself at work craving their coffee and the sunny milieu of their shop.
(5)Le Ron C.
Best local coffee house in Olde Towne hands down. Amazing selection with in house roasting makes this a unique spot. I miss the days of walking into a coffee shop and being able to sit down and talk instead of putting in head phones, listening to iPods and surfing the internet. Upper Cup has that atmosphere and is a welcome addition to Olde Towne!
(5)Sean O.
Great atmosphere. Awesome small bites selection. Perfect place to grab a coffee and get some work done!
(5)Kim S.
I miss my local already for its friendliness and my delicious soy lattes. Though there were already a few businesses in the area, Upper Cup really brought a nice community vibe to the area. I met more people there from the time it opened until I moved away this August. I also use their beans at home and have gifted them to much success. Upper Cup also introduced me to using Square and I don't know why more businesses don't get on top of that.
(5)Jenny M.
Best mochas in the city bar none, best prices too! Friendly staff. Also, the last Friday of the month you can be entertained for free by Sacred Shimmy Belly dance and their special guest performers!
(5)Leah K.
Finally got a chance to stop in this morning. The guy at the counter was very kind, explained what was what and his suggestion. I went with a regular drip coffee, loved it. Ended up buying a bag of beans, so hopefully they'll taste as good when brewed at home. You can tell they really care and are passionate about what they're doing. It's cool to see the roasting equipment right in front of you. I will definitely be going back.
(5)Al B.
Great vibe! You can tell how passionate these guys are about their business and coffee in general. One of the best cups I've had in a long time.
(5)Rubbed L.
Locally owned, in house roasted coffee. A block from Carabar. Cheap dark coffee. Good atmosphere. A+
(5)Bob S.
Clean and casual coffee shop. Nice atmosphere, friendly staff, wi-fi, and right next to my barber (Old Familiar Barbershop). Not to mention a great cup of coffee. I'm looking forward to more time here. This is the type of local coffee shop that should make you feel guilty going to a Starbucks.
(5)Jeff T.
I stopped in here because I like the vibe of this neighborhood and this place looked like a great local hang. Brick walls, couches, warm and honest, not corporate in the least. It's actually even better than that. This is a coffee connoisseur's coffee shop. They're really serious about making a great cup. The fact that they roast their own beans, and as I understand it, roast for other coffee shops in town, says they're into their craft. I also like that each time I've been they ask if I want sugar in my coffee because they like to blend it in--it tastes better that way. It's those little touches that make this a different kind of place from the myriad of other coffee shops in the downtown area. I've been here a dozen times since they opened last year and have had various coffees, their latte and cappucino, and each has been great.
(5)Sheryl T.
In my opinion, this place has the best coffee in cbus; even better than brioso and yeah, me too. Maybe not quite as complex as brioso, but it's simple, smooth, and, to me, preferable. The shop itself has a good feel, and the owner is really friendly. I'm a fan.
(5)Michael W.
This is the best coffee house in Columbus, in my opinion, they make the best iced caramel latte ever...the service is top notch and there is always something unique and different going on there... I highly recommend to anyone interested in getting good locally roasted coffee
(5)K T.
This place smelled wonderful - was clean - SO FRIENDLY!! And our coffee drinks were a GREAT VALUE for the money! They took their time and served us wonderful drinks... we will go back again! Good for studying or meetings AND I can't wait to eat here next time!
(5)Seth D.
Not much to say really. Maybe it's better if you just come to buy beans, but it's just a very basic coffee shop with some pre-packaged baked goods. When I stopped by there wasn't even music playing so all I heard was a fan in the background and the typing of another customer on his MacBook. The one type of coffee that was brewed was ok, but I guess I thought I could come in and have more options. Very disappointed about no fair trade coffee available to drink. I guess I had high hopes.
(3)Steve S.
I am a fan of this place. It's small, quiet, and has a little bit of character. Could use some more paintings or something along the walls, a small rug on the floor, but it's getting there. Good coffee, nice place. I'll be getting my coffee here more often.
(5)T O.
Here's what a coffee shop is all about: great product, relaxed atmosphere, and a staff that cares about what they serve. When you step into UC, you feel as if this is your place, that you are able to escape the everyday routine, and relax without being hassled by pushy salespeople. Yes, the drinks and food may be served a bit slower than the plastic franchise down the street, but what you get is lovingly prepared...and it shows! No matter which of the amiable group are assisting you, you get the attention to detail that goes into the pour, the grind, the preparation of their small-plate offerings (and by "small-plate", I mean, they are the right size for the price and don't leave you feeling as though you'll need to do some cubicle sit-ups back at the desk!). I have to add, that I do find it rewarding to know that the employees are all local to OTE, too. (This is really important in maintaining that "relaxed atmosphere" of which I wrote earlier.) Beyond the shop, they care about local matters and businesses, promoting our sector as happily as their own. My personal fave is a large mocha with whole milk (the only way a hot beverage with milk should be prepared, by the way). For added bonus on those days when I need some Grade-A grub, I LOVE the Pineapple Ham and Habanero sandwich (yes, they do offer vegan; this carnivore gives those my stamp-of-approval, too). Occasionally, they have local art displayed; recently, the south wall featured African tribal masks of local origin and it blew me away--it certainly fit the motif and design of UC. Right on Parsons, between Broad and Bryden, the Upper Cup is located in an area that is the culinary and entertainment NKOTB, if that can be written in regards to an area that is about as old as Columbus, itself!
(4)PH E.
excellent little coffeehouse in the Old Towne area of Columbus, just a few minutes drive from the Columbus Museum of Art. My iced coffee, made from bold-roasted Guatemalan beans, was hot-poured right in front of me, added sugar and cream to my specs, and then served over ice. It was so good I had to have another. My inner coffee snob is most pleased! :-) Also, if you are in the mood shop, there is a really lovely little vintage shop across the street.
(4)Ruth S.
I love coffee, and as soon I as walked into this place I was surrounded by the lovely aroma of freshly roasted coffee. They have traditional drip, which was delicious, as well as pour over. Reasonable prices, and they give a standard discount if you bring your own cup (which they also washed for me with a blast of steam from the espresso machine).
(5)Dorothy B.
Plenty of coffee shops near my house but will drive out of my way to come here. Great atmosphere and passionate about coffee.
(5)Rob T.
Awesome Coffee, The Owners are passionate about coffee, and take the time to do it right. If you own an espresso machine I recommend buying a pound of the The espresso beans. The roast of the espresso beans is excellent and produces outstanding Crema.
(5)Lori W.
This place has awesome coffee!! The staff is ultra friendly and very proud of their brews!! I love their ice coffee. They have drip method of brewing and then shake over ice with cream and sugar or flavorings!! I bought a bag ethiopian coffee to take home..it brewed up fantastic!!
(5)Chad B.
Great coffee, great care taken to brew some fantastic pour over coffee. Highly recommended.
(5)