A couple of weeks ago, the Iris Book Cafe opened quietly on Main St. in Over-the-Rhine, and the positive word-of-mouth is already spreading. Owner Julie Fay, who also owns Urban Eden up the street, has transformed this storefront into a sleek, sophisticated space with a very open feel. The muted tones of the interior lend themselves perfectly to the black-and-white photography exhibit lining the walls and contrast well with the eclectic used book selection, with its ratty, multi-hued spines.
Currently, the beverage selection is limited to coffee roasted by Coffee Emporium and teas from Essencha, but more options are coming. Ice cream from Aglamesis Bros. is also available. In early September, Iris will expand to salads and sandwiches showcasing the best ingredients from area vendors. Plans include gourmet options such as smoked salmon, as well as veggie options like egg salad and hummus. The goal is to have vegan choices as well.
There are several seating options, from diner booths to beautiful wooden benches, but the coveted spot is in the rear courtyard, where stimulating conversation mixes with the sounds of birds, and the dappled shade offers respite from the late-summer heat.
Mike, a former co-owner of Kaldi's, is the day-to-day, do-it-all person behind the counter. He describes Iris as a mix between owner Julie's clean look and his "extreme Bohemianism." He is an eccentric and knowledgeable conversationalist with strong, well-articulated opinions. To get a sense of some of Mike's interests, browse his book offerings, which skew toward poetry, philosophy, and quality fiction.
Currently, the hours of operation are 6-10pm Monday-Friday, and 12-5pm Saturday-Sunday, but they will soon be extended. Mike is open to possibly hosting poetry readings and acoustic music events in the future. (Above, plans are discussed for Cincinnati PARK[ing] Day.)
Perfect for?
Over-the-Rhine Bohemians and rabble-rousers looking for a third place.
Where to get it?
The Iris Book Cafe is located at 1331 Main St. at Woodward, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513.381.2665.
How much?
$2 for coffee with refills, into the hundreds for a framed photograph.
There are several seating options, from diner booths to beautiful wooden benches, but the coveted spot is in the rear courtyard, where stimulating conversation mixes with the sounds of birds, and the dappled shade offers respite from the late-summer heat.Mike, a former co-owner of Kaldi's, is the day-to-day, do-it-all person behind the counter. He describes Iris as a mix between owner Julie's clean look and his "extreme Bohemianism." He is an eccentric and knowledgeable conversationalist with strong, well-articulated opinions. To get a sense of some of Mike's interests, browse his book offerings, which skew toward poetry, philosophy, and quality fiction.
Currently, the hours of operation are 6-10pm Monday-Friday, and 12-5pm Saturday-Sunday, but they will soon be extended. Mike is open to possibly hosting poetry readings and acoustic music events in the future. (Above, plans are discussed for Cincinnati PARK[ing] Day.)Perfect for?
Over-the-Rhine Bohemians and rabble-rousers looking for a third place.
Where to get it?
The Iris Book Cafe is located at 1331 Main St. at Woodward, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513.381.2665.
How much?
$2 for coffee with refills, into the hundreds for a framed photograph.
Love that they carry Aglamesis. They have some vinyl records too.
Love that old guy at the counter. He is such a delight. Love their ice cream too. Watch out Graeters!!
this place is awesome - so many times i read blog posts about cool new restaurants/stores that turn out to be disappointing, but there's tons of space, and the back patio is an amazing place for a lunch date. little bit of a hike from way downtown, but totally worth it. they also sell some comic books.
Effective Sept 3, Iris BookCafe is open from 7 am to 10 pm Monday thru Friday, and 11 am to 10 pm Saturday and Sunday. We are here to serve you every day, so come on over! Hang out, use the free wireless, or re-read!...buy a previously owned book, vinyl or CD you couldn't find anywhere else! For your nourishment, we have added a good selection of sandwiches on Shadeau multigrain bread, soups from Myra's, and salads. In addition to coffees, teas and Aglamesis ice creams, our custom, all natural smoothies are the best in town... breakfast in a glass or all day long!