There are places we all love to visit that have a cozy and charming feel to them and are perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee or a good book. Local cafes are always ideal for these instances, as well as neighborhood bookstores. And there's one spot in the heart of Over-the-Rhine that is both a cafe and a bookstore, and it truly is the best of both worlds. Iris BookCafe and Gallery is quite possibly a place you never knew existed in the Queen City, but you will instantly fall in love with.
Iris BookCafe and Gallery is located on Main Street in OTR. This local cafe and used bookstore has been a beloved spot for many over the past few years, but unless you know it's there, it is easy to walk on by.
You won't want to walk on by, however, because inside is a unique collection of books and a delicious cafe that's the perfect spot for a solo meal or to meet up with friends. And since it's right in the middle of the action of Cincinnati's most vibrant neighborhood, there's plenty to do within a few steps of the cafe's front door.
The cafe aspect of this local gem is what brings many through its doors. They offer a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and more, which also include vegan, vegetarian, and healthy choices.
As a local shop, Iris' carries items that are Cincinnati favorites. From the coffee and other beverages to the baked goods, everything about this book cafe feels local.
After you've ordered a bite to eat and a drink, it's easy to find a cozy spot to settle into. There are booths and tables throughout the cafe, and enough space to meet up with a small group if you like.
As a used bookstore, Iris BookCafe also has an impressive and diverse collection of literature. The books cover topics such as architecture, art, poetry, fashion, and more, and they even have children's books.
If you happen to visit Iris' on a nice day, head out to the courtyard. It's shaded and surrounded by greenery and historic buildings and is the perfect spot for a meal and to dive into a good book.
Iris BookCafe and Gallery is even more than a cafe and a bookstore; they also display the work of local photographers. As a delicious cafe, inviting bookstore, and eye-catching gallery, Iris BookCafe and Gallery is a place you'll want to discover soon and cozy up in a perfect spot in Cincinnati.
Iris BookCafe and Gallery is a local gem that combines a cozy cafe atmosphere with the classic appeal of a bookstore, making for a charming place in which you'll surely fall in love. Have you had a bite to eat or browsed the used books at this bookstore cafe? Let us know in the comments or tag someone who would love to meet you there!
Iris BookCafe and Gallery is located at 1331 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. For more information, visit its website here and follow along with them on Facebook here.
And for another wonderfully unique local bookstore, check out our previous article here.
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