Over the past couple years, Columbus has seen an influx of Yemeni coffee shops, and I for one welcome it! Many of these shops are regional chains originating in eastern Michigan, and they usually feature a mix of traditional Yemeni coffees and snacks, plus Italian-style espresso drinks.
Many of the spaces have quickly come to life as beloved community spaces, open late for special events (or even open 24 hours). In addition to being great places for coffee, these shops offer the chance to try coffee roasts and drinks you can’t find elsewhere. Yemen lays claim as the planet’s ground zero for coffee, and the beans grown there have been imported farther abroad recently. I’ve seen Yemeni coffees described as “rustic.” They’re earthy, rich, a little spicy.
So here we go with four places (okay, actually six locations and growing) to try Yemeni coffee in Columbus!
Qamaria was the first chain to put down roots in central Ohio, starting with a small shop in Hilliard’s Tinapple Plaza before expanding to Lewis Center and most recently to Dublin. Their spaces are richly decorated, and feature the full range of drinks and snacks. The Lewis Center storefront in particular is especially large, making it great for big groups.
Where to find it: 3221 Hilliard Rome Rd., Hilliard | 8911 S. Old State Rd., Lewis Center | 6181 Sawmill Rd. Suite B, Dublin
Read more: Qamaria Yemeni Coffee in Hilliard, Qamaria in Lewis Center, Qamaria in Dublin
Qahwah House set up shop in a beautiful new space on East Main Street downtown. It offers plenty of room to study, read, gather as a group. A large detailed map on one wall shows coffee’s journey across the globe. Like many of the other Yemeni shops, the counter setup at Qahwah House lets you watch the baristas make your drinks, including traditional Yemeni drinks mixed up over induction burners. They roast coffee on premises, too! Qahwah House has already announced a second location in Hilliard’s forthcoming TruePointe development.
Where to find it: 189 E. Main St., Downtown
Read more: Qahwah House Brings Yemeni Coffee and Snacks to Downtown Columbus
Shibam Coffee is the newest Yemeni shop to join central Ohio. Their gorgeous corner space has been busy since they first opened. They complement a full range of Yemeni and Italian-style coffees with bagel sandwiches and a selection of cakes, cheesecakes, and other sweets. Shibam also distinguishes itself by having a drive-through!
Where to find it: 8310 Sancus Blvd., Westerville/Polaris
Read more: Shibam Coffee is the Latest Yemeni Coffee House to Join Columbus
Image courtesy Finjan Cafe on Facebook
Finjan Cafe joined Hilliard in mid-2024, and sets itself apart with a big menu of iced coffees, smoothies, refreshers, and other drinks – on top of an accomplished menu of Yemeni coffees and loads of colorful pastries and cakes.
Where to find it: 3474 Cemetery Rd., Hilliard
Read more: Finjan Cafe
Curious about more Columbus coffee? Read about 16 New Coffee Shops That Opened in 2024 or check out my Columbus Coffee Guide.
Want to keep up with more? Follow me on Instagram at @breakfastwithnick, check out the news archives, read my guide to Columbus, search for travel inspiration, or…
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