Highland Coffee House

“I don't really get the bad reviews on here .. if you wanna order just go up to the bar. I've never had issues. The vibes, music, graffiti, and unique drinks are AMAZING. A great place to talk with friends over a few drinks or read a book. This is a Cincinnati gem.”

Anna Barrow★★★★★

Great vibe, really fun place to hang out. Great for people who are over 18 but under 21 or in general anyone who wants to hang around somewhere in the evening without having to drink (plus you can drink here if you want to). The graffiti is fun and the staff don't mind you adding your own. Be nice and tip well cause not very many people work here and they seem kinda stressed some nights which is fair

marisa thoman★

I used to love coming here in college. Back then, they were pushy about coming by frequently to ask if you wanted to order anything else. When asked kindly, I would happily oblige as I was grateful to have a place open late enough for me to get my work done. Unfortunately, things have changed for the worse. Now, we were asked to leave if we didn’t make another purchase despite the fact that we were not even done with our first drinks. As many other reviews have stated, we were berated by the worker about tipping because he told us he only makes $3 an hour. Having worked as a barista myself and knowing many others, I have never known a place to pay baristas (or bartenders) a server’s wage rather than minimum wage. Even still, as of 2026 in Ohio the minimum server wage is $5.50. Most likely the worker was lying, but the owner Shawn Brooks should be ashamed of himself and investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor. Also, the worker added extra charges to our bill which is so slimey. F

Drew Kelly★

Old server (maybe the owner) took way too long to get our shots and also complained to me when I didn’t tip up to his expectations. If you’re going to demand a certain tip, I demand a certain level of service. Besides that, everything seemed overpriced, and the food my girlfriend bought was school cafeteria quality. Cool interior design though. I’m glad I moved out of Cincinnati and will not be returning to this place.

A★

used to love highland for the cozy atmosphere and went there frequently for drinks and food. recently the barista pressured me to tip (which i was actively in the process of tipping) then began ranting about how people don't tip and the workers don't get paid much. during my time there i saw the worker tell a large table of people who had all bought drinks that they needed to leave unless they purchased more. publicly shaming people is an awful atmosphere for a coffee shop. i have never had this level of poor customer service before and will not be going back unless ownership changes.

Dylan Pollitt★

I went there with my friends because we were celebrating a birthday we went to the back deck to relax and order some food we sat and talked for 5 minutes. The owner of the cafe came up one of my friends threatened him for no reason it was horrible and then he said if we don’t buy anything now we all have to leave.so we started to buy stuff so he would leave us alone and when we started to buy things he said it wasn’t enough .He started to make my friend cry so we just said we aren’t buying anything and we left . This was the worst experience I had at a coffee shop that’s supposed to be warm and welcoming and the owners themselves are so rude and inconsiderate DO NOT GO HERE.

Casein Chaos★★★★★

Highland Coffee House isn't just a coffee shop, it’s an institution. Stepping inside feels like walking into a secret garden or a best friend's living room. The ambiance is unmatched, dimly lit, surrounded by lush plants, and filled with the perfect background buzz of conversation and music. It is the ultimate antidote to sterile, corporate coffee chains. Whether you are studying late, catching up with an old friend, or just need a place to breathe, this is the spot. The patio is incredible in the warmer months, and the interior is a cozy sanctuary in the winter.

Leslie Monhollen★★★★★

I don't really get the bad reviews on here .. if you wanna order just go up to the bar. I've never had issues. The vibes, music, graffiti, and unique drinks are AMAZING. A great place to talk with friends over a few drinks or read a book. This is a Cincinnati gem.

Talia C★★★★★

Some people just don’t seem to get it, but this is an establishment meant for relaxing or doing homework. If you understand that, you get the vibe. When Jay is working, he really busts his butt to serve everyone in a timely manner, and he’s always so sweet. I’ve never had an issue with him because, having worked in service myself, I know how hard it is. A little kindness and patience really go a long way. This place isn’t for people who are in a rush or have a snobby attitude. Every time I leave, Jay thanks me for being kind and for coming in—it’s a small but meaningful gesture. The vibe here is truly special, with great music, plants that have been growing for decades, charming vintage academic decor, and eclectic artwork everywhere—even cemented into the tables. The patio is perfect for hanging out, and the drinks are amazing—especially the chocolate amaretto shake, my personal favorite. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious boozy drink or a coffee, there's something for everyo